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DAPCAN
Desert AIDS Project Community Action Newsletter
April 5, 2012
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 Happy Easter from Desert AIDS Project!
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Editorial Staff
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David Brinkman
Chief Executive Officer
Barry Dayton
Director of Marketing and Communications
Alexis Ortega
Interactive Marketing
Specialist
Rick Vila
Volunteer Co-editor
John Lewis
Volunteer Co-editor
Steve Bolerjack
Volunteer Co-editor
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Tuesday, May 1, 6:00 PM
A Positive Life - The Series: HIV & Your Heart - Cardiovascular Health
 The next seminar in the Positive Life Series will feature speaker Ruben Gamundi discussing HIV and cardiovascular health. A light supper will be served at 6:00 PM, and the program will begin at 6:30 PM. The location is the Sinatra Auditorium at Desert Regional Medical Center (at the corner of Tachevah and Via Miraleste in Palm Springs), and the event, sponsored by Jewish Family Services of the Desert, is always free. ASL translation will be provided. Questions? Email positivelifeseries@gmail.com, or call 760.566.6POZ (6769). However, YOU DO NOT NEED TO RSVP! The following Positive Life Series seminar will be on Tuesday, June 5th and feature Dr. Rick Loftus. (jl)
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Thursday, April 12, 4:00 - 6:00 PM
HIV Wisdom for Older Women
 100 WOMEN, a major donor group at Desert AIDS Project dedicated to helping those affected by or at-risk for HIV/AIDS, invites women--and men--of any age to join them for wine and hors d'oeuvres on Thursday, April 12 from 4:00 - 6:00 PM at the Viceroy Hotel at 415 S. Bellardo Road in Palm Springs. Attendees will meet Jane Pecinovsky Fowler (pictured) and hear how her HIV infection in later life has led to her work to serve the under-represented community of older women with HIV. Fowler, retired from more than 30 years as a career journalist, is helping to raise public awareness that HIV infection can and does impact mid-life and older women. Following her HIV diagnosis in 1991, Fowler became an activist and public speaker in 1995. She was a co-founder of the National Association on HIV Over Fifty (NAHOF) and went on to found an organization called HIV Wisdom for Older Women, dedicated to HIV prevention and care, in 2002 that she continues to lead today. Those interested in attending on April 12, are asked to RSVP to Sue Knollenberg by calling 760.323.9641 or emailing her at sknollenberg@desertaidsproject.org. (rv)
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Thursday, April 19, 7:00 PM
"Woven Voices"
 Share the life experience of three long-time survivors of HIV/AIDS at a reading of their collective work, entitled "Woven Voices," in the Sinatra Auditorium at Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs on Thursday, April 19 at 7:00 PM. The one-hour reading will be followed by a Q&A session. Those considering attending should be aware that some "adult language" will be used throughout the reading. (rv)
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Thursday, April 26, breakfast, lunch & dinner
Dining Out for Life
 You can support HIV/AIDS services at Desert AIDS Project simply by dining at any of the Dining Out for Life participating restaurants throughout the Coachella Valley on Thursday, April 26! Follow this link for more information and a list of participating restaurants. (jl)
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| D.A.P. Community Center Events |
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The D.A.P. Client Community Center hosts regular activities and events every week (listed below). Community Center special events and other activities can be found on the main D.A.P. website. Click here for the complete list of upcoming special events.
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Tuesday, April 17, Noon - 1:00 PM
Community Center Presents: Gilead Sciences Inc. presents:
HIV and inflammation.
Join us for a luncheon sponsored by Gilead Sciences. The presentation will be facilitated by Mike Roy. Luncheon will be served at 11:45 AM. Please RSVP to Ray at 760.323.2118, ext. 295 or at rrobertson@desertaidsproject.org
Improve your quality of life through education!
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Every Thursday, 1:00 PM
Community Center Presents: MOVIE & PIZZA Thursday, April 12 - The Rose (1979) 
The story of the tragic life of a self destructive female rock star, modeled after Janis Joplin. Directed by Mark Rydell and starring Bette Midler and Alan Bates.
Come out for a good flick!
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Ongoing Client Community Center activities include:
- Support groups
- Spiritual Living 101
- Hepatitis C Therapy Education
- Diabetes Education
- Stitch in Time (needlecraft), Wednesdays, 10:00 AM
- Community Center Computer Lab
- Lending Library
- Free films, Thursdays, 1:00 PM
Follow this link to see the recurring activities on the Community Center Calendar.
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Dr. Joy Hamilton leaving D.A.P.
