EDITOR’S NOTE: On Tuesday, June 28, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Dallas Voice and a host of HIV/AIDS service organizations in Dallas-Fort Worth will sponsor a public forum at Cathedral of Hope’s Interfaith Peace Chapel, AIDS @ 30: A Community Forum. Then on Friday, July 1, Dallas Voice will publish a special issue marking the 30th anniversary of AIDS, also exploring where we stand today in terms of prevention efforts, treatments and development of a vaccine, and where those efforts are headed.
This week, Dallas Voice received the following letter from Donnie Pangburn that makes it clear, no matter how far we’ve come in the battle against HIV/AIDS, we still have a very long way to go, even when it comes to educating our own community.
Officials at LOGO were contacted and given an opportunity to respond to the following letter. By press deadline on Wednesday, June 15, they had not responded.
The June 11 Weenies and Martinis event at Jack’s Backyard was produced by Team Dallas Voice to benefit Lone Star Ride Fighting AIDS. Team Dallas Voice accepted the offer by the producers of LOGO’s A-List Dallas to participate and film the event.
Appalled by lack of HIV knowledge
I went to Jack’s Backyard to a going-away party for a friend on Saturday, June 11, and soon realized there was a fundraiser raffle going on to support HIV/AIDS services through the Lone Star Ride Fighting AIDS. Of course, it made the evening more enjoyable to me as not only have I been a volunteer at Resource Center Dallas for years and have donated a lot of time and money to the cause — not only with our community, but with organizations in Africa as well — I am also HIV-positive myself and therefore know first hand the daily struggles that anyone with HIV faces.
It is my understanding that cast members of LOGO’s A-List Dallas were there at the event to sell raffle tickets.
One of the A-Listers, Phillip Willis, approached me and my friends and asked us to donate $20 for some raffle tickets. I instantly reached into my pocket and gave him $20. I asked Phillip what they were raffling off, and he stated, “It doesn’t matter; it’s for a good cause. It’s for all those poor, sad, old people.”
I asked whom he was referring to, and he just winked and said, “You know — them.” I replied, “No, I don’t. Who are you referring to?” He said, “You know, those ones who have AIDS.” My response to him was, “I am HIV-positive, and I’m not poor or sad.”
His mouth just dropped open, and he just walked away without saying another word.
I chose then to approach the Lone Star Ride table and, in tears and anger, asked who was in charge. I explained to him exactly what happened. I was immediately dismissed and told, “Well, if you want to go talk to the cast member, Phillip, he’s around.”
That’s all he had to say.
I took his advice and approached Phillip and said, “I’d like to introduce you to my friends.” I then proceeded to educate him on his lack of tact and knowledge. He instantly replied, “I don’t know what you’re talking about, and I never said that.”
He attempted to leave, but I told him I wasn’t finished speaking. I once again tried to educate him, but he didn’t want to have anything to do with it. So he chose to walk away, without saying another word — no apology, nothing.
I am hurt, and I am furious that Phillip Willis was so incredibly uneducated and full of disregard — and he was there to represent an organization in our GLBT community and to represent himself as an upstanding citizen of the GLBT community of Dallas.
I am also extremely upset at LOGO, who obviously did not do their homework in choosing the cast members for their show.
Please know that regardless of how this hurts me personally or how angry I am, this is not about me. This is about the increasing number of men between the ages of 18 and 25 who are contracting HIV in our community. According to my doctor, it is spreading like wildfire. Something needs to be done.
If my letters, conversations and emails prevent just one person from contracting HIV, then I’ve done my job.
Donnie Pangburn, Dallas
A response from LSR
As president of the board of Lone Star Ride Fighting AIDS, I would like to thank Donnie Pangburn.
There are specific, definable moments in our lives when an event, a trigger, compels us to no longer be silent and instead, speak out. The comment made to Donnie about people with HIV/AIDS at our Weenies & Martinis event on June 11, was just such a definable moment.
Those words changed everything for him. Instead of simply getting angry, he got busy.
This experience for Donnie and for all of us at Lone Star Ride is a painful reminder that this kind of ignorance and discrimination still exists, as unbelievable as we wish it were 30 years into the fight against HIV/AIDS.
We are outraged by Donnie’s experience, as everyone should be. The fact that these statements were made, not just by a member of our community, but by a person who was attending an LSR event to help raise money for HIV/AIDS, is unfathomable to us.
As a gay female, who has lost many friends and been involved with HIV/AIDS causes, I thought everyone in the gay community knew and cared about HIV/AIDS. I thought our own community would be the place that people living with HIV/AIDS would be safe from the discrimination and stigma. Boy, was I wrong.
According to the prevention program at Resource Center Dallas, it believed that a quarter-million Americans have HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, and are not aware of it. More than 40,000 Americans are infected with HIV every year.
Gay men, bisexual men and heterosexual men who have sex with men account for more than half of new HIV infections. In Dallas County, we continue to see an increased infection rate in people between the ages of 13 and 25, as well as those over the age of 45.
Although we have made a great many strides in education about and treatment of HIV/AIDS, it is apparent that there is more to be done. There is still a segment of society, even in our own community, that clings to the myth that, “It can’t happen to me.” It is not until we have experiences like this or encounter personal tragedy, that we are willing to change our attitudes and behaviors.
If you, too, are incensed by what Donnie experienced, join him. Do something. Donate time or money — anything. Just please, get educated.
Know your risk, know your status, and above all, make smart choices. If you need help or information, contact one of the local AIDS services organizations.
I would like to personally express my gratitude to Donnie and others like him that continue to speak out against this type of discrimination and strive to erase the stigma of HIV/AIDS.
Laura Kerr, president, Board of Directors,
Lone Star Ride Fighting AIDS
A VERY well-penned and appropriate response from LSR. It certainly wasn’t their fault it happened, but what a good opportunity for awareness! Thank you!
Well said and well written!!!! This type of “conduct” is unacceptable period. I found this on the A-List Dallas page.”this cast of socialite scene-making men and women are out to prove their New York counterparts have not cornered the market on having big dreams and bigger dramas. Dallas has recently surged onto the pop culture radar as a focal point for food, fashion and fabulous, earning it a spot worthy of exploring with this top-tier cast of natives.” REALLY-TOP TIER! man is this “false advertisement”! This is NOT THE IMAGE WE WANT FOR DALLAS–AMERICAS 5TH LARGEST URBAN AREA…no…Logo can do much better in this city. Again, well written and well said Donnie
Phillip Willis is not only a disgrace to the GLBT community, he is also a sorry excuse for a human. The blatant ignorance and assholia that he exhibits is astounding. Where did he even come from? To be an A Lister for Dallas, one would think that he would have at least one friend in common on a Facebook page. Phillip – I am sorry to say that you may have blown your wad before you worked up the nerve to spit. I think Memphis, or New Orleans might fit you better.
I commend Donnie for this! He is a good friend of mine and I was thoroughly DISGUSTED by the comment made by this individual! Love is such a stronger emotion than hate! We need to preach that! I am right along him on this quest to HALT all taping of this SHOW! and I am boycotting Logo until further action is SOUGHT!
I feel that the lack of education on the subject is one that is very common especially in today’s youth in general. For one person to segregate a person or group due their lack of knowledge on the subject only shows what kind of A-Lister this person is.
Well written, and a great response from LSR. It still amazes me, and frightens me how many younger people are contracting HIV, I’m 34, but it wasn’t that lng ago I was where they are now, but I never once felt or thought I was invincible, or that it “won’t happen to me”. I guess because I was a bumpkin who came here from a very small town not knowing all that much about the “community” kept me from having that attitude and kept me conscience and aware of everything, not to mention some great friends that mentored me in the right direction….one of those friends I lost to AIDS, and he was the first of several in the past 9 years. He is always with me, and he is why I try to educate the younger ones. I was recently befriended by a 17 year old – strictly platonic as 1. He doesn’t live here & 2. I don’t do chicken. This was strictly an online relationship, mainly him asking questions, etc. My main focus was education, and awareness, letting him know the details and what to be careful of, because we all know, not everyone with HIV is hinest
I would personally like to thank Laura and the LSR team for an extremely moving and educational response. I sincerely hope that my experience and the additional vital information will help educate not only our youth, but every man and woman of our community, and that we are able take this to the next level. That we take responsibility for our words and our actions, and that we are more conscious of providing compassion, kindness, and respect to not only those who are dealing with HIV/AIDS, but to everyone within our GLBT community.
As far as LOGO and the “so-called” A-List of Dallas, I am extremely disappointed by their obvious lack of interest (still waiting on an apology), and especially for casting people who do not represent our GLBT community in any way, shape, or form. I have sent letters to the Mayor and his officials pleading to cease production, I have also sent letters to reps and posted on websites of such celebrities as Kathy Griffin, Margaret Cho, Perez Hilton, Ellen, Lady Gaga, and Madonna…and I’m just getting started. Mark my words: this is far from over.
