Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Gay war veteran testifies on White House protest
ILGCN-PL NOTE: Here we go again, Dan Choi the celebrity activist and former military officer hoisted to pop-culture icon status by gays and professional lefties who do not know nor understand that it is against the law to participate in any political protest while in uniform and active duty - regardless of your sexual orientation. Dan has broken several laws and I am not to certain that his credentials as an activist warrant his demand for reinstatement into military service. First and foremost officers must be of reasonably sound bearings. It is clear to me that Dan has issues he needs to resolve besides being Republican. WASHINGTON (AP) - A gay former Army officer arrested outside the White House for protesting the government's "don't ask, don't tell" policy on gays in the military testified at his trial Tuesday that he was proud and willing to go to jail. Dan Choi is accused in federal court of ignoring police orders to vacate an area in front of the White House after he handcuffed himself to the fence outside the landmark building during a protest last November. He told the court he believed in his cause and drew inspiration from the civil rights movement decades ago. "The right to speak on behalf of those who cannot speak for themselves is more than a privilege," said Choi, his voice rising with emotion during a cross-examination that turned confrontational at times. "It's a moral responsibility and I take that seriously."
Prosecutorial Discretion: Homeland Security announces implementation of changes that will enable some in same-sex relationships to avoid deportation
News:
Responding on behalf of President Barack Obama, Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano today sent a letter to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid detailing that the department is in the process of implementing changes to enable the government to focus its resources on high-priority immigration cases involving crime and other public safety concerns.
A senior administration official says the changes are aimed at moving prosecutorial discretion exercised by immigration enforcement officials from an "ad hoc" system to a system focused on the "highest priorities" that will "eliminate the lowest priority cases" – including, another senior administration official says, same-sex couples where one partner is facing deportation.
Janet Napolitano
Napolitano's letter is aimed at responding to questions "regarding the Administration's immigration enforcement policies and the Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act," but a senior administration official said on a conference call with reporters that the decision is intended to include exercise of this discretion for same-sex couples.
Today's letter follows a series of memoranda from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Director John Morton addressing the exercise of prosecutorial discretion by ICE personnel – who are responsible for bringing removal actions against those people who are subject to removal.
According to a June memorandum from Morton directed to all ICE officers, agents and attorneys, ICE "must regularly exercise 'prosecutorial discretion'" when it comes to enforcement of its removal powers, and the limited resources of the agency should lead ICE to focus on "the agency's enforcement priorities."
The senior administration official said that Napolitano's letter announces that DHS is implementing the Morton memo. In addition to impacting new potential removal cases that could be brought, the official said that pending removal cases will be looked at, "setting those [low-priority] cases aside as well." The cases, the official noted, are not dismissed, but merely set aside.
In response to a question from Metro Weekly about the impact of today's decision on same-sex couples, a second senior administration official said, "The prosecutorial discretion memo provides for the use of discretion for people with strong community ties, with community contributions and with family relationships. We consider LGBT families to be families in this context."
Asked specifically if that included same-sex couples, the official said, "Yes."
The second official notes that there are 300,000 removal cases pending. Those whose removal cases are set aside will be eligible to apply for work permits, the second official said, but the decision about whether to grant them will be made on a case-by-case basis.
Attorney Lavi Soloway, whose work at Stop the Deportations has resulted in several couples where one partner was facing deportation having the deportation put on hold, called Napolitano's move ''historic.''
He told Metro Weekly, ''By undertaking a review of all pending deportation cases at the highest level and clarifying that existing prosecutorial discretion guidelines include LGBT families, Secretary Napolitano will now have the opportunity to stop every deportation involving a lesbian or gay binational couple.''
Referencing the millions of immigrants who are in the country but not in removal proceedings subject to ICE, the first official noted, "This does not apply to them."
It's that point that left Immigration Equality with continued concerns today.
The group's communications director, Steve Ralls, told Metro Weekly, "It's great news for couples who will be positively impacted by that discretion, but that is only for couples who are already facing removal or deportation."
He said the group is "still waiting on the administration to provide some relief for all couples even before they are out of status and before they are already facing the prospect of imminent removal."
Of today's news, Human Rights Campaign Vice President Fred Sainz told Metro Weekly, "This is a welcome clarification. We expect that DHS would continue to see same-sex binational couples as a low priority for deportation and not waste federal resources in tearing apart committed loving families."
The process detailed in the letter notes three steps that a newly established working group will address in implementing the Morton memo.
First, Napolitano writes, "Together with the Department of Justice (DOJ), we have initiated an interagency working group to execute a case-by-case review of all individuals currently in removal proceedings to ensure that they constitute our highest priorities." Then, as to new cases, she writes, "The working group will also initiate a case-by-case review to ensure that new cases placed in removal proceedings similarly meet such priorities." Finally, she notes that the group will address how cases where a removal order already has been issued should be addressed, writing that, "[T]he working group will issue guidance on how to provide for appropriate discretionary consideration to be given to compelling cases involving a final order of removal."
Open publication
...more
Responding on behalf of President Barack Obama, Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano today sent a letter to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid detailing that the department is in the process of implementing changes to enable the government to focus its resources on high-priority immigration cases involving crime and other public safety concerns.
A senior administration official says the changes are aimed at moving prosecutorial discretion exercised by immigration enforcement officials from an "ad hoc" system to a system focused on the "highest priorities" that will "eliminate the lowest priority cases" – including, another senior administration official says, same-sex couples where one partner is facing deportation.
Janet Napolitano
Napolitano's letter is aimed at responding to questions "regarding the Administration's immigration enforcement policies and the Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act," but a senior administration official said on a conference call with reporters that the decision is intended to include exercise of this discretion for same-sex couples.
Today's letter follows a series of memoranda from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Director John Morton addressing the exercise of prosecutorial discretion by ICE personnel – who are responsible for bringing removal actions against those people who are subject to removal.
According to a June memorandum from Morton directed to all ICE officers, agents and attorneys, ICE "must regularly exercise 'prosecutorial discretion'" when it comes to enforcement of its removal powers, and the limited resources of the agency should lead ICE to focus on "the agency's enforcement priorities."
The senior administration official said that Napolitano's letter announces that DHS is implementing the Morton memo. In addition to impacting new potential removal cases that could be brought, the official said that pending removal cases will be looked at, "setting those [low-priority] cases aside as well." The cases, the official noted, are not dismissed, but merely set aside.
In response to a question from Metro Weekly about the impact of today's decision on same-sex couples, a second senior administration official said, "The prosecutorial discretion memo provides for the use of discretion for people with strong community ties, with community contributions and with family relationships. We consider LGBT families to be families in this context."
Asked specifically if that included same-sex couples, the official said, "Yes."
The second official notes that there are 300,000 removal cases pending. Those whose removal cases are set aside will be eligible to apply for work permits, the second official said, but the decision about whether to grant them will be made on a case-by-case basis.
Attorney Lavi Soloway, whose work at Stop the Deportations has resulted in several couples where one partner was facing deportation having the deportation put on hold, called Napolitano's move ''historic.''
He told Metro Weekly, ''By undertaking a review of all pending deportation cases at the highest level and clarifying that existing prosecutorial discretion guidelines include LGBT families, Secretary Napolitano will now have the opportunity to stop every deportation involving a lesbian or gay binational couple.''
Referencing the millions of immigrants who are in the country but not in removal proceedings subject to ICE, the first official noted, "This does not apply to them."
It's that point that left Immigration Equality with continued concerns today.
The group's communications director, Steve Ralls, told Metro Weekly, "It's great news for couples who will be positively impacted by that discretion, but that is only for couples who are already facing removal or deportation."
He said the group is "still waiting on the administration to provide some relief for all couples even before they are out of status and before they are already facing the prospect of imminent removal."
Of today's news, Human Rights Campaign Vice President Fred Sainz told Metro Weekly, "This is a welcome clarification. We expect that DHS would continue to see same-sex binational couples as a low priority for deportation and not waste federal resources in tearing apart committed loving families."
The process detailed in the letter notes three steps that a newly established working group will address in implementing the Morton memo.
First, Napolitano writes, "Together with the Department of Justice (DOJ), we have initiated an interagency working group to execute a case-by-case review of all individuals currently in removal proceedings to ensure that they constitute our highest priorities." Then, as to new cases, she writes, "The working group will also initiate a case-by-case review to ensure that new cases placed in removal proceedings similarly meet such priorities." Finally, she notes that the group will address how cases where a removal order already has been issued should be addressed, writing that, "[T]he working group will issue guidance on how to provide for appropriate discretionary consideration to be given to compelling cases involving a final order of removal."
Open publication
...more
Life Beyond Therapy
DADT and Mental health
Over the years, I have been the psychotherapist for many active and retired military personnel. It has been my privilege and honor to be able to support these fine men and women in whatever ways I can. It is clear to me, however, that DADT has been a major roadblock to their mental health.
As a federal law, DADT institutionalizes several phenomena:
• Forcing active and retired servicemen/women to lie, deny and hide who they are as LGBT people
• Making it crucial that LGBT servicemen/women take on a false identity, e.g. pretend they’re heterosexual
• Labeling LGBT people as unacceptable
• Putting extreme social/financial/emotional pressure on servicemen/women to keep pretending, lying, denying and hiding
In essence, DADT is a …
Read More | View Comments (1 comment)
Over the years, I have been the psychotherapist for many active and retired military personnel. It has been my privilege and honor to be able to support these fine men and women in whatever ways I can. It is clear to me, however, that DADT has been a major roadblock to their mental health.
As a federal law, DADT institutionalizes several phenomena:
• Forcing active and retired servicemen/women to lie, deny and hide who they are as LGBT people
• Making it crucial that LGBT servicemen/women take on a false identity, e.g. pretend they’re heterosexual
• Labeling LGBT people as unacceptable
• Putting extreme social/financial/emotional pressure on servicemen/women to keep pretending, lying, denying and hiding
In essence, DADT is a …
Read More | View Comments (1 comment)
2 Broke Girls... and 1 VERY Happy Lesbian
I've been yelling at you guys for YEARS (ok 2.) to follow Molly McAleer aka Molls on twitter cause she makes Twitter life worth living. She recently made the announcement that she's been hired to write for probably the most anticipated new comedy of the Fall season (besides "The New Girl," which she could write for too, IMO!) This is huge news. HUGE. Here's a clip of the show. Oh and uh, you will notice right away that it stars Ms. Kat Dennings. Molls writing a funny tv show that stars Kat Dennings. My hope chest* IS working!(If you're outside of the US, you can see this vid by going to: http://www.imdb.com/video/cbs/vi2908396825/The show looks REALLY cute and funny...and with THE best primetime comedy time slot in television (between Two and a Half Men and How I Met Your Mother...whoa) I see it sticking around for quite a while. I know I'll be watching it every week religiously. I dig the premise and the edgy humor wrapped up in *pretty*. And it'll be REALLY cool to try and guess which lines/bits Molly came up with. Perhaps we can turn that into a national drinking game amongst us ladies? I'll of course do shots of Trader Joe's Green Essentials...or like, caramel. And you guys can hit the harder stuff. I first discovered Molls (well, like Columbus "discovered" America) two years ago when I was fiddlin' around Youtube, as I do, and I came across this amazing moment in modern history:Starting at about 1:20 into it, I pretty much died. The "fingerbanging in a recording studio/Michael Cera" bit STILL to this day (literally to this day) trips me OUT. "Things got a little bit fantastical." haha...You can join me in proposing marriage to Molls at least once per week by following her on twitter at twitter.com/molls, and you can see her official site http://molls.tumblr.com/*As you might have suspected, when I say my "hope chest," I do in fact mean the various lady-bosoms I rub for good luck from time to time.
Help Curve Keep Publishing!
We know these are tough economic times. And print media is struggling to figure out its place in the wide world of instant internet gratification. If you value Curve magazine, the place that gave Lipstick & Dipstick it's start and the place that continues to publish our monthly column, please do what you can to help out.This year Curve is celebrating it's 20th year. But unless the community comes out to support it, Curve will not make it to its 21st birthday. Curve is struggling financially. There are a few ways you can help.Make a donation. Subscribe. And when you do, you're entered to win a trip to Cozumel with Sweet Vacations. Unlike most magazines that rely on advertising dollars to sustain them, Curve relies on its subscribers. So don't just pick an issue up at the newsstand. Become a regular subscriber. Advertise. If you own a business, consider advertising in Curve magazine. Buy your tickets to the 20th anniversary gala in San Francisco. We love Curve and we know you do too. So please, do what you can. If you already subscribe, consider buying one for a friend. Where would our community be without Curve?
