Friday, May 31, 2013
Bryan Fischer: Overturning DOMA Means The End Of America
American Family Association mouth piece Brian Fischer took to his radio show once again to claim that the overturning of DOMA will lead to all sorts of evil
Fun Events for Lesbians Over 40
You're never too old to stop having fun. But when you're in your 40s and older, the kinds of things you did as a young 20-something lesbian may not appeal to you anymore. As fun as they are, many of the big lesbian parties and club scenes cater to a young and sometimes raucous crowd. More and more events and organizations are popping up for lesbians who want to still dance, mingle, socialize, and have fun, but don't want to feel like they're the oldest one in the room. One such company is She She: Classy Fun Events for Lesbians over 40. I spoke with founder Carmen McKay about She She and the kinds of events and activities she offers for both single lesbians and couples....Read Full Post
Judge Issues Final Order in Case of Bayli Silberstein, 14-Year-Old Lake County Student Suing for Gay-Straight Alliance
Following Months of Frustration and Delays, 8th Grader Sued School Board on May 1st Over Denial of Safe Schools Club; Order Finalizes Victory, Allows Club to Meet
May 30, 2013
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: 212-549-2666, media@aclu.org
OCALA, Fla. - Today, U.S. District Judge Anne Conway issued a final order in the case of 14-year-old Bayli Silberstein of Leesburg, Florida who brought a lawsuit against the School Board of Lake County, Florida for repeatedly thwarting her efforts to establish a gay-straight alliance (GSA) at Carver Middle School. The final order reinforces a consent decree entered by the parties in the case on the day after the lawsuit was filed that allows the club to meet and awards Bayli one dollar in nominal damages. Bayli was represented in the case by the American Civil Liberties Union of Florida.
?I am really happy that we were finally able to meet and that this is finally over,? stated Silberstein, an 8th grader at the school. ?My friends and I didn?t want to have the school year end without being able to do something to make school safer. I?m really grateful for all the support I?ve gotten and hope this helps other kids see that what we?re doing is something worth fighting for.?
GSAs are student organizations made up of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) students and their straight allies that advocate for an end to bullying, harassment, and discrimination against all students. As a result of the lawsuit, the Carver Middle School GSA has been able to meet regularly throughout the final weeks of the school year.
?We are very happy for Bayli and her family that this lawsuit has come to a close,? stated Daniel Tilley, staff attorney for the ACLU of Florida. ?Although it should have happened more than a year ago, we are pleased that the School District has acknowledged its obligation under clearly established federal law to allow the GSA to meet. Because of the GSA, Carver Middle School will become a safer and more welcoming place for all students. Although the School Board is continuing its intensified scrutiny of club policy due to the GSA, we look forward to ensuring that the Carver Middle School GSA will remain an official student club during the next school year and the years after that.?
More information about the case and the May 2nd consent decree is available here.
A copy of the final order entered today is available here.
May 30, 2013
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: 212-549-2666, media@aclu.org
OCALA, Fla. - Today, U.S. District Judge Anne Conway issued a final order in the case of 14-year-old Bayli Silberstein of Leesburg, Florida who brought a lawsuit against the School Board of Lake County, Florida for repeatedly thwarting her efforts to establish a gay-straight alliance (GSA) at Carver Middle School. The final order reinforces a consent decree entered by the parties in the case on the day after the lawsuit was filed that allows the club to meet and awards Bayli one dollar in nominal damages. Bayli was represented in the case by the American Civil Liberties Union of Florida.
?I am really happy that we were finally able to meet and that this is finally over,? stated Silberstein, an 8th grader at the school. ?My friends and I didn?t want to have the school year end without being able to do something to make school safer. I?m really grateful for all the support I?ve gotten and hope this helps other kids see that what we?re doing is something worth fighting for.?
GSAs are student organizations made up of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) students and their straight allies that advocate for an end to bullying, harassment, and discrimination against all students. As a result of the lawsuit, the Carver Middle School GSA has been able to meet regularly throughout the final weeks of the school year.
?We are very happy for Bayli and her family that this lawsuit has come to a close,? stated Daniel Tilley, staff attorney for the ACLU of Florida. ?Although it should have happened more than a year ago, we are pleased that the School District has acknowledged its obligation under clearly established federal law to allow the GSA to meet. Because of the GSA, Carver Middle School will become a safer and more welcoming place for all students. Although the School Board is continuing its intensified scrutiny of club policy due to the GSA, we look forward to ensuring that the Carver Middle School GSA will remain an official student club during the next school year and the years after that.?
More information about the case and the May 2nd consent decree is available here.
A copy of the final order entered today is available here.
Lesbian News - 27 May 2013
Kathy Griffin Wants A Lesbian President, Nominates Suze Orman
Analysing the stigma lesbian athletes face and how Brittney Griner can be seen as a trailblazer tooStudy looks at lesbian mums and male donors
Immigration bill without protections for gay and lesbian couples heads to full Senate
First openly gay Church of Scotland minister welcomes decision
Analysing the stigma lesbian athletes face and how Brittney Griner can be seen as a trailblazer tooStudy looks at lesbian mums and male donors
Immigration bill without protections for gay and lesbian couples heads to full Senate
First openly gay Church of Scotland minister welcomes decision
Gaysayer Opinions: Why the 'F' Word Still Matters in Comedy
Comedian Chris Doucette explains why even comics with good intentions can't use the f word.
read more
read more
Best Gay Phoenix Arizona Restaurants
These are some of the best places to eat in the Phoenix area gay or not but the fact these places are very gay friendly and in some cases male only makes them even that much better. #1 Harley’s Italian … Continue reading →
Who Else Misses Sundays?
*singing* Don't it always seem to go that you don't know what you've got til its gone...
Lesbian Teacher Fired by Catholic School After Artificial Insemination
Christa Dias is fighting back with a lawsuit after a Roman Catholic archdiocese fired her, claiming her pregnancy was an immoral violation of her contract.
read more
read more
Thursday, May 30, 2013
French Good Bi's...
Here's what I know: I don't know a word of French, but when I learn, I will use this movie as a study aid. And I don't care HOW many times I have to watch it--10...50...hundreds of times--by golly, I WILL learn French! Zut alors!
We Must Change the Culture of Violence Against Women in the Military
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/terry-oneill/we-must-change-the-cultur_b_3239408.htmlFor women, the military can be a dangerous environment -- and I'm not just talking about combat. The Pentagon released chilling data this week that concludes there were an estimated 26,000 cases of sexual assault in the military last year, up from 19,000 in 2010. But only a small fraction of those assaults were reported -- 3,374 in 2012 compared with 3,192 in 2011. And of those few, only 238 assailants were convicted.
Pennsylvania School District Refuses to Change Policies on Transgender Students
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: 212-549-2666, media@aclu.org
RED LION, Pa. ? The Red Lion Area School District (RLASD) has refused to change its policy regarding transgender candidates for prom court, nor will it agree to allow transgender students to use a name at graduation to match their gender identity, according to a letter from the school district's solicitor.
RLASD's treatment of its transgender students became an issue last month after a male transgender student, Issak Wolfe, was denied the chance to run for prom king when his principal placed his female birth name in the column for "prom queen" despite repeated requests to be listed in accordance with his gender identity.
On April 25, the American Civil Liberties Union and the ACLU of Pennsylvania sent a letter on behalf of Wolfe, asking among other things, that the school allow Wolfe to attend graduation wearing a black cap and gown for boys, as opposed to the yellow cap and gown mandated for girls, and have his male name read at the ceremony. The letter also asked that the school adopt a policy to allow students to run for prom court in accordance with their gender identity, as well as a broader nondiscrimination policy protecting transgender students in the district. In his response, the school district's solicitor agreed to allow Issak to wear a black cap and gown but denied the rest of his requests.
"I am really disappointed that the school district doesn't want to do anything to protect transgender students," said Wolfe, a senior at Red Lion Area High School. "I want to make sure that future transgender students are not humiliated and disrespected the way I was."
Wolfe has gone by Issak since the summer before his junior year of high school, and his family, friends, and most of his teachers call him by that name. Wolfe, who just turned 18 a few weeks ago, plans to legally change his name, but that process, which involves a court hearing, cannot be completed in time for graduation next month.
"There is absolutely no legitimate reason for the school to refuse to read Issak's male name at graduation," said Reggie Shuford, executive director of the ACLU of Pennsylvania. "Their failure to do so shows the same lack of sensitivity they exhibited during Issak's attempt to run for prom king and knowingly mars what should be a happy occasion for Issak and his family."
Wolfe plans to take his case to the RLASD school board at their next meeting on Thursday, May 16.
"It's a shame the school district won't adopt common-sense policies that would protect other transgender students down the line," said Leslie Cooper, staff attorney with the ACLU Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Transgender Project. "All students should feel welcome at school and accepted for who they are."
More about the case can be found at:
aclu.org/lgbt-rights/aclu-warns-high-school-principal-who-removed-transgender-pennsylvania-student-prom-king
The district's response can be found at:
aclu.org/lgbt-rights/letter-counsel-red-lion-school-district-concerning-issak-wolfe
CONTACT: 212-549-2666, media@aclu.org
RED LION, Pa. ? The Red Lion Area School District (RLASD) has refused to change its policy regarding transgender candidates for prom court, nor will it agree to allow transgender students to use a name at graduation to match their gender identity, according to a letter from the school district's solicitor.
RLASD's treatment of its transgender students became an issue last month after a male transgender student, Issak Wolfe, was denied the chance to run for prom king when his principal placed his female birth name in the column for "prom queen" despite repeated requests to be listed in accordance with his gender identity.
On April 25, the American Civil Liberties Union and the ACLU of Pennsylvania sent a letter on behalf of Wolfe, asking among other things, that the school allow Wolfe to attend graduation wearing a black cap and gown for boys, as opposed to the yellow cap and gown mandated for girls, and have his male name read at the ceremony. The letter also asked that the school adopt a policy to allow students to run for prom court in accordance with their gender identity, as well as a broader nondiscrimination policy protecting transgender students in the district. In his response, the school district's solicitor agreed to allow Issak to wear a black cap and gown but denied the rest of his requests.
"I am really disappointed that the school district doesn't want to do anything to protect transgender students," said Wolfe, a senior at Red Lion Area High School. "I want to make sure that future transgender students are not humiliated and disrespected the way I was."
Wolfe has gone by Issak since the summer before his junior year of high school, and his family, friends, and most of his teachers call him by that name. Wolfe, who just turned 18 a few weeks ago, plans to legally change his name, but that process, which involves a court hearing, cannot be completed in time for graduation next month.
"There is absolutely no legitimate reason for the school to refuse to read Issak's male name at graduation," said Reggie Shuford, executive director of the ACLU of Pennsylvania. "Their failure to do so shows the same lack of sensitivity they exhibited during Issak's attempt to run for prom king and knowingly mars what should be a happy occasion for Issak and his family."
Wolfe plans to take his case to the RLASD school board at their next meeting on Thursday, May 16.
"It's a shame the school district won't adopt common-sense policies that would protect other transgender students down the line," said Leslie Cooper, staff attorney with the ACLU Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Transgender Project. "All students should feel welcome at school and accepted for who they are."
More about the case can be found at:
aclu.org/lgbt-rights/aclu-warns-high-school-principal-who-removed-transgender-pennsylvania-student-prom-king
The district's response can be found at:
aclu.org/lgbt-rights/letter-counsel-red-lion-school-district-concerning-issak-wolfe
What is Gender Non-Conforming?
I received this message on the Lesbian Life Facebook Page. (Did you know Lesbian Life had a Facebook Page?)