Donnie Pangburn
This entire situation has been blown COMPLETELY out of context. While Phillip could have chosen more “politically correct” words, that does not make him a bad person overall. I’m sorry to say, but at this point, it seems that Donnie is just seeking camera time with the show. Honey, if you are reading this: You are just generating press for the show and making it bigger and it will just premiere bigger. You are not doing any good by sending out letters everywhere, including the mayor, making facebook pages, etc. The show is still in production and it will NOT be canceled over an incident like this.
Apparently my first post didn’t all make it (from mobile device) to continue, I meant they’re not all honest about their status, And/or they don’t even know their status, and with him being so young, and new to this community, while not trying to make it sound horrible, I just wanted him to be aware of the potential dangers on that level, the dangers of being heartbroken, only he can learn those, like we all have.
And on another note – even with the response from LSR…why has no one mentioned anything about the response Mr. Pangburn was given by the LSR member at their own table? To me, being brushed off in that way, is just as bad as the comments the wannabe “a lister” made.
I’m sorry cb427 that you feel that way…but you have just missed the boat completely. As I have said in the beginning, this isn’t about me: this is about education, ending bigotry, judgment, and discrimination and having 5 members who do nothing for our community portray the GLBT community of Dallas. And P.S. I have no desire and will NOT appear on that show. You have me and this cause ALL wrong.
In response to cb427: No one is looking for face time on the show. The show is a gross misrepresentation of the true LGBT community. We are standing up to let LOGO the public and fame whoring douchebags know we don’t want or need them to represent us. If you choose to do something of this nature then you need to make sure the people you choose are an accurate, educated member of the community. A Listers are the ones that live and work in the community, do volunteer work for the community and help educate people regarding HIV/AIDS. They have failed to show us that they would benefit us or help us grow, and LOGOs failure to respond proves now that It is there for the profit and not what it was initially started as. The word is spreading and from what we are hearing the bars and clubs needed for this show to make it are not in support and are denying them access. We have a strong financial influence and we will make them feel it if they choose to propagate this shameful image of what the Dallas LGBT community is about. So my Dear Sir or Madam it is not about this incident alone but the greater cause that I will fight for until my brothers and sisters and I have equal rights and stop the spread of the stereotypes that this chosen cast is propagating. Thank you for your opinion and the oppurtunity to respond.
Two extremely well written pieces. I am proud of Donnie for what he is doing and proud of Laura for representing the Lone Star Ride so well. Donnie and Laura are the part of the GLBT community we can all be proud of. I have volunteered with both the Resource Center and the Lone Star Ride and have really enjoyed working with people like Donnie and Laura. They are the real A Listers.
I would have to agree with CB427. His motives are in serious question.
cb427 – Please elaborate as to HOW this was blown out of context. Your assumption that Donnie is seeking camera time is SO off, it’s not even funny! I can’t believe you are actually DEFENDING this snot-nosed 20-something. Since we know nothing about you, I can only assume you are in that same age group, otherwise you wouldn’t be so ignorant! I remember what life was like before AIDS and I’ve been to more hospital bedsides and funerals than I can count. For you to say that Phillip was being politically incorrect is a slap in the face of every one of us that been living with and affected by HIV from the very beginning. I suggest YOU get your facts correct about this history of gay activists and what they have accomplished! From the first group at Stonewall, all the way to ACT UP, who, because of their bravery, were able to compel the powers that be to get HIV drug regiments out to the public a hell of a lot sooner and as a result, more lives were saved! You think we’re not doing any good by sending letters? HIDE AND WATCH!
Then focus on education and stop seeking apologies. You cannot demand respect or understanding of your status. We must educate, educate, and educate on prevention!
I concur Steve. These are either cast members or cast member friends or even more sad they are people that are hoping that by making themselves look stupid will somehow fall into the graces of these “A List” and get there own face time.
Desi, we ARE focusing on education but it would seem nobody is listening!! Philip’s statements to Donnie are proof of that! Based on what you said, it would seem YOU aren’t listening either! Why would you say we cannot demand respect or understanding of our status? Obviously you haven’t been directly affected by HIV or you wouldn’t make such an outrageous remark.
What is there to question about Donnies motives? He has been saying since day one that his goal is to educate and spread awareness, which he seems to be doing. If something more comes from it good for him. Donnie has helped spark something in some of us, which we were already feeling, and that is that we do not want this kind of trash tv filmed here, or giving the false representation that this is what gay life is like in Dallas, or that these boys are anything more than fame seeking people who answered a classified ad. I agree though that seeking an apology from Logo will leave you waiting for a long time. I don’t believe they owe an apology based on the actions of the cast. They are succeeding in the goal of the show and that is to make “reality” tv drama, and characters that people love to hate. I say keep it up and let’s hold Logo accountable for the manufactured image of Dallas that they are trying to cash in on.
The 2 people (idiots) that think Donnie is the one out for publicity and somehow (in their uneducated way) defend Phillip and the A-list Dallas, are obviuosly friends of the cast members. That would be the ONLY way to justify their ignorant defense
When I came out 13 years ago, the first person I ever “hooked up” with from a bar turned out to be HIV+. I was ashamed of the fact that I declined to “go further” with this man because I was uneducated about the disease. I vowed to educate myself, for both my own well-being and to support those in the community affected by this disease. For me, early exposure to someone honest about their status probably saved my life. It also opened doors for me to accept many people into my life, including my partner of 5+ years, who live with HIV. For some little sh*t who is trying to become an “A-lister” to belittle those members of our community who have fought for our rights, paved the way for us to live as out as we want to, and have suffered more loss than most of us will ever endure… HE is a disgrace to our community. To Bravo, being an “A-lister” means being a bitch. It means being pretentious and causing drama to get good ratings. To me, being an “A-lister” means being a good steward to your community, being a good friend, and respecting those pioneers who have afforded us the rights we have today. My version will get you years of satisfaction. Bravo’s will get you 15 minutes of fame.
It wouldn’t matter if I was friends with a cast member or not. I know drama when I see it. Seeking out to educate and prevent is one thing, but seeking for never-ending apologies and publicity (hint Perez Hilton, the View, 20/20, the Today Show) is completely different. I, myself, happen to be a public figure in Dallas, though I choose to remain anonymous due to HATE MAIL that the entire cast has been receiving on behalf of this, and actually was being considered for the show. I know the heat that can come off of choosing the wrong words when on the spot. I understand you may have been upset, honey, but its time to count your losses and move on. If you continue, its just going to make the show bigger and I have inside sources with Logo that say that filming is not, under any circumstances, going to stop. I understand these guys (and girl) have responsibilities as a public figure but, at the same time, its a reality show. It’s not on OWN or Lifetime. At some point, you will have to get over it otherwise you will, in the long run, look no better than the woman who put the finger in the chili.
cb – if you are such a “public figure” in Dallas, then you should have NO problem taking the heat for your stand and identifying yourself. I would bet you are actually another one of these individuals who loves to create drama from behind a keyboard. Those wannabes should have known there would be good mail as well as bad mail when they were cast. Based on your statements, it’s obvious now you are CLUELESS about the real issue here, and it’s truly sad to see. By the way, it’s really NOT a reality show, if it were the cameras would be shooting 24/7 and the producers wouldn’t be taking editorial liberties.
CB427: First off “honey” From day 1 I have stated “this is not about me, but about every man and woman who is sick and tired of the treatment we receive due to our illness.” This also about “honey” the insane uprise in HIV cases in our community especially within our youth.
As far as me contacting the media and celebrities etc. Yes, I am reaching out to every person that I think has a bigger voice than me that can help provide education not only within our community, but globally. You obviously so not realize the severity of the issue here.
And “honey,” regarding LOGO, they are a GLBT platform that must take responsibility of who they cast. The castmember’s behavior was not only hurtful, but inexcusable and I don’t want someone like that representing our GLBT community.
And another thing “honey,” I am a public figure in this community as well. I live and breathe in this city the same as you. I am a part of this community just as much as you.
And lastly “honey,” you even stating that you were considered for the cast is your own egotistical plug…and quite frankly, that makes me sick. Your arrogance shows me you have no interest in fighting for this cause, so step back an let us who do really care about what happens to our community handle this.
Donnie Pangburn
It appears to me that LOGO chose the people to attend this benefit with little consideration, and then FAILED to see to it that they received even a minimal briefing before attending. That displays very poor judgement on their part. Then they failed to talk to the person who was offending the customers, and that was a resounding display of stupidity. They should have thanked Donnie and said they would speak with the individual. Donnie would have walked away happy and none of this would have happened. What then transpired between LOGO and Donnie would be their business.
