Saturday, August 31, 2013
Portland Pride This Weekend
Boy do I wish I was going to be in Portland this weekend!Two of my favorite performers are singing or strutting their stuff on the Community Stage for the Portland Pride 2010.First up: Christine Havrilla plays at 3pm on Saturday. Right after: Bang Bang Betty's Big Beautiful Bombshells (which includes our Executive Editor from Curve, Diane Anderson-Minshall) at 4:30.Portland Peeps: get your pride on this weekend and go check out these fantabulous performances!Be sure to check out the full lineup of great performers coming to Portland Pride this weekend. It's quite the talent draw: http://www.pridenw.org/* Kina Williams Photography for Bang Bang Betty
(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
Congress: Support a Minimum Wage Increase ? but Move Toward a Living Wage
http://action.now.org/p/dia/action3/common/public/?action_KEY=8298Please urge your senators and representatives to take leadership in getting minimum-wage bills out of committee and to a successful floor vote!
Support, counseling, education for gay youth
(AP) – Support and other resources for gay young people are out there, sometimes only a click or a phone call away, but advocates said the recent suicide of Rutgers University freshman Tyler Clementi and other teens who were believed to have been victims of anti-gay bullying point to the need for even more widespread help.
In a country of about 12,000 public school districts, the education network known as GLSEN (glsen.org) counts about 4,000 Gay-Straight Alliances, the name for school clubs - mostly in high schools - that register with the group.
“Youth in general are not very help-seeking,” said the organization’s executive director, Eliza Byard. “Getting people to reach out is one of the big challenges.”
Another nonp…
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In a country of about 12,000 public school districts, the education network known as GLSEN (glsen.org) counts about 4,000 Gay-Straight Alliances, the name for school clubs - mostly in high schools - that register with the group.
“Youth in general are not very help-seeking,” said the organization’s executive director, Eliza Byard. “Getting people to reach out is one of the big challenges.”
Another nonp…
Read More
San Diego community prepares to step off for 21st Annual AIDS Walk
As local service organizations continue to feel the impact of government funding cuts for HIV/AIDS services, the San Diego community will again come together in a display of support and compassion at the 21st annual AIDS Walk & Run. The event will take place on Sunday, Sept. 26 at Balboa Park.
Registration for both walkers and runners will begin at 6am at Balboa Park, along Sixth Avenue (early registration is also available, see the official event guide here for more information) on Sunday. The 10K run will start at 8am, with the Walk step off at 8:10am.
Local elected officials will also take part in the day’s ceremonies, including U.S. Representative Susan Davis, California State Assemblymember Lori Saldaña, and San Diego City Councilmemb…
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Registration for both walkers and runners will begin at 6am at Balboa Park, along Sixth Avenue (early registration is also available, see the official event guide here for more information) on Sunday. The 10K run will start at 8am, with the Walk step off at 8:10am.
Local elected officials will also take part in the day’s ceremonies, including U.S. Representative Susan Davis, California State Assemblymember Lori Saldaña, and San Diego City Councilmemb…
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Friday, August 30, 2013
Liz Cheney: 'Not Pro-Gay Marriage'
Cheney takes the position even though she has a lesbian sister, and a father, the former vice president, who supports marriage equality.
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Conversations with Nicole
In past columns in the last few years I have written about the issue of Bullying in our schools many times…I hope and pray that now all Americans….especially our community has awoken to this crisis. In one of my past columns I wrote that if “only1/4” of the energy, money, time that has been spent on Marriage Equality and “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” was focused on GLBT suicides and bullying this issue would have gotten further…we must make our GLBT youth/students who are coming out every day at younger ages our community’s No. 1 PRIORITY!
Take a stand against School Bullying: October 17
San Diegans will be coming together on Sunday, October 17 to take a united stand against all bullying…this …
Read More
Take a stand against School Bullying: October 17
San Diegans will be coming together on Sunday, October 17 to take a united stand against all bullying…this …
Read More
Friday Abs
Just some gratuitous flesh in diesel underwear for Friday.
Gay newsView Australian Queer News on the web at Gay News Blog
Gay newsView Australian Queer News on the web at Gay News Blog
The MetroWeekly & LGBT Weekly Follow-Ups To The HRC Story
Clarification/Correction: Chris Geidner wrote "Although the sources say that no permanent replacement has been selected, none of the four sources were willing to say what, if any, role Woolard would play in the transition efforts at HRC."
Beyond connecting a name to the unidentified paid consultant from the initial PHB piece, Chris Geidner indicated no conclusions as to what her role in the transition would be, assuming that Woolard would even have a role.
After the story broke at Pam's House Blend on Friday, August 26, 2011 -- as well as roughly simultaneously on the front page of Pam's House Blend's future host website Firedoglake -- MetroWeekly has released a follow-up piece.
Chris Geidner of MetroWeekly independently confirmed that the HRC's executive director, Joe Solmonese, is indeed leaving his position. What MetroWeekly is also reporting is that the consultant that we at PHB reported that the HRC is going to tap as the new executive director is going to instead be an interim director. And, MetroWeekly names the names of that would likely be that interim director:
From the MetroWeekly article HRC's Solmonese to Step Down, Sources Say No Replacement Has Been Selected:
...[Joe Solmonese's] most recent contract expires in March 2012, and an informed source tells Metro Weekly that "a full candidate selection process will take place" to find his successor.
A second source familiar with the situation said that a board conference call that originally was scheduled for Aug. 29 was rescheduled on the evening of Aug. 26 to take place later today, Aug. 27. The change was made after Spaulding published her report, which stated that an announcement about his departure was to be made public on Aug. 30.
...Although Spaulding reported that "a replacement executive director has been identified," four sources familiar with the situation describe that portion of the report as inaccurate -- with one saying the process is just beginning and will not be rapid.
Spaulding refers to the person she reported was identified as Solmonese's replacement as "a paid consultant" who has worked with the organization. Metro Weekly has identified that consultant as Cathy Woolard, who most recently served on the senior leadership team at CARE, which describes itself as "a leading humanitarian organization fighting global poverty" and is based in Atlanta...
The publication I write the Trans Progressive column for, the LGBT Weekly, also has a story up this morning as well by LGBT Weekly publisher Stampp Corbin, entitled HRC President to Step Down:
...Solmonese's tenure has had significant high points, most recently the passage of hates crime legislation and the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell. However, he has also had to deal with significant criticism for his handling of the Employment Non-discrimination Act. While Solmonese had promised he would support the inclusion of gender identity to protect the transgender community, at the last minute Congressman Barney Frank and Solmonese tried to pass legislation that did not include transgender protections. It created a firestorm within the LGBT community.
Sources also suggest that the press release date was moved up to accommodate the questions that will be asked of Solmonese when he addresses the HRC Cleveland Dinner this evening. Many current and former members of the HRC Board of Directors were caught off guard by the leak to Pam's House Blend, which suggests that Solmonese's decision to step down is a surprise.
Given Solmonese's salary level, it is unlikely that he will be joining the Obama administration as many have suggested on blogs, as well as Facebook.
I'm not sure if Stampp Corbin is interested in the job, but given his experience in HRC leadership in the past I would hope the HRC would consider him for the executive directorship.
So there you have the latest, as reported by Metro Weekly and the LGBT Weekly. As for the significant staff shake-up that PHB also reported as being in the works at the HRC, neither Metro Weekly and the LGBT Weekly mentioned anything about that aspect of the original PHB story.
Frankly, the staff aspect of the HRC story that PHB broke on Friday, August 26th is what I'm most interested in having independently verified or debunked -- what the staff looks like after the change in leadership is going to say a lot about how the HRC plans to move forward after this change of leadership.
Gay-Friendly Joie de Vivre Hotels Enters Honolulu Market
The hip and stylish California-based hotel company Joie de Vivre, which began moving into other geographical markets in recent years with the opening of the Saguaro in Scottsdale, AZ, and the Hotel Lincoln in Chicago, IL, has now made a big splash on the Honolulu hotels scene with the opening earlier this year of the Coconut Waikiki Hotel (which had previously been a Best Western) and the Shoreline Hotel Waikiki (formerly known as the Seaside Hotel Waikiki). This is good news for fans of design-driven boutique hotels who are seeking more moderately priced alternatives to some of the spendy (and often quite huge) resort towers in Waikiki. If you're more about personal service and a laid-back vibe, and you're not really going to take advantage of the facilities - shopping arcades, multiple restaurants, meeting and convention spaces - of a bigger resort....Read Full Post
Rachel Griffiths: summer 'Camp'
Australian actress Rachel Griffiths danced to ABBA for Muriel's Wedding back in 1994 for a breakout role. She followed that with an Oscar nominated performance in Hilary and Jackie and a hilarious turn on My Best Friend's Wedding, her American film debut. On television she created two unforgettable parts as Brenda Chenowith on HBO's Six Feet Under and as Sarah Walker Laurent on ABC's Brothers & Sisters.
Thursday, August 29, 2013
Op-ed: 72, Transgender, and Finally Myself
One transgender activist remembers the moments when she was forced to hide who she was to simply survive.
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Dining, Drinks & Desserts
The “ZIO’S EXPERIENCE” with 4 lovely lesbians
Greetings everyone, hope your week is going well. What a week in our busy world! The Senate did not pass DADT. The Republicans decided to start running on platforms which the Democrats created and former President Bill Clinton had some great words of advice for President Obama. Sometimes truth is stranger than fiction!
This week my guests were 4 lovely lesbians, Christina our Editor, her partner Alice and their friends Joergie and Neally.
We selected ZIO’S Italian Restaurant on El Cajon Blvd in North Park. When I arrived, owner Darren James greeted me with his warm embrace and handshake. We have chatted several times on Facebook and this was our actual first time meeting in person.