"I've been out for a looooong time. One of my newer friends is a therapist, specializing in LGBT counseling. We often have the discussion over how many different labels there are now. She informed me the other day, that I would be more inclusive if I described myself as a GENDER NON-CONFORMIST. I had no idea my official label had changed... Lesbian is apparently NOT descriptive enough."...Read Full Post
"I've been out for a looooong time. One of my newer friends is a therapist, specializing in LGBT counseling. We often have the discussion over how many different labels there are now. She informed me the other day, that I would be more inclusive if I described myself as a GENDER NON-CONFORMIST. I had no idea my official label had changed... Lesbian is apparently NOT descriptive enough."...Read Full Post
Bachmann not seeking re-election in 2014
U.S. Congresswoman and former GOP presidential primary candidate Michele Bachmann said she will not run for re-election to a fifth term in 2014, according to Politico.com.
(78) Lezbun Sessions
mono is super short and TBFTGOG plays for too long but what are ya gonna do? experimenting on skype with Lale in LA and of course the sound is dreadful. we talk cigs, lesbian repair men, and more!!! Nicole and I chat about her leaving the psych ward gig, coming out at her new one, [...]
Best Gay Phoenix Arizona Restaurants
These are some of the best places to eat in the Phoenix area gay or not but the fact these places are very gay friendly and in some cases male only makes them even that much better. #1 Harley’s Italian … Continue reading →
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Survey
National Gay and Lesbian Task ForceWe are the uncompromising national voice for full LGBT equality.
The Task Force creates change by building LGBT political power from the ground up.
We
bolster the strength of local LGBT activism in rural enclaves, small
towns and cities nationwide. We build grassroots political muscle at
every level by training activists, strengthening the infrastructure of
local and state allies and organizing broad-based campaigns creating
public support for full equality of LGBT people. Learn more about our
Organizing & Training and Movement Building efforts.The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force is conducting a nationwide
survey on issues that are important to the LGBT community. With more and
more consistent wins for marriage equality, the Task Force is already
thinking about what?s next including the Employment Non-Discrimination
Act (ENDA) to end discrimination against LGBT people in the workplace,
immigration and protecting our youth and aging communities. Please help
them by taking this short survey: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/MoreThanMarriage
The Task Force creates change by building LGBT political power from the ground up.
We
bolster the strength of local LGBT activism in rural enclaves, small
towns and cities nationwide. We build grassroots political muscle at
every level by training activists, strengthening the infrastructure of
local and state allies and organizing broad-based campaigns creating
public support for full equality of LGBT people. Learn more about our
Organizing & Training and Movement Building efforts.The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force is conducting a nationwide
survey on issues that are important to the LGBT community. With more and
more consistent wins for marriage equality, the Task Force is already
thinking about what?s next including the Employment Non-Discrimination
Act (ENDA) to end discrimination against LGBT people in the workplace,
immigration and protecting our youth and aging communities. Please help
them by taking this short survey: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/MoreThanMarriage
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
No gays at the Chymorvah guesthouse Cornwall
Martin Hall and his civil partner Stephen Preddy, were turned away from a homophobic guesthouse at Marizion in Corwall, on the grounds of "we dont allow unmarried couples to sleep in our guesthouse". Given that Hall and Preddy are in a civil partnership, this is a bit hard to believe.
It transpires that the owners are some sort of religious nut cases who have taken some line from the Bible a little to far. It is incredible in this day and age that people still think this way. It is obviously far more important to ignore the "LOVE" and "ACCEPTANCE" message from their faith and focus on - shock horror - the possibility that two people might actually have SEX.
Peter and Hazelmary Bull denied the allegation that they discriminated against Martyn Hall and Steven Preddy because they were gay, but insisted their faith meant they believed unmarried couples should not share a room under their roof.
A second case of homophobic prejudice. Sad old couple!
Gay newsView Australian Queer News on the web at Gay News Blog
It transpires that the owners are some sort of religious nut cases who have taken some line from the Bible a little to far. It is incredible in this day and age that people still think this way. It is obviously far more important to ignore the "LOVE" and "ACCEPTANCE" message from their faith and focus on - shock horror - the possibility that two people might actually have SEX.
Peter and Hazelmary Bull denied the allegation that they discriminated against Martyn Hall and Steven Preddy because they were gay, but insisted their faith meant they believed unmarried couples should not share a room under their roof.
A second case of homophobic prejudice. Sad old couple!
Gay newsView Australian Queer News on the web at Gay News Blog
Justice Department's Appeal of Judge Korman's Ruling on Plan B is a Step Backwards in Women's Health
http://now.org/press/05-13/05-02b.htmlThe Justice Department's decision to appeal of Judge Korman's ruling to make Plan B available over the counter to all ages is a step backwards for women's health. Millions of women need access to this safe and effective product, and the prevention of unwanted pregnancy, particularly in adolescents, should not be obstructed by politicians.
Video: Rick Perry Said Bush Defended Us From Freedom
More of the wit and wisdumb from the leader of the 2012 GOP Clown Car race...
Yes, this is the best that the GOP can offer the country. What a sad state of affairs.
Rhode Island Governor Signs Law Officially Legalizing Marriage for Same-Sex Couples
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: 212-549-2666, media@aclu.org
PROVIDENCE, R.I.? Rhode Island governor Lincoln Chafee signed a law legalizing marriage for same-sex couples today. Chafee signed the bill shortly after its passage by the state legislature.
Rhode Island is now the tenth state, in addition to the District of Columbia, to recognize marriage for same-sex couples. It joins all other New England states ? Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, Connecticut and Maine ? as well as Maryland, Washington, New York, and Iowa.
"Today is a great day for freedom and equality in Rhode Island," said Steven Brown, executive director of the ACLU of Rhode Island. "I am very proud to see our state join the rest of New England by passing this momentous law."
"This is a tremendous victory for the thousands of loving and committed couples and their families in Rhode Island who can now get the recognition and protection that only marriage can provide," said James Esseks, director of the ACLU Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Transgender Project, "This was the result of years of hard work, and we will keep working with our partners to continue the fight to realize the freedom to marry for families across the country."
CONTACT: 212-549-2666, media@aclu.org
PROVIDENCE, R.I.? Rhode Island governor Lincoln Chafee signed a law legalizing marriage for same-sex couples today. Chafee signed the bill shortly after its passage by the state legislature.
Rhode Island is now the tenth state, in addition to the District of Columbia, to recognize marriage for same-sex couples. It joins all other New England states ? Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, Connecticut and Maine ? as well as Maryland, Washington, New York, and Iowa.
"Today is a great day for freedom and equality in Rhode Island," said Steven Brown, executive director of the ACLU of Rhode Island. "I am very proud to see our state join the rest of New England by passing this momentous law."
"This is a tremendous victory for the thousands of loving and committed couples and their families in Rhode Island who can now get the recognition and protection that only marriage can provide," said James Esseks, director of the ACLU Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Transgender Project, "This was the result of years of hard work, and we will keep working with our partners to continue the fight to realize the freedom to marry for families across the country."
The Dinah 2011: Day One
After fourteen hours of being airborne and being not so airborne in the longest layover ever at LAX, I finally touched down in Palm Springs at 7:30 PT last night and raced over to the comedy show at the Riviera, which was already in progress. 90 degrees, clear skies, palms trees lining the streets.
(35) Fruits, Porn & Cheats 101
Frustrating fruits “shit in my peach.” Sarah Jessica Parker and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off Getting Off, Interns, Infidelitors, Porn, and more trash-talk! (some of the calls had bad sound, sorry :/ Featuring music by: Sarah Greenwood’s – GSX! http://www.myspace.com/gsx Vote for her VIDEO HERE: http://www.logoonline.com/shows/dyn/the_click_list/video_voting.jhtml
(9) Interview w/ Lea Delaria and More Nonsensical Babblings
Interview with Lea Delaria and some more nonsensical babblings ..
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Puerto Rico approves LGBT non-discrimination and domestic violence measures; governor to sign
International lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) rights advocates are praising Puerto Rico's decision to advance "sweeping" nondiscrimination measures.
International LGBT rights advocates are praising Puerto Rico's decision to advance "sweeping" nondiscrimination measures.
read more
International LGBT rights advocates are praising Puerto Rico's decision to advance "sweeping" nondiscrimination measures.
read more
Hot and cold: Sweets & Snacks Expo shows latest trends
On the heels of the National Restaurant Show, Chicago's McCormick Place hosted the Sweets & Snacks Expo with the theme "Unwrap Innovation" May 21-23.
(62) Intrvw w/ Playboy Bunny Stephanie Adams
After reading about Playboy’s first out “lesbian” centerfold, Stephanie Adams, “switching teams” on page 6 of the New York Post, we decided to give her a call (before we ripped her hair out, meh heh heh!) to hear her side of the story. http://stephanieadams.com http://www.GODDESSY.com We would also (again) like to thank Hadas B. for [...]
(22) Tumult, Love Lesbian Style and Whorey Moments
Valentine’s Stressors, Infidels, Long Term Love, The Lesbian Moment of Truth, Whorey Moments, Lesbian Bed Death?
Winter woof land
Thanks Chris for this photo from Electric Orange. Winter woofs!
Gay newsView Australian Queer News on the web at Gay News Blog
Gay newsView Australian Queer News on the web at Gay News Blog
Monday, May 27, 2013
Caravan Parks For Sale UK
I was up in North Wales at the weekend and came across a great caravan park for sale. This could be the life. Throw in all the clubbing in Vauxhall and head for the Welsh countryside. Now I am looking for caravan parks for sale in the UK. Then I am outta here!
Gay newsView Australian Queer News on the web at Gay News Blog
Gay newsView Australian Queer News on the web at Gay News Blog
No gays at the Chymorvah guesthouse Cornwall
Martin Hall and his civil partner Stephen Preddy, were turned away from a homophobic guesthouse at Marizion in Corwall, on the grounds of "we dont allow unmarried couples to sleep in our guesthouse". Given that Hall and Preddy are in a civil partnership, this is a bit hard to believe.
It transpires that the owners are some sort of religious nut cases who have taken some line from the Bible a little to far. It is incredible in this day and age that people still think this way. It is obviously far more important to ignore the "LOVE" and "ACCEPTANCE" message from their faith and focus on - shock horror - the possibility that two people might actually have SEX.
Peter and Hazelmary Bull denied the allegation that they discriminated against Martyn Hall and Steven Preddy because they were gay, but insisted their faith meant they believed unmarried couples should not share a room under their roof.
A second case of homophobic prejudice. Sad old couple!
Gay newsView Australian Queer News on the web at Gay News Blog
It transpires that the owners are some sort of religious nut cases who have taken some line from the Bible a little to far. It is incredible in this day and age that people still think this way. It is obviously far more important to ignore the "LOVE" and "ACCEPTANCE" message from their faith and focus on - shock horror - the possibility that two people might actually have SEX.
Peter and Hazelmary Bull denied the allegation that they discriminated against Martyn Hall and Steven Preddy because they were gay, but insisted their faith meant they believed unmarried couples should not share a room under their roof.
A second case of homophobic prejudice. Sad old couple!
Gay newsView Australian Queer News on the web at Gay News Blog
Study finds more gay characters on network TV
NEW YORK (AP) – The number of gay and bisexual characters on scripted broadcast network TV has risen slightly this season to 23 out of a total of nearly 600 roles, according to the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation.
The 15th annual “Where We Are on TV” report released Wednesday found that 3.9 percent of actors appearing regularly on prime-time network drama and comedy series in the 2010-11 season will portray gay, lesbian or bisexual characters.
That’s up from 3 percent in the 2009-10 season. The increase in 2008-09 was 2.6 percent.
Only six of the 23 gay and lesbian characters this season are nonwhite, GLAAD found.
Using information provided by ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC and CW, the group reviewed 84 scripted series announced…
Read More
The 15th annual “Where We Are on TV” report released Wednesday found that 3.9 percent of actors appearing regularly on prime-time network drama and comedy series in the 2010-11 season will portray gay, lesbian or bisexual characters.
That’s up from 3 percent in the 2009-10 season. The increase in 2008-09 was 2.6 percent.