Seriously, what kind of group allows their cast members/employees to go around pissing off the people they are going to get money from? I’ve been in supervisor positions and I always took customer concerns seriously, even if I didn’t always agree. Donnie tried to get that level of response from LOGO and instead was blatantly given the brush-off. Frankly, I doubt anything LOGO says is going to be acceptable, they have already screwed up big-time and nothing they say can erase the ill-will they have generated.
OOPS! That last line of the first paragraph should have read: “What then transpired between LOGO and PHILLIP would be their business.”
Sorry! 🙁
@CB247…you really are off base on this one. As one of Donnie’s best friends and standing right next to him at the event Donnie could have very easily confronted Phillip when the camera’s were rolling in order to attain what you are calling “camera time”. Instead he chose to try and talk to Phillip after the camera’s had packed up as he nor any other self respecting Dallas gay citizen would want to be a part of that circus. At the point when Donnie tried to talk to Phillip he could have just apologized, instead chose to take the approach to think he was better than Donnie and reply “I don’t have to talk to you” then stand over in the corner like a school girl and laugh and talk and point. The issue here really isn’t Phillip. Is ignorant statement was just the beginning of what told Donnie that the community as a whole should be educated and send a message that HIV+ people should not be treated like third class citizens as that is how much of the gay community is treated by society as a whole. Thanks to Donnie for standing up for himself, but to others that don’t have a voice. It no longer has anything to do with Phillip, but getting the word out and educating society on issues pertaining to HIV. He chose to stand by his ignorance so as far as I am concerned I do agree the focus should be off him as he is just getting press for this and doesn’t deserve it. It also just goes to show how many in the gay community are not happy with the A-List Dallas being here. Most feel from the Boycott Dallas A-List page on facebook that the show should be a true representation of the Dallas gay community by showcasing those that are involved in the community and make a difference…not just a bunch of wanna be socialites. What makes Dallas from New York is our culture….here your word, character and respect for others is more important than the the material things you have or who can be the bigger bitch.
Thank you again Donnie for speaking up for yourself and thanks to the LSR for their letter and making right their part of the situation at the event.
Sadly, I see and hear this ignorance and/or dismissive attitude far too often. As a 50 year old, healthy, HIV positive person who is still active in the bar scene, it can be so disheartening. It’s not just the kids either; I’ve heard some hurtful remarks from middle aged folks as well. The only thing I know to do is to be out to everyone about my status. In doing so I’m hopeful that if someone has a question about HIV they feel comfortable coming to me to talk about it. And that has happened. There is still much to be done. Regarding this particular situation, I would suggest contacting LOGO and expressing your opinion, and in addition, contact a manager at your favorite club and let them know that we do not wish them to support this vulgar production in any way.
I am totally appauled by the negative comments that I am reading in regards to the letter written by Donnie. I have a question… How many of these “A-Listers” are involved in the community? I have never seen them at any educational or awareness fundraisers and I don’t see them involved in any of the GLBT community events. The only place that I have seen them is at the bars and they certainly not projecting a positive image. I will in no way support this show on LOGO nor do business with any company that supports this production.
Another commenter asked: Why is LSR being let off the hook for their completely inadequate and unacceptable response to Mr. Pangburn at the event in question? Yay! They wrote a letter! It’s a great letter! But it doesn’t even attempt to address the failings of their staff in dealing with this at the time that it SHOULD have been dealt with (i.e. AT THE EVENT).
What should they have done? When it’s determined that someone has pretty heinously insulted one of the benefactors of the event in question, you throw the ignorant a**wipe out of the event – regardless of who he is! This isn’t rocket science. Sounds like LSR was start-struck to me and didn’t want to bruise the feelings of one of Dallas’ precious A-Listers…
This is a witch hunt. Blame anybody, somebody. Disregard the opposing opinions of others because they are probably friends of those attacking you when you solicit your own friends to post responses here. These opposing opinions are not heartless nor don’t care about HIV and AIDS issues in our community, they are concerned about your approach as well as motives. The Facebook page you created had numerous posts about harassing Phillip, posting photos of his various online profiles, visiting his place of employment, and throwing drinks on him when he is seen out in public. Because you have decided to let this ignorance perpetuate the page you created, should you be held liable for all those posts and opinions? Or better yet should we call for Facebook to be shutdown? You are walking a fine line between effective protest and slander or physically attacking an individual. If I were Phillip, I’d slap an order of protection on you so quick, your head would spin. Keep it clean and respect all opinions, as you expect to be respected. Have a great weekend, although I assume that will be tough sitting in front of a PC busy propagating anger. I’m sure one of your trusty friends will have a response, so have at it boys. Propagate the anger!
@cb427 – Being such a “public figure” as I think as much as any of the other cast members, (which those who actually go out and participate in the community seem not to really know anyone on the show). Since you say you want to stay anon, because of all the hate mail the cast is getting, and you were considered to be on the show, tells all of us you are friends with the cast and don’t want to face the truth of the matter. All public figures will get hate mail… period. When you act stupid on camera, or even on camera period you are representing your group/community… period. Seems you missed out on the whole Pedro/Real World season. Let’s talk about education, go to any bar and get a group of 21-30 and mention the phrase HIV/AIDS and see how many walk away or change the subject. Or even do it on the street… this is whats wrong with younger ones, they don’t want to talk about it. It’s actually what you are doing… Oh it’s just drama and to just get over it… Really??? Maybe after half a dozen to a dozen of your friends start dying around you, maybe you’ll then start to wake up. And before you ask, I am a 39 year old, NEG, have always played safe, and have seen many friends die due to the illness, and have volunteered my time to some benefits in Chicago. Can you say the same? Letting all the people know at LOGO, and such is letting them know we DO NOT want this type of behavior displayed as representing the community as a whole. Phil maybe a great guy, but needs to man up and apologize, then learn a few things about HIV/AIDS and maybe do a few public announcements, as should all the cast members.
When I first read Donnies comments I was too really shocked at how far we have to go as a community. I lost friends to AIDS and i know that young people who may not have seen the tragedy that this horrible monster has inflicted on others may not understand. It is another daily wake up call that education is so important. This could be a great opportunity to open a door to educate.
However I equally as shocked at how quickly one moves from a story about an incident (one side of an incident) to calling for boycott, to attacking a whole group and deciding they are not “a-listers” (it’s a reality show for Christs sake. A friend of mine recently laughed and said “ah they are not really the Housewives of New Jersey either). There was a very focused and legitimate concern here about something that was said at an event and I think it is unfortunate that the there had been a more mature response that tried to see it as an opportunity instead of one rant after another. Certainly that kind of scattered response where the cast, the show, the network and all things involved are disgusting or unworthy says a lot about the person writing it and unfortunately also reflects on the community. Just reading all of the spewing of hatred towards people that we really don’t know and attaching motives to them is sad. I am sure the A in A List can stand for a lot of things. I would hope that when the show airs our whole community does not come off as a bunch of A Holes. I don’t know why Logo has not responded but if they are reading most of the comments of those who seem so OUTRAGED in they may chose to not even try to have a civil discourse. Minds are made up and judgements were sealed.
Lone Star Ride does great things. Too bad their attention had to focus on what looks like an ongoing drama that someone does not want to see resolved instead of moving ahead with creating another successful year.
I really think some people are missing the point. This is an excellent opportunity for education, awareness and enlightenment. Donnie has made it very clear to me that this is his #1 mission. It has been his other supporters like me who have added to the mission that we would like LOGO to accurately and positively portray the Dallas LGBT community. I was at the fundraiser and what I saw was silly, inaccurate, embarrassing and, in the case of Donnie’s experience, downright appalling. That’s it. No one is “hating” anybody, just asking LOGO, it’s show, it’s cast and it’s sponsors to act and react responsibly and appropriately.
@Darlene, you are 100% right and I agree with you. There is a fine line between education and harrassment/obsession. You are all sitting here claiming “It’s not about Phillip, it’s not about the A-List, it’s not about Logo,” then turn around and center on it. There are better ways to go about HIV/AIDS education and prevention then harrassing this poor guy and everyone else involved with the show. Make a Facebook page called “Call for HIV/AIDS Awareness in Dallas,” not “Boycott Logo’s A-List: Dallas.” If you want to make a difference, go out and make a POSITIVE difference in the community. Stop sitting behind a computer bitching. It’s not HIV/AIDS education when everything you are saying is centered around some silly TV show. Do an HIV/AIDS fundraiser. Go distribute flyers about free testing. You have taken one comment and blown it 100% out of the water like a stereotypical drama queen. Do something positive and move forward. Can we all please grow up now and act our age?
Oh, and btw….being in JR’s every night doesn’t make one a public figure. That’s not aimed at anyone specifically, just a general statement. The real A-List of Dallas are the leaders in our community and charitable organizations, as well as our arts, churches and businesses. And it has absolutely nothing to do with looks, money, cars, number of friends on Facebook or appearances in Papercity. The REAL A-List of Dallas deserve to be recognized but they often are not because they choose service without recognition and wouldn’t be caught dead on a reality show. Those are the people I admire and would gladly watch on TV.