Jemma did the deed, and it was totally hot
So, I know I have been a total bad recapper, and I wholeheartedly apologize for that. I promise you now that regular recapping will definitely commence very, very soon.
This however, could absolutely not wait until after I caught up with the recaps.
With the sad news that Hand Aufs Herz got cancelled, I thought we all could use a little pick me up… and some hot imagery.
Excuse me while I go total fan girl for a moment.
You guys (girls), they totally did it! And it was good and hot and the girls were adorable! Did I mention hot yet?
Ok, back to the professional writer me.
So yeah, Jenny and Emma totally got it on in episode 197 of Hand Aufs Herz, and we found the visuals (including subtitles) for you. Go ahead, watch, rejoice, re-watch, do that little victory dance you do when you think no one is watching.
A lot happened between our last recap and now (a bus accident, coming out, bullies and attempts to have that first time) and it has been completely and totally awesome.
From Emma’s sly seduction style to Jenny’s nervousness, Lucy and Kasia played the scenes to perfection. It was nice to see somewhat of a role reversal; usually Jenny is the confidant one and Emma the reserved one.
So take note lesBians – everything looks better with a white sheet and a wind machine.
"Hand Aufs Herz" airs on the German TV channel Sat1. They provide special clips of the show on their website for the international fan community. Check it out!
This however, could absolutely not wait until after I caught up with the recaps.
With the sad news that Hand Aufs Herz got cancelled, I thought we all could use a little pick me up… and some hot imagery.
Excuse me while I go total fan girl for a moment.
You guys (girls), they totally did it! And it was good and hot and the girls were adorable! Did I mention hot yet?
Ok, back to the professional writer me.
So yeah, Jenny and Emma totally got it on in episode 197 of Hand Aufs Herz, and we found the visuals (including subtitles) for you. Go ahead, watch, rejoice, re-watch, do that little victory dance you do when you think no one is watching.
A lot happened between our last recap and now (a bus accident, coming out, bullies and attempts to have that first time) and it has been completely and totally awesome.
From Emma’s sly seduction style to Jenny’s nervousness, Lucy and Kasia played the scenes to perfection. It was nice to see somewhat of a role reversal; usually Jenny is the confidant one and Emma the reserved one.
So take note lesBians – everything looks better with a white sheet and a wind machine.
"Hand Aufs Herz" airs on the German TV channel Sat1. They provide special clips of the show on their website for the international fan community. Check it out!
Keira Knightley...being spanked...by a psychoanalyst.
The words in the title of this post said aloud are what my dreams coming true sound like. I watched this about 20 minutes ago and its taken me a few minutes to compose myself. I can't even count the many ways I love this film already. I've only recently--as in the last 6 months--started reading in depth about Jung and Freud (I'm late, I know). I have stacks of books about both sitting in front of me as I type this. So its going to be fascinating for me to see what they do with this on screen. I also count Viggo Mortenson among one of the guys I'd go straight for for a day...Now...as for Keira Knightley...getting spanked...I don't even...I'm not sure you quite...if I had a nickel for every... I......this is a very emotional time for me, y'all. I'm gonna go press play again.(oh and the non perverted part of me wants to tell you that it looks like the acting in this is going to be phenomenal.)
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Antigay Senate Candidate Sees Baldwin as Main Competition
Should Rep. Tammy Baldwin run for the U.S. Senate (a highly likely scenario), the Wisconsin congresswoman will face Republican challenger Mark Neumann, whose past antigay statements are legion.
Deserve American: Reducing citizenship to where you're born diminishes what it means to be an American for everyone
Opinion:
Over the weekend, as I was working on my interview with Jose Antonio Vargas for this week's cover story, my nephew kept popping into my office to bust out new freestyle raps. It's the sort of repeated distraction that would normally drive me over the edge but was too cute and funny to do anything but fill me with uncle-ish pride.
Andrew is 12 and a first-generation American, the son of my late brother-in-law and his wife, both immigrants from Vietnam. He hasn't known anything other than this country, a place where he's grown up to be such a Nickelodeon and Disney-infused, slang-slinging, all-American tween that he's started to forget how to speak the Vietnamese that his grandmother and extended family still depend on.
My husband, Cavin, is an immigrant. He came to the U.S. at 13 in the late 1980s under the nation's family reunification immigration policies. His departure with his mother and two brothers was quiet and sudden — no goodbyes, no wrapping up loose ends, no action at all that might cause the communist bureaucracy to scuttle their emigration. They simply left, passing through a U.S. military base in the Philippines for English and citizenship lessons before heading to America, where his mother hoped to give her sons a better life.
That sharp and sudden departure is similar, in a way, to Vargas's experience of being sent from the Philippines to America at age 12 in hopes of finding a better life. The difference being that Vargas was sent alone by a mother who stayed behind and whom he hasn't seen since. And, of course, unknown to him at the time he was sent to America illegally.
Then there's me, who through no effort of my own and no major sacrifice of any others was born American to parents who were born American, who were born American to my grandparents who were born American, and so on over the course of more than a century-and-a-half of generations.
So which of us deserves to be American?
That's a question that I worry over more these days, for the obvious reasons that my own family embodies these issues in ways that I never expected. And it's a question that Vargas has illuminated in his highly public coming out as undocumented and his co-founding of Define American.
For the record, I'm a proponent of an immigration policy that is as open and welcoming as possible. There are economic arguments for it (the pressing need to grow a shrinking ''official'' population). There are fairness arguments for it (we shouldn't expect undocumented workers to carry the load of certain industries, but demand they do it under the table).
But, really, it's a moral issue for me. America is an experiment, an ideal, a nation that was built on the desire to come here. Those are the stories and notions we've been taught in schools — the melting pot, the multitude of nationalities streaming through Ellis Island, the people who've left behind homelands of generations because America promised something better.
In these days of anti-immigrant fervor where politicians fume about ''anchor babies'' and border fences, citizenship is more than ever seen as birthright. But if being American is only about where you are born, then being American is diminished. It makes being American about location rather than inspiration.
So, who deserves to be American? None of us, really. The better question is: What have we done to earn it? ...more
Over the weekend, as I was working on my interview with Jose Antonio Vargas for this week's cover story, my nephew kept popping into my office to bust out new freestyle raps. It's the sort of repeated distraction that would normally drive me over the edge but was too cute and funny to do anything but fill me with uncle-ish pride.
Andrew is 12 and a first-generation American, the son of my late brother-in-law and his wife, both immigrants from Vietnam. He hasn't known anything other than this country, a place where he's grown up to be such a Nickelodeon and Disney-infused, slang-slinging, all-American tween that he's started to forget how to speak the Vietnamese that his grandmother and extended family still depend on.
My husband, Cavin, is an immigrant. He came to the U.S. at 13 in the late 1980s under the nation's family reunification immigration policies. His departure with his mother and two brothers was quiet and sudden — no goodbyes, no wrapping up loose ends, no action at all that might cause the communist bureaucracy to scuttle their emigration. They simply left, passing through a U.S. military base in the Philippines for English and citizenship lessons before heading to America, where his mother hoped to give her sons a better life.
That sharp and sudden departure is similar, in a way, to Vargas's experience of being sent from the Philippines to America at age 12 in hopes of finding a better life. The difference being that Vargas was sent alone by a mother who stayed behind and whom he hasn't seen since. And, of course, unknown to him at the time he was sent to America illegally.
Then there's me, who through no effort of my own and no major sacrifice of any others was born American to parents who were born American, who were born American to my grandparents who were born American, and so on over the course of more than a century-and-a-half of generations.
So which of us deserves to be American?
That's a question that I worry over more these days, for the obvious reasons that my own family embodies these issues in ways that I never expected. And it's a question that Vargas has illuminated in his highly public coming out as undocumented and his co-founding of Define American.
For the record, I'm a proponent of an immigration policy that is as open and welcoming as possible. There are economic arguments for it (the pressing need to grow a shrinking ''official'' population). There are fairness arguments for it (we shouldn't expect undocumented workers to carry the load of certain industries, but demand they do it under the table).
But, really, it's a moral issue for me. America is an experiment, an ideal, a nation that was built on the desire to come here. Those are the stories and notions we've been taught in schools — the melting pot, the multitude of nationalities streaming through Ellis Island, the people who've left behind homelands of generations because America promised something better.
In these days of anti-immigrant fervor where politicians fume about ''anchor babies'' and border fences, citizenship is more than ever seen as birthright. But if being American is only about where you are born, then being American is diminished. It makes being American about location rather than inspiration.
So, who deserves to be American? None of us, really. The better question is: What have we done to earn it? ...more
Music review: Steffi Lists?s new album, New Tattoo
Out German singer Steffi List has presented her most personal album yet with the release of her 3rd album, New Tattoo.
In the album’s eleven songs, she presents the whole spectrum of her musical capabilities and deals with her emotions in the English and German lyrics.
With her typical rock songs like No More Apologize, Let Me Be Your Lover or the song Himmelstür (Heaven’s Gate), which, by the way, works very well in the German language, Steffi reminds me very much of Rosenstolz in their early days.
Steffi List first became known in 2008, when she took part in Stefan Raab's talent show. Through audience voting she reached the 3rd place. In no time, the EP that was recorded for the show’s final, Break the Silence, landed at 1st place in the iTunes charts. Since then, Steffi has been travelling throughout Germany and has been wowing her predominantly female audiences with her brilliant performances.
For the FIFA Women’s World Cup that takes place in Germany this year, Steffi wanted to add her own touch to the event and has written her own song for it, which you can find on iTunes.
In her private life, Steffi is involved as an ambassador for the Schweinfurt children's food bank for socially underprivileged children in her region.
She also has three cats at home, which she rescued from an animal shelter, each of which is blind in one eye. No one can deny she doesn't have a heart for children and animals.
In early June, the video production for the single New Tattoo has begun at a brothel in Würzburg. Steffi has called on her fans to send photos of their tattoos, which will be used in the video. She will also be attending and performing at this year’s Cologne Pride (July 3, on the main stage at 15:45).
So, its going to be an exciting year for Steffi and her fans and we can hardly wait. You can find out more about Steffi and her music on her official site, her MySpace and Facebook pages, and of course also on YouTube.
Have you heard Steffi’s new album yet and/or are you familiar with her older music? Let us know in the comments!
In the album’s eleven songs, she presents the whole spectrum of her musical capabilities and deals with her emotions in the English and German lyrics.
With her typical rock songs like No More Apologize, Let Me Be Your Lover or the song Himmelstür (Heaven’s Gate), which, by the way, works very well in the German language, Steffi reminds me very much of Rosenstolz in their early days.
Steffi List first became known in 2008, when she took part in Stefan Raab's talent show. Through audience voting she reached the 3rd place. In no time, the EP that was recorded for the show’s final, Break the Silence, landed at 1st place in the iTunes charts. Since then, Steffi has been travelling throughout Germany and has been wowing her predominantly female audiences with her brilliant performances.
For the FIFA Women’s World Cup that takes place in Germany this year, Steffi wanted to add her own touch to the event and has written her own song for it, which you can find on iTunes.
In her private life, Steffi is involved as an ambassador for the Schweinfurt children's food bank for socially underprivileged children in her region.
She also has three cats at home, which she rescued from an animal shelter, each of which is blind in one eye. No one can deny she doesn't have a heart for children and animals.
In early June, the video production for the single New Tattoo has begun at a brothel in Würzburg. Steffi has called on her fans to send photos of their tattoos, which will be used in the video. She will also be attending and performing at this year’s Cologne Pride (July 3, on the main stage at 15:45).
So, its going to be an exciting year for Steffi and her fans and we can hardly wait. You can find out more about Steffi and her music on her official site, her MySpace and Facebook pages, and of course also on YouTube.
Have you heard Steffi’s new album yet and/or are you familiar with her older music? Let us know in the comments!