Only six of the 23 gay and lesbian characters this season are nonwhite, GLAAD found.
Using information provided by ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC and CW, the group reviewed 84 scripted series announced…
Read More
Virginia's Lt. Gov. Nominee Says Gays Are 'Ikky'
E.W. Jackson's Twitter account confirms the Lt. Gov. hopeful's long legacy of antigay, Islamophobic extremism.
read more
read more
Virginia's Lt. Gov. Nominee Says Gays Are 'Ikky'
E.W. Jackson's Twitter account confirms the Lt. Gov. hopeful's long legacy of antigay, Islamophobic extremism.
read more
read more
Change.org official: Personal data safe after hacking
No personal information was stolen, spokesman Benjamin Joffe-Walt said in a written statement.
Sunday, May 26, 2013
(33) What Does Gay Pride Mean to YOU?
(1hr) This podcast’s topic: “Why Is Gay Pride Important to You?” We took your calls!! Some special guests called in also and are sprinkled throughout this podcast. Lizzy the Lezzy – http://www.myspace.com/ruthselwyn Gay Carrington – http://www.youtube.com/user/GayCarrington Jamesson – http://www.myspace.com/jamesson JHermBaby – http://www.youtube.com/user/jhermbaby Italian Stallionette – http://www.youtube.com/user/ItalianStallionette Kentucky Lightening!!!! http://www.myspace.com/sarah_hyland and Carla Jean Johnson Deputy Marriage [...]
The New Mason Dixon Line
With Delaware becoming the 11th state to legalize same sex marriage it has become painfully aware to me that The Mason Dixon Line has moved up to engulf the great Commonwealth of Pennsylvania into “The South”. Every state around us has OKed gay marriage, but because Pennsylvania is really Pittsburgh and Philadelphia with Kentucky in […]
Open Letter to President Obama on Anticipated Cuts to Social Security Benefits
http://www.now.org/issues/economic/040513openletterobamachainedcpi.htmlOn behalf of the National Organization for Women, its hundreds of active chapters and its hundreds of thousands of members and supporters, I am writing to urge you not to propose adoption of the so-called "chained" Consumer Price Index (CPI) in your FY 2014 budget proposal.
Yet another flash of white underwear from David Beckham
You'd think he would at least be wearing Armani underwear! This time it was on the pitch in LA whilst playing against FC Dallas
Gay newsView Australian Queer News on the web at Gay News Blog
Gay newsView Australian Queer News on the web at Gay News Blog
Lesbian News - 11 May 2013
Balletlujah!: A lesbian love story as flat as the PrairiesGirls in Wonderland Offers a Lesbian Spin on Disney's Gay DaysLesbian teen makes groundbreaking run for title of Miss SCBiltmore Hotel launches gay and lesbian wedding campaignAdorable Lesbian Couple in Texas Seek to Become Ministers
Former Secretary of the Army, Clifford Alexander:
“The policy is an absurdity and borderline on being an obscenity. What it does is cause people to ask of themselves that they lie to themselves, that they pretend to be something that they are not. There is no empirical evidence that would indicate that it affects military cohesion. There is a lot of evidence to say that the biases of the past have been layered onto the United States Army.”
Iraq War Veteran and U.S. Rep. Patrick Murphy, challenging a witness during “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” hearings in the U.S. House:
“You’re basically asserting that straight men and women in our military aren’t professional enough to serve openly with gay troops while completing their military missions. You know as a fo…
Read More
Iraq War Veteran and U.S. Rep. Patrick Murphy, challenging a witness during “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” hearings in the U.S. House:
“You’re basically asserting that straight men and women in our military aren’t professional enough to serve openly with gay troops while completing their military missions. You know as a fo…
Read More
San Diego lesbians rock!
There was a time in San Diego’s rich history when lesbians were not as visible or held in the same esteem in the GLBT community as they are now. At times discounted and thought to be too small a group to warrant advertising dollars, they were also considered too different from gay men to be influential or to hold any positions of power. This was also a time when there was little or no nightlife catering for lesbians and the few lesbian clubs out there had come and gone. They simply could not compete with the gay bars and the numbers that they attracted. Going beyond nightlife there were few resources for lesbians or places that lesbians could gather, socialize, have fun and be in the majority.
Fast forward and it is apparent that this has really chang…
Read More
Fast forward and it is apparent that this has really chang…
Read More
Run don’t walk…
Like most things that weigh heavily in our community and lives, from our civil rights and freedoms to our many other struggles, HIV has been at the forefront. HIV infection and reduction and making those who are HIV positive or living with AIDS more comfortable and fulfilled has been a huge priority for all of us. For those of us who have lost someone to this disease it is much more personal and AIDS Walk and other related events are a way to remember and show our commitment to those we loved. For others who know someone who is living with HIV or AIDS it is an opportunity to do something about it and show love and support for our brothers and sisters. For everyone it is a way to show support, tolerance and compassion.
Whatever the motivation or experience …
Read More
Whatever the motivation or experience …
Read More
Saturday, May 25, 2013
(40) London Calling. Shoot Your TV!
She Calls to Say She Has Sense, Friends from www.DubiousInent.com Send Over a Fun Hello, Zeitgeists Addendum released 10/02/08 http://video.google.co.uk/videoplay?docid=7065205277695921912&hl=en, Compulsive Sunflower Seed Overeater, Negative Television Hysteria, CNN Journalist Jill Abrams book The Myth, The Muse, The Meshuga http://www.myspace.com/jillabrams, Rachel from London discusses London Police, Heather Mills etc .
The 'Undetectable' Paradox in Talking About HIV
To combat the spread of HIV, we need a way to talk honestly about what it means to be 'undetectable.'
read more
read more
Lambda Literary Awards finalist reading
Midwest finalists for the 2013 Lambda Literary Awards held a reading and booksigning for their nominated books May 22 at Center on Halsted.
HIV/AIDS and the Military After 28 Years
Randy Shilts very accurately described the early stages of the treatment of HIV/AIDS in the military in his ground breaking book And The Band Played On. In short he described a military that when faced with an epidemic that at the time was largely viewed as being a gay disease, against the odds, they chose the higher road. The military’s initial response while far from perfect, was among the most progressive at the time.
Among other things the military made the wise choice of letting medical fact rather than social stigma and fear guide their policy. They recognized early on that HIV was not transmitted through casual contact and therefor those who had contracted HIV were not a threat to their coworkers. That realization led to a sensible policy tha…
Read More
Among other things the military made the wise choice of letting medical fact rather than social stigma and fear guide their policy. They recognized early on that HIV was not transmitted through casual contact and therefor those who had contracted HIV were not a threat to their coworkers. That realization led to a sensible policy tha…
Read More
Gay Pets and Big Discount
Hello Readers, I have missed you so much. I’ve been spending time on my new website I started a blog there but I have a dilemma since that is my professional website and I’m not sure how outspoken I ought … Continue reading →
(81) AUDIO: Eva Longoria Lies About Eating Cheetos On Twitter
New mini-podcast, can you believe it?! Haven’t posted in a very long WHILE but had to say something about some of the things we have seen on our Twitter timeline NAMELY Eva Longoria LYING about eating Cheetos! Miss you all terribly and not sure when there will be another podcast but someone had to tackle [...]
Lesbian News - 20 May 2013
30th annual Long Beach (Calif.) Lesbian & Gay Pride celebration
Group hires Riverside native
The ?lesbian? teacher scandal that shook society
Commission on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Equity lauds three
Sydney Gay and Lesbian Choir
Bullies cut off hair of lesbian teen
Group hires Riverside native
The ?lesbian? teacher scandal that shook society
Commission on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Equity lauds three
Sydney Gay and Lesbian Choir
Bullies cut off hair of lesbian teen
GLAAD's What To Watch on Thursday
(This post was originally published by SDGLN content partner GLAAD.)
GLAAD's LGBT-friendly TV picks for Thursday night!
read more
GLAAD's LGBT-friendly TV picks for Thursday night!
read more
Friday, May 24, 2013
Chicago House partnering with jail on transgender programs
HIV service agency Chicago House has been making headlines the past two years for a massive expansion into transgender housing, employment, medical services, programs and legal support.
BRAZIL wants Gay Marriage Legal Across Their Nation!
BRAZIL welcomes Gay Marriage! The authorities in Brazil have ruled that marriage licences should not be denied to same-sex couples.
The National Council of Justice, which oversees the Brazilian judicial
system and is headed by the chief justice of the Supreme Court, said
government offices that issue marriage licenses had no standing to
reject gay couples.
The Supreme Court "affirmed that the
expression of homosexuality and homosexual affection cannot serve as a
basis for discriminatory treatment, which has no support in the
Constitution," said Chief Justice Joaquim Barbosa on the council's
website, referring to a 2011 ruling by the top court.
Barbosa
also said there was no reason for the government's marriage licensing
offices to wait for the Brazilian Congress to pass a law authorising
same-sex marriage.
The council that oversees the country's judiciary said it was
wrong for some offices just to issue civil union documents when the
couple wanted full marriage certificates.
Correspondents say the decision in effect authorises gay marriage.
The National Council of Justice, which oversees the Brazilian judicial
system and is headed by the chief justice of the Supreme Court, said
government offices that issue marriage licenses had no standing to
reject gay couples.
The Supreme Court "affirmed that the
expression of homosexuality and homosexual affection cannot serve as a
basis for discriminatory treatment, which has no support in the
Constitution," said Chief Justice Joaquim Barbosa on the council's
website, referring to a 2011 ruling by the top court.
Barbosa
also said there was no reason for the government's marriage licensing
offices to wait for the Brazilian Congress to pass a law authorising
same-sex marriage.
The council that oversees the country's judiciary said it was
wrong for some offices just to issue civil union documents when the
couple wanted full marriage certificates.
Correspondents say the decision in effect authorises gay marriage.
Canada Lifts Lifetime Ban on Blood Donations by Gay Men
The country?s nearly 30-year-old ban will be updated to allow some gay men to give blood by midsummer. However, restrictions will still apply.
read more
read more
Tell Congress to Reduce Deficit by Creating Jobs: Support Back to Work Budget Plan
http://action.now.org/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=7581Send a message to your Rep. right away urging support for the Back to Work FY 2014 budget proposed by the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC). This budget plan will truly help women and their families by reducing the federal deficit sensibly and humanely through job creation rather than drastic cuts in social programs.
Nate Silver talks statistics, politics during Chicago visit
Statistics and politics were the themes of a talk by openly gay statistician, blogger and author Nate Silver May 19 at the Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership.
eurOut.org magazine April 2011
It’s been a while since we presented our last magazine to you, but sometimes good things just take some time to come to full fruition. So today, we proudly offer you a brand new April edition of the eurOut magazine!
This issue is filled with the best articles from the site, as well as an exclusive interview with Australian drag king Sexy Galexy, who was interviewed in Amsterdam by the newest member of our writing team, Anaïs. You can read about her hilarious experiences of being a French lesbian expat in the Netherlands in the middle of this magazine.
And besides our regular columns, we’ve featured articles on the Teddy Awards, web series, and lots more.
We hope you enjoy reading this edition of our magazine. Let us know your thoughts about it in the comments!
- - -
You can read previous issues of the magazine here. If you would like to receive an e-mail notification of new magazine launches, send a blank e-mail with the title 'Magazine Subscription' to faith@eurout.org.
This issue is filled with the best articles from the site, as well as an exclusive interview with Australian drag king Sexy Galexy, who was interviewed in Amsterdam by the newest member of our writing team, Anaïs. You can read about her hilarious experiences of being a French lesbian expat in the Netherlands in the middle of this magazine.
And besides our regular columns, we’ve featured articles on the Teddy Awards, web series, and lots more.
We hope you enjoy reading this edition of our magazine. Let us know your thoughts about it in the comments!