We get it, cb427, you love Philip and LOGO and A-List. Good for you. You’ve made your point.
i’d like to see an action plan from donnie outlining his education plan besides shutting down a show or going after “a listers” that nobody could give a rats behind about. hate to say it but…sticks and stones can break my bones, but words cannot hurt me. grow some balls dude
I agree with Marcus’ statement: “The real A-List of Dallas are the leaders in our community and charitable organizations, as well as our arts, churches and businesses.” A real A-Lister would never apply to be on this show. It’s current cast is more like a D-List.
I applaud Donnie & Laura’s efforts. I do not think the focus should just focus on this specific cast but this type of show in the gay community. All ‘reality’ shows want drama. Take Jersey Shore for example. Those individuals are representing Italian Americans and the State of New Jersey (all jokes aside), they are setting a terrible example for those groups. However, that show pulls in huge numbers for MTV and is one of the most popular shows ever on that network. Lots of people watch that show!
LOGO which is owned by Viacom (which also owns MTV) is using the same format. Huge ratings = huge money. They do not care about who they hurt. They are looking for social messes… people who get drunk sleep around and fight. Which is precisely why they picked this cast of people. Unfortunately, this incident is reaffirming to LOGO that they have a person on their cast who does and says stuff that pisses people off. Which is all the motivation to keep him on the cast.
I would love to see positive shows following the lives of productive gays and lesbians. Hardworking people who in reality are not that much different from the majority. However, that show would fall under the documentary category which does not attract a large viewership. Currently, there are not a lot of shows that portray the gay community well. Which for a struggling gay youth can have negative consequences.
I hope something positive comes out of this. Being a 29 year old lesbian, I worry many people in my generation do not understand the real dangers of HIV and AIDS, because they did not see it first hand. It is sad someone would so rudely and callously offend someone. Especially for a group they are suppose to be helping! He is ignorant, and I hope he never has his life changed by knowing a person living with HIV/AIDS
Thank Goodness the Drama is finally about something important! The improvement in education is just great. I was given a pamphlet, a condom with lube and a piece of candy. Total cost about .75 cents. I’m sure that took months of planning and big chuck for money for the guy who came up with that idea! The needs of the community for people effected with HIV are obvious. Just ask someone who has to live on SSDI or SSI and has been positive for 30 years or more. Don’t ask someone who is a fame whore.
Donnie – Stay strong in your resolve and know that the REAL community, the ones in the trenches doing the good work that needs to be done, have your back and support you. Don’t pay attention to the individuals on here who are using this as a means to start drama and make personal attacks against you. THEY are the ones with other motives, not you!
Keep up the fight Donnie. From you speaking out we are seeing actions being taken in the community by various organizations to educate. This incident has brought the conversation back to the fore front. Obviously from all the comments here and in other venues people are talking about HIV and even if just 1 person is impacted in a positive way by your story then your fight was well worth it.
I do agree that the focus should be taken off this individual…yes he made a stupid comment and didn’t take responsibility for it like so many others and yes he is an example of how insensitive some people can be and while I agree with the Boycott of the show as I don’t want these folks representing me and my community everyone must stay focused on the subject and that is ensuring that no one else will ever have to experience this again. EDUCATE, EDUCATE, EDUCATE Perhaps he will learn from this how his words can impact someone in a negative way.
So to everyone….I say we stop focusing on attacking Donnie and/or Phillip and instead take our feelings and put them into action. Educate someone, make a donation, something. Just do something constructive here. Let’s come together as a community for the greater good and not allow this or anything else tear up apart.
Cb427… I feel sorry for you and your lack of knowledge, experience or handling of this. At first I thought you were wanting to get your fame as well, but realized that you’re just a coward hiding behind your “cb427”. Donnie Pangburn is acting his age, and showing his incredible intelligence about the many topics that have been so ignited into a prairie fire. You and many others are missing what he is saying and what he is trying to do. Trying to tell people of cinderblock walled minds that someone is misrepresenting the community that he, and I, and you are a part of. The whole fire was sparked by an uneducated individual gathering funds for HIV fundraiser. Donnie, simply asked what it was for while pulling his money from his pocket… the incredible moron lit the fire by showing he and his show know nothing, nor care about the event that was taking place, nor the city it was in, with his “sad” and “poor”, and “them” remarks… His running away, refusing to talk and denying the event ever took place is also showing he didn’t care about the event, the city, nor the people there. Just the production and the kick-off to another money making reality show for Viacom’s MTV division of multiple networks…One more thing… I’ve never known such a dedicated and more educated individual on HIV education and prevention. He sacrifices his free time, his weekends, blood, sweat and tears for people that need and/or seek it. If you would quit hiding behind your “cd427”, he’d even be happy and honored to help you. You obviously need it.
Great post, Alan. Thank you!
while the insensitive remarks apparently WERE made by a cast member, for me I find it really disturbing and it down right pisses me off when I see narcissistic “trailer trash queens” described as “A-List” or “Top Tier” AS THIS SHOW SAYS ON “FACE BOOK”…talk about “false advertisement”!! I have always been one to point to good examples and good role models…this cast IS NOT THAT. To me, our community is so lacking in this area, but we DO have these people of “character”, and we DO need to give credit where credit IS DUE and recognize these people. To me and “A-list” person is one who “set’s the bar” for others to rise to. They are decent, honorable, people who live their lives humbly and quietly AND MAY EVEN AVOID the public spot light. These people have integrity and are always “professional” in their work ethic-I know these are big words for this cast, Logo, and others above to grasp, but I know others DO understand.
I also know, that behind every “high profile person” is usually another person. Maybe a husband, a wife, life partner, or “significant other”. These “behind the scenes” people are just as important as the “high profile person”. These people provide emotional support, they “ground” the public figure, and they are the ones who provide a safe emotional harbor for the public figure when things go wrong. In short, they provide a quite strength. Then you have the families which are usually over looked. They also provide “balance” in a persons life. I suspect the current cast has little experience in these areas and in fact, they are probably “clueless” about what I am trying to articulate.
Top Tier people typically DO NOT SEE THEMSELVES in this way-others however do. A-List’ers are typically educated, socially forward thinking, personable, usually work in jobs of great responsibility which require compassion. Usually “selfless” and “giving” souls they may work in jobs which REQUIRE “ethical behavior”. Again, this cast is void of any of this.
I pointed to DPD Officer Martin, she carries with her the “authority of life and death”. That badge she wears is a symbol of public trust. The weapon on her hip, tells people she is willing to do “battle” (if need be) to enforce the laws civilized people value. She has the power to LEGALLY deprive people of their liberty, property and their lives if need be. What more “responsibility” could a program director ask for? We as a city just don’t hand this authority to anyone-THEY MUST BE QUALIFIED AND MEET A “STANDARD”
As for Mr M. Shormer WHO I POINTED TO, again, his agency has a code of conduct. If my facts are correct, we call PEOPLE like him and entrust him to save our lives at accidents, and save our possessions as they burn. Much like Ofcr Martin, he has an AWSOME level of responsibility and ACCOUNTABLITY! Again, this cast isnt even in the same “ball park” as these two people.
I have only been in the Dallas area for 2 years and if an screw-ball like me knows of good examples-then Dallas has much more to offer than the “trailer trash boys and their hag”. I won’t give them a “free pass” to trash Dallas or our community and act like the cast of “Gay Jersey Shore”. That image does nothing for our community which is desperately trying to make inroads in society and working for totally equality. To me, if Logo cannot do the show correctly-then they shouldn’t; even bother doing it at all!
Just boycott the show and all the bars that they (logo) are allowed to tape in, and see what happens! Simple and we educate in the process.. or show up when they are taping in the bars and ACT-UP turning it into a learning experience and they will go elsewhere if they cant get the footage they want!
@CB427, I wouldnt “cash that check” just yet about this show bing a “hit”. While most of the angst is around the “remarks” of the concerned cast member is only part of the problem. THE OVER ALL CAST IN CHIEF, is not only “lacking” but grossly UNQUALIFIED TO BE CALLED “TOP TIER”-as this show does.
When a show, KNOWINGLY refers to any person as “Top Tier”….and the producers of this show KNOW that the only “qualifications” the cast members have for this label is that they “clicked a mouse” to complete a casting call, and “showed up” to the casting call…WELL, people like me and other well educated, mature, responsible GLBT people are CERTAINLY going to take issue with this.
I don’t care if the cast, Logo, the production company like my remarks or not. I don’t care if the cast’s uneducated, narcissistic followers like it; The cast of A-List Dallas is now in the “public eye”. Each of them gave up all RIGHT TO PRIVACY, and they have all “offered themselves” up to community scrutiny-good, bad, and otherwise. I find what this cast member did in public UNACCEPTABLE and he should have known better-period.