Pentagon to Implement "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" Repeal with New Training Plan
The Pentagon expects to release a plan this Friday that will outline training procedures for implementing new rules and regulations for the military, brought about by the repeal of the 17-year-old ?Don?t Ask, Don?t Tell? law. The plan has been described by officials on condition of anonymity, as the details have yet to be finalized or made public. Pentagon press secretary Geoff Morrell said that more information about the plan will be provided on Friday. Officials have said it will include three levels of training for troops, their commanders and key administrators, as well as recruiters and other leaders. One level of training will be for administrators and leaders, who will need to be able to answer questions about the new policy. Another will be for commanders, who will be trained to enforce new policies and take note of any issues that arise. The third level of training, for troops, is expected to be the most challenging, as service members are scattered among numerous locations around the world, and many have been deployed to war. Initiatives of the plan will not only affect how troops are recruited, trained and discharged, but will also touch on issues of housing and benefits. Once the training, which is expected to last three months, has been completed, President Obama and his top military advisers must certify that ending "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" will not interfere with the military?s ability to fight. The law will take effect 60 days after this certification, which, if all goes according to schedule, will be sometime this summer. The repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" will allow gay and lesbian people to serve openly in the military for the first time in history. In his State of the Union speech this Tuesday evening, President Obama proclaimed, ?Starting this year, no American will be forbidden from serving the country they love because of who they love." Aaron Belkin of the Palm Center, a California think tank, added that, ?In promising...to implement the repeal of the ban this year, President Obama has demonstrated leadership and committed to the path that has been proven to be best not only for gay service members, but for all of those who currently serve."Related Media Coverage:Associated Press - January 26, 2011"Pentagon to Outline Training for Gay Ban Repeal"http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2011/01/26/us/politics/AP-US-Gays-in-Military.html?_r=1
Stuff Lesbians Like Part 123: Identifying other lesbians by who they are dating or sleeping with within 30 seconds of introducing or meeting them
The most important element of a lesbian?s identity is the last known person she was sleeping with or dating. The sooner everyone knows the last person you?ve played tonsil hockey with, the more you are truly understood. The world is a cold and unforgiving place, and everyone wants to be understood. Help your new friend understand you. You will be better off in the long run.
4th of July With Robin Meade
Robin Meade & I started the day out in a relaxing float around the pool. We were going to a big party later and wanted to get a little sunshine. Not to worry, though. We wore sunscreen!A total stranger brought the fattest, cutest baby to the party so I had to hog him. Here he is getting neck sugar from me. Gosh, I am longing for grand kids already.Here is a patriotic Robin overlooking the party from the balcony. She is enjoying herself here in Michigan!Melissa is warming up to Robin now that she isn't feeling a competition with Robin. It warmed my heart to see Melissa sharing her Bomb-Pop Popsicle with Robin. I love it when women get along! That is what this country is all about!!I am also enjoying my family time. Here I am with my baby boy, Nick. Isn't he a handsome fella?Melissa came over to give me a lap-dance. Okay, she didn't. She just sat in my lap and gave me some love while Nick snapped the pic.Melissa's sister, Amy, had the party at her house. Next to her pool is this wooden carving of a captain. He normally has a captain hat but he got this festive sparkle hat. Then, someone else gave him a necklace. Melissa's mom loaned him her shades and I thought he looked thirsty so I gave him a beer. He ended up looking like he had a makeover and before you know it, chicks like Robin Meade were ALL over him. Lucky old man! Nick brought some fireworks and shot them off for the kids at the party. Robin wanted a good view so she is atop Melissa's hat. Michigan can actually get cold in the summer so we had a bonfire after dark. Here is Robin warming up and getting ready to swap stories with other guests.(She really looks HOT here).I didn't see Robin drink the whole day or night but she did bring this beer bottle to me to get recycled. In Michigan, you get .10 per can or bottle when you return it. Thanks for going green, Robin. You are always setting a great example for those around you! Tomorrow, Robin and I are going to Lake Michigan and spend the day at the beach. Ciao!
Republican Politician Resigns After Grindr Scandal
Roberto Arango, the Republican senator from Puerto Rico who made news Friday when explicit photos appeared on his alleged Grindr profile, presented his letter of resignation Sunday.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Rainbow Social Aug. 26 at UIC
The University of Illinois at Chicago's Gender & Sexuality Center GSC will hold its annual Rainbow Social Friday, Aug. 26, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., in rooms 181 and 183 of the Behavioral Sciences Building, 1007 W. Harrison.
Vermont, Connecticut, and Quebec Ready for Fall GLBT Celebrations
Autumn is easily one of the most beautiful times to visit New England and its Canadian neighbor to the north, Quebec. It happens that in the next few weeks, the region has a series of events geared toward the GLBT community. In vibrant and historic Quebec City, the region's Gay Pride celebration, Fete Arc-En-Ciel Quebec is set for September 2 through 4, over Labor Day Weekend. Thousands of spectators and participants will come to this hilltop city on the banks of the St. Lawrence River to party and mingle in the lively Rue Saint-Jean Gay District. Here's a preview of that event....Read Full Post
Bachmann Was Just Kidding; God Didn't Pick Hurricane Irene as Messenger
Video shows the conservative Minnesota congresswoman getting laughs while saying Hurricane Irene was God expressing frustration with Washington's out-of-control spending habits.
Lesbian News - 19 Aug 2011
San Diego LGBT Community GuideHuman Rights Campaign bus tour for gay rights starts in Salt Lake CityTheatre review: 'Sandra Bernhard: I Love Being Me, Don't You?'Landmark law has made it easier to be open: surveyWhy straight women are flocking to A.C.'s newest gay nightclubAuthor asks "Queer Questions" & gives "Straight Talk"; West Seattle advocates respond
Lesbian News - 14 Aug 2011
Redefining Sudbury's family unitLas Vegas couple start greeting card company for LGBT communityCoast world's top gay honeymoon spotLast homosexual concentration camp survivor dies at 98Same-sex homes are increasing in Charlotte areaColumbus Rated High As A Travel Destination For LGBTNevada gay households up by 87 percent in 2010
(70) What the Hell is Going On?
Miley Cyrus, Tammy & Melissa Lesbalimony, Opinions and what do they really mean?, The Definition of a Lesbian conclusion via Twitter, The Real L Word, Julianne Moore in Kids Are Alright is gonna learn right here and right now that Lesbians are not bisexual. Somebody has to tell us what in the gay hell is [...]
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Exotic => Erotic
Soc-Psych-filter! Do people become gay or lesbian because they grow up feeling that stereotypically straight-acting kids are "exotic" -- as per the "Exotic Becomes Erotic" theory? I recently encountered the Exotic Becomes Erotic theory of Daryl Bem: that our genes determine whether boys are "girly" or girls are "tomboyish", and that us gender-discordant kids then grow up oriented to think of stereotypically boyish boys or girlish girls as exotic (and, ultimately, as objects of desire). This seems fascinating to me and kind of gels with my own experience, but not knowing anything about soc psych, I'm curious. Is the theory plausible and has it gained any traction in the psychology community?
TPAN's 'Up on the Roof' Aug. 25 at MDA
HIV/AIDS agency Test Positive Aware Network will present "Up on the Roof" atop the 24-story MDA Apartment building, 63 E. Lake, on Thursday, Aug. 25, 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Blog Notes: Irene, Andrew, and Penn
Hey all. A couple of notes on this Friday evening as we head into 'Irene' weekend.
First of all, I wanted to say that I hope everyone reading living in coastal areas of the East Coast has taken precautions for the hurricane, and I wish you the best in getting through it. Hopefully damages will be minimal and Irene will be less of a threat than they have predicted.
I also have a brief note about the blog.
Our weekend writer Andrew Belonsky, who has done a great job over the past few months, not only on Saturdays and Sundays but filling in for me when I've taken breaks, is a busy man and won't be able to do weekends for us anymore, given the demands of his job during the week. You can find him writing at Death + Taxes Mag, and he'll hopefully be contributing here occasionally as well! I can't thank Andrew for the work he has done here.
I would also like to introduce our new weekend writer, who will be bringing his voice here on Saturdays and Sundays, and some of you may be familiar with his work already ? in fact I know many of you are.
Penn Bullock is a freelance writer and college student here in New York. You're probably familiar with him because he exposed Dr. George Rekers last year with his partner Brandon K. Thorp. Rekers, as you may recall, is the "ex-gay", former NARTH board member who was exposed by Bullock and Thorp at the Miami airport after bringing a rent boy back from his vacation. Penn also helped produced The Sissy Boy Experiment for CNN.
Penn, whose journalistic work has mostly been investigative with a focus on military contracting, has written for the Washington Post, and Gawker. I'm looking forward to having him here on the weekends.
First of all, I wanted to say that I hope everyone reading living in coastal areas of the East Coast has taken precautions for the hurricane, and I wish you the best in getting through it. Hopefully damages will be minimal and Irene will be less of a threat than they have predicted.
I also have a brief note about the blog.
Our weekend writer Andrew Belonsky, who has done a great job over the past few months, not only on Saturdays and Sundays but filling in for me when I've taken breaks, is a busy man and won't be able to do weekends for us anymore, given the demands of his job during the week. You can find him writing at Death + Taxes Mag, and he'll hopefully be contributing here occasionally as well! I can't thank Andrew for the work he has done here.
I would also like to introduce our new weekend writer, who will be bringing his voice here on Saturdays and Sundays, and some of you may be familiar with his work already ? in fact I know many of you are.
Penn Bullock is a freelance writer and college student here in New York. You're probably familiar with him because he exposed Dr. George Rekers last year with his partner Brandon K. Thorp. Rekers, as you may recall, is the "ex-gay", former NARTH board member who was exposed by Bullock and Thorp at the Miami airport after bringing a rent boy back from his vacation. Penn also helped produced The Sissy Boy Experiment for CNN.
Penn, whose journalistic work has mostly been investigative with a focus on military contracting, has written for the Washington Post, and Gawker. I'm looking forward to having him here on the weekends.
Clerk, Center hosting expungement seminar Aug. 25
Dorothy Brown, clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County, and the Center of Halsted will host an adult expungement and sealing seminar at Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted, Thursday, Aug. 25; registration begins at 5 p.m.
'Pitch a Tent' has women helping animal foundation
The inaugural "Pitch a Tent to Save a Pooch" camping trip is set for Sept. 2-5, as about 250 are expected—primarily from the lesbian community—for the holiday weekend get-together to aid the Windy City Animal Foundation WCAF.
Gallery: Same-Sex Marriage Revolution
San Francisco Valentine Weekend Revolution It was an "I do" heard around the world. Same-sex marriages with the papers to prove them - endorsed by the mayor - performed beneath the grand rotunda of San Francisco...
Lesbian News - 17 Aug 2011
Calling All Lesbians - Omarion Can Make You Straight!Western suburbs of Melbourne will finally have their own radio showThanks to New York for allowing gay marriagesWNBA Star Announces Marriage To Man After Coming Out As GaySame-Sex Marriage: Where Florida Law StandsSchools must teach about contributions of gays and lesbiansLewd Sexual Abuse for Lesbian at Real Estate OfficeTeenager Charged In D.C. Lesbian Attack
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Lynn Sage marks second annual 'Summer Soiree'
The Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation hosted its 2nd Annual Summer Soiree July 28 at Board Room.
Business Spotlight: A Bedder Buy Discount Outlet
5058 El Cajon Blvd., San Diego CA 92115
619-287-2337
Se Habla Español: 619-428-2211
www.abedderbuy.com
ABedder Buy Discount Outlet is a family run business that has been at the same El Cajon Blvd. location for nineteen years. The owner of Bedder Buy has been in the furniture business for forty years and at Bedder Buy the staff just loves to help families find the furniture, beds and mattresses they want for their homes within their budgets.
Bedder Buy has a huge selection of furniture for the bedroom, like innerspring and memory foam mattresses, bedroom sets, futons, kid’s bedroom furniture, bunk beds, wall beds, storage beds and oak furniture - all at discount outlet prices. Brands like Simmons, Tempur-Pedic, Ashley and many more.