My ladies had not yet arrived so I asked Darren to give me a tour of…
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Greetings everyone, hope your week is going well. What a week in our busy world! The Senate did not pass DADT. The Republicans decided to start running on platforms which the Democrats created and former President Bill Clinton had some great words of advice for President Obama. Sometimes truth is stranger than fiction!
This week my guests were 4 lovely lesbians, Christina our Editor, her partner Alice and their friends Joergie and Neally.
We selected ZIO’S Italian Restaurant on El Cajon Blvd in North Park. When I arrived, owner Darren James greeted me with his warm embrace and handshake. We have chatted several times on Facebook and this was our actual first time meeting in person.
My ladies had not yet arrived so I asked Darren to give me a tour of…
Read More
Changent Cate Cameron
My friend, amazing photographer Cate Cameron, was selected for an initiative Proctor and Gamble is working on called Children's Safe Drinking Water. She just shipped off to NYC and will then be heading to an area of Haiti within Zone Code 4 (No Travel Advised), where she will be connecting and photographing with some of the world's poorest people in relation to access to clean water.She is writing a blog about her life altering adventure and you can follow it here: http://givehealth.changents.com/cate-cameron
Let Freedom Ring: President Obama on fairness for gays and for all
REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT AT THE "LET FREEDOM RING" CEREMONY COMMEMORATING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF
!Out! Challenges, safety and uncomfortable moments at work
During a casual conversation at my friend's work, the question came up: Who is person who makes the decisions in the relationship, the man or the woman?
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…
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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
How to work in/move to a gay supportive country where same-sex marriage is legal?
I'm looking to work in/maybe move to, a country where same-sex marriage is legal and gay people are treated equally. Any recommendations? Any advice from expatriates?
I've been in a committed and loving relationship with my partner for over 6 years. Looking forward, I would like to move to a country where I can get married, live, work, raise a family and be openly gay in a country with as much respect from the law and the community as everyone else. I'm lucky to be well-qualified and am considered talented in my work, with a Master's, several published papers, and a Bachelor's from an Ivy League university in Electrical Engineering and Physics, and 6 years of work experience as an expert on solar energy and semiconductor technology. I've business consulting experience and am trilingual, in English, Mandarin and Cantonese.
Unfortunately I also grew up in a place where most gay people are closeted at work and society. Most gay people face heavy and regular discrimination and ignorance in most major areas of life, from the law, society, employment, family, to the government. It's a daily toll to be closeted, and it's very difficult to have a home of your own if you're gay, not to mention raise a family.
I would like to work in a city/country where I can be out, equal, and have my children proud to tell their schoolmates they have two mothers. Of course, I would like to be able to have my partner join me as soon as possible.
Preferably this is a place where, while same-sex marriage is legal, gay people are treated the same as straight people, and it's easy for new people to fit in. A place where people don't avert their eyes when you hold hands with your partner in public, don't blink when you tell them you're gay, and you and your partner are invited, as a matter of course, to straight friends' homes. It'd be good if it's a city or place open to different races and cultures.
What would your advice be? What cities, places and companies to work for would you recommend?
If you've moved cities or countries before with your partner, what was your experience? How did you secure a job in a new city? What did you do to make new friends and get used to a new culture? How did you and your partner make such a huge life change as easily manageable and successful as possible?
I've been in a committed and loving relationship with my partner for over 6 years. Looking forward, I would like to move to a country where I can get married, live, work, raise a family and be openly gay in a country with as much respect from the law and the community as everyone else. I'm lucky to be well-qualified and am considered talented in my work, with a Master's, several published papers, and a Bachelor's from an Ivy League university in Electrical Engineering and Physics, and 6 years of work experience as an expert on solar energy and semiconductor technology. I've business consulting experience and am trilingual, in English, Mandarin and Cantonese.
Unfortunately I also grew up in a place where most gay people are closeted at work and society. Most gay people face heavy and regular discrimination and ignorance in most major areas of life, from the law, society, employment, family, to the government. It's a daily toll to be closeted, and it's very difficult to have a home of your own if you're gay, not to mention raise a family.
I would like to work in a city/country where I can be out, equal, and have my children proud to tell their schoolmates they have two mothers. Of course, I would like to be able to have my partner join me as soon as possible.
Preferably this is a place where, while same-sex marriage is legal, gay people are treated the same as straight people, and it's easy for new people to fit in. A place where people don't avert their eyes when you hold hands with your partner in public, don't blink when you tell them you're gay, and you and your partner are invited, as a matter of course, to straight friends' homes. It'd be good if it's a city or place open to different races and cultures.
What would your advice be? What cities, places and companies to work for would you recommend?
If you've moved cities or countries before with your partner, what was your experience? How did you secure a job in a new city? What did you do to make new friends and get used to a new culture? How did you and your partner make such a huge life change as easily manageable and successful as possible?
Coming out as HIV+: Venton Jones
(Editor's note: This is one in a series exploring the lives of people who have chosen to be out about their positive HIV status.)
Venton Jones' volunteer work for a Dallas AIDS organization helped educate him about the importance of HIV testing. "I was aware of the need to test frequently, so I did so," Jones says.
One in a series exploring the lives of people who have chosen to be out about their positive HIV status.
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Venton Jones' volunteer work for a Dallas AIDS organization helped educate him about the importance of HIV testing. "I was aware of the need to test frequently, so I did so," Jones says.
One in a series exploring the lives of people who have chosen to be out about their positive HIV status.
read more
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
(40) London Calling. Shoot Your TV!
She Calls to Say She Has Sense, Friends from http://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 .
N.J.: Booker, GOP Opponent On Gay Rumors
As the Senate race heats up, Democratic hopeful Cory Booker and his opponent Steve Lonegan address long-standing gay rumors
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Cedar Point Amusement Park Cancels Wedding Contest...Rather than Allow Gay Couples to Participate
SANDSUSKY, Ohio
? CEDAR POINT, A huge amusement park in Ohio is canceling a wedding contest after a gay
couple organized a protest against the promotion because it excluded
same-sex couples.
Cedar Point amusement park, one the biggest coaster parks in the US, initially limited the
contest to male and female couples because it said state law doesn?t
allow gay couples to legally marry in Ohio. A spokesman says the park
decided to cancel the event once it started to take on political
undertones, reported the Sandusky Register.
Akron couple Scott Kenimond, 37, and Eric Morrison, 28, who had
considered holding their commitment ceremony at the park, recruited
friends and strangers to send ?tweets? to Cedar Point, asking them to
allow gay couples to apply.
?It doesn?t matter if it?s legal or not,? Morrison said. ?You should be able to have a commitment ceremony."
Cedar Point simply decided to cancel the contest.
The theme
said there was no negative intent for the contest, but that ?Cedar Point
does not take any official stance on political issues.?
?I?m
disappointed they would choose to go that way rather than stand behind
their LGBT community,? said Morrison. ?Ultimately, they?re playing it
safe. But it?s a cowardly choice.?
What kind of message does this send to their LGBT employees? to their LGBT park guests?
With marriage equality gaining in popularity, why not allow it, and be the hero?THE OFFICIAL STATEMENT - Cedar Point does not discriminate against any guest for any reason. The ?Friday
the 13th Wedding? event was created as a fun, in-park promotion to
generate excitement for the kickoff of HalloWeekends. There was no
negative intent.
When the promotion logistics started to take on
political undertones, as indicated by several guests who gave us
feedback, it was decided that now is not the best time for this event.
Cedar Point does not take any official stance on political
issues.
Outside of official park-provided promotions, Cedar
Point does offer opportunities for all couples to have weddings,
commitment ceremonies and other events here at the park. We encourage
guests to contact us if they?re interested in planning
such an event.Ohioans? certitude about gay marriage a decade ago has given way to ambiguity, potentially
setting the stage next year for a second major battle on one of the most divisive social issues of
our time.Some backers of a constitutional amendment to allow two consenting adults to marry regardless of
gender want to go to the statewide ballot in the 2014 gubernatorial election, a roll of the dice on
a question that 62 percent of voters answered in 2004. They amended the constitution to define
marriage as between a man and a woman, effectively prohibiting same-sex marriages in Ohio.
Since then, polling shows a shift in Ohioans? views, and there have been high-profile Republican
defectors to the pro-gay-marriage side, including U.S. Sen. Rob Portman of Cincinnati and former
Ohio attorney general and state auditor Jim Petro ? both of whom changed their positions after eachhad a child come out.
? CEDAR POINT, A huge amusement park in Ohio is canceling a wedding contest after a gay
couple organized a protest against the promotion because it excluded
same-sex couples.
Cedar Point amusement park, one the biggest coaster parks in the US, initially limited the
contest to male and female couples because it said state law doesn?t
allow gay couples to legally marry in Ohio. A spokesman says the park
decided to cancel the event once it started to take on political
undertones, reported the Sandusky Register.
Akron couple Scott Kenimond, 37, and Eric Morrison, 28, who had
considered holding their commitment ceremony at the park, recruited
friends and strangers to send ?tweets? to Cedar Point, asking them to
allow gay couples to apply.
?It doesn?t matter if it?s legal or not,? Morrison said. ?You should be able to have a commitment ceremony."
Cedar Point simply decided to cancel the contest.
The theme
said there was no negative intent for the contest, but that ?Cedar Point
does not take any official stance on political issues.?
?I?m
disappointed they would choose to go that way rather than stand behind
their LGBT community,? said Morrison. ?Ultimately, they?re playing it
safe. But it?s a cowardly choice.?
What kind of message does this send to their LGBT employees? to their LGBT park guests?
With marriage equality gaining in popularity, why not allow it, and be the hero?THE OFFICIAL STATEMENT - Cedar Point does not discriminate against any guest for any reason. The ?Friday
the 13th Wedding? event was created as a fun, in-park promotion to
generate excitement for the kickoff of HalloWeekends. There was no
negative intent.