I think the whole cast of A-List Dallas is wrong, and very poorly chosen. I even think the shows title is INTENTIONALLY DECEPTIVE AND MISLEADING. I have reviewed carefully each of the cast members Bio’s- they embody “mediocre”. I would bet their resume’s wouldn’t even remotely make them “Top-Tier” candidates or members or qualify them for anything other and a job at Walmart. In short, this show is a shoddy attempt at entertainment, and it is misleading at best. At worst it will tarnish The WHOLE Dallas GLBT communities image in other urban areas among other GBLT’s in other area’s as well as on “main street America” once it hits the air waves.
I am one person who will not give them a “free pass” to act badly or trashy in public-NOT IT THEY “CLAIM” TO BE “TOP TIER”.
Lots of great comments here, but I especially appreciate DFDub’s and John LAPD’s points. Thanks!
@ Hawk…..I remember Padro Zamora and the real world….I WOULD BET MY MISRABLE GOVERMENT PENSION CHECK…100% of the A-List Cast as well as 60% of the under 35 crowd even REMOTELY can explain who he was, what he did, and what his goals were. If they do know, most arrogant, Dallasites don’t give a damn. Which is sad…we lost many “role models” in the 80’s and 90’s before we figured out how to prevent, and in someway’s “manage” this awful illness. These youngsters act as if they are “bullet proof” and only concern themselves with their own needs and desires; giving little thought to the consequences of their words and actions. This type of ignorance is and narcissism what happens when they sit behind their X-Box, and computers all day and hid behind “screen names”.
I am 48 and have been living with hiv/aids for 21 years! This show is insulting to me and others alike for showing this group of young people Logo calls A-listers! I dont watch LOGO anyway because all they show is Rupaul drag shows, which is insulting in itself, for them to think, that is all, we as the GLBT community are interested in! WTF that is not entertainment it is a joke! Not even remotely entertaining unless maybe you are a drag queen! If I want to see a real drag show I would go to the Rose Room! I repeat all we can do is to BOYCOTT THE BARS AND ESTABLISMENTS WHO ALLOW THIS SHOW TO SHOOT IN! AND TUNE OUT THE LOGO CHANNEL, which I already did about 3 years ago! Thank you also to John Lapd for your comments!
Please come out tonight and support the DFW Sisters to raise
money for HIV Prevention and Support Programs. https://www.dfwreddress.com/ for more information.
We need to educate and take a stand that ignorance towards HIV/AIDS will no longer be tolerated. We have to take a stand and let everyone know that we do NOT want our community being represented in a negative light anymore!
At the same time we wish no physical harm to any human being. We just want to be heard, we want an apology, we want education, and we want the show off the air.
Please join the “Boycott A-List Dallas” page on Facebook and show your support!
I’ve definitely been shocked by some gays friends in their 20’s and 30’s who are ignorant about HIV/AIDS so I think if the encounter happened as described I’ll look forward to seeing it addressed on the show. If anything, it would shed a light on our some of our own prejudices between + and – people. However, I take issue with a letter writing campaign and ultimately the public harrassment of a vapid reality tv cast member over something that may’ve been misheard or misinterpreted by someone with misplaced anger.
LInda maybe if you had Hiv, and people made a comment like that to your face, well, do you think that taking action would be misplaced anger? Until you can walk a mile in that persons shoes, maybe you should not comment on someones misplaced anger! Do you know Donnie well enough to know that this is misplaced anger? Or are you just sterotyping him in with all of the hiv+ people with misplaced anger?
When you have been HIV+ for 21 years and some self imposed A-Lister makes ignorant comments towards someone in our Community, it HURTS! It not only hurts the person that the comment was said to, but it hurts the entire HIV/AIDS Community, and sets back the advances we have made over the last 30 years! So sometimes when we chat amongst ourselves, yes it might sound bitter. For some it is not intended to be that way, it is just a way for some, to MASK our heartache and pain! My apologies if you have been offended!
Linda never gave any indication that she was not HIV positive, Lane. If she were, would that give her opinion more credence? Does my HIV status influence the validity of my perspective?
I keep reading that this is ultimately about educating people. Here is a great opportunity for people to put that sentiment in action. Attend this event. Learn. Teach.
AIDS AT 30 :: A COMMUNITY FORUM
Cathedral of Hope, Interfaith Peace Chapel, 5910 Cedar Springs Road, Dallas, TX 75235
Tuesday, June 28, Doors open 6 pm, Forum 6:30 to 8 pm
Topics & Presenters
HIV Prevention Strategy & Challenges for the Next Decade: Manisha H. Maskay, Ph.D., Associate Executive Director, AIDS Arms, Inc.
HIV/AIDS Treatment Today: Dr. Brady Allen, M.D., Uptown Physicians Group
What is the Future HIV Treatment? The Facts. The Hope. The Fiction.: Christopher Evans, M.D., M.P.H., Infectious Diseases, Peabody Health Center, AIDS Arms Inc.
I like how “lane” is 48 years old and insulting a community of people within our own community. Lane, your point is not taken.
I have been living with HIV for 6 years. I don’t want people to think that all people infected with the virus are bitter/dying/bitches with a chip on their shoulder.
I made choices in my life that have lead me to the position I am in my life. All I can do to teach others. If everyone commenting, put their same effort in PROMOTING something, instead of putting all their efforts against something, we would make a whole lot more process.
Right now I am more concerned with how people with HIV are portraying themselves with this whole “story”, then some kid on a reality show.
I’m unclear at this point whether the point of this is to punish Logo for not apologizing for the behavior of a cast member, punish Logo for allowing someone ignorant and discourteous to be on a reality show or promote education about HIV/AIDS. Is the idea to get Logo to cancel the show? Apologize to Donnie and fire the cast member? Do more PSA’s about HIV/AIDS awareness? What?
Is the idea to boycott the show until the level of contrition from Logo reaches some level commensurate with the offense? When is the boycott called off? Or is it a boycott just to see what can be gained with no specific goal in mind? Serious question. I’m curious what remedy you’re looking for for the way this guy acted and what you realistically expect from this organization. I almost feel like I’m not welcome in this discussion if I don’t meet the requisite level of outrage.
One thing I think this show ‘TRYS TO DO” is establish “classes” of people look at the name of it “A-list Dallas”…the title alone implys this…then you read the discription of the show “Top Tier”….THIS ALONE SAYS “THESE ARE THE THE SOCIALITES…” When in fact, they are no..not even close. Then you have one of the cast members who isnt apart of our community….she is a “nice looking face”….a “cheerleader”….WHAT THE HELL?
Then a “cast member” makes this way out of line comment…intended or not….it was out of line….and he should have thought before he opened his mouth!
This type of ignorance is all over our community…we see it and read it all the time…”Bug Free”…..”dieses free and expect the same”…THIS LITTLE GEM I pulled off “craigs list” just now “like bb only and are ddf/STD FREE-you be to..”. If they are, “ddf/STD free” acting like this…they WON’T BE LONG! Now, we expect this type of stupidity from those who act like this and post add’s like this…HOWEVER, from our “A-List” or “To Tier” people I EXPECT BETTER! I expect you to choose your words better and I expect you to hold yourself to a “higher level of conduct”. As for this “education”…well I have a simple way of thinking on this whole topic and it comes from dealing with people my whole life, “YOU CAN’T FIX STUPIED” no matter how hard we try. I think A WHOLE LOT OF PEOPLE are way-way OVER THINKING THIS…IT’S NOT THAT HARD..the guy is NOT A-LIST, THIS SHOW IS NOT REFLECTIVE of the GLBT community’s “Top Tier”…and the remarks made while insensitive and improper….are par with the persons education, station in life, and his age…in other words…typical “Dallasite Bar Fly”…nothing more. The statements about Logo are dead on…NOT WORTH MY TIME TO WATCH AND IS “TRASH TV” which will do more harm than good. They selected the cast based upon “age and looks” nothing more…and the “looks” aspect is TOTALLY OPEN FOR DEBATE….this cast is not A-List, not Top Tier, and in no way reflects the GLBT community in a positive light. You mean to tell me the “openly gay” Forth Woth City Councilman who went to the White House and made national headlines due to his impassioned public statement about “bullies” a few months ago IS NOT “A-list”??? YET, these jokers are??? LOL, boy, if this is the cast our community is more screwed up than I originally thought and why even bother…just let these fools be stupid and move on…one day they will figure it out
@ Lane, BOY I UNDERSTAND WHAT YOU ARE SAYING, about the “hurt” but, I have a great line for you to remember next time a fool like this runs his mouth. When people say DUMB CRAP REMEBER THIS…It comes from “Forest Gump”…..and goes like this “Stupied is as Stupied does…” To “hurt me now Lane,” with words imply’s I honestly “care” about the person making the ignorant remark….people say dumb crap all the time…I am typically indifferent to most peoples remarks unless I value them as a human….in other words….in my eyes, “SAY WHAT YOU WANT…YOU DON’T EXIST AS A HUMAN IN MY EYES…” or, I place ZERO VALUE on them as a person. Harsh, OH YOU BET…cold blooded…yep for sure. I have a limited amount of “understanding” for others…that “understanding” is reserved for my loved ones, family, and friends. Not, “Joe shit the rag man” WHO THINK’S he/she is “top tier”, playing “class warfare games” and in reality isn’t even close to being Top Tier, and will probably never will be unless they win the lottery. When people say dumb stuff like this guy did, I fire back…mine PROBABLY would have been HIGHLY INSENSITVE and just as dumb and with the CLEAR INTENT of insulting him…but done in such a way…he wouldn’t have even know he WAS BEING insulted right on the spot and to his face….THAT’S when you know they are stupid people saying stupid things…when they JUST DON’T GET IT.