Bedder…
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619-287-2337
Se Habla Español: 619-428-2211
www.abedderbuy.com
ABedder Buy Discount Outlet is a family run business that has been at the same El Cajon Blvd. location for nineteen years. The owner of Bedder Buy has been in the furniture business for forty years and at Bedder Buy the staff just loves to help families find the furniture, beds and mattresses they want for their homes within their budgets.
Bedder Buy has a huge selection of furniture for the bedroom, like innerspring and memory foam mattresses, bedroom sets, futons, kid’s bedroom furniture, bunk beds, wall beds, storage beds and oak furniture - all at discount outlet prices. Brands like Simmons, Tempur-Pedic, Ashley and many more.
Bedder…
Read More
LGBT-Inclusive Initiatives Garner Support in Virginia's Legislature
A number of state legislative initiatives aimed at providing protections for LGBT people garnered support from Democratic lawmakers in Virginia this Tuesday. House Bill 2046, sponsored by Del. Adam P. Ebbin, D-Alexandria, and Senate Bill 747, sponsored by Sen. A. Donald McEachin, D-Henrico, would both provide legal protection against discrimination in the public workforce based on sexual orientation. Ebbin, the only openly gay member of Virginia?s legislature, noted that his bill ?makes good business sense? considering that Virginia?s top 10 employers already have policies that protect gay and lesbian people from discrimination. Openly gay Army captain Anthony Woods, who was discharged from the military for refusing to conceal his sexual orientation after serving two tours in Iraq, has joined Del. Joseph D. Morrissey, D-Henrico, in the backing of House Bill 2345, which seeks to end discrimination based on sexual orientation in the Virginia National Guard. Despite a lack of bipartisan support for such initiatives during General Assembly sessions of the past, many in the legislature are optimistic that opinions on matters of equality are changing across the political board. The sponsorship of House Bill 1964, which would protect public employees from discrimination based on sexual orientation, by Republican Del. Thomas Davis Rust has been highlighted as an example of this change. The bills will be considered this week. Lawmakers are also promoting legislation that would toughen anti-bullying laws for Virginia schools, give local governments the power to regulate benefits policies for employees and repeal a 2006 amendment to the Virginia Constitution that prohibits marriage equality.Related Media Coverage:Richmond Times-Dispatch - January 26, 2011"Democratic Lawmakers Back Protection for Gays"http://www2.timesdispatch.com/news/2011/jan/26/tdmain06-democratic-lawmakers-back-protections-for-ar-798779/
First Look: New AbFab�
Edina Monsoon and Patsy Stone will soon be back, as Jennifer Saunders
and Joanna Lumley have begun filming a Christmas special episode of the beloved
comedy series Absolutely Fabulous.
and Joanna Lumley have begun filming a Christmas special episode of the beloved
comedy series Absolutely Fabulous.
Happy Pride! Also, launch of stopgracechu.com!
Check out my new website: www.stopgracechu.com. As you can probably tell, I've been super busy photographing events for a bunch of event promoters and covering the NYC scene and writing recaps for AfterEllen. Stopgracechu.com is an attempt to organize everything into one spot.
Proposed Bill Would Allow Discriminatory Restroom Policies in Maine
State Rep. Ken Fredette of Maine has introduced a bill that would allow public and private entities to dictate who can use which restrooms. Fredette?s bill permits discrimination against people whose gender identity differs from their birth-assigned sex. The issue was brought to light when Brianna Freeman, a transgender woman, sued a Denny?s Restaurant for refusing to let her use the women?s restroom in 2007. A more recent incident involved a sixth-grader who was denied use of the girl?s restroom by middle school officials. The Human Rights Commission ruled that the school had discriminated against the student, but Fredette believes the commission overstepped its bounds.Related Media Coverage:The Sun Journal - March 14, 2011"Bill Would Clarify Restroom Use"http://www.sunjournal.com/city/story/998475
Friday, August 26, 2011
Gay Resort of Fire Island Prepares for Hurricane Irene: NOTICE
Here's a notice sent to Towleroad by the owners of the gay resort on Fire Island Pines, which at this point is directly in the path of Hurricane Irene:
It's looking increasingly likely that a storm will arrive at our shores late Saturday evening or early Sunday, and as such, we'll work hard to keep you updated on what it bodes for the island and your weekend. Below is a summary of what we know thus far, and the steps we are taking to make sure this weekend runs as smoothly and safely as possible:
The storm is expected to arrive Saturday night or Sunday morning. It is impossible to tell at this point the severity of what's ahead, but it's going to entail some nasty weather.
Suffolk County today called for a voluntary evacuation of Fire Island, largely to avoid a rush Saturday evening or Sunday morning when the storm hits (the weather tomorrow, Friday, is actually expected to be beautiful).
The Suffolk County executive says he will decide as early as tomorrow morning whether to call for a mandatory evacuation after reviewing the hurricane's path overnight.
If there is a mandatory evacuation called, police will announce it on the streets throughout the community and provide further instructions. We strongly urge you to take these instructions seriously. It's a good idea to pack a bag with your belongings tonight in case of a mandatory evacuation tomorrow or Saturday.
Barring a mandatory evacuation order, we plan to keep Canteen and High and Low Tea open tomorrow to serve the people who are on the island. As of now, Sherry Vine remains scheduled to make her 2011 debut at the Blue Whale Friday night at 10pm.
We will make decisions about the rest of the weekend as we learn more about the storm, but we have already cancelled all entertainment Saturday and Sunday.
Assuming we close Saturday and/or Sunday, we will re-open for business Monday morning. We hope this hurricane peters out over the next few days as it heads up the east coast, but we need to exercise caution. Your safety is crucial, so please stay close to news reports. We will be emailing you updates as we have them. Sincerely, Andrew and Seth
It's looking increasingly likely that a storm will arrive at our shores late Saturday evening or early Sunday, and as such, we'll work hard to keep you updated on what it bodes for the island and your weekend. Below is a summary of what we know thus far, and the steps we are taking to make sure this weekend runs as smoothly and safely as possible:
The storm is expected to arrive Saturday night or Sunday morning. It is impossible to tell at this point the severity of what's ahead, but it's going to entail some nasty weather.
Suffolk County today called for a voluntary evacuation of Fire Island, largely to avoid a rush Saturday evening or Sunday morning when the storm hits (the weather tomorrow, Friday, is actually expected to be beautiful).
The Suffolk County executive says he will decide as early as tomorrow morning whether to call for a mandatory evacuation after reviewing the hurricane's path overnight.
If there is a mandatory evacuation called, police will announce it on the streets throughout the community and provide further instructions. We strongly urge you to take these instructions seriously. It's a good idea to pack a bag with your belongings tonight in case of a mandatory evacuation tomorrow or Saturday.
Barring a mandatory evacuation order, we plan to keep Canteen and High and Low Tea open tomorrow to serve the people who are on the island. As of now, Sherry Vine remains scheduled to make her 2011 debut at the Blue Whale Friday night at 10pm.
We will make decisions about the rest of the weekend as we learn more about the storm, but we have already cancelled all entertainment Saturday and Sunday.
Assuming we close Saturday and/or Sunday, we will re-open for business Monday morning. We hope this hurricane peters out over the next few days as it heads up the east coast, but we need to exercise caution. Your safety is crucial, so please stay close to news reports. We will be emailing you updates as we have them. Sincerely, Andrew and Seth
Gay and Lesbian Asylum-Seekers Scrutinized by Immigration Officers
Gay and lesbian immigrants seeking asylum in the United States are facing new obstacles in the legal process. According to Lori Adams, a lawyer at Human Rights First, ?Judges and immigration officials are adding a new hurdle in gay asylum cases that an applicant?s homosexuality must be socially visible.? Asylum seekers and rights groups have expressed discontent over the possibility of gay and lesbian immigrants having to prove they are ?gay enough? to avoid deportation. As of 1994, the law outlining acceptable criteria for granting asylum was expanded to include gay men and lesbians. Gay and lesbian applicants must provide proof of their sexual orientation and risk of persecution, either through affidavits from sexual partners or through police and medical records of abuse. Such proof can be difficult to come by, however, given the illegality and extreme punishments for being openly gay in many countries that prevent victims of anti-gay harassment from reporting specific incidents. Chris Rhatigan, a spokesperson for the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, claims that such behavior by immigration officers and judges would not be tolerated, saying, ?We don?t say that someone is insufficiently gay or homosexual, whatever that would mean, or that he or she could be saved by hiding his or her homosexuality.? Related Media Coverage:The New York Times - January 28, 2011"Gays Seeking Asylum in U.S. Encounter a New Hurdle"http://www.nytimes.com/2011/01/29/nyregion/29asylum.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1
Proposed Bill Would Allow Discriminatory Restroom Policies in Maine
State Rep. Ken Fredette of Maine has introduced a bill that would allow public and private entities to dictate who can use which restrooms. Fredette?s bill permits discrimination against people whose gender identity differs from their birth-assigned sex. The issue was brought to light when Brianna Freeman, a transgender woman, sued a Denny?s Restaurant for refusing to let her use the women?s restroom in 2007. A more recent incident involved a sixth-grader who was denied use of the girl?s restroom by middle school officials. The Human Rights Commission ruled that the school had discriminated against the student, but Fredette believes the commission overstepped its bounds.Related Media Coverage:The Sun Journal - March 14, 2011"Bill Would Clarify Restroom Use"http://www.sunjournal.com/city/story/998475
Veteran Leader Removed from Son's Boy Scout Troop After Officials Discover She is a Lesbian
And the anti-gay discrimination from the Boy Scouts of America continues. In this case, it doesn't matter that you are an "uber leader" in the Scouts for 10 years, or are in a 20-year committed relationship with two children who excel. If it is discovered that your relationship is with a woman, you are through.
The Loudoun Times reports:
In retrospect, the situation was probably good ? her son?s troop excelled at everything, including accomplishing badges and winning the Blue and Gold Award all five years, one of the highest awards for Boy Scouts.Above all, like any mother, Steele put her son first and wanted to make sure he had a great time in scouts. But in June, Steele?s chances to further bond with her son through scouting were dashed. The mother was removed from the troop after one of the other assistant scout masters discovered Steele is a lesbian.
Steele was discovered by an assistant scout master one weekend on a camping trip:
After discovering that Steele?s partner had picked her up, Inabinett felt that she should be removed as an assistant scout master. In an email that Inabinett sent to a close personal friend of Steele?s and whose son was also in the troop, he stated, ?If what you said about Denise Steele being an active sexual is true, do you feel comfortable talking with her about stepping down/resigning as an ASM ? as her friend, this may be an opportunity for you to share with her about Christ?s love and the need to believe that as sinners we cannot get to heaven on our own and that we need a savior.?
More communication between both Steele and Inabinett went on for the next couple of weeks. The conversations centered around how Inabinett thought Steele?s lifestyle choice was a sin. Funk described the situation between Steele and Inabinett as bullying, and it left Steele crushed and in tears through the many email exchanges.?But this guy, who?s demonstrated very much a bullying behavior, if boys bullied other boys or girls bullied other girls to get what they wanted the way this guy has bullied her in today?s school system you?d probably get kicked out of school,? Funk said about Inabinett.
Potomac Falls woman removed from son?s Boy Scout troop [loudoun times]
The Loudoun Times reports:
In retrospect, the situation was probably good ? her son?s troop excelled at everything, including accomplishing badges and winning the Blue and Gold Award all five years, one of the highest awards for Boy Scouts.Above all, like any mother, Steele put her son first and wanted to make sure he had a great time in scouts. But in June, Steele?s chances to further bond with her son through scouting were dashed. The mother was removed from the troop after one of the other assistant scout masters discovered Steele is a lesbian.
Steele was discovered by an assistant scout master one weekend on a camping trip:
After discovering that Steele?s partner had picked her up, Inabinett felt that she should be removed as an assistant scout master. In an email that Inabinett sent to a close personal friend of Steele?s and whose son was also in the troop, he stated, ?If what you said about Denise Steele being an active sexual is true, do you feel comfortable talking with her about stepping down/resigning as an ASM ? as her friend, this may be an opportunity for you to share with her about Christ?s love and the need to believe that as sinners we cannot get to heaven on our own and that we need a savior.?