When the promotion logistics started to take on
political undertones, as indicated by several guests who gave us
feedback, it was decided that now is not the best time for this event.
Cedar Point does not take any official stance on political
issues.
Outside of official park-provided promotions, Cedar
Point does offer opportunities for all couples to have weddings,
commitment ceremonies and other events here at the park. We encourage
guests to contact us if they?re interested in planning
such an event.Ohioans? certitude about gay marriage a decade ago has given way to ambiguity, potentially
setting the stage next year for a second major battle on one of the most divisive social issues of
our time.Some backers of a constitutional amendment to allow two consenting adults to marry regardless of
gender want to go to the statewide ballot in the 2014 gubernatorial election, a roll of the dice on
a question that 62 percent of voters answered in 2004. They amended the constitution to define
marriage as between a man and a woman, effectively prohibiting same-sex marriages in Ohio.
Since then, polling shows a shift in Ohioans? views, and there have been high-profile Republican
defectors to the pro-gay-marriage side, including U.S. Sen. Rob Portman of Cincinnati and former
Ohio attorney general and state auditor Jim Petro ? both of whom changed their positions after eachhad a child come out.
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.
Couples start planning after Maryland voters approve marriage equality
Company president, Kathryn Hamm, sat down with Hatzel Vela of ABC7 News in Washington DC after the November 2012 marriage equality victory in Maryland to learn more about same-sex wedding trends in Maryland.
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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 →
NOW Applauds Obama Administration's Movement toward Allowing Access to Over-the-Counter Emergency Contraceptive Without Age Restrictions
http://now.org/press/06-13/06-11.htmlThe National Organization for Women is encouraged by the Obama administration's promise to federal district court Judge Edward R. Korman that it will withdraw its appeal of his ruling, in which the FDA was ordered to make all forms of emergency contraception available over the counter without age restrictions.
Remove Prosecution of Sexual Assault from Military Chain of Command
http://action.now.org/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=8152Send your message to the Senate now. Demand that a floor vote on S. 967 be scheduled and urge your senators — both Democrats and Republicans — to vote for this bill. Tell them that you will be watching closely as to whether they will vote to protect sexual assault survivors and make this necessary reform that will truly bring about military justice.
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
Texas Supreme Court to Consider Gay Divorce
The state's highest court is also expected to examine whether Texas's constitutional amendment prohibiting marriage equality violates the U.S. Constitution.
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(1) Am I Offensive to Bisexuals?
� First show, cut me some slack bishes. Give it a few seconds to start.
Lesbian News - 14 Aug 2013
Long Beach Gay and Lesbian Center creates directory of gay-friendly wedding businessesLesbian love triangle axe-killer loses appeal?I lived 30 years alone?: A Christian lesbian grandmother tells her storyHave the Final Word with Sydney Gay and Lesbian Business AssociationNBC reassures gay and lesbian employees of safety during Winter Olympics
GOP gubernatorial hopeful wants to roll back civil unions
A Republican contender for Illinois governor wants to repeal Illinois civil unions, a well-known Illinois political blog is reporting.
'Nine for IX DVD Gift Set' set for release Oct. 15
ESPN Home Entertainment, in conjunction with Team Marketing, announced they will release the "Nine for IX DVD Gift Set" Oct. 15 for $29.95.
(17) 1 Minute Commentary on Tom and Katie
It’s been common knowledge for decades that Tom shoots blanks. I know Morton thinks he has the lowdown, but he doesn’t … I DO!
Monday, August 26, 2013
(10) Back From Hiatus
Thanks Nadya, for Babkas Bikini Wax Messages, Back from Techno-challenges, Child Abusers, Vibrating i-Phones, Pseudo-Lesbians have babies, Joe Walsh as a cure for insomnia, Combi-Christ for adults, Hilary for president, but only because she has a vagina.
Conversations with Nicole
In past columns in the last few years I have written about the issue of Bullying in our schools many times…I hope and pray that now all Americans….especially our community has awoken to this crisis. In one of my past columns I wrote that if “only1/4” of the energy, money, time that has been spent on Marriage Equality and “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” was focused on GLBT suicides and bullying this issue would have gotten further…we must make our GLBT youth/students who are coming out every day at younger ages our community’s No. 1 PRIORITY!
Take a stand against School Bullying: October 17
San Diegans will be coming together on Sunday, October 17 to take a united stand against all bullying…this …
Read More
Take a stand against School Bullying: October 17
San Diegans will be coming together on Sunday, October 17 to take a united stand against all bullying…this …
Read More
Moving to Austin. What next?
My partner and I plan to move to Austin, Texas, in January. We?re looking for recommendations about neighborhoods, information about the housing market, or any other useful information. Traits of our ideal area, in no particular order:
* Bicycle friendly.
* Close to transit lines.
* Funky and weird.
* Inexpensive.
* In the city limits.
* Mix of people, such as different ages.
* Relatively cohesive neighborhood.
* Relatively quiet (I am hypersensitive with sounds).
* Has stuff within walking distance ? for instance, grocery store, pool, park, library and restaurants within about a mile.
About us:
Early 50s women. No kids. Three cats and a dog. We have a variety of interests, but not spectator sports. Two cars, but we?d like to use them less. No jobs lined up yet. I might work in journalism or government, but am also interested in coworking.
About housing:
Looking for two or three bedrooms at a moderate price. Expect to live there the rest of our lives. Plan to buy a home but might rent for about six months first. Open to different types of housing (such as condos, townhouses, mobile homes, cohousing) but probably not apartments.
We live in a small town in a house with 1,700 square feet. It has three bedrooms and 1.75 baths. The house was bought for $140K six or seven years ago. Last year, it was appraised at $180K. We hope to sell it for $160K to $175K.
Our questions:
* Are there any areas you recommend?
* Are there any areas we should avoid?
* How does the housing market compare?
* Where is the ?gay ghetto??
* Are there any neighborhood newspapers?
* Is there anything else we should know?
* Bicycle friendly.
* Close to transit lines.
* Funky and weird.
* Inexpensive.
* In the city limits.
* Mix of people, such as different ages.
* Relatively cohesive neighborhood.
* Relatively quiet (I am hypersensitive with sounds).
* Has stuff within walking distance ? for instance, grocery store, pool, park, library and restaurants within about a mile.
About us:
Early 50s women. No kids. Three cats and a dog. We have a variety of interests, but not spectator sports. Two cars, but we?d like to use them less. No jobs lined up yet. I might work in journalism or government, but am also interested in coworking.
About housing:
Looking for two or three bedrooms at a moderate price. Expect to live there the rest of our lives. Plan to buy a home but might rent for about six months first. Open to different types of housing (such as condos, townhouses, mobile homes, cohousing) but probably not apartments.
We live in a small town in a house with 1,700 square feet. It has three bedrooms and 1.75 baths. The house was bought for $140K six or seven years ago. Last year, it was appraised at $180K. We hope to sell it for $160K to $175K.
Our questions:
* Are there any areas you recommend?
* Are there any areas we should avoid?
* How does the housing market compare?
* Where is the ?gay ghetto??
* Are there any neighborhood newspapers?
* Is there anything else we should know?
Veiled Hostilities: We can respect religious diversity while disagreeing with particular practices
Opinion:
''Do you wanna see me naked lover? Do you want to peek underneath the cover?'' These lyrics from a leaked Lady Gaga track, ''Burqa,'' as I learned from a gay Muslim friend, provoked the blogger at Post Modern Veil (PMV) to write, ''Why is it that white pop stars are so unoriginal that they have to ridicule, mock and appropriate other cultures to garner attention?'' Thus our summer of protest and boycott yields a culture clash. Let's have a peek.
PMV says, ''Lady Gaga is an American cultural icon, and thereby, an extension of the imperialist and capitalist propaganda industry of the USA. Gaga's obsession with Muslim women … is strategic and in line with America's foreign policy, militaristic endeavors and orientalist understandings of the Muslim other…."
Wow, thanks for sharing! PMV translates Gaga's statement supporting LGBT Russians, ''We will fight for your freedom,'' as ''We will bomb the oppression out of you.'' This is an easy mistake to make; I blame the grenade dress.
Much of PMV's screed has as little to do with Gaga as the song itself has to do with the lives of women who wear burqas. Blogger and singer are each advancing an agenda. In Gaga's case, she reduces the burqa to a fetish object, a tool of self-promotion that exoticizes rather than examines.
But set aside pop singers who exploit other people's lives to strike revolutionary poses. PMV's invective is about more than a cheesy demo from a shock artist. If criticizing other countries' mistreatment of women is a form of cultural imperialism, that suggests misogyny is okay as long as it's part of your culture, and human rights defenders are neo-colonialists.
No. We can respect religious diversity while disagreeing with particular practices. I criticize the French for prohibiting religious veiling, just as I criticize governments that require it. But dress codes are not the only issue. There is a wide range of policies, many of them pre-Islamic, regarding women in the Muslim world. To weigh in usefully, we must study both lives and laws. For example, veiled women in America often encounter hostile stares and police stops; but they enjoy constitutional protections unavailable to dissenters in many nations.
It is fair to ask Americans concerned about the rights of Muslim women to begin with Saudi Arabia, whose repression receives American subsidies. Hypocrisy is a poor beginning for a global conversation. But it is hardly better to begin with a ritual branding of all things Western as oppression. Speaking of which, are Western science and medicine also to be rejected? That would be like driving off a cliff to avoid an accident.
Neither the West nor Islam is monolithic. Calling unwelcome messages ''propaganda'' infantilizes people in the global South who willingly partake of American culture. A marketing campaign is not a military invasion. Aggressive advertising cannot long conceal an inferior product, any more than angry sloganeering changes minds.