@Jason D At least I made an apology for anyone I offended, if you would have cared to read it just a few comments down! Instead you just did what you accused me of doing, insulting others and calling us “in your words bitter/dying/bitches” . Sounds like you have your own issues you need to deal with! And I think maybe you meant to say PROGRESS instead of PROCESS! If you were not so busy insulting me, you would have corrected your mistake, as i did when I made my apology!
@ Linda W….you write “been shocked by some gays friends in their 20′s and 30′s who are ignorant about HIV/AIDS” WHY ARE YOU SHOCKED? First nearly 80% of all people under the age of 35 think they are “bullet proof”….they think that the “rules of nature do not apply to them.” Basically, they have told themselves some BULLSHIT “lie” that usually ends with “it will never happen to me..” That’s why we put young officers with older officers…to PROTECT THAT YOUNGSTER/COP from themselves and the bad guys. That’s why we have young people getting drunk and killing themselves in DWI wrecks. This is why we have young people taking over our freeways in Dallas with hoards of Motorcycles on 3 day weekends and then they come on the news and whine how they are now hurt because “someone else’s wreck less behaviors”. I don’t care if we are talking about HIV/AID’s, STD’S, drinking and driving, police work….YOUNG PEOPLE ARE WRECKLESS UNLESS THEY ARE REALLY MATURE..and that’s not a common trait among most humans, and damn sure UNCOMMON in the GLBT community! It’s not a shock to me….in fact…it makes total sense for the age group these “kids” on the show come from…they all think “_____________ will never happen to me” and then WHEN IT DOES HAPPEN…like our society has taught them to say, “__________________________ is not my fault, it’s the other persons fault.” Fill in the blanks with whatever you want…but this is the “mind set”. Then when they reach middle age, they sit and wonder “how did I get this way?” Well, the answer is simple, “you knew or should have known better and ignored all the education and wisdom you were offered. Now you are living with the painful consequences of your OWN BAD CHOICES.” Not shocking at all Linda, it’s par for the age group nothing more and that’s why this cast is so “mediocre”. I see a person under 35 these days and I say…”stay away from me…I don’t wanna get dragged into your BS..go away and grow up!”
John LAPD, Please don’t speak for Dallas…LOL your comments are worth as much as two tits on boar hog to the discussion
WHILE I SUPPORT ANY EFFORT TO educate our young people, the uninformed, and the ignorant; I think we are being overly optimistic in this area of “educating people” like this cast member. Currently, STD PREVENTION has been offered in both public and private schools since at least the mid 1970’s-I got in health education back in about 1975. This has been a part of our Military Training since the 50’s and 60’s. STD education is ALL OVER THE INTERNET IN 2011! Yet, people still get STD’S simply because they engage in risky behaviors with strangers and people who “get around”. HIV was found to be sexually transmitted in the 90’s. Since then, The GLBT community has led the charge on prevention and education. The education our community has done-STILL DOES in this area is nothing short of admirable. We now offer education in our high schools, colleges, military bases, bill boards, leaflets and so ON for HIV where NO EDUCATION WAS DONE BEFORE. HIV and STD prevention is-HAS ALWAYS BEEN at the front of OUR communities thinking. Even on Craig’s list a “warning” of sorts is found before you can enter the “personal ads”. In some communities, volunteers wander about the public parks and toilets leaving behind condoms and “leaflets” ABOUT STD/HIV INFECTION/TESTING where people have been known to have public/risky sex. Bathhouses offer FREE TESTING AND condoms…..PREVENTION is everywhere in our community. Our community has been the “driving force” behind things like “AID’s Ride”, APLA, and other fund raisers/GROUPS which have funded prevention, treatment, and testing not only on our community but in the heterosexual community as well. HIV/AID’s education is NOW done in not only English but Spanish, Arabic, and other languages. YET, with all this we STILL HAVE PEOPLE GETTING INFECTED. It would be one thing to say, “I was infected in the 80’s before we knew how it was spread”, but it is another matter all together to say, “I was infected in 2011”. I guess at some point, people NEED to take responsibility for their own conduct/ACTIONS, and be accountable for their own behaviors. I am totally against being a “nanny” to stupid people. This is America, it is a free country. We have “freedom of choice” and “freedom” to choose if we will or will not listen to the advice on prevention of HIV. You can be anything you want in America-even stupid-but if you DO ENGAGE in behaviors which are “risky” A PERSON SHOULD EXPECT that they will probably become infected sooner or later. Every “risky” encounter is a “roll of the dice” so to say. I look at this topic and “safe sex” “like I do smoking….we all know smoking is bad. We all know smoking causes cancer. We all know smoking is a nasty habit and will screw you up in more ways than one. We now put BIG graphic photos on cigarettes boxes to get people to stop smoking. If “death” is not incentive enough to get them to stop this dangerous behavior NO AMOUNT OF EDUCATION OR HORRIBLE/ SCARY PHOTOS WILL MAKE THEM STOP some people are just hell bent on being stupid and hurting themselves. While I applaud the efforts of those who are taking the high ground and trying to educate the ignorant- I am a bit pessimistic about those who still become infected and lay responsibility where it belongs-in the individual themselves.
@ Joe, I would never want to even try and speak for a “Dallasite” it is simply a waist of my time-period. My soul interest IN HOW OUR COMMUNITY IS PROTRAYED AND NOTHING MORE….I stopped trying to “save the world” in 2009 the day I retired and moved to N-E Texas. I figured out the world simply doesn’t want to be saved. I KNOW you would think this is “all about Dallas” but a big news flash-IT’S NOT. If this matter was just about Dallas and the Dallisites who occupy the gayborhood I would walk away and laugh a bit and go on with my life. This is a larger issue, what this show does is about me, my partner and others who are members of the larger GLBT community everywhere. It is typical Joe for some folks in Dallas to see this as “only about Dallas”. i GUESS OTHERS SEE IT THIS WAY TOO BASED UPON THE ATTENTION THIS MATTER IS GETTING IN OTHER COMMUNITIES NOW AND EVEN IN ATLEAST ONE OTHER COUNTRY IF I UNDERSTAND correctly….this is of community importance-it’s not all about Dallas
@ Jason D. you write, ” have been living with HIV for 6 years. I don’t want people to think that all people infected with the virus are bitter/dying/bitches with a chip on their shoulder.
I made choices in my life that have lead me to the position I am in my life” SIR, my hat is off to your….you display the courage to admit a mistake and move forward trying to make sure nobody else follows in your footsteps….this is a great endevor
I completely agree that the A-List cast member was way out of line and LOGO should consider an avenue of retribution, of their choosing. They could fire this jerk. They could cancel the taping altogether. Or, they could craft a storyline to address ignorance in our community, with this guy taking a journey into what it means to be HIV+, and fight for yours and others rights. We’ll have to see how it plays out, but know (LOGO) that we will be watching your movement on this.
What confuses me, if I understand Donnie’s experience, is that the organizers of the event was Lone Star Ride Fighting AIDS. However, when approached by Donnie, they dismissed him, inviting him to approach the cast member. Given Donnie’s emotional state, this could have turned ugly. Thankfully , Donnie handled himself well and things didn’t get out of hand. I have witnessed people being asked to leave establishments and functions for far less infractions. And, though I understand this was a slippery slope for LSR, ‘something’ should have been done to sooth Donnie’s emotions. Taking someone aside and listening to their plight and lending an empathetic ear goes a long way.
LOGO and Lone Star Ride Fighting Aids both have a responsibility in this situation. For my part, I thank Donnie Pangburn for shedding light on this matter. Way to stand up Donnie!