More communication between both Steele and Inabinett went on for the next couple of weeks. The conversations centered around how Inabinett thought Steele?s lifestyle choice was a sin. Funk described the situation between Steele and Inabinett as bullying, and it left Steele crushed and in tears through the many email exchanges.?But this guy, who?s demonstrated very much a bullying behavior, if boys bullied other boys or girls bullied other girls to get what they wanted the way this guy has bullied her in today?s school system you?d probably get kicked out of school,? Funk said about Inabinett.
Potomac Falls woman removed from son?s Boy Scout troop [loudoun times]
Lipstick's Novel - Jukebox
Hi friends, although we've moved our blog over to Curve's website, I thought I'd post some info about my debut novel, Jukebox here, too.You can read all about it HERE.Sign up for the mailing list (click on link above then "subscribe") and I'll be sure to keep you posted on events and readings.Get your copy today!
Gay prez candidate Karger shut out by Calif. GOP
Fred Karger - who, the San Francisco Chronicle points out [1], is the only Californian to be a Republican presidential candidate - has apparently been refused the chance to participate in�and address the state GOP convention in Los Angeles in September.
"I have been waiting for my invitation, and it never came," Karger told The Chronicle.� "And I called up a couple of weeks ago and explained my position."
That's when a party official, Karger said, left a "terse" message: "The schedule is completely filled."
Karger is openly gay.
Michele Bachman and Ron Paul are both confirmed; former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, a part-time California resident, is not planning to attend.
Karger recently pulled 2 percent in a Harris Interactive poll - outpolling Rick Santorum.
[1] http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2011/08/23/MNNJ1KPKEL.DTL#ixzz1VyT7JX5F
"I have been waiting for my invitation, and it never came," Karger told The Chronicle.� "And I called up a couple of weeks ago and explained my position."
That's when a party official, Karger said, left a "terse" message: "The schedule is completely filled."
Karger is openly gay.
Michele Bachman and Ron Paul are both confirmed; former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, a part-time California resident, is not planning to attend.
Karger recently pulled 2 percent in a Harris Interactive poll - outpolling Rick Santorum.
[1] http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2011/08/23/MNNJ1KPKEL.DTL#ixzz1VyT7JX5F
Kelly Cassidy Becomes Third Openly Gay Member of the Illinois House of Representatives
On Monday, Kelly Cassidy was appointed to fill a vacancy in the Illinois House of Representatives. The appointment makes Cassidy - a lesbian and mother of three - the body's third openly gay member. She joins Greg Harris and Deb Mell. Cassidy was unanimously chosen to represent Illinois' 14th district, filling the seat being vacated by Harry Osterman. Cassidy, who currently serves as the director of programs and development for the Cook County state attorney's office, will join the legislature on May 16.Recent Media Coverage:The Advocate - April 18, 2011"Lesbian Named to Ill. House"http://www.advocate.com/News/Daily_News/2011/04/18/Lesbian_Named_to_Ill_House/
Thursday, August 25, 2011
(60) Just A Couplea Hos
Feminism, Bailout disgust, Chat with Kaye about straight on straight sexual harrassment, the women’s movement, the black power movement, gay life in Jamaica from a straight native’s perspective, Buju Banton, Rap, MacKenzie Philips, ect., ect. Check out Lizzy the Lezzy’s site and fun new book: http://www.lizzythelezzy.com
US judge: ‘Don’t ask, don’t tell’ unconstitutional
LOS ANGELES (AP) – A federal judge said she will issue an order to halt the military’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy, after she declared the ban on openly gay service members unconstitutional.
U.S. District Judge Virginia Phillips ruled Thursday that the prohibition on openly gay service members was unconstitutional because it violates the First and Fifth Amendment rights of gays and lesbians.
The policy doesn’t help military readiness and instead has a “direct and deleterious effect” on the armed services by hurting recruitment efforts during wartime and requiring the discharge of service members who have critical skills and training, she said.
The Log Cabin Republicans sued the federal government in…
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U.S. District Judge Virginia Phillips ruled Thursday that the prohibition on openly gay service members was unconstitutional because it violates the First and Fifth Amendment rights of gays and lesbians.
The policy doesn’t help military readiness and instead has a “direct and deleterious effect” on the armed services by hurting recruitment efforts during wartime and requiring the discharge of service members who have critical skills and training, she said.
The Log Cabin Republicans sued the federal government in…
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(55-A) O Solo Mio mj, perez, pride
Be sure to tune in to part B. of this show which is right under this one Late posting this so it’s a bit dated. Haven’t had time for an official gay pride show, hope this solo bit will do. Part A. RIP MJ or maybe not; Perez: Is language an excuse for violence? Does [...]
"Don?t focus on what I?m wearing. Focus on what?s coming out of my face."
?Don?t focus on what I?m wearing. Focus on what?s coming out of my face.? - Rachel Maddow in an interview with Katie Couric | glamour�magazine (via fuckyeahrachelmaddow)
Gallavin releases his first single and music video: Mad About The Boy
Gallavin swings with the boundaries of genders. Independent jazz singer, Gallavin releases his first music video of ?Mad about the Boy?, No�l Coward most famous song. JAZZ AND GAY...With the participation of the artists-travesties of the Cabaret-Bar ?Chez Maman? in Brussels, the Anglo-Swiss jazz singer plays with the social norms, and offers a music video rich of identities but also sexual diversities.In the velvet world of vocal jazz, no one was expecting that the song of No�l Coward Mad about the Boy, mostly known for Dinah Washington?s interpretation, could be once sung by a man. And yet, it seems that No�l Coward had in fact written that song for his long term partner Graham Payn, a South-African actor. Gallavin intends, through his interpretation, to give the song its original essence back, and places himself beyond the traditional values of vocal jazz where one is either a ?Crooner? or a ?Diva?.Willing to question the social norms of a musical world rather conservative, Gallavin casts the artists-travesties of the legendary Cabaret-Bar ?Chez Maman? in Brussels. They become the time of the song the main characters blurring the lines between genders and sexual attraction, and opening a world where girls, who are actually boys, are mad about a boy who is in love with a girl, who was once a boy?The music video of Mad about the Boy can be seen on Gallavin?s Internet website Gallavin.com or on Gallavin?s Youtube page Youtube.com/user/MrGallavin.
Steven William Derendinger (- Gallavin) was born on the 27th September 1975 in Sierre. Swiss and British, he grew up in Lausanne where he studied at the University of Lausanne and was graduatedwith a Master of Arts (MA). He began to sing as an autodidact and took part in different local musical productions. He formed the jazz band "Late Nights" in 1999, with which he performed in differentvenues such as the Cully Jazz Festival. He recorded previously in 1996 a demo album with seven original songs with his band "Mind the Sun."In parallel, Steven committed as a volunteer for the LGBT rights where he worked from August 2004 until March 2010 as president of the Association VoGay in the canton Vaud. He appeared formerly in2000 in the publication of St�phane Riethauser, "A visage d�couvert". In 2003, Steven worked for his final academic paper on ?the linguistic insecurity of gay men in western Switzerland?. This paper waspublished twice. (Michael Groneberg, � L?homme ? cr�ature sexuelle �, 2006, et Christophe Bareille, � Homosexualit� : r�v�lateur social ? �, 2010).Beside his associative commitments, Steven worked on the promotion of gay men?s health. In April2005, he began his career as a scientist collaborator in the AIDS unit of the Federal Office of Public Health in Bern, where he became quickly project manager for HIV prevention among gay men and male prostitution in Switzerland. Meanwhile, Steven never left his musical activities and defined in 2008 the project Mad about the Boy, which he produced independently in 2009, and released in 2010.For Steven, this debut album articulates one decade of involvement in the LGBT rights and the promotion of gay men?s health with his solo career as an independent jazz singer under the name of Gallavin.With the album Mad about the Boy, Gallavin places himself beyond the stereotypes of ?Crooner orDiva? in jazz. Through his interpretation, Gallavin gives to some of the greatest jazz songs theiroriginal essence back. No�l Coward?s song Mad about the Boy ? mostly known for DinahWashington?s interpretation ? was written, for instance, for his long term lover, Graham Payn, a South African actor. Cole Porter - authors of the most known American vocal jazz songs ? was also homosexual. The consideration of his homosexuality opens then infinite new fields of interpretation of his work. Gallavin offers with Mad about the Boy, an intimate and sometimes fragile album. Orchestrated by Pierre Sottas, the album is open to all vocal jazz lovers regardless of their gender or sexual orientation.HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!BestGayNewsMagazine.com
Steven William Derendinger (- Gallavin) was born on the 27th September 1975 in Sierre. Swiss and British, he grew up in Lausanne where he studied at the University of Lausanne and was graduatedwith a Master of Arts (MA). He began to sing as an autodidact and took part in different local musical productions. He formed the jazz band "Late Nights" in 1999, with which he performed in differentvenues such as the Cully Jazz Festival. He recorded previously in 1996 a demo album with seven original songs with his band "Mind the Sun."In parallel, Steven committed as a volunteer for the LGBT rights where he worked from August 2004 until March 2010 as president of the Association VoGay in the canton Vaud. He appeared formerly in2000 in the publication of St�phane Riethauser, "A visage d�couvert". In 2003, Steven worked for his final academic paper on ?the linguistic insecurity of gay men in western Switzerland?. This paper waspublished twice. (Michael Groneberg, � L?homme ? cr�ature sexuelle �, 2006, et Christophe Bareille, � Homosexualit� : r�v�lateur social ? �, 2010).Beside his associative commitments, Steven worked on the promotion of gay men?s health. In April2005, he began his career as a scientist collaborator in the AIDS unit of the Federal Office of Public Health in Bern, where he became quickly project manager for HIV prevention among gay men and male prostitution in Switzerland. Meanwhile, Steven never left his musical activities and defined in 2008 the project Mad about the Boy, which he produced independently in 2009, and released in 2010.For Steven, this debut album articulates one decade of involvement in the LGBT rights and the promotion of gay men?s health with his solo career as an independent jazz singer under the name of Gallavin.With the album Mad about the Boy, Gallavin places himself beyond the stereotypes of ?Crooner orDiva? in jazz. Through his interpretation, Gallavin gives to some of the greatest jazz songs theiroriginal essence back. No�l Coward?s song Mad about the Boy ? mostly known for DinahWashington?s interpretation ? was written, for instance, for his long term lover, Graham Payn, a South African actor. Cole Porter - authors of the most known American vocal jazz songs ? was also homosexual. The consideration of his homosexuality opens then infinite new fields of interpretation of his work. Gallavin offers with Mad about the Boy, an intimate and sometimes fragile album. Orchestrated by Pierre Sottas, the album is open to all vocal jazz lovers regardless of their gender or sexual orientation.HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!BestGayNewsMagazine.com
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
What You May Not Know About Civil Unions in Illinois
by guest author, Cheryl Hooten of Dream Gay Weddings
As a Wedding Officiant, Chicago native and life long equal rights advocate, I’ve been paying special attention to the fight for marriage equality in Illinois. I’ve read all the blogs and articles about the historic law signed by Gov. Pat Quinn that recognizes Civil Unions and makes them officially available to couple as of June 1, 2011.
But many of those resources are misleading, and very few of them point out the significant things you need to know before you start making any wedding plans.
read more
As a Wedding Officiant, Chicago native and life long equal rights advocate, I’ve been paying special attention to the fight for marriage equality in Illinois. I’ve read all the blogs and articles about the historic law signed by Gov. Pat Quinn that recognizes Civil Unions and makes them officially available to couple as of June 1, 2011.