As for unsolicited expressions of solidarity, the question is whether we bother to consult those we seek to help, such as Islamic feminists. As for appropriation, whether of ideas or music, it occurs in both directions when different cultures collide. A better question is whether a particular act of appropriation is done well or poorly.
My late colleague Frank Kameny used to say, ''What the world needs is more and better blasphemy.'' I would put it less provocatively, but Frank was right. One person's free speech is another person's sacrilege. We cannot square that circle. Attempting to police offensive religious or cultural critiques, as some liberal countries do, falls afoul of America's First Amendment, which allows vigorous religious and political disagreement. I think America is better for that. So call me names.
Richard J. Rosendall is a writer and activist. He can be reached at rrosendall@starpower.net. ...more
''Do you wanna see me naked lover? Do you want to peek underneath the cover?'' These lyrics from a leaked Lady Gaga track, ''Burqa,'' as I learned from a gay Muslim friend, provoked the blogger at Post Modern Veil (PMV) to write, ''Why is it that white pop stars are so unoriginal that they have to ridicule, mock and appropriate other cultures to garner attention?'' Thus our summer of protest and boycott yields a culture clash. Let's have a peek.
PMV says, ''Lady Gaga is an American cultural icon, and thereby, an extension of the imperialist and capitalist propaganda industry of the USA. Gaga's obsession with Muslim women … is strategic and in line with America's foreign policy, militaristic endeavors and orientalist understandings of the Muslim other…."
Wow, thanks for sharing! PMV translates Gaga's statement supporting LGBT Russians, ''We will fight for your freedom,'' as ''We will bomb the oppression out of you.'' This is an easy mistake to make; I blame the grenade dress.
Much of PMV's screed has as little to do with Gaga as the song itself has to do with the lives of women who wear burqas. Blogger and singer are each advancing an agenda. In Gaga's case, she reduces the burqa to a fetish object, a tool of self-promotion that exoticizes rather than examines.
But set aside pop singers who exploit other people's lives to strike revolutionary poses. PMV's invective is about more than a cheesy demo from a shock artist. If criticizing other countries' mistreatment of women is a form of cultural imperialism, that suggests misogyny is okay as long as it's part of your culture, and human rights defenders are neo-colonialists.
No. We can respect religious diversity while disagreeing with particular practices. I criticize the French for prohibiting religious veiling, just as I criticize governments that require it. But dress codes are not the only issue. There is a wide range of policies, many of them pre-Islamic, regarding women in the Muslim world. To weigh in usefully, we must study both lives and laws. For example, veiled women in America often encounter hostile stares and police stops; but they enjoy constitutional protections unavailable to dissenters in many nations.
It is fair to ask Americans concerned about the rights of Muslim women to begin with Saudi Arabia, whose repression receives American subsidies. Hypocrisy is a poor beginning for a global conversation. But it is hardly better to begin with a ritual branding of all things Western as oppression. Speaking of which, are Western science and medicine also to be rejected? That would be like driving off a cliff to avoid an accident.
Neither the West nor Islam is monolithic. Calling unwelcome messages ''propaganda'' infantilizes people in the global South who willingly partake of American culture. A marketing campaign is not a military invasion. Aggressive advertising cannot long conceal an inferior product, any more than angry sloganeering changes minds.
As for unsolicited expressions of solidarity, the question is whether we bother to consult those we seek to help, such as Islamic feminists. As for appropriation, whether of ideas or music, it occurs in both directions when different cultures collide. A better question is whether a particular act of appropriation is done well or poorly.
My late colleague Frank Kameny used to say, ''What the world needs is more and better blasphemy.'' I would put it less provocatively, but Frank was right. One person's free speech is another person's sacrilege. We cannot square that circle. Attempting to police offensive religious or cultural critiques, as some liberal countries do, falls afoul of America's First Amendment, which allows vigorous religious and political disagreement. I think America is better for that. So call me names.
Richard J. Rosendall is a writer and activist. He can be reached at rrosendall@starpower.net. ...more
(46) New Years Poo
Rectifying Rick, Burka’s, Poopy diapers, Bitter Old Cat Ladies and Dirty Old Dog Men, Burn that Sex, Kenosha, Marshals …
Sunday, August 25, 2013
Summer fun in Provincetown, from Food Festivals to Carnival Week
It's not as though most of us need a special reason to trek out to Provincetown in summer - I personally try to make it there anytime I'm in New England (and am hoping to spend a couple of nights there in August, during my annual trip to the Northeast to visit family in New Hampshire), and I know plenty of friends who consider summer visits to this beautiful little colonial maritime village at the tip of Cape Cod de rigueur. If you're planning to attend when one of the theme weeks or weekends is going on, you should really book your rooms ASAP - the remaining July and August weekends are already heavily booked up, although you can sometimes find rooms in nearby towns farther down the Cape, like Truro and Wellfleet (and you can also just take the high-speed ferry - just 90 minutes with Bay State Cruise Company or Boston Harbor Cruises - out for the day from Boston). It's also worth considering that the fun and pleasant weather in Provincetown, minus the major crowds, continues well past Labor Day, with a number of intriguing events set for September, October, and November....Read Full Post
Video of the day: Bloomberg Spanish
NYC Mayor Mike Bloomberg held a presser a few minutes ago, and it was broadcast on major media. It was unremarkable at the outset, noting it's too late to evacuate at this point, to take precautions using candles, etc.
But then he decided to offer up a summary in Spanish. I want to give him props for trying, but it was so heinous that I burst out laughing. And I don't even speak Spanish. I can't imagine what that sounded like to native Spanish speakers.
This is one for the ages; it's at least nice to laugh during what's a pretty tough time to laugh with Irene barreling up the Northeast corridor.
Thanks @robrcb.
SDPIX and Fiesta Cantina present The Bar Olympics on Friday
SAN DIEGO -- SDPIX and Fiesta Cantina have teamed up to present The Bar Olympics on Friday, Aug. 23 from 6-9 pm.
This fun event will be hosted by the fabulous Tori Heart and include bar games, happy hour drink prices, and more.
Two-person teams will compete in five games with prizes for each, plus first-second-third place scoring on each game to determine the overall Bar Olympics champions. With more than $1,000 in prizes, there?s a lot at stake to compete over!
Two-person teams will compete in five games with prizes for each, plus first-second-third place scoring on each game to determine the overall Bar Olympics champions. With more than $1,000 in cash and prizes, there?s a lot at stake to compete over!
read more
This fun event will be hosted by the fabulous Tori Heart and include bar games, happy hour drink prices, and more.
Two-person teams will compete in five games with prizes for each, plus first-second-third place scoring on each game to determine the overall Bar Olympics champions. With more than $1,000 in prizes, there?s a lot at stake to compete over!
Two-person teams will compete in five games with prizes for each, plus first-second-third place scoring on each game to determine the overall Bar Olympics champions. With more than $1,000 in cash and prizes, there?s a lot at stake to compete over!
read more
(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 […]
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
Erasure demands respect for gay bully victims
Erasure's "A Little Respect" in the eighties quickly became an iconic song for the gay community and has been adopted as one of our most played anthems (especially in the RVT). There have been thousands of cover versions (the Almighty Records ones are best) but now Erasure are re-releasing "A Little Respect" with proceeeds going to The Hetrick-Martin Institute (home of the Harvey Milk High School) and Cyndi Lauper's charity the True Colors Fund.
"
A Little Respect" comes with a movie style video which was inspired by the bullying incidents occurring recently in the USA. Andy Bell from Erasure felt the need to act - "I am honored and moved beyond words to serve as an Ambassador to the The Hetrick-Martin Institute. Every opportunity we have to spread tolerance and compassion must be seized and I will take special pride in doing so on HMI's behalf."
Erasure's "A Little Respect" is available for download in December and all proceeds are going to the The Hetrick-Martin Institute and the True Colors Fund.
Watch the original below.
Gay newsView Australian Queer News on the web at Gay News Blog
"
A Little Respect" comes with a movie style video which was inspired by the bullying incidents occurring recently in the USA. Andy Bell from Erasure felt the need to act - "I am honored and moved beyond words to serve as an Ambassador to the The Hetrick-Martin Institute. Every opportunity we have to spread tolerance and compassion must be seized and I will take special pride in doing so on HMI's behalf."
Erasure's "A Little Respect" is available for download in December and all proceeds are going to the The Hetrick-Martin Institute and the True Colors Fund.
Watch the original below.
Gay newsView Australian Queer News on the web at Gay News Blog
GLSEN's Dr. Eliza Byard at 50th Anniversary of the March on Washington
WASHINGTON — Aug. 21, 2013 — GLSEN, the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network, today announced Executive Director Dr. Eliza Byard will join Presidents Obama, Clinton and Carter and King family members on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial to deliver a speech during the 50th Anniversary Let Freedom Ring Commencement and Call to Action on Wednesday, Aug. 28.
Night Beat: Dangerous Muse and Shea Van Horn perform at Art Museum of the Americas' nighttime party
Art:
A few years ago, Shea Van Horn performed at night on the National Mall as part of the Hirshhorn Museum's After Hours programming. Next Thursday, Aug. 29, Van Horn will nearly repeat the experience -- though this time with a performance a couple blocks off the Mall at the gorgeous Art Museum of the Americas (AMA). And this time as DJ Shea Van Horn, not drag performer Summer Camp.
''Untitled'' by Wilfredo Lam
(Photo courtesy of the Art Museum of the Americas)
Jonathan Goldman helped put together this year's ''Art After Dark'' event at the AMA, part of the Organization of American States (OAS). ''I think it's a really nice time to have fun and see the museum and experience the OAS in a way that most times the public can't,'' says Goldman, an exhibition designer at AMA. Now in its fourth year, the soiree has become the museum's chief source of revenue for exhibitions, with a fundraising goal of $30,000. And this year the museum will actually be open during the nightly event, allowing people to see the full collection of modern Latin American and Caribbean art as well as the current special exhibition Fusion: Tracing Asian Migration to the Americas.