Dr. Joy Hamilton has resigned as Director of Clinical Services at Desert AIDS Project, effective May 15, to take a new position on the east coast. She recently completed her Masters of Business Administration degree at the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill's Kenan-Flagler School of Business and was offered a significant opportunity for her career. "Although we'll be sorry to see Joy go, we wish her only the best of luck," said David Brinkman, CEO of D.A.P. "After distinguished service as a member of our board of directors, she has been a steadying hand as a senior staff member during these uncertain times with health care reform and ongoing funding challenges. She's also been an important part of our 100 WOMEN major donor group as it provides critical services to women and children affected by HIV/AIDS." A transition plan is in place, which will soon include announcements of both Dr. Hamilton's replacement and a new Medical Director. Since Dr. Hamilton carried a small patient load, in addition to her duties as Director of Clinical Services, she has been informing them of her departure already during office visits. Those patients will also be transitioned to new providers. "My time at Desert AIDS Project has provided a priceless experience," said Dr. Hamilton. "I have learned so much from the staff and clients here. I will treasure and draw from that knowledge for years to come." (jl)
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The Client Advocacy Committee is looking for a piano tuner!
 The Client Advocacy Committee reviews all suggestions that are received in writing, dealing with issues concerning the clients at Desert AIDS Project. As a result of a recent client comment/suggestion we are looking for a piano tuner to donate their services to tune the piano in the Community Center. Several clients like to come in and play, as they don't have pianos at home, but have noted that it is in desperate need of tuning. Can you help? Please contact Ray in the community Center at at 760.323.2118, ext. 295 or at rrobertson@desertaidsproject.org. (jl) Back to top
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New guidelines recommend antiretroviral treatment for all people with HIV
Newly updated US antiretroviral treatment guidelines are recommending antiretroviral treatment for all people with HIV infection, with particular emphasis on treatment for: people with CD4 cell counts below 500; anyone at risk of transmitting HIV to partners; pregnant women; and people with hepatitis B co-infection or HIV-related kidney disease. Read more. (jl)
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Free POZ Life Weekend Seminar in Long Beach
 April 28, 2012 is the next POZ Life Weekend Seminar, a free healing and transformational workshop for people with HIV/AIDS and their loved ones. April brings another great line up of amazing presenters and topics including Drug Treatment Options, Disclosure, Relationships, Insurance and Public Benefits, Sero-Different Relationships, Nutrition and HIV, Sex and Intimacy, Adherence, Healing Drum Circle, Art Therapy, Clinical Trials, Complementary Therapy, Support Groups and so much more! To Register, log onto TheLifeGroupLA.org for an online reservation form and they will contact you to complete your registration. Or call Sunnie Rose at 888.208.8081. The POZ Life Weekend is Re-Affirming Weekend Seminar you will never forget! (jl)
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Despite "undetectable" viral load, semen may still be infectious  HIV positive men who have sex with men may continue to have detectable virus in their semen despite being on combination antiretroviral regimens that suppress blood plasma viral load, according to a new study just published in the online edition of AIDS. The "treatment as prevention" theory had become a key principle of protection between heterosexuals. However, according to researchers, "HIV-positive men may believe they are unlikely to infect a male partner based on incorrect assumptions that antiviral therapy eliminates HIV from semen. Until more information on transmission risk is available, it would be prudent to advise sexually active HIV-infected men to use condoms and other risk-reduction strategies throughout all stages of HIV disease regardless of treatment status." Click here and here to read more on this. (sb) (jl)
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Cognitive function improves through the first year of HIV therapy
Cognitive function continues to improve up to one year after starting antiretroviral therapy, according to the results of a small international study published in HIV Medicine. The investigators monitored changes in cognitive function six and twelve months after patients started therapy. Significant overall improvements were observed at both time points. Changes in cognitive function varied according to treatment regimen and improvements were less pronounced in patients taking a regimen based on efavirenz (Sustiva, also in Atripla) than those seen in people taking alternative regimens. Read more. (jl)
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HIV and Aging Survey
 A doctoral candidate at the California School of Professional Psychology in San Francisco is looking for volunteers to participate in his research of HIV and Aging. The study is looking at factors that contribute to health-related quality of life in HIV-positive, gay-identified men aged 50 and older. In an effort to understand some of the challenges encountered and the coping mechanisms employed by these individuals, he is looking for volunteer participants to complete a brief, completely anonymous online survey (average time 12 minutes). Your editor just completed the survey and found it essentially painless! Follow this link for more information and this link for access to the survey. (jl)
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Volunteer for AIDS 2012 Conference
 The success of the AIDS 2012 Conference (July 22 - 27 in Washington, DC) will depend heavily on the support of up to 2,000 volunteers who will fill a range of crucial positions, including helping coordinate program activities, greeting and registering delegates and staffing various offices. Volunteering can be a great way to gain international experience and support the world's largest international meeting on AIDS. In addition, volunteers can participate in the conference, with unlimited access to all conference sessions outside their shifts. The online volunteer application will be available on the AIDS 2012 website as of April 1. Click here for more information on volunteering. (sb)
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Ready for your close-up? HIV-Positive men needed for photo shoot
From Frontiers magazine...