But many of those resources are misleading, and very few of them point out the significant things you need to know before you start making any wedding plans.
read more
Out and About
Friday, September 24
Come and get WIRED this Friday at the Brass Rail with Ashley Matte at 9:30 p.m. followed by Dj Kiki Koenig at 11:00 p.m. , The Brass Rail, 3796 Fifth Avenue - San Diego 92103. Great Drink Specials, Live Music and amazing DJs!!!- (619) 298 - 2233
Saturday, September 25
Tony and Pulitzer Award winner Neil Simon’s semi-autobiographical plays follow the life of Eugene Morris Jerome from the foibles of youth in late-1930s Brooklyn to a career as a comedy writer for radio. Brighton Beach Memoirs and Broadway Bound are performed in a rotating repertory schedule at The Old Globe Theatre. Brighton Beach Memoirs first regular performance is on Saturday, September 25 at 2:00 p.m. Broadway Bound first regular performance is on Sunday, Septe…
Read More
Come and get WIRED this Friday at the Brass Rail with Ashley Matte at 9:30 p.m. followed by Dj Kiki Koenig at 11:00 p.m. , The Brass Rail, 3796 Fifth Avenue - San Diego 92103. Great Drink Specials, Live Music and amazing DJs!!!- (619) 298 - 2233
Saturday, September 25
Tony and Pulitzer Award winner Neil Simon’s semi-autobiographical plays follow the life of Eugene Morris Jerome from the foibles of youth in late-1930s Brooklyn to a career as a comedy writer for radio. Brighton Beach Memoirs and Broadway Bound are performed in a rotating repertory schedule at The Old Globe Theatre. Brighton Beach Memoirs first regular performance is on Saturday, September 25 at 2:00 p.m. Broadway Bound first regular performance is on Sunday, Septe…
Read More
Bigoted op-ed says NC marriage amendment 'is not about denying rights to citizens'
You know, it's hard to believe that the same old bigoted, discredited nuggets justifying why marriage needs "protection" are on display in the disgusting op-ed in the Charlotte Observer by the sadly ignorant Tami Fitzgerald, executive director of NC Values Coalition.
The main points:
1. Let the people decide the civil rights of LGBT North Carolinians.
The marriage amendment is about letting the people of North Carolina vote on what they want the definition of marriage to be, rather than an activist judge deciding it for them. Putting the marriage amendment on the ballot for the people to decide is the right thing to do. It fulfills the democratic process by letting everyone vote.
Old saw #1. We are not a direct-vote democracy - we have a representative democracy, electing people to a legislature and to the bench to work out these issues. California's proposition system is a perfect example of the chaos caused when "the people" decide. The people would have kept slavery and Jim Crow in place; is that the kind of decision-making she's down with? Besides, popular opinion is rapidly changing in the opposite direction of Ms. Fitzgerald. Get with the program, honey.
2. Activist judges will force same-sex marriage upon NC, so a constitutional amendment is needed, not just a state DOMA.
Activist judges in Massachusetts, Connecticut, California, Iowa, and Hawaii struck down their state's marriage laws, ruling them unconstitutional because they defined marriage as the union of a man and a woman. The people of North Carolina want to determine for themselves how they want to define marriage. They don't want activist judges doing it for them.
We can't marry in NC now; an amendment doesn't change that, and eventually SCOTUS is going to strike DOMA and any amendment down.
3. A marriage amendment will not be bad for business.
The amendment will not prevent businesses that offer benefits to same-sex couples from continuing to offer those benefits - including health insurance - because it has no legal impact on private businesses in any way. Neither will the amendment prevent companies in North Carolina from attracting the brightest and best workers. North Carolina is consistently ranked as one of the top places in America to work, to do business, and to live.
An amendment could indeed have impact on attracting businesses, and aside from private businesses, Tami Fitzgerald is approving institutionalized discrimination against gay and lesbian state workers - she's fine with creating official second class status for tax-paying citizens who work for the state and will not have access to any of the benefits she describes above?
4. Marriage equality will lead to incest, and pedophilia and an amendment doesn't discriminate against gays and lesbians.
The truth is that the marriage amendment is not about denying rights to citizens. There is no right to marry someone of the same sex, just as there is no right to marry your sister, to marry someone who is under 14 years old, or to marry more than one person. Those who oppose incorporating our current state law's definition of marriage into the constitution want to radically redefine marriage, radically redefine families, and radically redefine the natural process of producing and raising children within the safe, nurturing, and successful incubator of marriage.
Oh come on, this is preposterous, and any argument that discusses procreation, the family and the institution of marriage was shot to pieces by Ted Olsen and David Boies in the Prop 8 trial. All of Fitzgerald's like-minded cronies participating on the anti-equality side could not bring anything to the table, and they had plenty of time to bring in any "expert" to testify on behalf of the legitimacy of "protecting marriage." It was an utter failure.
The fact is that no matter the outcome in North Carolina, the Tami Fitzgeralds are on the wrong side of history, the wrong side of economic common sense in a bad economy, and display a level of ignorance and fear of change that is not what North Carolina needs at this time.
The main points:
1. Let the people decide the civil rights of LGBT North Carolinians.
The marriage amendment is about letting the people of North Carolina vote on what they want the definition of marriage to be, rather than an activist judge deciding it for them. Putting the marriage amendment on the ballot for the people to decide is the right thing to do. It fulfills the democratic process by letting everyone vote.
Old saw #1. We are not a direct-vote democracy - we have a representative democracy, electing people to a legislature and to the bench to work out these issues. California's proposition system is a perfect example of the chaos caused when "the people" decide. The people would have kept slavery and Jim Crow in place; is that the kind of decision-making she's down with? Besides, popular opinion is rapidly changing in the opposite direction of Ms. Fitzgerald. Get with the program, honey.
2. Activist judges will force same-sex marriage upon NC, so a constitutional amendment is needed, not just a state DOMA.
Activist judges in Massachusetts, Connecticut, California, Iowa, and Hawaii struck down their state's marriage laws, ruling them unconstitutional because they defined marriage as the union of a man and a woman. The people of North Carolina want to determine for themselves how they want to define marriage. They don't want activist judges doing it for them.
We can't marry in NC now; an amendment doesn't change that, and eventually SCOTUS is going to strike DOMA and any amendment down.
3. A marriage amendment will not be bad for business.
The amendment will not prevent businesses that offer benefits to same-sex couples from continuing to offer those benefits - including health insurance - because it has no legal impact on private businesses in any way. Neither will the amendment prevent companies in North Carolina from attracting the brightest and best workers. North Carolina is consistently ranked as one of the top places in America to work, to do business, and to live.
An amendment could indeed have impact on attracting businesses, and aside from private businesses, Tami Fitzgerald is approving institutionalized discrimination against gay and lesbian state workers - she's fine with creating official second class status for tax-paying citizens who work for the state and will not have access to any of the benefits she describes above?
4. Marriage equality will lead to incest, and pedophilia and an amendment doesn't discriminate against gays and lesbians.
The truth is that the marriage amendment is not about denying rights to citizens. There is no right to marry someone of the same sex, just as there is no right to marry your sister, to marry someone who is under 14 years old, or to marry more than one person. Those who oppose incorporating our current state law's definition of marriage into the constitution want to radically redefine marriage, radically redefine families, and radically redefine the natural process of producing and raising children within the safe, nurturing, and successful incubator of marriage.
Oh come on, this is preposterous, and any argument that discusses procreation, the family and the institution of marriage was shot to pieces by Ted Olsen and David Boies in the Prop 8 trial. All of Fitzgerald's like-minded cronies participating on the anti-equality side could not bring anything to the table, and they had plenty of time to bring in any "expert" to testify on behalf of the legitimacy of "protecting marriage." It was an utter failure.
The fact is that no matter the outcome in North Carolina, the Tami Fitzgeralds are on the wrong side of history, the wrong side of economic common sense in a bad economy, and display a level of ignorance and fear of change that is not what North Carolina needs at this time.
Oh My Pod! - Episode 459 - He's got Vanderbilt genes
Episode 459 - He's got Vanderbilt genes
Happy New Year, App Store, Power over Ethernet, Sandy Bridge, Google Android 3.0 is for tablets, Motorola Xoom, Windows as a Touch Screen OS, Xperia Arc, Samsung Sliding PC, Remote, Galaxy Player, Amazon Android App Store, Air Speakers Everywhere, Skype Outage Explained
Guests: None
Recorded: 01/07/2011 via Skype/iChat/�bercaster
Mono | 72:31 | 34.8 MB
Call the comment line at 707-OHMYPOD
or
email us at feedback@ohmypod.net
read more
Happy New Year, App Store, Power over Ethernet, Sandy Bridge, Google Android 3.0 is for tablets, Motorola Xoom, Windows as a Touch Screen OS, Xperia Arc, Samsung Sliding PC, Remote, Galaxy Player, Amazon Android App Store, Air Speakers Everywhere, Skype Outage Explained
Guests: None
Recorded: 01/07/2011 via Skype/iChat/�bercaster
Mono | 72:31 | 34.8 MB
Call the comment line at 707-OHMYPOD
or
email us at feedback@ohmypod.net
read more
4th of July With Robin Meade
Robin Meade & I started the day out in a relaxing float around the pool. We were going to a big party later and wanted to get a little sunshine. Not to worry, though. We wore sunscreen!A total stranger brought the fattest, cutest baby to the party so I had to hog him. Here he is getting neck sugar from me. Gosh, I am longing for grand kids already.Here is a patriotic Robin overlooking the party from the balcony. She is enjoying herself here in Michigan!Melissa is warming up to Robin now that she isn't feeling a competition with Robin. It warmed my heart to see Melissa sharing her Bomb-Pop Popsicle with Robin. I love it when women get along! That is what this country is all about!!I am also enjoying my family time. Here I am with my baby boy, Nick. Isn't he a handsome fella?Melissa came over to give me a lap-dance. Okay, she didn't. She just sat in my lap and gave me some love while Nick snapped the pic.Melissa's sister, Amy, had the party at her house. Next to her pool is this wooden carving of a captain. He normally has a captain hat but he got this festive sparkle hat. Then, someone else gave him a necklace. Melissa's mom loaned him her shades and I thought he looked thirsty so I gave him a beer. He ended up looking like he had a makeover and before you know it, chicks like Robin Meade were ALL over him. Lucky old man! Nick brought some fireworks and shot them off for the kids at the party. Robin wanted a good view so she is atop Melissa's hat. Michigan can actually get cold in the summer so we had a bonfire after dark. Here is Robin warming up and getting ready to swap stories with other guests.(She really looks HOT here).I didn't see Robin drink the whole day or night but she did bring this beer bottle to me to get recycled. In Michigan, you get .10 per can or bottle when you return it. Thanks for going green, Robin. You are always setting a great example for those around you! Tomorrow, Robin and I are going to Lake Michigan and spend the day at the beach. Ciao!
Lesbian News - 19 Aug 2011
San Diego LGBT Community GuideHuman Rights Campaign bus tour for gay rights starts in Salt Lake CityTheatre review: 'Sandra Bernhard: I Love Being Me, Don't You?'Landmark law has made it easier to be open: surveyWhy straight women are flocking to A.C.'s newest gay nightclubAuthor asks "Queer Questions" & gives "Straight Talk"; West Seattle advocates respond
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
NOW Urges Committee to Repeal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA)
http://www.now.org/issues/marriage/072111repealDOMA.htmlAt the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on the repeal of DOMA on July 20, NOW distributed a letter urging committee members to approve the Respect for Marriage Act of 2011 (S. 598), which would repeal critical parts of DOMA.
Dining, Drinks & Desserts
A wine lover’s dream
It is with great sadness I report that Nicole will no longer be co-authoring this column. Time constraints for him are at an all time high and he needed to cut back somewhere. We would like to say THANK YOU NICOLE for helping us to launch this column. I will do my best to carry on in our “own style” and I wish you continued success my dear friend.
When considering what to do in Nicole’s absence I thought it might be fun to have a “Special Guest” from our community each week. These people will be from all walks of life in our local GLBT/Friends community, and I look forward to some great dinner conversation.
We begin with a visit to North Park’s MOSAIC WINE BAR. Owners Maz and Shanna Ebrahimi opened up this establishment,…
Read More | View Comments (1 comment)
It is with great sadness I report that Nicole will no longer be co-authoring this column. Time constraints for him are at an all time high and he needed to cut back somewhere. We would like to say THANK YOU NICOLE for helping us to launch this column. I will do my best to carry on in our “own style” and I wish you continued success my dear friend.
When considering what to do in Nicole’s absence I thought it might be fun to have a “Special Guest” from our community each week. These people will be from all walks of life in our local GLBT/Friends community, and I look forward to some great dinner conversation.
We begin with a visit to North Park’s MOSAIC WINE BAR. Owners Maz and Shanna Ebrahimi opened up this establishment,…
Read More | View Comments (1 comment)
Kiss-off with LUSH for marriage equality
Kiss-off with LUSH for marriage equality : LUSH has launched a kissing protest for marriage equality, taking place this Saturday, June 18 at 11:38 a.m. at select LUSH locations. Go make out in public, and smell good while you?re at it!