In addition to Van Horn, Dangerous Muse will perform. The New York-based electro-pop band is expected to premiere its new music video during a 45-minute set that will also include its own video projections. But video art by various artists will also be projected onto OAS's neo-colonial main building throughout the night. Goldman, who's been with the museum for more than three years, says that's become a tradition of the event. It's just another way, he adds, that the museum ''is trying to carry out the mission of the OAS through art and culture and music.'' '
Art After Dark is Thursday, Aug. 29, from 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., at the Art Museum of the Americas, 201 18th St. NW. Tickets are $25, or $45 for VIP, allowing early and express access plus a private bar. Call 202-370-0147 or visit amamuseum.org. ...more
A few years ago, Shea Van Horn performed at night on the National Mall as part of the Hirshhorn Museum's After Hours programming. Next Thursday, Aug. 29, Van Horn will nearly repeat the experience -- though this time with a performance a couple blocks off the Mall at the gorgeous Art Museum of the Americas (AMA). And this time as DJ Shea Van Horn, not drag performer Summer Camp.
''Untitled'' by Wilfredo Lam
(Photo courtesy of the Art Museum of the Americas)
Jonathan Goldman helped put together this year's ''Art After Dark'' event at the AMA, part of the Organization of American States (OAS). ''I think it's a really nice time to have fun and see the museum and experience the OAS in a way that most times the public can't,'' says Goldman, an exhibition designer at AMA. Now in its fourth year, the soiree has become the museum's chief source of revenue for exhibitions, with a fundraising goal of $30,000. And this year the museum will actually be open during the nightly event, allowing people to see the full collection of modern Latin American and Caribbean art as well as the current special exhibition Fusion: Tracing Asian Migration to the Americas.
In addition to Van Horn, Dangerous Muse will perform. The New York-based electro-pop band is expected to premiere its new music video during a 45-minute set that will also include its own video projections. But video art by various artists will also be projected onto OAS's neo-colonial main building throughout the night. Goldman, who's been with the museum for more than three years, says that's become a tradition of the event. It's just another way, he adds, that the museum ''is trying to carry out the mission of the OAS through art and culture and music.'' '
Art After Dark is Thursday, Aug. 29, from 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., at the Art Museum of the Americas, 201 18th St. NW. Tickets are $25, or $45 for VIP, allowing early and express access plus a private bar. Call 202-370-0147 or visit amamuseum.org. ...more
Saturday, August 24, 2013
Gossiping with Moe
Understanding the vision of Moe Girton: Manager and Bartender at Gossip Grill
Moe Girton is one of San Diego’s favorite bartenders and is now also manager at Gossip Grill. She and her staff have worked hard to create a place that lesbians and just about everyone else love to go. They have some of the fairest drinks prices in town along with a friendly staff of very diverse girls and guys. Moe and Gossip have given San Diego lesbians a place again, that was much needed. After the closing of other lesbian bars there was a dry spell in San Diego. For a lot of lesbians a gay bar holding a lesbian night could not replace a real seven days a week place that was lesbian oriented. Thankfully that has all changed and Gossip Grill along with Moe have paved the way for a place for lesbians and their friends to go have a drink, socialize, h…
Read More
Moe Girton is one of San Diego’s favorite bartenders and is now also manager at Gossip Grill. She and her staff have worked hard to create a place that lesbians and just about everyone else love to go. They have some of the fairest drinks prices in town along with a friendly staff of very diverse girls and guys. Moe and Gossip have given San Diego lesbians a place again, that was much needed. After the closing of other lesbian bars there was a dry spell in San Diego. For a lot of lesbians a gay bar holding a lesbian night could not replace a real seven days a week place that was lesbian oriented. Thankfully that has all changed and Gossip Grill along with Moe have paved the way for a place for lesbians and their friends to go have a drink, socialize, h…
Read More
Judge orders lesbian reinstated to Air Force
TACOMA, Wash. (AP) – A federal judge ruled Friday that a decorated flight nurse discharged from the Air Force for being gay should be given her job back as soon as possible in the latest legal setback to the military’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy.
The decision by U.S. District Judge Ronald Leighton came in a closely watched case as a tense debate has been playing out over the policy. Senate Republicans blocked an effort to lift the ban this week, but Leighton is now the second federal judge this month to deem the policy unconstitutional.
Maj. Margaret Witt was suspended in 2004 and subsequently discharged under the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy after the Air Force learned she had been in a lon…
Read More
The decision by U.S. District Judge Ronald Leighton came in a closely watched case as a tense debate has been playing out over the policy. Senate Republicans blocked an effort to lift the ban this week, but Leighton is now the second federal judge this month to deem the policy unconstitutional.
Maj. Margaret Witt was suspended in 2004 and subsequently discharged under the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy after the Air Force learned she had been in a lon…
Read More
Stuff going on from the web today
The things that you are imagining are LESS crazy than what actually happened…
Women Derive Psychological Benefits From Same-Sex Relationships, Study Finds
SAN DIEGO -- (Aug. 3, 2013) -- New research on the psychological benefits of same-sex marriage from the Rockway Institute for LGBT Psychology & Public Policy at Alliant International University has been selected for presentation at the American Psychological Association (APA) annual convention July 31-August 4 at the Hawai'i Convention Center in Honolulu.
(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, […]
Friday, August 23, 2013
The Sound You Hear Is That of a Thousand Lesbian Heads Exploding.
...and it sounds oh so lovely.I'm coming out of hiding to post this picture and to let you guys deal with the fact that Gwen Stefani and Pink not only sang together, and not only did super incredibly homosexual push-ups together on stage tonight, but they seem to have brushed liptorials in the process. If you need assistance getting up off of the floor, please call 1-800-ARLAN-IVE-FALLEN-AND-ICANT-GETUP and I'll send someone over to pick your ass up.I've said it before, and I'll say it again: You. Are. Welcome.
No, no, I'm not attracted to women! I just find women attractive!
Mid-20s, female, sort of starting to wonder if I might maybe be bi, kind of hating on myself over it. I remember being like eleven or twelve, and reading some article by a woman who essentially said "it doesn't make you gay if you feel attracted to women! It could just mean you think they're pretty!" And I was like... oh thank goodness! That means I'm not gay! My first crush on a boy a year later was met with similar relief. And from that moment on, I was straight.
In high school I had it bad for a girl I knew. But I 'knew' it was just because I thought she was pretty and I wanted to be like her. So what if I dreamed about her...
She was really my last female crush. Mostly I'm attracted to men. But I am now starting to realize that maybe the sidelong glances I give to hot women on the street are, in fact, not just glances of platonic appreciation.
And this really bothers me. Because I feel like I don't deserve to be queer, because I never had to suffer over this at all. I've been straight. I've never once felt like a closeted bi person, I've felt straight! I haven't ever felt like I was hiding some deep dark secret- I have happily dated and slept with men and not really felt like I was missing anything. I could try dating women, or I could just not bother and I think I'd still wind up happy. So I feel like if I did try dating women, I'd be cheating, or being a gayness dilettante somehow.
And there's also the fear that I was right all along, I really am straight, and I'll be one of those horrible bi-curious girls everyone loves to hate. The ones who date one girl and then go back to men forever. And because of that, there's a part of me who wants to try this without 'coming out', and that makes me feel cowardly.
Adding to this anxiety is the fact that, well, I'm dating a guy and we don't have plans to break up any time soon, so all this is purely in what-if territory, and I fear that this is all just fantasizing and if we break up I'll just chicken out of trying this.
Um... anyone been here? What is going on? How do I even know if I'm bi, like for realsies?
In high school I had it bad for a girl I knew. But I 'knew' it was just because I thought she was pretty and I wanted to be like her. So what if I dreamed about her...
She was really my last female crush. Mostly I'm attracted to men. But I am now starting to realize that maybe the sidelong glances I give to hot women on the street are, in fact, not just glances of platonic appreciation.
And this really bothers me. Because I feel like I don't deserve to be queer, because I never had to suffer over this at all. I've been straight. I've never once felt like a closeted bi person, I've felt straight! I haven't ever felt like I was hiding some deep dark secret- I have happily dated and slept with men and not really felt like I was missing anything. I could try dating women, or I could just not bother and I think I'd still wind up happy. So I feel like if I did try dating women, I'd be cheating, or being a gayness dilettante somehow.
And there's also the fear that I was right all along, I really am straight, and I'll be one of those horrible bi-curious girls everyone loves to hate. The ones who date one girl and then go back to men forever. And because of that, there's a part of me who wants to try this without 'coming out', and that makes me feel cowardly.
Adding to this anxiety is the fact that, well, I'm dating a guy and we don't have plans to break up any time soon, so all this is purely in what-if territory, and I fear that this is all just fantasizing and if we break up I'll just chicken out of trying this.
Um... anyone been here? What is going on? How do I even know if I'm bi, like for realsies?
Lesbian News - 13 Aug 2013
NC Gay and Lesbian Film Festival kicks off in Durham
Lesbian who nearly killed herself creates 'Ears Wide Open?'
Clare Balding urged to act 'openly lesbian' at Winter Olympics
Human Rights Violations Against A Lesbian Couple In Kerala, India
Gina Gershon Plays Lesbian Again in 'Dealin' with Idiots'
Lesbian who nearly killed herself creates 'Ears Wide Open?'
Clare Balding urged to act 'openly lesbian' at Winter Olympics
Human Rights Violations Against A Lesbian Couple In Kerala, India
Gina Gershon Plays Lesbian Again in 'Dealin' with Idiots'
The Dinah 2011: Day 3
They're here, they're queer, and you might just react with fear. Videos of 10,000 lesbians in the desert.