- - -
You can read previous issues of the magazine here. If you would like to receive an e-mail notification of new magazine launches, send a blank e-mail with the title 'Magazine Subscription' to faith@eurout.org.
Conversations with Nicole
None of us should have been surprised at the defeat of our efforts to end “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”…it’s the usual politics and lack of leadership from the White House and Democratic Party and the new homophobia of two faced Senator John McCain and his fellow Republican Senators…this country needs a new third party!
Tea Party Movement and the Radical Right
This past week MSNBC stated that the “Culture War” is back especially with the growing alliance of the Tea Party movement and the radical Christian (?) Right movement….Now we have Tea Party leaders coming out against gay marriage and some even against condoms and sex education. All the “Tea Party” rallies are 95% white and a majorit…
Read More
Tea Party Movement and the Radical Right
This past week MSNBC stated that the “Culture War” is back especially with the growing alliance of the Tea Party movement and the radical Christian (?) Right movement….Now we have Tea Party leaders coming out against gay marriage and some even against condoms and sex education. All the “Tea Party” rallies are 95% white and a majorit…
Read More
Thursday, May 23, 2013
Report focuses on healthcare reform and LGBTs
Washington DC - May 23, 2013 - Family Equality Council and the Center for American Progress today released a new guide to assist couples and parents who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender LGBT access health insurance through the Affordable Care Act, or ACA.
SF Pride won't honor Manning after all
SF Pride won't honor Manning after all
Bradley Manning, the U.S. Army private charged with leaking classified military documents to the website WikiLeaks, will not be a grand marshal in San Francisco's Pride parade after all.
"Even the hint of support for actions which placed in harm's way the lives of our men and women in uniform - and countless others, military and civilian alike - will not be tolerated by the leadership of San Francisco Pride," Williams said.
"Specifically, what these events have revealed is a system whereby a less than handful of people may decide who represents the LGBT community's highest aspirations as grand marshals for SF Pride," she said in the statement.
Bradley Manning, the U.S. Army private charged with leaking classified military documents to the website WikiLeaks, will not be a grand marshal in San Francisco's Pride parade after all.
"Even the hint of support for actions which placed in harm's way the lives of our men and women in uniform - and countless others, military and civilian alike - will not be tolerated by the leadership of San Francisco Pride," Williams said.
"Specifically, what these events have revealed is a system whereby a less than handful of people may decide who represents the LGBT community's highest aspirations as grand marshals for SF Pride," she said in the statement.
(51) Guest: Shannel of Rupaul?s Drag Race
McDonalds after midnight, Musings on (Logo’s) Rupaul’s Drag Race, Shannel (Bryan) talks about why she chose to leave Drag Race, Life as a seasoned Drag Entertainer, and Beauty secrets! www.myspace.com/shannellv www.shannel.net
(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 [...]
Long Story Short: DC Queer Theatre Festival offers short plays for the whole community
Stage:
''There's no real local GLBT theater company that's producing regularly,'' says Matt Ripa. ''When you do see theater companies that are doing plays with gay themes, it's very specifically gay-white-male themes. We want to be a voice for the rest of our community.''
DC Queer Theatre Festival: Matt Ripa and Alan Balch
Ripa is referring to the DC Queer Theatre Festival, which he started last year with Rebecca Gingrich-Jones and Alan Balch at the behest of The DC Center. ''When we did the first year of the festival we weren't sure if we were going to do more, but we really liked how it turned out,'' says Ripa, noting that last year's festival raised over $800 for The DC Center. They decided to expand the festival to three days, but focus it on just one program of six 10-minute plays. And instead of staging the plays at The DC Center offices, Ripa and company rented out space at Flashpoint in downtown's Penn Quarter. Local spoken-word artist and poet Regie Cabico will serve as host for the event, which remains a fundraiser for The DC Center.
Over 120 playwrights submitted plays this year, up from only 40 in 2012. Among the six that made the cut: Marjorie Conn's play about intersex males At A Snail's Space and Janis Holm's lesbian-identified Bar Belle. While there's only one D.C.-area playwright represented -- Jon Jon Johnson, whose Grips is about college roommates who reunite -- local directors are leading the productions of all six plays. And everyone but the actors are getting paid a small amount for their work, to ensure they ''would really be willing to put in the time,'' says Ripa, a freelance theater director and artistic director of Maryland's Doorway Arts Ensemble -- as well as a special education teacher in Rockville.
Says Ripa, "It's really about bringing the community together … and presenting plays with various points of view.'' '
The DC Queer Theatre Festival is Thursday, May 30, Friday, May 31, and Saturday, June 1, at 8 p.m. 'Mead Theatre Lab at Flashpoint, 916 G St. NW. Tickets are $16. Call 202-315-1310 or visit dcqueertheatrefest.org. ...more
''There's no real local GLBT theater company that's producing regularly,'' says Matt Ripa. ''When you do see theater companies that are doing plays with gay themes, it's very specifically gay-white-male themes. We want to be a voice for the rest of our community.''
DC Queer Theatre Festival: Matt Ripa and Alan Balch
Ripa is referring to the DC Queer Theatre Festival, which he started last year with Rebecca Gingrich-Jones and Alan Balch at the behest of The DC Center. ''When we did the first year of the festival we weren't sure if we were going to do more, but we really liked how it turned out,'' says Ripa, noting that last year's festival raised over $800 for The DC Center. They decided to expand the festival to three days, but focus it on just one program of six 10-minute plays. And instead of staging the plays at The DC Center offices, Ripa and company rented out space at Flashpoint in downtown's Penn Quarter. Local spoken-word artist and poet Regie Cabico will serve as host for the event, which remains a fundraiser for The DC Center.
Over 120 playwrights submitted plays this year, up from only 40 in 2012. Among the six that made the cut: Marjorie Conn's play about intersex males At A Snail's Space and Janis Holm's lesbian-identified Bar Belle. While there's only one D.C.-area playwright represented -- Jon Jon Johnson, whose Grips is about college roommates who reunite -- local directors are leading the productions of all six plays. And everyone but the actors are getting paid a small amount for their work, to ensure they ''would really be willing to put in the time,'' says Ripa, a freelance theater director and artistic director of Maryland's Doorway Arts Ensemble -- as well as a special education teacher in Rockville.
Says Ripa, "It's really about bringing the community together … and presenting plays with various points of view.'' '
The DC Queer Theatre Festival is Thursday, May 30, Friday, May 31, and Saturday, June 1, at 8 p.m. 'Mead Theatre Lab at Flashpoint, 916 G St. NW. Tickets are $16. Call 202-315-1310 or visit dcqueertheatrefest.org. ...more
Lesbian News - 19 May 2013
Eurovision 2013 final underway amid lesbian kiss controversyGay and lesbian couples push for same-sex marriage in VenezuelaRepublican Texas judge orders lesbian couple to live apart or lose children?Griner Effect? May Change the Game at Baylor
Rhode Island is State Number 10 for Marriage Equality
ILLINOIS was hoping to be state number 10 - but Rhode Island beat them to it!
Gays, lesbians, their friends and families erupted into cheers Thursday
following a final 56-15 vote in the Rhode Island House, and then again
an hour later when Gov. Lincoln Chafee signed the bill into law on the
Statehouse steps.
"Democracy feels good, doesn't it?" said House Speaker Gordon Fox,
D-Providence, who is gay. Fox struggled to keep his composure as he
addressed the crowd at the Statehouse, looking over at his longtime
partner, Marcus LaFond. "This tells me our relationship does matter. It
means that we mean something."The first marriages will take place Aug. 1, when the new law takes effect.
Gays, lesbians, their friends and families erupted into cheers Thursday
following a final 56-15 vote in the Rhode Island House, and then again
an hour later when Gov. Lincoln Chafee signed the bill into law on the
Statehouse steps.
"Democracy feels good, doesn't it?" said House Speaker Gordon Fox,
D-Providence, who is gay. Fox struggled to keep his composure as he
addressed the crowd at the Statehouse, looking over at his longtime
partner, Marcus LaFond. "This tells me our relationship does matter. It
means that we mean something."The first marriages will take place Aug. 1, when the new law takes effect.
Lesbian News - 22 May 2013
Waitress stands on table and declares she?s a lesbian
PACE announces fifth North LA Gay & Lesbian Film Festival Sept. 6-12Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival to include gay and lesbian weekend for first timeSee/Hear Lesbian Rights Advocate Robin Tyler At Bixby Park Rally Kelly Brook does a Cara Delevigne, posts lesbian kiss with Holly Willougby on Celebrity Juice in the hope it will get her a job?????Rally to be held on gay/lesbian policy in Boy Scouts
PACE announces fifth North LA Gay & Lesbian Film Festival Sept. 6-12Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival to include gay and lesbian weekend for first timeSee/Hear Lesbian Rights Advocate Robin Tyler At Bixby Park Rally Kelly Brook does a Cara Delevigne, posts lesbian kiss with Holly Willougby on Celebrity Juice in the hope it will get her a job?????Rally to be held on gay/lesbian policy in Boy Scouts
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
(54) Potty Training & Stalkers
Opening song by Wendy Ho, widely known and beloved in the community and gay rights supporter. To purchase more of Wendy Ho’s music go here: http://www.wendyho.net Friend Wendy on Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/wendyho (Don’t listen to S, it’s show 54 not 55, it’s 54) A Smother’s love, Getting scammed for juice, Why does Heide http://theheideshow.podomatic.com say lesbians [...]
(50)-Shows & 2 Years / Let?s Get Serious
Show #50 starts with an awful PC Love Song, Sleepy after posting show 49 it turns into a more reflective monologue about the past two years; Then come YOUR voicemail’s of well wishes! Please PLEASE forgive us if your call did not make the show. Listened to all of them and every single one was [...]
Rihannorary Lesbian
You like what I did there with the post title? Yeah, me too. Some of my best work, I'd say.Now you may have heard the little rumor circulating that Rihanna and Ashton Kutcher are dating because some weird paparazzi peops stalked her and realized that she went to his new house from midnight to 4am recently. Whatevs. I think they'd make a really cute couple, but how is that proof of anything? By that logic, CVS and I have been dating for YEARS. People have sex during the day too, ya know. Anyhoo, Rihanna was asked about it by a very bold reporter in London today, and this is what she had to say:...and this whole post is really just an excuse to show THIS again:You are welcome.
Reasons for Pride 2013: Gay Parents Are Changing the World
Alec Mapa, a coach on AMC's new reality talent show, talks about adopting his son with partner Jamie Hebert and the challenges of taking the family show on the road.
read more
read more
Can love actually solve our disputes?
How can the virgin get over not being the first for her partner? I've been with my (lesbian) partner for a year and half. Our life is great together, but we have been arguing the topic of past and sex for about a year.
My partner and I come from very different backgrounds. We're both in our early 30s. This is my first (serious) relationship ever.
Her history: She comes from a very dysfunctional family and started having sex in her early teens. Those early years, until she was 17 or so, she had been with males. Many of them even lived with her in her parent's house. She then came out as gay and had her first girlfriend. After that she had a long-term relationship with another female, which lasted several years. Then, even though she labeled herself gay, she had a one-year relationship with a male. After that, she had another long-term relationship with a female, whom she married when it was legal. All this, strung together with one-night stands.
My history: I grew up like an only child, with my siblings being much older than myself and moved out, with a single mother. I was I was shy, but came out of my shell living abroad for a year after college. I never dated in high school or college; I was happy enough doing my own thing, and didn't even really think about dating. I never got lonely and, to this day, still like/need a lot of alone time. It was during my mid-twenties that I started dating both men and women. I thought of myself has bisexual when I was in my mid-teens. Although I was pretty sure I was gay, and have never been ashamed of my sexual orientation. But until this relationship, I was a virgin. I really wanted to be in a relationship before I had sex with someone. And I wanted that someone to be one I cared for deeply.