White House Excluded Advocacy Group from Military Event
Servicemembers United, an advocacy group for lesbian and gay military personnel, criticized the White House?s decision to bar the organization from attending a military event held on Tuesday. The event, hosted by First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden, marked the official start of the ?Joining Forces? initiative, created to forge a support system for military families. In a written statement, Kristina Schake, spokesperson for Michelle Obama, referenced ?Don?t Ask, Don?t Tell,? saying, "The White House, including the first lady and Dr. Biden, look forward to working with the families of gay and lesbian service members after certification occurs and repeal goes into effect." Servicemembers United Director Alexander Nicholson argues that this explanation makes no sense, as the organization would not have sent someone to the event who is currently enlisted and subject to the law.Related Media Coverage:FOXNews.com - April 12, 2011"Gay Advocacy Group Challenges White House Over Exclusion From Military Event"http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2011/04/12/gay-advocacy-group-complains-exclusion-military-families-event/
NCTE: "Yes Medicare Covers Hormones"
From the email blast from the National Center for Transgender Equality (NCTE) entitled Yes, Medicare Covers Hormones:
We often hear from transgender people and doctors who are confused about what Medicare benefits do and don't cover. To address these questions, we've created a new resource that transgender beneficiaries and doctors need to see.
The new resource explains that, while Medicare does not cover sex reassignment surgery, it does cover medically necessary hormone therapy and routine preventive care, regardless of the gender marker in one's records. It also details how to navigate the appeal process if you are denied coverage.
As part of our ongoing federal aging policy agenda, NCTE will continue advocating for sex reassignment surgery coverage in Medicare and ensure that transgender needs are fully addressed in all public health programs.
But what your doctor doesn't know can hurt you. Download and share this resource with doctors and providers to make sure you are getting the coverage you need.
Sincerely,
Mara Keisling
Executive Director
National Center for Transgender Equality
For those of us trans people who are of, or near that age -- or are of that disability level -- to be enrolled in Medicare, this clarification regarding whether hormones are covered under Medicare is significant, and on a very basic level is just a good thing to know.
Energy 92.7 goes from gay-oriented to mainstream
KNGY, Energy 92.7, San Francisco's gay-oriented FM radio station, has been sold, and the staff of about 35 dismissed. At 9 p.m. Thursday, new ownership took control, and the format flipped from top-40 dance to top-40...
Court rules against Catholic Charities in foster-care case
A circuit court judge ruled Aug. 18 against four Catholic charities in a lawsuit against the state over the right to continue with foster care services.
Monday, August 22, 2011
VIDEO: Tickets available for EQCA's annual Garden Party for Equality in Rancho Santa Fe
SAN DIEGO -- Equality California (EQCA) is inviting its supporters to spend an afternoon at a home in what is considered by many to be San Diego's most luxurious ZIP code -- Rancho Santa Fe.
The organization will host its third annual Garden Party for Equality on Saturday, Aug. 27, from 2:30 to 5:30 pm at the Lily Award-winning home of Joyce Rowland and Pamela Morgan. The afternoon affair will include special guests, food, beverages, live music by the "Leftover Cuties" and a silent auction.
The third annual event will be held at an award-winning home in the beautiful Rancho Santa Fe community.
read more
The organization will host its third annual Garden Party for Equality on Saturday, Aug. 27, from 2:30 to 5:30 pm at the Lily Award-winning home of Joyce Rowland and Pamela Morgan. The afternoon affair will include special guests, food, beverages, live music by the "Leftover Cuties" and a silent auction.
The third annual event will be held at an award-winning home in the beautiful Rancho Santa Fe community.
read more
150,000 same-sex couples report being married
Almost 150,000 same-sex couples reported being in marriage relationships last year, many more than the number of actual weddings and civil unions, according to the first U.S. census figures released on same-sex...
NY Post Stoops Lower than Usual to Discredit DSK Accuser
Offender: Reporter Laura Italiano and her editors
Media Outlet: New York Post
The Offense: In a July 2 cover story, the New York Post attempted to discredit the woman who was allegedly raped by Dominique Strauss-Kahn by labeling her a prostitute. The cover screams "DSK MAID A HOOKER" in huge type. Inside, writer Italiano provides very little beyond gossip, depending heavily on puns such as "big tips for extra turndown service" to convey this completely unsubstantiated accusation.
NOW's Analysis: Italiano jumps right into the piece, claiming that the 32-year-old mother and alleged rape survivor "wasn't just a girl working at a hotel -- she was a working girl."
Throughout the article, Italiano's harsh rhetoric and unsupported accusations portray the accuser as a "pathological liar and scam artist" willing to do anything for quick cash. Based on quotes from an unnamed source, the accuser supposedly had been "getting extraordinary tips . . . And it's not for bringing extra f--king towels." With no evidence, the reader is meant to align the accuser's income with prostition. After all, how else would this hotel maid be able to pay for her "hair braiding" and "salon expenses?"
The case for prostitution continues as Italiano's source speculates that the accuser's union "purposely assigned" her to such a high-class hotel because "it knew she would bring in big bucks." Recently, The Washington Post revealed that the union in question actually sent the New York Post a packet of documents on the accuser, including a copy of an employment application she filled out at the Sofitel, in which she listed the International Rescue Committee (not the union) as the source that referred her to the hotel.
There are countless problems with this article, two of which should greatly concern feminists. First, claiming (with no evidence and only one anonymous source) that an immigrant woman working as a hotel maid is actually a "hooker" is sexist, racist and classist, to say the least. Second, implicit in this accusation is that a prostitute cannot be raped, or that any claim she makes of being raped should not be taken seriously. Even the New York Post should be held to a standard that says promoting harmful stereotypes and demonstrating such blatant misogyny are unacceptable.
Take Action: The accuser is currently taking action by filing a libel suit against the New York Post for labeling her a prostitute. Take your own action by writing to the New York Post and giving them a piece of your mind.
Media Outlet: New York Post
The Offense: In a July 2 cover story, the New York Post attempted to discredit the woman who was allegedly raped by Dominique Strauss-Kahn by labeling her a prostitute. The cover screams "DSK MAID A HOOKER" in huge type. Inside, writer Italiano provides very little beyond gossip, depending heavily on puns such as "big tips for extra turndown service" to convey this completely unsubstantiated accusation.
NOW's Analysis: Italiano jumps right into the piece, claiming that the 32-year-old mother and alleged rape survivor "wasn't just a girl working at a hotel -- she was a working girl."
Throughout the article, Italiano's harsh rhetoric and unsupported accusations portray the accuser as a "pathological liar and scam artist" willing to do anything for quick cash. Based on quotes from an unnamed source, the accuser supposedly had been "getting extraordinary tips . . . And it's not for bringing extra f--king towels." With no evidence, the reader is meant to align the accuser's income with prostition. After all, how else would this hotel maid be able to pay for her "hair braiding" and "salon expenses?"
The case for prostitution continues as Italiano's source speculates that the accuser's union "purposely assigned" her to such a high-class hotel because "it knew she would bring in big bucks." Recently, The Washington Post revealed that the union in question actually sent the New York Post a packet of documents on the accuser, including a copy of an employment application she filled out at the Sofitel, in which she listed the International Rescue Committee (not the union) as the source that referred her to the hotel.
There are countless problems with this article, two of which should greatly concern feminists. First, claiming (with no evidence and only one anonymous source) that an immigrant woman working as a hotel maid is actually a "hooker" is sexist, racist and classist, to say the least. Second, implicit in this accusation is that a prostitute cannot be raped, or that any claim she makes of being raped should not be taken seriously. Even the New York Post should be held to a standard that says promoting harmful stereotypes and demonstrating such blatant misogyny are unacceptable.
Take Action: The accuser is currently taking action by filing a libel suit against the New York Post for labeling her a prostitute. Take your own action by writing to the New York Post and giving them a piece of your mind.
Chancellor's Challenge: DCPS invites all residents to get involved for safer schools
Opinion: In the spring, District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) launched the Hopes and Dreams campaign, an ambitious effort that asked thousands of residents to share their visions for our school system. Insightful and inspiring, the responses have affirmed my vision for the future of DCPS: a healthy and thriving education community where students, teachers, school leaders, parents and community members feel safe, welcome and supported. As chancellor of DCPS, I believe I have no greater responsibility than to create and maintain a safe learning environment for all children and adults who enter our buildings. I envision DCPS as a close-knit community – an extended family, if you will – of dedicated educators, active students, and supportive parents and community members who believe in working together as one city to improve the quality of education in the District of Columbia. ... (more)
Fire up for Big Gay Weekend
With Big Gay Weekend nearing, Sydney's LGBTI community is being urged to reclaim the golden mile of Oxford Street
Because we need a good laugh
The true�experiences�Michele Bachmann and her lesbian friends, as told (and created) by comedian Jen Tullock.
Calif. Fair Removes Rainbow Flags
Organizers of the Antelope Valley Fair in Lancaster, Calif., north of
Los Angeles, have taken down rainbow flags after receiving a complaint
about the flags? association with the LGBT rights movement.
Los Angeles, have taken down rainbow flags after receiving a complaint
about the flags? association with the LGBT rights movement.
GLAAD's What To Watch on Wednesday
(This post was originally published at GLAAD Blog.)
Tonight, Rocco DiSpirito celebrates Liza Minelli?s birthday on "Rocco?s Dinner Party," Fran Drescher and Charles Shaughnessy reunite on "Happily Divorced," plus catch a new episode of "America?s Got Talent"and the GLAAD Media Awards nominated film "Sweet Home Alabama."
Tonight, Rocco DiSpirito celebrates Liza Minelli?s birthday on "Rocco?s Dinner Party," and Fran Drescher and Charles Shaughnessy reunite on "Happily Divorced."
read more
Tonight, Rocco DiSpirito celebrates Liza Minelli?s birthday on "Rocco?s Dinner Party," Fran Drescher and Charles Shaughnessy reunite on "Happily Divorced," plus catch a new episode of "America?s Got Talent"and the GLAAD Media Awards nominated film "Sweet Home Alabama."
Tonight, Rocco DiSpirito celebrates Liza Minelli?s birthday on "Rocco?s Dinner Party," and Fran Drescher and Charles Shaughnessy reunite on "Happily Divorced."
read more
Sunday, August 21, 2011
(4) PMS and Worst Psycho Lesbian Stories Revealed
pms, weapon weilding mattress stabbing, gas station fights, holes in walls, head banging stalkers, bottle dodging, and flying chairs …
PMS Week: Hurrah!
.I sat here for a while trying to think about what to write because I woke up with a raging headache and terrible cramps. I couldn't think of what to write and then it hit me: write what you know. .I have also found this funny list of acronyms that PMS might also stand for but I would like to invite my readers to comment with their own. Here are a few to get you started:.1. Pass My Shotgun2. Psychotic Mood Shift3. Perpetual Munching Spree4. Puffy Mid-Section5. Pimples May Surface6. Provide Me with Sweets7. People Make me Sick8. Pardon My Sobbing9. Pass My Sweatpants10. Pissy Mood Syndrome11. Plainly; Men Suck12. Pack My Stuff13. Potential Murder Suspect..............................................................Gay angle: Get the hell off my back with this "every day has to be a gay-related post" for the entire month of June!!! And pass me that chocolate on your way off my blog!
Good News For Tammy Baldwin Supporters
Russ Feingold told supporters that he will not run for the Senate seat soon to be vacated by Herb Kohl."While I may seek elective office again someday, I have decided not to run for public office during 2012," Feingold wrote in an email sent out this morning.This is great news for voters who support openly gay Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin's potential Senate bid.
As Public Policy Polling reported this week, Feingold's move puts Baldwin at the top of the Democratic ticket in the Badger State: "If Feingold sits it out Tammy Baldwin is looking like the early favorite. In a three way race with Ron Kind and Steve Kagen she leads with 37% to 21% for Kind and 15% for Kagen. And in just a two way race with Kagen she leads 48-19."
So, who thinks Baldwin will -- or should -- run for Senate?