Dear GOD this thread is the most childish and annoying thing I have EVER read. You claim that you want Dallas to be represented accurately and are so worried about how a bunch of young adults are going to ruin how everyone thinks of Dallas gays. Have any of you for a SECOND thought of how you are representing those in the LGBT community that are HIV+? All of you are doing nothing but bitching constantly about anything and everything. You are looking to point a finger at anyone that you can and are blanketing it as being “education.” The majority of you HIV+ readers are giving everyone else the impression that positive people are bitter, bitchy queens. I have had friends from out of the state read some of these comments and they have told me that if they had never been to Dallas before and didn’t know better, they would NEVER visit a place like this. If you want to make a difference, do a fundraiser, go pass out condoms, hold signs on a sidewalk. Do SOMETHING other than sit behind a computer and perpetuate anger and hostility. You are NOT educating anyone. You are coming across as immature, childish, hostile, and I am downright disgusted with each and every one of you.
howdy, Annoyed. My name is Frank Turrentine. I’m not sure how childish that is, but I’m trying to approach this from a fairly objective standpoint. Having said that, I don’t know that I would let this article and the ensuing comments affect how I felt about Dallas in general much at all. Anymore than I would let the program in question affect my perceptions. But that’s just me.
Welcome to God’s country, btw.
When this started hitting Joan Rivers and Barack Obama it kinda became a caricature of itself. It was a stupid comment from a guy at a bar, for fuck sake. Maybe he should lose his job, but I wouldn’t have known he existed if it weren’t for this. it’s a really good reason to ramp up education, but beyond that, it’s a pissin contest and attention whoring. Ignore the show. Educate people. Drop it.
and yeah, my HIV resume is pretty sound. lost lovers, friends, all that. I’m 47 and grew up here. big fuckin deal. I don’t even fuckin watch tv
@ Annoyed, in many ways your friends hit the nail on the head about Dallas. This “image” Dallas has amoung people from communities, and in other areas of our nation was/is not brought on by just The GLBT community or a few comments in this forum. In fact, the whole “Dallietude” is known in places like West Hollywood, Philly, Florida, and so on- I was made aware of it by my Denton real estate agent before we moved to Texas….hench we did not even look at propety in Dallas. We have seen it up close and personal several times when in the Gayborhood- now, on the rare times when we DO GO OUT, we arm ourselves with our “West Los Angeles/ California” attitude to fend off the people who are less than civil. When I have had the chance to inter-act with people from out of town I am open friendly and try to display a positive image. Usually they say “geezzz you ARE like what we WERE TOLD about Texans open and friendly” to which we respond “we are not from texas nor Dallas-we are ‘outsiders’ from California who happen to live NEAR DALLAS-we are not “Dallisites’. Our friends who come to visit us have made similar statements about their encounters with down right nasty attitudes they see in Dallas. So, I must agree with you Annoyed. Our gym is in Rockwall and. I recently bought a new Harley Davidson- a BIG TICKET ITEM. While the Dallas store had a better selection and prices were comparable; I opted to DRIVE to Paris, TX and my bike. I did this simply because I dislike what I see in Dallas nothing more (it’s not just members of the GLBT community doing this). This is REALLY how “Dallietude” is hurting The City, business, and the Cities “image”. This show will only add to peoples negative perceptions about Dallas and those who live in Dallas. People like my partner and I, your friends, and other WILL NOT shop, vacation, or spend money in Dallas when they get sick of this attitude or see it on National TV. Dallas residents, and those frequent Dallas, are viewed as rude, snotty, arrogant, narcissistic and ignorant people-period. Is this a “stereotype”? Yes, but it IS HAVING A NEGITIVE IMPACT on the City as a hole. What Donnie is doing in this case, with this cast member, is pointing a finger at one such person who is displaying such attitude, who acted badly, an ran their “mouth” at the wrong time with the wrong person. Donnie also seems to take “the high” ground and wants to try and educate that person and others like him. As for me, I am not that noble. I just won’t deal with him, his community, or anything involving his or people like him–to me is is the “typical Dallasite” displaying the “Dallietude”. This makes me and other like me not want to shop, spend dine out, or do anything associated with Dallas and those who live in this urban area- which HURTS THE CITY WITH REVENUE and business. We are more often than not likely to skip Dallas to go to Fort Worth or other communities around Dallas these days to shop or dine out. I put my money where my mouth is-AS DO ALOT OF OTHER PEOPLE I KNOW. If I was willing to move from of Calif to Texas because I disliked what was going on in that state…I have no qualms avoiding places which are closer and have the same nasty attitudes and mind set I left behind 2 years ago. I know this was off the point I am sorry being off the point however, the “Dallietude” and “Dallisitie” have now come out and wanted to give you folks a heads up on how “outsiders” like us view you and what we do when we encounter this nasty attitude. Like I said to “Joe” above, the comment was only the “spark” this is about MUCH MORE than one person or small group of people….it is about how our community is viewed, how Dallas is viewed, and the ignorance that is clearly present in it.
As a local perfomrer, I always raise monies for HIV based charities. I always give back to my community, because one day, that community may have to give to me. I, too, have lost several close friends to HIV.. I’m in fear that some of LOGO TV’s employees have lost sight of this ever-growing problem. The day we lose our humility is a sad day in the face of America. If you are selected to be on a televsion program, you must hold yourself to a higher regard. Scrutinize yourself, always be concious of every word, act and look you give someone. Unfortunately, I have never heard of several of these cast members of A-List Dallas, a couple, yes, but most of them, no. I have interacted with several of the true A-List GLBT People in Dallas and they are not represented by any of these castmembers. The people I know, are humble, kind and influential. Truly A-List in every sense of the word. Please keep educating people. Stupidity & ignorance encompasses more than just “poor, sad, old people”, it affects even the ones in our social media. Most of the younger generation of GLBT’s do not remember the fight or loss or the non-pharmaceutical help that has given them the chance at a longer life. Casting members of a reality-based TV show, one should really interview the applicants. Interview more people throughout a community, not just select a small panel to choose a young, pretty face who really does nothing to enhance or better this community. LOGO TV should remove & replace Phillip Willis.. Be strong and continue the good fight! Education and compassion make us a better, stonger GLBT community.
well said Samanth Steele well said….
The A List Dallas is in all reality the H List ( D List times 2). I am a HIV Positive gay male and a 4th & 5th generation native Houstonian and I REFUSE to step foot in Dallas on the account of the nauseating attitude that is epidemic there.
Bigotry towards those with HIV/AIDS has to stop. I worked for Build A Bear Workshop in Grapevine Mills when I was diagnosed. I thought the right thing to do, since we work with sewing Equipment was to talk about it. My District manager used it to harrass me, even asking my manager if she could get AIDS from me touching her drinking glass. I filed harassment but the DM won because her and the company owner were sorority sisters. When she learned my manager told me about the drinking glass incident she fired her for “creating a hostel work environment”. When I realized I would not win this battle I was forced to throw in the towel and I quit the company. Unfortunately I see those living with HIV/AIDS being treated like this all the time within all aspects of the community, be it bigotry from straight people or gay people. It disgusts me, and it must end.
Wow, I just stumbled across this website after doing some research about three friends of mine back in the late 70’s and early 80’s. Their names are Bill Nelson, Terry Tebedo and Mike Richards. These brave and compassionate souls were pioneers when HIV/AIDS hit our community back then. They paved the way in education, community support and political insight in an attempt to bring this subject to the forefront so the lives of others and future generations could be spared the death, heartache and condemnation that our community suffered during those horrible times. I moved to Los Angeles during the height of the epidemic to get out of Texas. I was born and raised in Dallas, and the pretentiousness of the city and our community was more than I could take anymore. Not to mention the politics the state still seems to take place even today. From reading this forum today, it seems that little has changed. If my friends Bill, Terry and Mike were here today they would be disgusted and shocked to see their efforts given so little respect and attention. And as many should know, it was Bill and Terry’s efforts that later helped to establish the community center in Dallas. While my roots are there, and having visited a few times since then I saw what was and still a very shallow and pretentious side of Dallas. It’s little wonder things haven’t changed much. Well, I understand there’s a new version of the old Dallas. And I’m sure it will be just as boring and fake as was the original show. Texans and Dallasites still seem to hold onto the small mind concept today as back then. And the gay community for the most part will never understand what we went through back then, and clearly they don’t care.
I’ve known Donnie for a long time and I know him to be a self absorbed cry bag that has been spolied his whole life..I see he is still up to his same old ways of ..puting self first and always being the victim!
Matt…what have you done lately? Exactly. Obviously you don’t know Donnie that well…perhaps you know of him, but you certainly don’t know him. This is evident by your comment. You clearly don’t see what he has been doing and has done for years of helping others. I find your comment ridiculous and frankly just ignorant. Comments like this only make you seem like a bitter bitchy queen that has nothing better to do than talk mess about others…typical behavior. How could anyone that truly knows Donnie call him “spoiled”. That is by far the furthest from the truth, which is what I would expect you to know, before making such ignorant assumptions. Get a life Matt. I pray you will find peace and happiness with yourself so that you don’t have to direct that which is wrong with you on to others.