Lesbian News - 08 Aug 2013
P!nk Hits Back At Lesbian TweetsLesbian wanted lover's partner out of the way 'permanently'Film on gay, lesbian senior citizens, 'Gen Silent,' shows in Eugene, August 18Woman arrested in Hindu-Muslim "lesbian" case in Bangladesh?Fringe? leading lady to star in lesbian drama from Ryan Murphy
(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 […]
Thursday, August 22, 2013
GLSEN's Dr. Eliza Byard at 50th Anniversary of the March on Washington
WASHINGTON — Aug. 21, 2013 — GLSEN, the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network, today announced Executive Director Dr. Eliza Byard will join Presidents Obama, Clinton and Carter and King family members on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial to deliver a speech during the 50th Anniversary Let Freedom Ring Commencement and Call to Action on Wednesday, Aug. 28.
Video of the day: Bloomberg Spanish
NYC Mayor Mike Bloomberg held a presser a few minutes ago, and it was broadcast on major media. It was unremarkable at the outset, noting it's too late to evacuate at this point, to take precautions using candles, etc.
But then he decided to offer up a summary in Spanish. I want to give him props for trying, but it was so heinous that I burst out laughing. And I don't even speak Spanish. I can't imagine what that sounded like to native Spanish speakers.
This is one for the ages; it's at least nice to laugh during what's a pretty tough time to laugh with Irene barreling up the Northeast corridor.
Thanks @robrcb.
WATCH: New Zealand's First Same-Sex Marriage in the Sky
Lynley Bendall and Ally Wanikau were among the first same-sex couples to marry in New Zealand on Monday, but they did so high above the Kiwi nation, with out actor Jesse Tyler Ferguson on board.
read more
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PHOTO: Rainbow Crosswalk Appears by Oslo's Russian Embassy
The rainbow crosswalk is the second to appear near a Russian embassy in the last few weeks.
read more
read more
8 New Scholarships Awarded by LEAGUE Foundation
Bedminster, NJ -- LEAGUE Foundation awarded its 108th college scholarship since its inception in 1996; Eight graduating high school students received a 2013 award this year. Through its tenure as the nation?s oldest Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender scholarship program...
POZitively Speaking
According to the Centers for Disease Control data collected in 2007/08 of the estimated number of diagnoses of HIV infection among MEN* in the 37 states with confidential name-based HIV infection, reporting by transmission category MSWM or (men who have sex with men), was 17,758. That’s up from years previous which was 16,992. Although not too much of a difference it seems the message of safe sex is getting out there. Some of the cultural behavior is much harder to break through, for example GLBT people of color lead among new HIV infection cases and in the category among Latinos it was 7,121.
This need for seed, so to speak, seems to be more of a headline grabber or attention getter. A cultural phenomenon is the BUG CHASERS, those from within the …
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This need for seed, so to speak, seems to be more of a headline grabber or attention getter. A cultural phenomenon is the BUG CHASERS, those from within the …
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When May Met December... :: Daniel Allen Cox on 'Gerontophilia'
Novelist Daniel Allen Cox has waded into daring stylistic and thematic territory before with titles like the Lambda Literary Award-nominated "Shuck," the similarly nominated "Krakow Melt," and the hallucinatory, critically acclaimed "Basement of Wolves," not to mention his Expozine Alternative Press Award-nominated novella "Tattoo This Madness In," ... (more)
Wednesday, August 21, 2013
There is no greater achievement than helping to stop the abuse of our youth. Today's�ban will do just that.
Troy Stevenson, executive director of Garden State Equality, reacting to the new law banning gay "conversion therapy" in New -More-
San Diego community prepares to step off for 21st Annual AIDS Walk
As local service organizations continue to feel the impact of government funding cuts for HIV/AIDS services, the San Diego community will again come together in a display of support and compassion at the 21st annual AIDS Walk & Run. The event will take place on Sunday, Sept. 26 at Balboa Park.
Registration for both walkers and runners will begin at 6am at Balboa Park, along Sixth Avenue (early registration is also available, see the official event guide here for more information) on Sunday. The 10K run will start at 8am, with the Walk step off at 8:10am.
Local elected officials will also take part in the day’s ceremonies, including U.S. Representative Susan Davis, California State Assemblymember Lori Saldaña, and San Diego City Councilmemb…
Read More
Registration for both walkers and runners will begin at 6am at Balboa Park, along Sixth Avenue (early registration is also available, see the official event guide here for more information) on Sunday. The 10K run will start at 8am, with the Walk step off at 8:10am.
Local elected officials will also take part in the day’s ceremonies, including U.S. Representative Susan Davis, California State Assemblymember Lori Saldaña, and San Diego City Councilmemb…
Read More
Just In Time For The Summer Wedding Season
Leave it to Saturday Night Live to come up with a fun way to spoof gay and lesbian weddings!As only they can do it: Xanax For Gay Weddings
Spin, Spin Sugar: DJ dirtyKURTY
DJ dirtyKURTY is a former professional soccer player turned spin goddess. She hails from New Jersey where she discovered her love of music in the New York club scene at clubs like Sound Factory, Roxy, Limelight and the Palladium. She moved to San Francisco where she discovered DJing, then to San Diego where she now resides. While DJ dirtyKURTY is passionate about her House music, it’s her mission to get everyone moving on the dance floor regardless of what style music she is playing. She’s performed all over the East and West Coast. She’s the featured DJ on the Sweet Caribbean Cruise, Co-Owner/Promoter of in2U Events/U*NITY Party and a member of the San Diego MixMasters DJ Crew.
“House music is definitely my passion, but I can play …
Read More
“House music is definitely my passion, but I can play …
Read More
Lesbian Commercials
My friend Kelly sent these great commercials to me recently and I thought you'd all appreciate them...
Russophile No More: Vladimir Putin, we're breaking up
Opinion: Hey, Vlad. Two things. First, I'm mad at you. Since I'm gay, you could've guessed as much. But I've really got to get this off my chest, because I don't think you understand how deep this goes. As a child of the Cold War, Russia's been a big part in my worldview for ages. I've yet to meet anyone else who paid to see 1985's Soviet-sympathetic Letter to Brezhnev in the theater. As a high school student, no less. By the way, the movie could now be considered illegal in Russia in case anyone makes out the gay-affirming Bronski Beat lyrics during the disco scene. You've let things get that bad. ... (more)
Man Arrested in D.C. for Shooting, Setting Gay Man Ablaze: Suspect scheduled to appear in court in mid-August for Columbia Heights homicide
News:
A Northwest D.C. man was arrested by police last week and faces a charge of felony murder for the killing of a gay man in Columbia Heights on July 26.
The suspect in the case, Jermaine Brown, appeared in D.C. Superior Court Aug. 2, with Judge Karen Howze finding probable cause that Brown murdered the victim by shooting him and setting him on fire. He has since been scheduled for a preliminary status hearing on Aug. 22. Brown's lawyer, David Maxted, has filed for notice of discovery, meaning he has asked for information or evidence that could be used by the state to prove his client guilty.
According to charging documents, which were posted online by the local crime website Homicide Watch D.C., the D.C. Fire Department & Emergency Medical Services responded at 6:18 a.m. to a call for an ''odor of smoke'' in the 1000 block of Euclid Street NW, where they found the victim severely burned and suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. The victim was transported to Washington MedStar Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
According to findings from the District of Columbia Medical Examiner's Office, the victim's death was ruled a homicide, caused by three gunshot wounds and burns from being set on fire while alive.
During the follow-up investigation, police searched for the defendant's car, which was not at the scene of the crime. It was later photographed by a camera in the city's Trinidad neighborhood, near the intersection of Mount Olivet Road NE and West Virginia Avenue NE. The car has not yet been recovered.
A witness approached police with a plastic bag containing a tablet, two cellular phones, and an iPod touch, the serial numbers of which were later found to match the serial numbers on empty iPod, iPhone and iPad boxes found in the victim's apartment. The witness then told police that the tablet, phones and iPod had been obtained from an apartment in the 400 block of Evarts Street NE.
Another witness residing at that address later informed police that Brown had come to the apartment and dropped off the bag containing the tablet, phones and iPod at 8 a.m. on July 26. A couple of hours later, Brown returned for a few minutes and then left, without asking for the bag, according to the second witness. The second witness then received a call saying the victim's family wanted the bag, and gave the bag to the first witness, who transported and handed it over to police.
Brown later returned to the Evarts Street apartment, where police detained and questioned him. After agreeing to come to the police station, Brown initially told police he had been robbed in his Northwest D.C. apartment on July 25, saying he didn't know the identity of the person who had robbed him, but that he had first seen the person at 11th and Euclid Streets NW.
According to charging documents, during the course of the interview, Brown told police that he had visited the victim, whom he referred to as ''Man,'' and alleged that Man, who he said was gay, had tried to ''holla'' at him, meaning initiate some sort of sexual relationship. Brown claimed he and the victim had at times engaged in drug use but denied either killing him or having any the technological devices in his possession.
The report summarizes Brown's statements to police, saying, ''He advised that Man was gay and he denied ever 'going that way' because something is wrong with it and he sees a problem with it. He described it as being nasty.''
Other witnesses interviewed by police placed Brown near the crime scene on the night of the murder, and disputed some of Brown's claims, including whether the victim had used drugs at all, and whether Brown had a backpack or other bag with him when he arrived at Euclid Street. Police later confronted Brown about inconsistencies in his various statements, which frequently changed throughout the course of his interviews with police.
The charging documents state: ''D1's (Brown's) final version of events is that he found the black bag in the hallway of [redacted] Euclid Street at 3 a.m. on Friday, July 26. D1 placed it in his book bag and rode his bicycle to his mother's house. Around 5 a.m., he stole the decedent's Mercedes, which was parked in front of the building. Finally, D1 added that he occasionally engaged in sex with men, but that he has never had a sexual relationship with the decedent.''