I had liked a lot of the women I dated, and even wanted relationships with them, but many times I was shrugged off and treated inappropriately. As a romantic and sensitive person, I took these heartbreaks very hard, even though they didn't "go anywhere" in most people's eyes.
Now, my partner is the type of person is very anecdotal. She used to tell many stories concerning her past. Initially, I didn't have any problems with this. But over time, it really started to bother me. The fact that she was lived with a male, especially after being with women and saying she knew she was gay, was a red flag for me, but all of her qualities, I thought, trumped this fact.
It seems her speaking about her past relationships kind of dug a little insecure hole in me. I wondered why I didn't have any luck in relationships, why it seemed so hard for me to be loved when I put myself on the line and never got anything back. At times, I think that I may be jealous that she got to experience the good and bad in relationships, and even though I tried, I didn't get to experience that. That she got to experience really good things with other people, and she has all of my "firsts".
And since not having experienced sex before her, and now knowing what it's like, I've had trouble not letting my imagination get the best of me about her past relationships. I've had horrible images of all the sex she's had with men, and it bothers me so much. If she slept with a guy three times and figured out it wasn't for her, then that's okay. But 10 guys who were 2 to 6 month "relationships"... That is a lot of sex. It's not so much the number, but the fact that she kept doing it and saying in retrospect that she wasn't really into them. I can't even watch porn anymore because I see women who look similar to her in compromising positions, and it makes my stomach turn.
I also think maybe I have trouble with her past choices, and her values on sex and relationships. (I don't think I'm judging her necessarily because I have friends with similar histories, and I'm fine with them.) She's told me her values have changed, and she wouldn't even have casual sex because she's put herself through some bad things in the past, and she says she has a higher self-esteem and self-respect now. But just two months prior to meeting her, she had a summer fling with someone. How can I trust that her values have changed so drastically in that short amount of time?
Admittedly, most of our issues stem from me not fully trusting her. Our fights generally surround the topic of sex, and has made our once-great sex (she says I'm the best she's ever experienced) life now a little wobbly.
I think she is an amazing person. When we first met, our date lasted for hours and we talked about everything. I accept her past as fact, but these images are disturbing. Will they ever go away? Can love actually solve our disputes?
My partner and I come from very different backgrounds. We're both in our early 30s. This is my first (serious) relationship ever.
Her history: She comes from a very dysfunctional family and started having sex in her early teens. Those early years, until she was 17 or so, she had been with males. Many of them even lived with her in her parent's house. She then came out as gay and had her first girlfriend. After that she had a long-term relationship with another female, which lasted several years. Then, even though she labeled herself gay, she had a one-year relationship with a male. After that, she had another long-term relationship with a female, whom she married when it was legal. All this, strung together with one-night stands.
My history: I grew up like an only child, with my siblings being much older than myself and moved out, with a single mother. I was I was shy, but came out of my shell living abroad for a year after college. I never dated in high school or college; I was happy enough doing my own thing, and didn't even really think about dating. I never got lonely and, to this day, still like/need a lot of alone time. It was during my mid-twenties that I started dating both men and women. I thought of myself has bisexual when I was in my mid-teens. Although I was pretty sure I was gay, and have never been ashamed of my sexual orientation. But until this relationship, I was a virgin. I really wanted to be in a relationship before I had sex with someone. And I wanted that someone to be one I cared for deeply.
I had liked a lot of the women I dated, and even wanted relationships with them, but many times I was shrugged off and treated inappropriately. As a romantic and sensitive person, I took these heartbreaks very hard, even though they didn't "go anywhere" in most people's eyes.
Now, my partner is the type of person is very anecdotal. She used to tell many stories concerning her past. Initially, I didn't have any problems with this. But over time, it really started to bother me. The fact that she was lived with a male, especially after being with women and saying she knew she was gay, was a red flag for me, but all of her qualities, I thought, trumped this fact.
It seems her speaking about her past relationships kind of dug a little insecure hole in me. I wondered why I didn't have any luck in relationships, why it seemed so hard for me to be loved when I put myself on the line and never got anything back. At times, I think that I may be jealous that she got to experience the good and bad in relationships, and even though I tried, I didn't get to experience that. That she got to experience really good things with other people, and she has all of my "firsts".
And since not having experienced sex before her, and now knowing what it's like, I've had trouble not letting my imagination get the best of me about her past relationships. I've had horrible images of all the sex she's had with men, and it bothers me so much. If she slept with a guy three times and figured out it wasn't for her, then that's okay. But 10 guys who were 2 to 6 month "relationships"... That is a lot of sex. It's not so much the number, but the fact that she kept doing it and saying in retrospect that she wasn't really into them. I can't even watch porn anymore because I see women who look similar to her in compromising positions, and it makes my stomach turn.
I also think maybe I have trouble with her past choices, and her values on sex and relationships. (I don't think I'm judging her necessarily because I have friends with similar histories, and I'm fine with them.) She's told me her values have changed, and she wouldn't even have casual sex because she's put herself through some bad things in the past, and she says she has a higher self-esteem and self-respect now. But just two months prior to meeting her, she had a summer fling with someone. How can I trust that her values have changed so drastically in that short amount of time?
Admittedly, most of our issues stem from me not fully trusting her. Our fights generally surround the topic of sex, and has made our once-great sex (she says I'm the best she's ever experienced) life now a little wobbly.
I think she is an amazing person. When we first met, our date lasted for hours and we talked about everything. I accept her past as fact, but these images are disturbing. Will they ever go away? Can love actually solve our disputes?
A Home of Our Own
Philadelphia puts the pieces together for the nation's newest LGBT senior development.
read more
read more
How To Be Gay: In which Bret Easton Ellis is totally correct to defend his right to be such a prick
Opinion:
I've been many different gay men over the course of my life. Like most of us, I started off as the closeted gay man who sometimes overcompensated with my behavior so I wouldn't appear feminine. I've also been the newly out gay man who overcompensated in the other direction and spent more than a few months flouncing around campus in misbegotten Chess King outfits.
I've been the activist gay man, with the meta twist that I posed as the activist gay man in the old Unofficial Gay Manual. I've been a party-focused gay man who transitioned into a respectably professional gay man. These days I'm a suburban gay man who occasionally dallies in being the ''I'm at a bar reliving my youth'' gay man.
In effect, there is no one way to be gay. That doesn't stop some people from insisting there is.
I have to say that Bret Easton Ellis is completely, incontrovertibly correct when lashing out at GLAAD and other keepers of the great gay ideal in his Out magazine essay, ''In the Reign of the Gay Magical Elves.'' Looking at GLAAD's decision to block him from attending the media watchdog group's Los Angeles awards gala, Ellis laments, ''But being 'real' and 'human' (i.e. flawed) is not necessarily what The Gay Gatekeepers want straight culture to see.''
It's a fair point. GLAAD's biggest weakness, after obsessive celebrity worship, is its long-standing tendency to chastise prominent gay and lesbian people for speaking their minds in ways that make GLAAD sad. Aside from being rather infuriating for people who make their living speaking their minds, it completely misses the point: Bret Easton Ellis has the perfect right to be a big gay prick without speech police swooping in, sirens blaring. There are much bigger problems facing LGBT people in America than a gay Generation X writer making an AIDS joke.
What makes situations like this doubly frustrating is that by tsk-tsking Ellis and others for ''offensive'' language GLAAD ends up shifting the argument away from what's actually being said. And Ellis's Out essay contains some prominent paragraphs that should remind us that while he has the perfect right to be a cantankerous, argumentative dick, every one else has the right to tell him he's full of shit.
Ellis defends two instances of things he's said via Twitter that brought the wrath of the ''gay gatekeepers,'' his cracking of an AIDS joke about Glee and his musing that Matt Bomer couldn't play the lead in the movie adaptation of Fifty Shades of Grey because Bomer is openly gay.
As for the first, it's easy enough to knock down by pointing out that if you're going to make an AIDS joke in 2013, at least make it funny. It's why Matt Stone and Trey Parker's ''Everyone Has AIDS'' was hilarious while Ellis's crack was just dumb. Gay people produced the cringingly hilarious Diseased Pariah News all the way back at the height of the AIDS crisis in the '90s; we have high expectations for our humor.
Defending his comment on Bomer, Ellis writes, ''I thought this because of Matt's easy openness with being gay … and with baggage that I believe would distract from the heavy sexual fantasy of that particular movie.'' Translated from weaseling bullshit, that means Ellis doesn't believe Bomer can play the role because he's gay, which is insulting, wrong and, again, dumb.
We don't need GLAAD or any other ''gatekeepers'' to intervene on our behalf here. All of us good gays and bad gays and every gay in between are able to hash this out on Twitter and Facebook and gay magazines. Focus on actual homophobes, not homosexuals with bad attitudes.
Sean Bugg is the co-publisher of Metro Weekly. He can be reached at sbugg@MetroWeekly.com. Follow him on Twitter @seanbugg.
...more
I've been many different gay men over the course of my life. Like most of us, I started off as the closeted gay man who sometimes overcompensated with my behavior so I wouldn't appear feminine. I've also been the newly out gay man who overcompensated in the other direction and spent more than a few months flouncing around campus in misbegotten Chess King outfits.
I've been the activist gay man, with the meta twist that I posed as the activist gay man in the old Unofficial Gay Manual. I've been a party-focused gay man who transitioned into a respectably professional gay man. These days I'm a suburban gay man who occasionally dallies in being the ''I'm at a bar reliving my youth'' gay man.
In effect, there is no one way to be gay. That doesn't stop some people from insisting there is.
I have to say that Bret Easton Ellis is completely, incontrovertibly correct when lashing out at GLAAD and other keepers of the great gay ideal in his Out magazine essay, ''In the Reign of the Gay Magical Elves.'' Looking at GLAAD's decision to block him from attending the media watchdog group's Los Angeles awards gala, Ellis laments, ''But being 'real' and 'human' (i.e. flawed) is not necessarily what The Gay Gatekeepers want straight culture to see.''
It's a fair point. GLAAD's biggest weakness, after obsessive celebrity worship, is its long-standing tendency to chastise prominent gay and lesbian people for speaking their minds in ways that make GLAAD sad. Aside from being rather infuriating for people who make their living speaking their minds, it completely misses the point: Bret Easton Ellis has the perfect right to be a big gay prick without speech police swooping in, sirens blaring. There are much bigger problems facing LGBT people in America than a gay Generation X writer making an AIDS joke.
What makes situations like this doubly frustrating is that by tsk-tsking Ellis and others for ''offensive'' language GLAAD ends up shifting the argument away from what's actually being said. And Ellis's Out essay contains some prominent paragraphs that should remind us that while he has the perfect right to be a cantankerous, argumentative dick, every one else has the right to tell him he's full of shit.
Ellis defends two instances of things he's said via Twitter that brought the wrath of the ''gay gatekeepers,'' his cracking of an AIDS joke about Glee and his musing that Matt Bomer couldn't play the lead in the movie adaptation of Fifty Shades of Grey because Bomer is openly gay.
As for the first, it's easy enough to knock down by pointing out that if you're going to make an AIDS joke in 2013, at least make it funny. It's why Matt Stone and Trey Parker's ''Everyone Has AIDS'' was hilarious while Ellis's crack was just dumb. Gay people produced the cringingly hilarious Diseased Pariah News all the way back at the height of the AIDS crisis in the '90s; we have high expectations for our humor.
Defending his comment on Bomer, Ellis writes, ''I thought this because of Matt's easy openness with being gay … and with baggage that I believe would distract from the heavy sexual fantasy of that particular movie.'' Translated from weaseling bullshit, that means Ellis doesn't believe Bomer can play the role because he's gay, which is insulting, wrong and, again, dumb.
We don't need GLAAD or any other ''gatekeepers'' to intervene on our behalf here. All of us good gays and bad gays and every gay in between are able to hash this out on Twitter and Facebook and gay magazines. Focus on actual homophobes, not homosexuals with bad attitudes.