I find it interesting that on the boycott page nothing has been updated since the 24th when Donnie announces in what seems to be a defeated tone that the taping of the A-list has been completed. Yet all along everything that Donnie would continue to say is, his goal and his fight is education. Now over 2 weeks later, he decides to post this negative comment that some guy named “Matt”, for what reason? Where is the positve impact intention that Donnie orginally preached about? Why spend time shining light on this negative comment? Where is he with the “fight to educate”? In honesty at this point it does seem a bit misleading. Get off the your pity party and get up and do something. I personally know that several people came forward and did offer ways to promote and educate a healthier lifestyle, however seems Donnies kind of dropped the ball on this. Instead of “updating” us on negative comments or personal attacks why dont you update us on actual positive steps, activities, and/or events towards your promised fight to educate????
I initially was not going to even comment, however it seems to me some are misguided and misinformed. First to Carter: While I appreciate your comments and feedback,I (like you hopefully) respect people’s opinions, good or bad, which is why I chose to post the comment (besides the fact that I found it a bit odd). I am not mad or upset, or feel like a victim at all. Those comments are nothing compared to the comments and threats I have received since the incident on June 11, 2011. Furthermore you have given me this great opportunity to let you know that I haven’t dropped the ball with my passion to educate. In fact, I am speaking to YouthFirst Texas on Thursday August 25th, I have created a Youth Community Forum which will be held at the Resource Center on Tuesday September 13th, and also just received my marketing so that I can move forward with a website initiative to help stomp out stigmas revolving around HIV, provide testing information,prevention information, a place to ask questions, and gather needed information regarding the reality of HIV. I apologize that you were not informed of everything I had been doing and planning, but these things take time and preparation. Now, I would like to address the comments from “Matt”…which I’m certain is not his real name. Everyone is allowed to voice their opinion, and yes “Matt” you are right: I was self-absorbed, however that was about 8 years ago. I have no problem admitting that there was a time in my life I was not a very nice person. However, I have grown, I have changed, I have learned, and I have evolved as a human being. So, your statement is about 8 years old. Anyone who really knows me knows that I choose to live my life a certain way, and I always try to be kind to everyone. Do I succeed 100% of the time? No one does. However, I have learned through life’s experiences that I am more conscious of my thoughts, the words that come out of my mouth, and most importantly, my actions. I am well aware that I cannot and will not be able to please everyone, and I know everyone will not like me. And you know what? I’m ok with that, because at the end of the day, I know that I have tried to be the best human being I can, I’ve taken responsibility for my life, and hopefully in some small way by my actions, I have made a positive impact on someone’s life, and the world as a whole. I appreciate feedback, good and bad. Just make sure you have facts, leave your emotions and opinions out of the equation. I also hope you, as well as everyone does something to impact our community in a proactive manner, and I pray we just don’t sit behind our laptops and judge others. Love and Light, Donnie
@ Todd…sweetie pray for yourself…and I have a very nice life, but thank you for all your concern. I am FAR from typical or ignorant sweetheart. Perhaps you are the one that has no life, and I don’t make assumptions, I deal in facts. If you werent blinded by whatever koolaid Donnie has been having you drink you would see that this is just another lash out by him, something that he has done his whole life. If you open yourself up like this in public you have to deal with what comes wih it both positive and negative. I am intitled to my oinion as you are yours, however before you start name calling and describing people as typical maybe you should look at yourself, seems to me like your attitude could use some adjusting, apparently you have knee jerk reactions to situations and shoot your mouth off…a sign of a VERY insecure person. Have a good day!!
@Matt…you are pathetic…you come after Donnie you come after all of us…that is what true friendship is “sweetie” Seems my opinion of you is right on the money. Don’t try to convince me of your “nice life” convince yourself, but if the only way you can feel better about yourself is publicly attacking Donnie then go right ahead…this is the last response you will get from me as you are frankly not worth my time, but know this…if someone has something negative to say about my friends, especially someone as sweet, loving and caring as Donnie that gives of himself and his time for the benefit of others then we will not sit by and let you run your mouth. I will defend Donnie as I believe in him and his cause. So you have yourself a nice day and find something better to do with your time. My attitude towards you is justified…I don’t tolerate people such as yourself needing to try and make others look bad to lift yourself up.
@ TODD……boring (YAWN)
@Matt – What is it that you have against Donnie Pangburn? I understand that you have your opinion, but why do bash Donnie the way you do? What has Donnie done in the past that hurt you so bad that you post comments like “I’ve known Donnie for a long time and I know him to be a self absorbed cry bag that has been spolied his whole life..I see he is still up to his same old ways of ..puting self first and always being the victim!” and “If you werent blinded by whatever koolaid Donnie has been having you drink you would see that this is just another lash out by him, something that he has done his whole life.”?
All I see is a man that is standing up to educate others about the reality that is HIV/AIDS. What is wrong with this? Matt, it just doesn’t make sense to me on why you must say these hurtful about Donnie.
@Donnie – I have known you for a long time and I have never seen you more passionate about something. Good for you!!! It makes me happy!!! I am thankful that i can call you my friend. Keep going!!!
Donnie Condor
Matt – Instead of expending all of this energy towards bashing Donnie in a public forum, why don’t you try doing something constructive, like volunteering at one of the many HIV Assistance service organizations in the area? You seem to have a lot of energy, and Lord knows the agencies could certainly use the help! I think you’ll find the satisfaction that comes from helping others will overshadow any negative feelings you have towards Donnie, or anybody for that matter. Give it a try, what have you got to lose??
Well Donnie I think its wonderful that you still have some things coming forward to contiue with your journer to educate. However, do you see how these wonderful things that you are putting your valuable time and efforts into have been over shadowed by givng attention and light to the negative comments. Whenever you decide to take on a responsiblity with a community you are always going to have negative energy, dont feed form that negative energy. This Matt guy is very munch entitled to his opinion, however you dont have any reason to have to even respond to it. Let him and anyone else who has anything negative to say about you go, there is no reason to give them any attention. Fuel yourself and respond to the positive energy that will allow you to succeed in this journey and soon enough you will find yourself surrounded by positive people and energy that will in fact have you succeed. When you say you respect his opinion even though bad, and that is why you posted the comment on your Boycott page and addressed it, in all honesty and with due respect, it just tells me you wanted exactly what happened. Friends commenting on it and defending you so you can be assured that you are not these things. However, it just started a name calling teenage-like argument between people who dont even know each other. Notice how noone really mentioned any specifics on your coming events and how they can get involved and educate along with you. Setting up a public platform to envoke positive change and education is very hard, not many people get an opportunity where they have people listening and watching. You now have a platform, people are now listening to you, dont react to the negative, when you do it only releases that negative force back out into your work, your efforts, and the world. I would even suggest changing the name to your facebook page, seperate yourself form that negative tone of “boycotting”. Yes this all started from a very negative comment and occurance that was said and happened to you. Lets not allow this platform to be a forum where people can continue to make these negative comments and spread this negative energy out towards each other. If you continue to allow this then it will make your fight and journey very difficult and then impossible. You are leading this platform so it is your responsability and choice what you decide to address and ignore. Fuel yourself from the positve, deleate the negative, share and educate as ONLY that positive energy will begin to flow into you and out into the world. Several times I see you mention Love and Light. That light will only shine as bright as you allow it, dont dim it with the negative. All said with L-O-V-E
As a Gay Texan..these guys really give us a bad name. For one thing..can’t Logo find at least ONE masculine gay man for their reality shows? Must we all be flaming queens fixated on our hair and skin and calling other grown men “honey”? Texas is filled with masculine gay men..guys who don’t give a crap about the brand of their clothing..what parties they attend..or trying to be the ultimate gay stereotype. Hard working gay men who develop real relationships and friendships..and don’t just try to screw every pretty boy that crosses their path. From what I’ve seen of this show..it is devoid of depth and quality..and is just a big wad of cotton candy -all hot air with very little substance. How people can watch this crap is beyond me..but me and my friends won’t be watching past the initial painful episode. Thank you Logo for continuing and celebrating our worst stereotypes..even when they are perpetrated by those mindless people in our own community. And one more thing: Real men..straight or gay..don’t use the word “honey” in everyday conversation. Grow some balls and talk like a man damnit..sheesh.
Why are there only 400 gays angered by this? I am furious and sickened! I’ve been beaten and kicked by my ignorant straight oppressors almost every day in high school only to come into this world. A world that is not at all properly representing a gay person, but instead shovels out this so called “classy” show that causes me to be discriminated against! Why in the world would the gay community enjoy a show like this?