Police later arrested Brown and charged him with one count of felony murder. There are currently no bias-related enhancements in the charge. ...more
A Northwest D.C. man was arrested by police last week and faces a charge of felony murder for the killing of a gay man in Columbia Heights on July 26.
The suspect in the case, Jermaine Brown, appeared in D.C. Superior Court Aug. 2, with Judge Karen Howze finding probable cause that Brown murdered the victim by shooting him and setting him on fire. He has since been scheduled for a preliminary status hearing on Aug. 22. Brown's lawyer, David Maxted, has filed for notice of discovery, meaning he has asked for information or evidence that could be used by the state to prove his client guilty.
According to charging documents, which were posted online by the local crime website Homicide Watch D.C., the D.C. Fire Department & Emergency Medical Services responded at 6:18 a.m. to a call for an ''odor of smoke'' in the 1000 block of Euclid Street NW, where they found the victim severely burned and suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. The victim was transported to Washington MedStar Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
According to findings from the District of Columbia Medical Examiner's Office, the victim's death was ruled a homicide, caused by three gunshot wounds and burns from being set on fire while alive.
During the follow-up investigation, police searched for the defendant's car, which was not at the scene of the crime. It was later photographed by a camera in the city's Trinidad neighborhood, near the intersection of Mount Olivet Road NE and West Virginia Avenue NE. The car has not yet been recovered.
A witness approached police with a plastic bag containing a tablet, two cellular phones, and an iPod touch, the serial numbers of which were later found to match the serial numbers on empty iPod, iPhone and iPad boxes found in the victim's apartment. The witness then told police that the tablet, phones and iPod had been obtained from an apartment in the 400 block of Evarts Street NE.
Another witness residing at that address later informed police that Brown had come to the apartment and dropped off the bag containing the tablet, phones and iPod at 8 a.m. on July 26. A couple of hours later, Brown returned for a few minutes and then left, without asking for the bag, according to the second witness. The second witness then received a call saying the victim's family wanted the bag, and gave the bag to the first witness, who transported and handed it over to police.
Brown later returned to the Evarts Street apartment, where police detained and questioned him. After agreeing to come to the police station, Brown initially told police he had been robbed in his Northwest D.C. apartment on July 25, saying he didn't know the identity of the person who had robbed him, but that he had first seen the person at 11th and Euclid Streets NW.
According to charging documents, during the course of the interview, Brown told police that he had visited the victim, whom he referred to as ''Man,'' and alleged that Man, who he said was gay, had tried to ''holla'' at him, meaning initiate some sort of sexual relationship. Brown claimed he and the victim had at times engaged in drug use but denied either killing him or having any the technological devices in his possession.
The report summarizes Brown's statements to police, saying, ''He advised that Man was gay and he denied ever 'going that way' because something is wrong with it and he sees a problem with it. He described it as being nasty.''
Other witnesses interviewed by police placed Brown near the crime scene on the night of the murder, and disputed some of Brown's claims, including whether the victim had used drugs at all, and whether Brown had a backpack or other bag with him when he arrived at Euclid Street. Police later confronted Brown about inconsistencies in his various statements, which frequently changed throughout the course of his interviews with police.
The charging documents state: ''D1's (Brown's) final version of events is that he found the black bag in the hallway of [redacted] Euclid Street at 3 a.m. on Friday, July 26. D1 placed it in his book bag and rode his bicycle to his mother's house. Around 5 a.m., he stole the decedent's Mercedes, which was parked in front of the building. Finally, D1 added that he occasionally engaged in sex with men, but that he has never had a sexual relationship with the decedent.''
Police later arrested Brown and charged him with one count of felony murder. There are currently no bias-related enhancements in the charge. ...more
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
Spotlight: Next to Normal
A suburban American family is thrown into turmoil when the mother's mental illness becomes insurmountable in the hit Broadway musical Next to Normal. See why critics raved for this Tony- and Pulitzer Prize-winning pop-rock show featuring a script and score by Brian Yorkey and Tom Kitt, now being presented in its first home-grown Chicago-area production. Next to Normal continues through Sunday, Sept. 1, at Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace. Performances are at 1:30 p.m. Wednesdays, 1:30 and 8 p.m. Thursdays, 8 p.m. Fridays, 5 and 8:30 p.m. Saturdays and 2 and 6 p.m. Sundays. Tickets are $35-$49, with combined lunch and dinner packages also available for $50-$74; call 630-530-0111 or visit www.drurylane.com. Photo courtesy of Drury Lane Theatre
Russian Athletes Kiss - or Was It 'Propaganda'?
What could be a congratulatory kiss between two gold medalists at the world championships in Moscow set off speculation about whether it was actually a protest of Russia's antigay laws.
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(43A) Interview w/Melissa Ferrick! (Part 1)
**Exclusive Interview w/Melissa Ferrick (Part 1)** Prop 8 Turrets by Yours Truly, Part 1 of an Exclusive 2 Part Interview w/ Out Lesbian Singer/Songwriter, Indie Icon, Melissa Ferrick! We talk New Couches, New Album: Goodbye Youth, Touring w/Ani DiFranco, Relationships, Coming Out and More … FRIEND MELISSA FERRICK: http://www.myspace.com/melissaferrick NEW! LISTEN TO THE LESBIAN MAFIA […]
Come Be a Part of Til Death Do Us Toby!
Portland!We are coming to town this week to film a portion of the short film Til Death Do Us Toby and want YOU to be a part of it.DETAILSSaturday, June 26, 20105 - 6pmLaurelhurst Park**meet at the bathroom area (click on map embedded here) We will be filming Christine Havrilla singing a song called Hightail, co-written by Gina Daggett and Patricia McKenny. With her jammin' acoustic guitar, we are going to film Havrilla in front of all of you, who will sing along with the chorus, which is super duper catchy...Gotta break freeGotta surviveGotta find a way to stay aliveI just wanna runI just wanna screamI just wanna hightail out of this dream What is this Til Death Do Us Toby movie anyway?It's a short film about a girl named Sam and a neurotic dog named Toby, who are both trying to find freedom. In Sam's case, she's trying to break free from her controlling mother, Mimi, who doesn't like Sam's best friend who's quite the edgy dyke. In Toby's case, he misunderstands a conversation between Mimi and Sam and thinks they're out to kill him, so he's just trying to hightail out of electric chair (aka their house). >>>>>>>>>>>>>> It's going to be a ton of fun and won't take up a bunch of time, so come on out and be in the short film, which will be making the queer festival rounds next year. Lipstick would be forever grateful!If you're coming, let us know on FACEBOOK!
Door County, Wisconsin Announces Inaugural "Commit with Pride" Weekend
Situated on a scenic northeastern Wisconsin peninsula that juts into Lake Michigan, Door County is one of the Upper Midwest's most charming and sophisticated vacation destinations, a favorite weekend getaway just 150 miles north of Milwaukee, 180 miles northeast of Madison, and 240 miles north of Chicago. About 28,000 people live in the county, the largest town of which is Sturgeon Bay, but the population climbs to as high as 250,000 during the summer tourist season, and the area remains quite popular into autumn, a great time for watching fall foliage, and this year the date of the first ever Commit with Pride Weekend, slated for September 20-22....Read Full Post
Op-ed: Phone Dating, Shame, and Healing
A writer contemplates insecurity and masculinity after downloading a gay dating app.
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(34) Deleted Scenes!
Could a podcast have Deleted Scenes? The answer is yes! Got a portable was testing it out so most of this is stuff that would have normally been deleted but for the sake of consistancy here it goes … Bullshit & Dolphins, Portable Recorder Nonsense from Various Locations, Best Buy, Rude Toll Booth People, Word […]
(43A) Interview w/Melissa Ferrick! (Part 1)
**Exclusive Interview w/Melissa Ferrick (Part 1)** Prop 8 Turrets by Yours Truly, Part 1 of an Exclusive 2 Part Interview w/ Out Lesbian Singer/Songwriter, Indie Icon, Melissa Ferrick! We talk New Couches, New Album: Goodbye Youth, Touring w/Ani DiFranco, Relationships, Coming Out and More … FRIEND MELISSA FERRICK: http://www.myspace.com/melissaferrick NEW! LISTEN TO THE LESBIAN MAFIA […]
Monday, August 19, 2013
A New Zealand First: Equality at Cruising Altitude
One couple celebrates in the skies as New Zealand adds itself on Monday to the list of countries with marriage equality.
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GLSEN forces Family Research Council to change fraudulent video
crossposted on Holy Bullies and Headless MonstersLast week, GLSEN (the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network) issued a cease-and-desist letter via its attorneys to the Family Research Council "demanding that FRC cease distribution and publication of a video clip containing false and defamatory statements about GLSEN, as well as any other similar false and defamatory statements that may be contained in a longer video associated with that video clip." The cease-and-desist letter has to do a video in which Tony Perkins, head of FRC, and Brian Camenker, head of the Massachusetts anti-gay group Mass Resistance claimed that GLSEN and the Massachusetts Public Schools distributed an explicit safe-sex guide called The Little Black Book to fifth to ninth graders at a conference in 2005. This story had been debunked by several groups, including Media Matters . If one were to look at the video now, he/she would see the following: The new video (seen below) does not say that GLSEN had anything to do with distributing The Little Black Book. However it continues to refer to Brian Camenker regarding GLSEN and repeats the nonsense regarding "Fistgate," a controversy which Camenker played a huge role in. To get the true story on "Fistgate," click on the link. Needless to say the controversy, like the original claim about The Little Black Book which FRC was forced to take back, is a lie. I should also mention that Camenker's group, Mass Resistance, is also Southern Poverty Law Center declared hate group, just like FRC. The bottom line is this - why should anyone believe any claim about GLSEN coming from FRC? The organization's reponse to GLSEN's cease-and-desist letter clearly showed that it erred (intentionally?) in its claims about GLSEN and The Little Black Book. And FRC didn't even have the good Christian grace to apologize. Instead the organization takes the tone of "we may have been wrong about that charge, but these new charges prove our point." Not true, FRC. Your repeated attacks on GLSEN only prove yourself to be a homophobic, lying group hiding behind the mask of Christian integrity. A killer wearing the facial skin of his victim would look better than you right now.Related post: The Family Research Council will continue to lie even after GLSEN embarrassment
4 Hour Body
This is a must for all gym boys out there.