Sean Bugg is the co-publisher of Metro Weekly. He can be reached at sbugg@MetroWeekly.com. Follow him on Twitter @seanbugg.
...more
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
A Star Is Born: He may not be the first, but Jason Collins is a pioneer just the same
Opinion: Jason Collins is not the first active professional athlete to come out. Tennis star Martina Navratilova came out in 1981. Her courageous act, however, was no threat to male heterosexual dominance. Few people even know that baseball player Glenn Burke came out in the late 1970s, because sports writers at the time responded with a wall of silence. Most recently, top WNBA draft pick Brittney Griner came out on April 17. The girls are way ahead of the boys here. None of this diminishes the import of what happened when Collins came out in Sports Illustrated on April 29. It was a game changer. As Martina said, it "will save lives." ... (more)
LGBT-Inclusive Immigration Reform Good as Dead, Say Advocates
As two key Democratic senators indicate that they won't vote for a provision that would help Americans sponsor a same-sex spouse for citizenship, LGBT-inclusive immigration reform is all but certain to exclude protections for LGBT families.
read more
read more
Study finds more gay characters on network TV
NEW YORK (AP) – The number of gay and bisexual characters on scripted broadcast network TV has risen slightly this season to 23 out of a total of nearly 600 roles, according to the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation.
The 15th annual “Where We Are on TV” report released Wednesday found that 3.9 percent of actors appearing regularly on prime-time network drama and comedy series in the 2010-11 season will portray gay, lesbian or bisexual characters.
That’s up from 3 percent in the 2009-10 season. The increase in 2008-09 was 2.6 percent.
Only six of the 23 gay and lesbian characters this season are nonwhite, GLAAD found.
Using information provided by ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC and CW, the group reviewed 84 scripted series announced…
Read More
The 15th annual “Where We Are on TV” report released Wednesday found that 3.9 percent of actors appearing regularly on prime-time network drama and comedy series in the 2010-11 season will portray gay, lesbian or bisexual characters.
That’s up from 3 percent in the 2009-10 season. The increase in 2008-09 was 2.6 percent.
Only six of the 23 gay and lesbian characters this season are nonwhite, GLAAD found.
Using information provided by ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC and CW, the group reviewed 84 scripted series announced…
Read More
Lesbian News - 08 May 2013
Rhode Island becomes 10th US state to allow gay and lesbian marriageSplit up or leave, South African school tells lesbian parentsSkunk Anansie singer sues lesbian wedding plannersLesbian Couple Gets Both Names on Baby?s Birth CertificateThe Legacy of the World's First Out Lesbian Prime MinisterNational Gay And Lesbian Athlete Hall Of Fame Launches In Chicago
Lesbian News - 11 May 2013
Balletlujah!: A lesbian love story as flat as the PrairiesGirls in Wonderland Offers a Lesbian Spin on Disney's Gay DaysLesbian teen makes groundbreaking run for title of Miss SCBiltmore Hotel launches gay and lesbian wedding campaignAdorable Lesbian Couple in Texas Seek to Become Ministers
Vigils Continue for Mark Carson, Murdered in Anti-Gay NYC Shooting
More than 100 mourners turned up on Saturday night to a candlelight vigil for Mark Carson, the 32-year-old gay man shot and killed by a homophobe early Saturday morning in New York City.
Monday, May 20, 2013
The Pope Books Take That for the Next Vatican Show
After this weeks Royal Variety Performance (the one where Duchess Camilla was attacked with a stick when caught up in the London riots), the Pope has booked Take That. The show included hundreds of near naked male dancers.
Naked from the back
The five Take That members sang on top of a raised platform while the remainder of the stage was covered in male dancers wearing nothing but flesh-coloured jockstraps.
As the song continued the men re-enacted the five poses on the front of the band?s new album, Progress.
Gay newsView Australian Queer News on the web at Gay News Blog
Naked from the back
The five Take That members sang on top of a raised platform while the remainder of the stage was covered in male dancers wearing nothing but flesh-coloured jockstraps.
As the song continued the men re-enacted the five poses on the front of the band?s new album, Progress.
Gay newsView Australian Queer News on the web at Gay News Blog
Carol Leifer featured in May 19 event
Lesbian comedian/producer Carol Leifer will headline a May 19 event at Glencoe's North Shore Congregation Israel, 1185 Sheridan Rd., at 5 p.m.
WATCH: Catholic School Tells Trans Teen 'Wear Girl's Gown or Don't Walk at Graduation'
Teachers, friends and family recognize Damien Garcia as male. But St. Pius Catholic High School in Albuquerque contends that the transgender teen must wear the graduation garb designated for female students.
read more
read more
(77) The We Hate This Show Show But Love You Like Crack Cocaine
We really do hate this particular podcast with a passion. We talk a lot about nothing but feel intensely pressured to post content, even if it’s devoid of meaning … like Julie Chen’s every tear. Mostly all of it is recorded on the portable so it’s tinny, there’s lots of shouting and the sound goes [...]
Kathy Griffin hosts celebrity charity event benefiting L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center
BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. ? Gay icon Kathy Griffin will host the annual ?An Evening With Women? this weekend.
The evening will feature performances by rock legend Ozzy Osbourne of Black Sabbath, Grammy-nominated Natasha Bedingfield ("Pocketful of Sunshine," "Unwritten") and singer/songwriter Sia ("Titanium").
All proceeds from ?An Evening With Women,? produced by Linda Perry, benefit the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center?s services for women and girls.
read more
The evening will feature performances by rock legend Ozzy Osbourne of Black Sabbath, Grammy-nominated Natasha Bedingfield ("Pocketful of Sunshine," "Unwritten") and singer/songwriter Sia ("Titanium").
All proceeds from ?An Evening With Women,? produced by Linda Perry, benefit the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center?s services for women and girls.
read more
Real Estate News
Big bad banks and foreclosure
SIDEWALK STORY
A teeny bit of prime Palm Springs real estate became the proud recipient of a “star” bearing the name of Carol Channing this past Saturday. ARG Abbott Realty Group Realtor Dan Larson and husband Nick Weitzel arranged for a group of us including Dan’s mom Lily to be present when Channing showed up to accept the accolade for her contributions to the arts. She showed up in a white Rolls Royce with husband Harry Kullijian and a crowd of several hundred that backed up cars on Palm Canyon Drive for a half-mile. Carol can still stop traffic! Channing who looked amazing in her silver au-natural coif broke into song as she made a pitch for expanded (hell, hows’about some?) arts programs in our public schools. She could not have…
Read More
SIDEWALK STORY
A teeny bit of prime Palm Springs real estate became the proud recipient of a “star” bearing the name of Carol Channing this past Saturday. ARG Abbott Realty Group Realtor Dan Larson and husband Nick Weitzel arranged for a group of us including Dan’s mom Lily to be present when Channing showed up to accept the accolade for her contributions to the arts. She showed up in a white Rolls Royce with husband Harry Kullijian and a crowd of several hundred that backed up cars on Palm Canyon Drive for a half-mile. Carol can still stop traffic! Channing who looked amazing in her silver au-natural coif broke into song as she made a pitch for expanded (hell, hows’about some?) arts programs in our public schools. She could not have…
Read More
Sunday, May 19, 2013
How Can You Tell if the Girl You Have a Crush on is a Lesbian?
Even as adults, it can be hard sometimes to tell if the person you are crushed out on is also a lesbian and if she's interested in you as well. For teenage lesbians, the issue is compounded by the fact that sometimes teens are still figuring out for themselves if they like girls, boys or both. That can make the world of dating especially tricky. So, what is a teen lesbian to do if she's out and proud, but doesn't know if her crush is a lesbian or not? And what about the friendly behavior? Is that a sign that she's interested, or is she just being friendly?
© Janet Goulden
© Janet Goulden
Gay Marriage in France
France became the 14th nation to legalize same-sex marriage with a parliament vote of 321-225. The issue didn't just slide right through, though. There have been months of widespread protests leading up to this vote. Even though the majority of French accept same-sex marriage, the issue of adoption is more controversial in the country. Couples should be able to start marrying in June. Here's more on this story....Read Full Post
Love is Love
I've seen a lot of ads for marriage equality, but for some reason this one got to me. It's from Basic Rights Oregon, our state-wide gay rights organization. They're raising money to put gay marriage up for a vote in Oregon, probably in 2012, to overturn anti-gay amendment. But first they're running campaigns like this one on cable TV stations. If all works out as we plan, Oregon could be the first state to legalize gay marriage by a popular vote.
(71) Are We Podfading?
Understatement of the year: “That really hurt me;” Nona’s World War II PTSD poverty complex; Some chatting w/friends re: Liza Minelli; Lez Social Scene; Mr. Softee; Being taken advantage of by one of Giulliani’s; Dirty Talk; Your vadge & chlorinated toxins, including dioxin; Sister Louis Marie & more! This one’s a little slow moving, it’s [...]
David Burtka Gives Neil Patrick Harris the Most Amazing Birthday Gift
This is most creative birthday present EVER!Check it out!
Republicans block bill to lift military gay ban
WASHINGTON(AP) – Senate Republicans on Tuesday blocked an effort by Democrats and the White House to lift the ban on gays from serving openly in the military, voting unanimously against advancing a major defense policy bill that included the provision.
The mostly partisan vote dealt a major blow to gay rights groups who saw the legislation as their best hope, at least in the short term, for repeal of the 17-year-old law known as “don’t ask, don’t tell.”
If Democrats lose seats in the upcoming congressional elections this fall, as many expect, repealing the ban could prove even more difficult - if not impossible - next year. The Senate could take up the measure again during a lame-duck session after the elections, but a spokesm…
Read More
The mostly partisan vote dealt a major blow to gay rights groups who saw the legislation as their best hope, at least in the short term, for repeal of the 17-year-old law known as “don’t ask, don’t tell.”
If Democrats lose seats in the upcoming congressional elections this fall, as many expect, repealing the ban could prove even more difficult - if not impossible - next year. The Senate could take up the measure again during a lame-duck session after the elections, but a spokesm…
Read More
Saturday, May 18, 2013
I've Been Telling Her This for YEARS...
Step 1: Watch the video. Step 2: Listen to the lyrics. Step 3: Imagine my face right now:
Meet John Waters, and win Trip to Baltimore to Attend 2014 Maryland Film Festival
Friendly, historic, and increasingly hip Baltimore, the city long celebrated in the riotously irreverent films of local son John Waters, has announced a fun travel contest aimed at helping to welcome LGBT visitors. With Maryland having recently legalized gay marriage, and Baltimore long having cultivated a vibrant LGBT community as well as an eclectic and edgy arts scene, the city has launched the All Access Baltimore contest, in conjunction with its efforts to promote the city at several major queer film festivals this year (Boston LGBT Film Festival in early May, Philadelphia Q Fest in mid-July, Rhode Island Gay and Lesbian Film Festival in early August, and Reel Affirmations LGBT Festival in Washington, DC in mid-October)....Read Full Post
Do You Like the Word "Wife?"
Do you want a wife? Or would you rather have a spouse, partner, girlfriend or mate? I recently heard from a couple who is planning to get married, but they don't like the word "wife" and wanted to know how other lesbians felt about it. I posed the question to my Facebook friends and it was pretty much split down the middle 50/50 of people liking "wife" and hating it. Some said they thought it was a generational issue. I think that's funny, because that's what people said of the word "queer."...Read Full Post
Letters to the Editor
Letter to the editor:
Last night I attended the Hillcrest Town Council to listen to Todd Gloria, Carl DeMaio, debate Prop D. This was supposed to be an informational forum. Carl DeMaio, it appears, does not understand the word “decorum” as he continuously and viciously attached Todd Gloria, along unions and with the labor movement in general. DeMaio came across as a nasty bully. Probably a carry over from his childhood. Mr. DeMaio was a guest in Todd Gloria’s district but proceeded in his usually manner - that of an attach dog DeMaio periodally rolled his eyes or made faces behind Councilman Gloria’s back while the councilman spoke on the subject. DeMaio was plan rude and owes Councilman an apology.
