I am at a crossroads with publication of Hi-Desert LGBT News and so want to put out the word that a new editor is needed.

My motivation for publishing this newsletter has been the goal of bringing together the LGBT people here, and our allies, for the purpose of creating a real community. Such a community would be able and willing to make a unified response to threats and attacks.

Surely all of us are aware that there has been no shortage of anti-LGBT threats and attacks in the Morongo Basin. A handful of others share my conviction that these not be allowed to go unanswered. Yet I find it difficult to respond to such threats and turn out this newsletter each month.

Ideally, someone will come forward to carry on and I will be free to devote more energy to equality issues in new ways such as creating a database of locals who could be a first line defense, capable of rapid mobilization in response to threats and attacks such as the “Hate Van” that participated in this year’s Pioneer Days Parade in 29 Palms.

Perhaps there is someone out there who would like to have a shot at putting out this publication. Certainly I would do whatever necessary to make for a smooth transition. If no one responds this could be the final issue.

If that comes to pass, then gratitude goes out to the advertisers and to those who have taken a stand for the greater good, notably Rev. Louis Gerhardt, Donald Krouse, Jim Babb, Krista Blevins, RJ Howard, Shari Elf, Fritz Koenig, Andy Woods, and all who have served on the Out & About Steering Committee, also Phyllis Lozano and Pepper Blakeley in Victor Valley.

– Mike Lipsitz Editor/ Publisher 760-449-4048