As Public Policy Polling reported this week, Feingold's move puts Baldwin at the top of the Democratic ticket in the Badger State: "If Feingold sits it out Tammy Baldwin is looking like the early favorite. In a three way race with Ron Kind and Steve Kagen she leads with 37% to 21% for Kind and 15% for Kagen. And in just a two way race with Kagen she leads 48-19."
So, who thinks Baldwin will -- or should -- run for Senate?
Jack Mackenroth Calendar for AMFAR 2012 is HOT!
So what is Jack Mackenroth up to these days??
Jack has been a vocal and visible advocate of the HIV community, touring the country through numerous speaking engagements and special appearances at events. He continues to speak around the country and will be planning calendar signing events in the upcoming months. His memoir, ?Making Lemonaids? will be released this winter.
He just put the finishing touches on an AMAZING CALENDAR for 2012!
This AUTOGRAPHED, high-quality, glossy, 15-month calendar is available for sale now and will ship in the beginning of September.
The calendar begins in January 2012 and continues through May 2013. Each month features a different photographer with a very different style.
Photographers taking part int the project include Adam Bouska (NOH8), Rick Day, Carsten Fleck, Frank Louis, James Franklin, Karl Giant, Tommy Synnamon, Mattheus Lian, Richard Gerst, Ray John Pila, Sonny Tong, Thomas Evans, Krys Fox and Preston Cros with over 17 amazing images in total.
The calendar?s dimensions are 8.5 x 11 inches, and are available online for $14.95 (plus tax and shipping). Please allow 2 weeks for shipping as Jack is signing and shipping them all personally. Please be patient.
100-percent of the proceeds from the calendar will go directly to amfAR, The American Foundation for AIDS Research (www.amfar.org) to help find a cure for AIDS. Mackenroth has been living with the disease for 22 years.
As the first television personality since Pedro Zamora to be vocal about his HIV status, Jack Mackenroth has quickly become the most visible, out HIV+ advocate and educator in the country? if not the world. With the release of his 2012 calendar, he hopes to raise both money and awareness for AIDS research, and to show through his photographs that a person living with HIV can be in top physical form, healthy and sexy.
Designer, athlete and HIV/AIDS activist and educator Jack Mackenroth has had the privilege of shooting with some of the best photographers in the business. Each month of the 15 month calendar will feature a different photographer with a very different style. Jack is a role model to many people in the HIV community and a fitness model that many aspire to emulate.?I have amassed such an amazing collection of images that I wanted to put out a calendar that will help to combat the silence and stigma associated with being HIV-positive,? says Mackenroth. He adds, ?If I can raise money for HIV/AIDS research, it?s even better.?Order the 2012 Calendar today from Jack!
Jack has been a vocal and visible advocate of the HIV community, touring the country through numerous speaking engagements and special appearances at events. He continues to speak around the country and will be planning calendar signing events in the upcoming months. His memoir, ?Making Lemonaids? will be released this winter.
He just put the finishing touches on an AMAZING CALENDAR for 2012!
This AUTOGRAPHED, high-quality, glossy, 15-month calendar is available for sale now and will ship in the beginning of September.
The calendar begins in January 2012 and continues through May 2013. Each month features a different photographer with a very different style.
Photographers taking part int the project include Adam Bouska (NOH8), Rick Day, Carsten Fleck, Frank Louis, James Franklin, Karl Giant, Tommy Synnamon, Mattheus Lian, Richard Gerst, Ray John Pila, Sonny Tong, Thomas Evans, Krys Fox and Preston Cros with over 17 amazing images in total.
The calendar?s dimensions are 8.5 x 11 inches, and are available online for $14.95 (plus tax and shipping). Please allow 2 weeks for shipping as Jack is signing and shipping them all personally. Please be patient.
100-percent of the proceeds from the calendar will go directly to amfAR, The American Foundation for AIDS Research (www.amfar.org) to help find a cure for AIDS. Mackenroth has been living with the disease for 22 years.
As the first television personality since Pedro Zamora to be vocal about his HIV status, Jack Mackenroth has quickly become the most visible, out HIV+ advocate and educator in the country? if not the world. With the release of his 2012 calendar, he hopes to raise both money and awareness for AIDS research, and to show through his photographs that a person living with HIV can be in top physical form, healthy and sexy.
Designer, athlete and HIV/AIDS activist and educator Jack Mackenroth has had the privilege of shooting with some of the best photographers in the business. Each month of the 15 month calendar will feature a different photographer with a very different style. Jack is a role model to many people in the HIV community and a fitness model that many aspire to emulate.?I have amassed such an amazing collection of images that I wanted to put out a calendar that will help to combat the silence and stigma associated with being HIV-positive,? says Mackenroth. He adds, ?If I can raise money for HIV/AIDS research, it?s even better.?Order the 2012 Calendar today from Jack!
FWB: Can I save this friendship from my own regret?
Ex-FWB: I really want to be friends again, but I'm too disgusted, and it's not his fault. What now? A follow-up to this question. Thanks for all the great answers to my last question. A day after it was posted, I told M that I couldn't continue hooking up with him. He asked why and I told him I just wasn't into it anymore because of my orientation. He took it well, and for most of the rest of the semester we were less intense, platonic friends. I felt so much better, self-esteem wise and just in general.
Then the last night of school, I was at a party. He called me so I could let him into the building. When I came to the door he was very drunk and started kissing me and groping me. I figured, it's his last night (he's a senior, I'm a junior), so what the hell. When we left the party we went back to my room and talked for a while. I suggested that he call a different girl that he'd hooked up with a couple times because she'd almost certainly fuck him. He agreed that it'd be easy, but said he didn't want to. I apologized for not having been able to continue with the FWB thing. He said it was OK but kept inching closer to me on the bed. Told me I was "special". Had a pleading look on his face and brought it really close to mine. I started making out with him because I felt bad for letting him beg--also, why the hell had I let him come to my room if I wasn't gonna fuck him? He left to go to the bathroom and I started chugging alcohol so I could make myself blow him when he got back.
So he came back and I blew him. He practically begged to go down on me (I know, good man), so I let him. And it was awful. He wasn't bad at it, but I just wasn't into it at all. So I just moaned at what I thought I should be feeling so it would be over sooner, and so he wouldn't feel bad for something that wasn't his fault. Then he asked, in a really pleading tone, if I would ever consider having intercourse with him. I said I didn't have a condom (true), but if he'd had one with him, I probably would have gone along with it and regretted that night even more than I do now.
Which is a lot. Whenever I think back to it, I feel icky all over. I feel like I gave him a little piece of myself that I wish I had back. And then I feel bad for being so drama about it, because everything was consensual and he's not a bad guy. Honestly, I am a little mad at him for acting so persistently pathetic, because I think it means he knew I didn't want to, but wanted me to do it please him anyway. But I'm a lot more mad at myself.
It's affecting our friendship. We were hanging out last night (we live close) and half of everything he said pissed me off. He said the other girl he'd been hooking up with is great in bed, but that her personality is awful and he'd wished he could put a paper bag over her head while they did it. This annoyed me because not only did it strike me as cruel, but (and I'm aware this is going to make me sound like a bitch), I'm significantly better-looking than he is, and he and she are about the same looks-wise. Like, "you decide who to fuck based on physical standards, but I fucked you because I thought you were nice?" So I passive-aggressively replied, "you've got pretty high standards." He looked hurt for a second, and then said, "Really?" I immediately felt bad and said maybe he just had different standards than me. He said, "Maybe I do have high standards. Just for the face though." He also enthused that when the other girl gives head, she just keeps going until the guy comes. I have bad TMJ (he knows this) and I have to take frequent breaks and just use my hands. Even so my jaw was sore the day after the last time. So I said, probably with audible anger in my tone, "yeah, not doing that. Ever." I also made a contextually relevant comment that I should probably stop doing things I regret while drunk.
How can I save this friendship? Seeing him reminds me of being weak, of giving in, and I hate it. Even considering the occasional passive-aggressive remarks I've made, I'm not sure he knows anything is wrong. And I don't know whether I should bring it up with him--I mean, how exactly do you say, "I regret having sex with you, since the message didn't stick last time, it's never going to happen again"? Maybe things would be better if we just didn't talk about sex. We'd still have our shared senses of humor and nerdy interests.
I miss our friendship. I miss feeling comfortable around him. But I don't really know how to get over my resentment. (Also, in general, I'm having a hard time forgiving myself.)
(I really don't think he was trying to make me compare myself to the other girl with the blowjob thing. We have the sort of friendship where we talk about exes and love-interests frankly, because there's nothing romantic between us and we share an interest in women. And he doesn't see women exclusively as sex objects--he's friends with lots of them, including his exes, and including ones he doesn't find physically attractive.)
Throwaway email: sapphicsniveler@gmail.com
Then the last night of school, I was at a party. He called me so I could let him into the building. When I came to the door he was very drunk and started kissing me and groping me. I figured, it's his last night (he's a senior, I'm a junior), so what the hell. When we left the party we went back to my room and talked for a while. I suggested that he call a different girl that he'd hooked up with a couple times because she'd almost certainly fuck him. He agreed that it'd be easy, but said he didn't want to. I apologized for not having been able to continue with the FWB thing. He said it was OK but kept inching closer to me on the bed. Told me I was "special". Had a pleading look on his face and brought it really close to mine. I started making out with him because I felt bad for letting him beg--also, why the hell had I let him come to my room if I wasn't gonna fuck him? He left to go to the bathroom and I started chugging alcohol so I could make myself blow him when he got back.
So he came back and I blew him. He practically begged to go down on me (I know, good man), so I let him. And it was awful. He wasn't bad at it, but I just wasn't into it at all. So I just moaned at what I thought I should be feeling so it would be over sooner, and so he wouldn't feel bad for something that wasn't his fault. Then he asked, in a really pleading tone, if I would ever consider having intercourse with him. I said I didn't have a condom (true), but if he'd had one with him, I probably would have gone along with it and regretted that night even more than I do now.
Which is a lot. Whenever I think back to it, I feel icky all over. I feel like I gave him a little piece of myself that I wish I had back. And then I feel bad for being so drama about it, because everything was consensual and he's not a bad guy. Honestly, I am a little mad at him for acting so persistently pathetic, because I think it means he knew I didn't want to, but wanted me to do it please him anyway. But I'm a lot more mad at myself.
It's affecting our friendship. We were hanging out last night (we live close) and half of everything he said pissed me off. He said the other girl he'd been hooking up with is great in bed, but that her personality is awful and he'd wished he could put a paper bag over her head while they did it. This annoyed me because not only did it strike me as cruel, but (and I'm aware this is going to make me sound like a bitch), I'm significantly better-looking than he is, and he and she are about the same looks-wise. Like, "you decide who to fuck based on physical standards, but I fucked you because I thought you were nice?" So I passive-aggressively replied, "you've got pretty high standards." He looked hurt for a second, and then said, "Really?" I immediately felt bad and said maybe he just had different standards than me. He said, "Maybe I do have high standards. Just for the face though." He also enthused that when the other girl gives head, she just keeps going until the guy comes. I have bad TMJ (he knows this) and I have to take frequent breaks and just use my hands. Even so my jaw was sore the day after the last time. So I said, probably with audible anger in my tone, "yeah, not doing that. Ever." I also made a contextually relevant comment that I should probably stop doing things I regret while drunk.
How can I save this friendship? Seeing him reminds me of being weak, of giving in, and I hate it. Even considering the occasional passive-aggressive remarks I've made, I'm not sure he knows anything is wrong. And I don't know whether I should bring it up with him--I mean, how exactly do you say, "I regret having sex with you, since the message didn't stick last time, it's never going to happen again"? Maybe things would be better if we just didn't talk about sex. We'd still have our shared senses of humor and nerdy interests.
I miss our friendship. I miss feeling comfortable around him. But I don't really know how to get over my resentment. (Also, in general, I'm having a hard time forgiving myself.)
(I really don't think he was trying to make me compare myself to the other girl with the blowjob thing. We have the sort of friendship where we talk about exes and love-interests frankly, because there's nothing romantic between us and we share an interest in women. And he doesn't see women exclusively as sex objects--he's friends with lots of them, including his exes, and including ones he doesn't find physically attractive.)
Throwaway email: sapphicsniveler@gmail.com
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