As for the Unions and the Lab…
Read More
Last night I attended the Hillcrest Town Council to listen to Todd Gloria, Carl DeMaio, debate Prop D. This was supposed to be an informational forum. Carl DeMaio, it appears, does not understand the word “decorum” as he continuously and viciously attached Todd Gloria, along unions and with the labor movement in general. DeMaio came across as a nasty bully. Probably a carry over from his childhood. Mr. DeMaio was a guest in Todd Gloria’s district but proceeded in his usually manner - that of an attach dog DeMaio periodally rolled his eyes or made faces behind Councilman Gloria’s back while the councilman spoke on the subject. DeMaio was plan rude and owes Councilman an apology.
As for the Unions and the Lab…
Read More
Elizabeth Hasselbeck Thinks Lesbians Just Can't Find a Man
Have you seen this clip? During a recent episode of The View, Elisabeth Hasselbeck said that she thinks the reason lesbians come out later in life is because they just can't find a man. Check it out! What do you guys think?
Broadway Bares SOLO STRIPS May 5th at XL Nightclub
Sunday, May 5,2013.......9 pm
XL Nightclub
512 West 42nd Street, NYC
As the weather warms up, the clothes will come off 12 of the hottest
men from Broadway Bares when they strip down to raise money for Broadway
Cares/Equity Fights AIDS at Broadway Bares: Solo Strips.
Tickets for Solo Strips, a special, one-night-only evening of choreographed stripteases, are on sale now.
A limited number of reserved table seats are available for $40. General
admission standing tickets also are available for a $15 donation. Get tickets now.
This year's Broadway Bares: Solo Strips dancers include Matt Anctil (La Cage Aux Folles, Broadway Bares 18-21), Patrick Boyd (Grease, Broadway Bares 17-19), James Brown III (Wicked, Broadway Bares 16, 18-20), Timothy Hughes (Chaplin, Broadway Bares 21), John Paul LaPorte (Broadway Bares 15-22) Patrick McCollum (Broadway Bares 16, 18-19), Peter Nelson (Cinderella, Broadway Bares 21-22), Daniel Robinson (Hairspray, Broadway Bares 17-19), Matthew Rossoff (Jesus Christ Superstar, Broadway Bares 18, 21) Billy Steeves (Broadway Bares 22), Dennis Stowe (Annie, Broadway Bares 9, 13-14, 16- 17, 19- 20) and Sheldon Tucker (Bring It On: The Musical, Broadway Bares 21-22).
Broadway Bares: Solo Strips will again be directed by Tony
Spinosa. Doors open one hour prior to the show. Reserved table seats
require an additional two-drink minimum.
Solo Strips is a return to the roots of Broadway Bares. In 1992, Jerry Mitchell, then a performer in The Will Rogers Follies,
organized a benefit burlesque show featuring himself and six friends
performing original strips at a bar for a $10 donation plus whatever
tips the audience gave the dancers. Mitchell, now a Tony Award-winning
director and choreographer, is executive producer of Broadway Bares,
which is produced by and benefits Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.
Broadway Bares: Solo Strips is a sexy tease for Broadway Bares, one of BC/EFA's annual signature events. This year's racy, road trip-themed edition, Broadway Bares 23: United Strips of America,
will feature 200 of New York's most desirable dancers discovering ? and
uncovering ? amber waves and mountain majesties that only Broadway Bares
could find. This trip across the fruited plains of America will most
certainly be the stuff patriot dreams are made of. Special celebrity
guests will be announced at a later date.
Broadway Bares 23: United Strips of America will be held Sunday, June 23 with two performances only at 9:30 pm & midnight at Roseland Ballroom in New York City. Get tickets for Broadway Bares now.
The 2013 Bares season started in January with Broadway Bares: Winter Burlesque, which raised $35,428. The season continues with Solo Strips, then Broadway Bares: Fire Island on June 1 before concluding with Broadway Bares 23.
Meet this year's Broadway Bares: Solo Strips dancers.....
XL Nightclub
512 West 42nd Street, NYC
As the weather warms up, the clothes will come off 12 of the hottest
men from Broadway Bares when they strip down to raise money for Broadway
Cares/Equity Fights AIDS at Broadway Bares: Solo Strips.
Tickets for Solo Strips, a special, one-night-only evening of choreographed stripteases, are on sale now.
A limited number of reserved table seats are available for $40. General
admission standing tickets also are available for a $15 donation. Get tickets now.
This year's Broadway Bares: Solo Strips dancers include Matt Anctil (La Cage Aux Folles, Broadway Bares 18-21), Patrick Boyd (Grease, Broadway Bares 17-19), James Brown III (Wicked, Broadway Bares 16, 18-20), Timothy Hughes (Chaplin, Broadway Bares 21), John Paul LaPorte (Broadway Bares 15-22) Patrick McCollum (Broadway Bares 16, 18-19), Peter Nelson (Cinderella, Broadway Bares 21-22), Daniel Robinson (Hairspray, Broadway Bares 17-19), Matthew Rossoff (Jesus Christ Superstar, Broadway Bares 18, 21) Billy Steeves (Broadway Bares 22), Dennis Stowe (Annie, Broadway Bares 9, 13-14, 16- 17, 19- 20) and Sheldon Tucker (Bring It On: The Musical, Broadway Bares 21-22).
Broadway Bares: Solo Strips will again be directed by Tony
Spinosa. Doors open one hour prior to the show. Reserved table seats
require an additional two-drink minimum.
Solo Strips is a return to the roots of Broadway Bares. In 1992, Jerry Mitchell, then a performer in The Will Rogers Follies,
organized a benefit burlesque show featuring himself and six friends
performing original strips at a bar for a $10 donation plus whatever
tips the audience gave the dancers. Mitchell, now a Tony Award-winning
director and choreographer, is executive producer of Broadway Bares,
which is produced by and benefits Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.
Broadway Bares: Solo Strips is a sexy tease for Broadway Bares, one of BC/EFA's annual signature events. This year's racy, road trip-themed edition, Broadway Bares 23: United Strips of America,
will feature 200 of New York's most desirable dancers discovering ? and
uncovering ? amber waves and mountain majesties that only Broadway Bares
could find. This trip across the fruited plains of America will most
certainly be the stuff patriot dreams are made of. Special celebrity
guests will be announced at a later date.
Broadway Bares 23: United Strips of America will be held Sunday, June 23 with two performances only at 9:30 pm & midnight at Roseland Ballroom in New York City. Get tickets for Broadway Bares now.
The 2013 Bares season started in January with Broadway Bares: Winter Burlesque, which raised $35,428. The season continues with Solo Strips, then Broadway Bares: Fire Island on June 1 before concluding with Broadway Bares 23.
Meet this year's Broadway Bares: Solo Strips dancers.....
Congrats Minnesota, Rhode Island, Delaware, the Latest States to Legalize Gay Marriage
As a resident of Oregon, I've been watching efforts here to overturn the state's same-sex marriage ban with great interest. If all goes as is hoped, Oregon voters will reverse the ban when the issue appears as a measure on the 2014 ballot. I hadn't quite expected the tide to turn so quickly in so many other states, but just in the past two weeks, three more states pushed through bills legalizing gay marriage. They are Delaware, Rhode Island, and Minnesota - an interesting combination of the two smallest states in the Union and only the second U.S. state that isn't on the East or West Coast (Minnesota's neighbor, Iowa, was the first, and Illinois may not be far behind). These are exciting times in what's been a long, arduous campaign for marriage equality, and - of course - any day now the U.S. Supreme Court will hand down rulings related to DOMA and California's infamous Prop 8. Here's hoping the march forward continues....Read Full Post
Friday, May 17, 2013
EU LGBT survey: Poll on homophobia sparks concern
A quarter of gay people surveyed in a major EU poll say they have been subjected to attacks or violent threats in the past five years.
Poorer and younger respondents were more likely to face discrimination due to their sexuality, the survey found.
Some 93,000 people in the EU and Croatia were polled in the EU's first survey on this scale.
Gay rights campaigners welcomed the report but called for stronger legal action by Brussels to tackle the issue.
To read the full story, click HERE.
A quarter of gay people surveyed in a major EU poll say they have been subjected to attacks or violent threats in the past five years.
read more
Poorer and younger respondents were more likely to face discrimination due to their sexuality, the survey found.
Some 93,000 people in the EU and Croatia were polled in the EU's first survey on this scale.
Gay rights campaigners welcomed the report but called for stronger legal action by Brussels to tackle the issue.
To read the full story, click HERE.
A quarter of gay people surveyed in a major EU poll say they have been subjected to attacks or violent threats in the past five years.
read more
Lesbian News - 07 May 2013
Olympia Dukakis, Brenda Fricker In Lesbian Road Movie 'Cloudburst'Lesbian group broke ground when it formed 30 years ago in Solano CountyJames Arthur has hit out at The SunDurham school board invites lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender parents to discussionCourt: Iowa must recognise both lesbian parentsUphill battle for Ohio fired lesbian Catholic school teacher: Is a gym teacher a "minister"?
Meet John Waters, and win Trip to Baltimore to Attend 2014 Maryland Film Festival
Friendly, historic, and increasingly hip Baltimore, the city long celebrated in the riotously irreverent films of local son John Waters, has announced a fun travel contest aimed at helping to welcome LGBT visitors. With Maryland having recently legalized gay marriage, and Baltimore long having cultivated a vibrant LGBT community as well as an eclectic and edgy arts scene, the city has launched the All Access Baltimore contest, in conjunction with its efforts to promote the city at several major queer film festivals this year (Boston LGBT Film Festival in early May, Philadelphia Q Fest in mid-July, Rhode Island Gay and Lesbian Film Festival in early August, and Reel Affirmations LGBT Festival in Washington, DC in mid-October)....Read Full Post
Republicans in Minnesota Say They Won't Try Overturning Marriage Law
Gov. Mark Dayton has put himself out there on marriage equality, but his Republican opponents indicate they won't make it an issue.
read more
read more
Knight at the Movies: The Great Gatsby; Scatter My Ashes; notes
Scott Fitzgerald's 1925 classic novel The Great Gatsby has been a staple of high school English lit classes for decades. And though scores of folks have no doubt been moved by Fitzgerald's story of the fragile Southern belle Daisy—married to the wealthy brute Tom Buchanan—and her obsession for her onetime lover, the elusive mega rich Jay Gatsby, the movies have not had much luck capturing the novel's potent delicacy.
On International Women's Day, NOW Denounces Anti-Woman Austerity Policies
http://now.org/press/03-13/03-08.htmlOn International Women's Day, the National Organization for Women calls upon leaders in the United States to firmly reject the austerity model that has been economically devastating to our sisters in Europe. Call it what you like -- austerity, sequester, deficit reduction, balancing the budget. I call it a stealth attack on women.
No Gay Pride in Moscow
It looks like there will be no gay pride parade for LGBT rights activists and supporters to march in in Moscow this year, as the city's government officials refuse to authorize the event, saying "From our point of view, there is no need for such events in the city," the Moscow Times reports.
(42) A Frannie & Freddie Halloween
A Bi’s Revenge, Battle Weary Rant, Cinnamon Buns, Hairy Legs, Women & Guns, Wall Street Perps … NEW! LISTEN TO THE LESBIAN MAFIA ON YOUR PHONE 651-925-1610 Listener Voice Mail – 206-984-4093 Lesbian Mafia Apparel: www.thelesbianmafia.spreadshirt.com
Thursday, May 16, 2013
Choosing A Wedding Officiant
With few exceptions to this rule, allow yourself enough time to be thoughtful and thorough in your search for the perfect officiant. The person you choose will play an integral role in one of the most important moments of your life, and you will want someone who can help you with any legal steps (when applicable), while also nurturing the emotional aspects of your ceremony ritual, be it a large or small affair.
read more
read more
Oh Dear John Travolta in another Gay legal case
Image via Wikipedia
Who cares (but John Travolta) is John Travolta is gay or not? In an interview with The Advocate, Carry Fisher answered questions about Johns sexuality. Fisher and Travolta go way back. On a question about whether Travolta was gay, Fisher said:-
?Wow! I mean, my feeling about John has always been that we know and we don?t care. Look, I?m sorry that he?s uncomfortable with it, and that?s all I can say. It only draws more attention to it when you make that kind of legal fuss. Just leave it be.