 Positive Frontiers is a new national online HIV magazine for the LGBT community. We are a magazine focusing on lifestyle, art and culture and we're currently looking for HIV positive people to participate in a photo shoot. We'd like gay and bisexual men who are open and out about their HIV status. Previous modeling experience is not required. We're looking for real people of diverse backgrounds. All types of ages, ethnicities and body types are encouraged to submit. Please email a clear, recent photo along with name, age, city and how long you have been positive to Alex.Garner@frontiersla.com. (jl)
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"Easter is a time to rejoice, be thankful, be assured that all is forgiven so life extends beyond the soil of earth." - Byron Pulsifer
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Benefits & Resources Section - Ongoing
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The NestEggg Group offers free tax preparation for D.A.P. clients
 The NestEggg Group is offering free filings for 2011 IRS and California taxes for clients of D.A.P. The free service does not include research or amended returns, past years returns, or other complex tax matters. Processing fees apply for electronic filings and appointments are required. Please call NestEgg at 760.322.4622, ext. 205, or email them at accounting@nesteggg.com. (Be sure to reference D.A.P. taxes in the subject line). (jl) |
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Discounts at Revivals!
 Revivals stores continue to offer 10% discounts for "seniors"--anyone over 55--every Tuesday. In addition, Revivals offers 50% off men's clothing the first Thursday of each month and 50% off women's clothing on the first Friday of each month. Discounts are available on all donated items but does not include consignment or "new" items. Visit Revivals' website for store locations, hours and other information. (jl)
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D.A.P. Resources: website and toll-free number
 Remember that the Desert AIDS Project toll-free phone number is always available at 866.331.3344, as is the website at www.desertaidsproject.org. (jl)
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DAPCAN archives always available online
 Do you need to take another look at something you read in DAPCAN somewhere only to find that it's long gone from your inbox? You can find past DAPCAN issues online by clicking this link. As always, you can also read the most current edition of DAPCAN on the D.A.P. website by visiting www.desertaidsproject.org/newsletter. (jl)
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Medically Indigent Services Program (MISP)
AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP)
For those who qualify, medical care and help paying for your medications are available through the MISP and ADAP programs. You can find out if you qualify by scheduling an appointment by calling the numbers below. You can schedule your MISP and ADAP appointments together for Moreno Valley office ONLY. If you qualify for ADAP only, there is a local ADAP office right here at Desert AIDS Project. Specify the Palm Springs office when you call to make your appointment. Here are the numbers:
877.501.5085 - toll free
951.486.5375 - English
951.486.5400 - Spanish
951.486.4635 - fax
NOTICE: Faxed MISP applications can get lost in the process. Most persons who have faxed their application have had to re-apply later. It's best to apply in person in Moreno Valley, and get a "receipt of application", and use that as proof that you applied to avoid any uninterrupted services with your DAP medical doctor visits. (rv) (jl)
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ADAP may pay Medicare Part D premium
ADAP-eligible clients who have to purchase Part D prescription drug coverage may qualify to have their Part D premium paid by the State of California. Follow this link to the Part D Premium Payment Program Application. You can also call the State of California at 916.449.5900 for more information. (jl)
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Call 211 for essential human services in Riverside County
2-1-1 is a toll-free service for residents looking for information about essential human services such as affordable housing, food pantries, help for an aging parent, free or low cost health services, addiction prevention programs, employment, support groups, volunteer opportunities, and 1,700 additional services! (jl)
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To contact state and federal officials click on name:
President Barack Obama
Senator Diane Feinstein
Senator Barbara Boxer
Congresswoman Mary Bono Mack
Congressman Jerry Lewis
Governor Jerry Brown
State Senator Bill Emmerson
State Senator Juan Vargas
Assembly member Brian Nestande
Assembly member Manual Perez
Desert AIDS Project - Community Action Newsletter (DAPCAN) presents published material, reprinted with permission, and neither endorses or opposes any material. All information contained in this newsletter, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professional. Always discuss treatment options with a physician who specializes in treating HIV. Publication of the name or likeness of any individual in articles in this newsletter is not to be construed as any indication of the HIV status of such individual. If you do not wish to receive this e-newsletter, please notify us by using the email address below:
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Additional Contacts/Social Networking
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