There have been a number of guys who have alleged that they have had relationships with Travolta.
Image via Wikipedia
On being gay John , get over it!
Gay news
View Australian Queer News on the web at Gay News Blog
Who cares (but John Travolta) is John Travolta is gay or not? In an interview with The Advocate, Carry Fisher answered questions about Johns sexuality. Fisher and Travolta go way back. On a question about whether Travolta was gay, Fisher said:-
?Wow! I mean, my feeling about John has always been that we know and we don?t care. Look, I?m sorry that he?s uncomfortable with it, and that?s all I can say. It only draws more attention to it when you make that kind of legal fuss. Just leave it be.
There have been a number of guys who have alleged that they have had relationships with Travolta.
Image via Wikipedia
On being gay John , get over it!
Gay news
View Australian Queer News on the web at Gay News Blog
You are not a bad person for wanting to break up, and neither is he.
Any resources for healing after a breakup when you're the one that initiated it? And that doesn't demonise either party? After six years my partner and I are now just friends. It was necessary and a long time coming: we still care for each other a great deal but the relationship as it stands wasn't sustainable anymore. We'd still like to be friends, he's practically family to me anyway, but understandably things are still awkward and raw right now (it's been less than a week).
I'm trying to find resources for healing and support, but so much of it runs along the lines of "that bastard doesn't know what they're missing!". Even the ones that are slightly more sympathetic to the initiator are very "well that person was an asshole anyway" - which, NO. He is not a bad person and neither am I. We have both been very good for each other. It just wasn't working out healthily for both of us. It doesn't help that a few other friends have been dumped around the same time, and a lot of what they report the *other party* saying is stuff I relate to...and I haven't the heart to say `well I can see where they are coming from` because they're obviously hurting.
My special snowflake guilt was that a large part of the breakup was because last year I came out to myself and him as more interested in girls than I thought I was (I'd known I was queer for ages and so did he, but some incidences made me realise that I tend to like girls *exclusively*). But because we still loved and cared for each other as companions, and had an open relationship that was working really well for a while, we figured we'd give it a shot. But it wasn't working. I felt like the breakup was the only way for me to be honest and authentic with myself - but sometimes I wonder what is the point of authenticity when it only hurts the ones that already love you as you are?
I'm trying to find resources for healing and support, but so much of it runs along the lines of "that bastard doesn't know what they're missing!". Even the ones that are slightly more sympathetic to the initiator are very "well that person was an asshole anyway" - which, NO. He is not a bad person and neither am I. We have both been very good for each other. It just wasn't working out healthily for both of us. It doesn't help that a few other friends have been dumped around the same time, and a lot of what they report the *other party* saying is stuff I relate to...and I haven't the heart to say `well I can see where they are coming from` because they're obviously hurting.
My special snowflake guilt was that a large part of the breakup was because last year I came out to myself and him as more interested in girls than I thought I was (I'd known I was queer for ages and so did he, but some incidences made me realise that I tend to like girls *exclusively*). But because we still loved and cared for each other as companions, and had an open relationship that was working really well for a while, we figured we'd give it a shot. But it wasn't working. I felt like the breakup was the only way for me to be honest and authentic with myself - but sometimes I wonder what is the point of authenticity when it only hurts the ones that already love you as you are?
No gays at the Chymorvah guesthouse Cornwall
Martin Hall and his civil partner Stephen Preddy, were turned away from a homophobic guesthouse at Marizion in Corwall, on the grounds of "we dont allow unmarried couples to sleep in our guesthouse". Given that Hall and Preddy are in a civil partnership, this is a bit hard to believe.
It transpires that the owners are some sort of religious nut cases who have taken some line from the Bible a little to far. It is incredible in this day and age that people still think this way. It is obviously far more important to ignore the "LOVE" and "ACCEPTANCE" message from their faith and focus on - shock horror - the possibility that two people might actually have SEX.
Peter and Hazelmary Bull denied the allegation that they discriminated against Martyn Hall and Steven Preddy because they were gay, but insisted their faith meant they believed unmarried couples should not share a room under their roof.
A second case of homophobic prejudice. Sad old couple!
Gay newsView Australian Queer News on the web at Gay News Blog
It transpires that the owners are some sort of religious nut cases who have taken some line from the Bible a little to far. It is incredible in this day and age that people still think this way. It is obviously far more important to ignore the "LOVE" and "ACCEPTANCE" message from their faith and focus on - shock horror - the possibility that two people might actually have SEX.
Peter and Hazelmary Bull denied the allegation that they discriminated against Martyn Hall and Steven Preddy because they were gay, but insisted their faith meant they believed unmarried couples should not share a room under their roof.
A second case of homophobic prejudice. Sad old couple!
Gay newsView Australian Queer News on the web at Gay News Blog
Lesbian overthinks her gender expression. News at 11.
I'm a 22-year-old lesbian. I have never made any effort to look hot, but suddenly I want to, and it's raising some serious identity issues for me. Hygiene/beauty-wise, all I do is shower daily, brush my teeth, comb my hair (though it tends to go every which-way), and wear deodorant, clean clothes (some men's, some women's), and moisturizer (for the SPF). I don't own any makeup and I don't know how to apply it. Basically, I look like I don't give a fuck.
Here's the thing, though?I do give a fuck, and I think my apparent apathy's a holdover from a time when I truly wasn't comfortable with myself. As a closeted teen/pre-teen, I wore dingy sweats everyday and kept a copy of The Beauty Myth in my junior high school locker. (I'm sure NO ONE ever suspected.) I defined myself in opposition to other girls because I felt like I could never truly be one of them anyway and was too proud to try. I also did it to distance myself from them so I didn't have to deal with my attraction. On a less psychosexual level, I felt like if I tried to look pretty, people would see right through it and laugh at me.
I had a boyfriend in high school and a couple more in college, along with some random male hookups (I came out "bisexual" at 18). Almost every single first makeout session would include a moment where the guy would look at me real close and then quizzically remark, "You know, you're really pretty," like he'd never noticed before and was pleasantly surprised. Secretly, I loved hearing that?in my mind, it indicated that I wasn't naturally uglier than other girls, but merely had less superficial values. (Ugh.)
Now I've graduated college and am finally out as gay, not bi. My frumpiness is no longer really a source of political pride for me anymore, because I've internalized patriarchal beauty standards enough to only be attracted to women who mostly fit them (yeah, stone me). I'm not trying to imply that a butch or androgynous woman who likes feminine women is necessarily a hypocrite; just that my former feminister-than-thou attitude about not meeting those standards no longer makes sense. Also, it's not like I'm some Jackie Warner/Kate Moennig type?I just look like a troll.
I don't know what sort of gender presentation I'd have if I didn't go through such a long phase of self-loathing, but I suspect that the answer is still not "Barbie". The last time I really dressed up girly was a couple years ago and I felt like I was in drag, but hey, I don't feel terribly comfortable with the way I look now either. Ultimately, I'd like to look like a cute urban 20-something queer girl that other cute urban 20-something queer girls could see themselves dating, instead of an overgrown 3rd grader with blotchy skin and gigantic boobs.
I suppose I know, in broad strokes, how to go about changing my image: learn how to tame my hair, get some makeup and try to even my skin tone a little on nights that I go out, buy trendy-looking clothes I normally wouldn't look at twice, get less-dorky glasses the next time I need a new prescription. If you have any practical advice on those matters, it's more than welcome. (I'm 5'5", 140 lbs, white, and would look ridiculous with hair any shorter than chin-length.) But I guess my real question is, though, how do I not feel so ridiculous trying? I spent my entire adolescence acting either aggressively opposed to this sort of stuff or innocently too "deep" for it. It's a big part of who I was, which is probably why it feels like such a big deal changing it. I don't have any real reason to believe I won't just feel like a potential poser again. Also, I feel like most other people have settled into their style by this age even if do they switch things up here and there, so this sort of deliberate change feels kind of life-stage inappropriate.
As for what I can afford... I make $35,000 a year, my rent's $650/month, and I'm not in any debt. Obviously cheaper is better, but I'm willing to throw a little bit of money at this problem.
(Also, yes, I know that confidence is my biggest issue and that that's not primarily a matter of looks, but I wanted this question to be targeted.)
Throwaway email: anon724 at gmail
Here's the thing, though?I do give a fuck, and I think my apparent apathy's a holdover from a time when I truly wasn't comfortable with myself. As a closeted teen/pre-teen, I wore dingy sweats everyday and kept a copy of The Beauty Myth in my junior high school locker. (I'm sure NO ONE ever suspected.) I defined myself in opposition to other girls because I felt like I could never truly be one of them anyway and was too proud to try. I also did it to distance myself from them so I didn't have to deal with my attraction. On a less psychosexual level, I felt like if I tried to look pretty, people would see right through it and laugh at me.
I had a boyfriend in high school and a couple more in college, along with some random male hookups (I came out "bisexual" at 18). Almost every single first makeout session would include a moment where the guy would look at me real close and then quizzically remark, "You know, you're really pretty," like he'd never noticed before and was pleasantly surprised. Secretly, I loved hearing that?in my mind, it indicated that I wasn't naturally uglier than other girls, but merely had less superficial values. (Ugh.)
Now I've graduated college and am finally out as gay, not bi. My frumpiness is no longer really a source of political pride for me anymore, because I've internalized patriarchal beauty standards enough to only be attracted to women who mostly fit them (yeah, stone me). I'm not trying to imply that a butch or androgynous woman who likes feminine women is necessarily a hypocrite; just that my former feminister-than-thou attitude about not meeting those standards no longer makes sense. Also, it's not like I'm some Jackie Warner/Kate Moennig type?I just look like a troll.
I don't know what sort of gender presentation I'd have if I didn't go through such a long phase of self-loathing, but I suspect that the answer is still not "Barbie". The last time I really dressed up girly was a couple years ago and I felt like I was in drag, but hey, I don't feel terribly comfortable with the way I look now either. Ultimately, I'd like to look like a cute urban 20-something queer girl that other cute urban 20-something queer girls could see themselves dating, instead of an overgrown 3rd grader with blotchy skin and gigantic boobs.
I suppose I know, in broad strokes, how to go about changing my image: learn how to tame my hair, get some makeup and try to even my skin tone a little on nights that I go out, buy trendy-looking clothes I normally wouldn't look at twice, get less-dorky glasses the next time I need a new prescription. If you have any practical advice on those matters, it's more than welcome. (I'm 5'5", 140 lbs, white, and would look ridiculous with hair any shorter than chin-length.) But I guess my real question is, though, how do I not feel so ridiculous trying? I spent my entire adolescence acting either aggressively opposed to this sort of stuff or innocently too "deep" for it. It's a big part of who I was, which is probably why it feels like such a big deal changing it. I don't have any real reason to believe I won't just feel like a potential poser again. Also, I feel like most other people have settled into their style by this age even if do they switch things up here and there, so this sort of deliberate change feels kind of life-stage inappropriate.
As for what I can afford... I make $35,000 a year, my rent's $650/month, and I'm not in any debt. Obviously cheaper is better, but I'm willing to throw a little bit of money at this problem.
(Also, yes, I know that confidence is my biggest issue and that that's not primarily a matter of looks, but I wanted this question to be targeted.)
Throwaway email: anon724 at gmail
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)