I have started the 4 Hour Body diet (yeh) - follow my progress here The Four Hour Body - Paul ThompsonView Australian Queer News on the web at Gay News Blog
I have started the 4 Hour Body diet (yeh) - follow my progress here The Four Hour Body - Paul ThompsonView Australian Queer News on the web at Gay News Blog
Spin, Spin Sugar: DJ dirtyKURTY
DJ dirtyKURTY is a former professional soccer player turned spin goddess. She hails from New Jersey where she discovered her love of music in the New York club scene at clubs like Sound Factory, Roxy, Limelight and the Palladium. She moved to San Francisco where she discovered DJing, then to San Diego where she now resides. While DJ dirtyKURTY is passionate about her House music, it’s her mission to get everyone moving on the dance floor regardless of what style music she is playing. She’s performed all over the East and West Coast. She’s the featured DJ on the Sweet Caribbean Cruise, Co-Owner/Promoter of in2U Events/U*NITY Party and a member of the San Diego MixMasters DJ Crew.
“House music is definitely my passion, but I can play …
Read More
“House music is definitely my passion, but I can play …
Read More
Hello Gay men of the World. I am Phoenix and I am a Queer
Hello all you gay men of the World. Welcome to Queer Phoenixs blog about gay male topics. I am your writer my name is Phoenix and I am gay and I have lived in Phoenix, Arizona all my life. I … Continue reading →
Dining, Drinks & Desserts
Little Italy’s “5 Star Restaurant”
Hello everyone and thanks for checking back in this week. Before beginning I would like to ask for your friendship on Facebook. In the search box type in Frank Lechner and my mug will pop up. I have created an album and will be adding photos of places we visit.
Thanks again for your continued support.
This week my guest was John Woodgate, a long time friend and wonderful man. Our destination BENCOTTO – Italian Kitchen in Little Italy, created by owners Guido Nistri and his lovely bride Valentina Di Pietro. I think this is about as Italian as it gets.
Website Quotes: The word BENCOTTO, means and refers to a meal “done well” or perfectly cooked. Our core belief is that high quality food can be simple and supremely delicious. Combining differ…
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Hello everyone and thanks for checking back in this week. Before beginning I would like to ask for your friendship on Facebook. In the search box type in Frank Lechner and my mug will pop up. I have created an album and will be adding photos of places we visit.
Thanks again for your continued support.
This week my guest was John Woodgate, a long time friend and wonderful man. Our destination BENCOTTO – Italian Kitchen in Little Italy, created by owners Guido Nistri and his lovely bride Valentina Di Pietro. I think this is about as Italian as it gets.
Website Quotes: The word BENCOTTO, means and refers to a meal “done well” or perfectly cooked. Our core belief is that high quality food can be simple and supremely delicious. Combining differ…
Read More
Sunday, August 18, 2013
Playing my part in making life for fellow LGBT countryfolk bearable.
The State-sanctioned homophobia and transphobia in Malaysia, my country of origin, is breaking my heart. What can I do as a currently overseas citizen to make things better for my fellow LGBT folk back in Malaysia, particularly in raising awareness of the issue internationally? I left Malaysia for various reasons, but one core reason was escaping the various persecutions and micro/macro-aggressions I felt for who I am. Most of this has to do with race (my parents are Bangladeshi migrants) and citizenship/residency, but I also felt that I wouldn't be safe exploring my sexuality in a country that so deeply vilifies sexuality that "sexy" is a slur and politicians get run out of Parliament for what they wear (or don't) in their sleep. It took me until I had been in Australia for a few years that I felt safe and able to explore my sexuality and gender without having to look behind my back to see if I will get screwed over by the Malaysian Government. I have had friends and acquaintances who cannot go back to Malaysia because they will face persecution, and one person whose Government scholarship was revoked and who was forced to come back home because her ex outed her as a trans woman.
I am trying to get the word out about the situation in Malaysia, especially this ridiculous propaganda musical, but I am facing a few roadblocks:
1. I am overseas and am not likely to return to Malaysia anytime soon, so my ability to organise something back home is limited. If I did try to do something in Malaysia, I'd be dismissed as a "foreign Zionist agent" of some fashion.
2. Incorporated into the musical is a plot point about how LGBT people who protest are being paid a handsome sum by the Opposition party and are merely reacting against the advice of "reasonable Malay Muslims". This makes any show of protest difficult to be taken seriously - especially when the main sexuality rights event in the country gets shut down for "threatening to disrupt public order" - pretty much the main excuse for arresting any protestor ever.
3. I am trying to get the word out in the Bay Area (where I live right now), especially with the Queer People of Color circles I am heavily involved with. Not many people have really picked up on this though - most people get stuck on "a musical about anti-gay sentiment! ISN'T THAT IRONIC" and don't move on from there. Also it seems that Malaysia doesn't quite have the White/Western Savior Cred of places like Uganda or India, where people seem to care more about LGBT issues there.
4. Even when there are people that DO care, I'm at a loss for what they could do. Petitions are pointless, because the Malaysian Government isn't going to pay attention (the whole paid-by-the-Opposition thing). International attention would be handy, but then it becomes "Foreign Zionist Agents". Tying this in to the United Nations may be useful, but I'm sure there will be a stack of countries who will take Malaysia's side.
5. People often bring up voting, but Malaysia has arcane voting laws that make it near impossible for overseas residents to vote. I technically am allowed to vote overseas because I'm an international student (one of the few classes of overseas residents allowed to vote), but I have to register in Malaysia first - not overseas. Gah! (Besides, it's not like there is anyone to vote for in my district that isn't Ruling Party, and there's a lot of electoral fraud.)
I want Malaysians to see that the so-called deviants are people like everyone else, diverse and unique and part of their community, and not a danger or scrounge to society. My current idea is to organise a performance of monologues, ala Yoni ki Baat (semi self link) or The Vagina Monologues, about Malaysians dealing with the stigmatization of sexuality. Not just in terms of being LGBT, but also slut-shaming, ageism against young people, and misogyny - one does not have to do much to be branded a sexual deviant in Malaysia. I have been and am currently involved in these sorts of This requires being back in Malaysia for a substantial amount of time, which I am not able to do right now. I'm also reminded of how the Vagina Monologues are banned in Malaysia and how anything of this nature would have to be underground...which then leads to the issue of preaching to the choir, the people who already know that LGBT people are not evil...rather than the people who will be affected by this propaganda. Something along the lines of the Pussy Riot worldwide protests would be awesome, but I'm not sure how to get people to care.
Any ideas of what I can do to get international support? I'm reaching out super slowly, one person at a time, but I really don't want Malaysia to get away with it and continue being an unsafe hostile space for people like me.
I am trying to get the word out about the situation in Malaysia, especially this ridiculous propaganda musical, but I am facing a few roadblocks:
1. I am overseas and am not likely to return to Malaysia anytime soon, so my ability to organise something back home is limited. If I did try to do something in Malaysia, I'd be dismissed as a "foreign Zionist agent" of some fashion.
2. Incorporated into the musical is a plot point about how LGBT people who protest are being paid a handsome sum by the Opposition party and are merely reacting against the advice of "reasonable Malay Muslims". This makes any show of protest difficult to be taken seriously - especially when the main sexuality rights event in the country gets shut down for "threatening to disrupt public order" - pretty much the main excuse for arresting any protestor ever.
3. I am trying to get the word out in the Bay Area (where I live right now), especially with the Queer People of Color circles I am heavily involved with. Not many people have really picked up on this though - most people get stuck on "a musical about anti-gay sentiment! ISN'T THAT IRONIC" and don't move on from there. Also it seems that Malaysia doesn't quite have the White/Western Savior Cred of places like Uganda or India, where people seem to care more about LGBT issues there.
4. Even when there are people that DO care, I'm at a loss for what they could do. Petitions are pointless, because the Malaysian Government isn't going to pay attention (the whole paid-by-the-Opposition thing). International attention would be handy, but then it becomes "Foreign Zionist Agents". Tying this in to the United Nations may be useful, but I'm sure there will be a stack of countries who will take Malaysia's side.
5. People often bring up voting, but Malaysia has arcane voting laws that make it near impossible for overseas residents to vote. I technically am allowed to vote overseas because I'm an international student (one of the few classes of overseas residents allowed to vote), but I have to register in Malaysia first - not overseas. Gah! (Besides, it's not like there is anyone to vote for in my district that isn't Ruling Party, and there's a lot of electoral fraud.)
I want Malaysians to see that the so-called deviants are people like everyone else, diverse and unique and part of their community, and not a danger or scrounge to society. My current idea is to organise a performance of monologues, ala Yoni ki Baat (semi self link) or The Vagina Monologues, about Malaysians dealing with the stigmatization of sexuality. Not just in terms of being LGBT, but also slut-shaming, ageism against young people, and misogyny - one does not have to do much to be branded a sexual deviant in Malaysia. I have been and am currently involved in these sorts of This requires being back in Malaysia for a substantial amount of time, which I am not able to do right now. I'm also reminded of how the Vagina Monologues are banned in Malaysia and how anything of this nature would have to be underground...which then leads to the issue of preaching to the choir, the people who already know that LGBT people are not evil...rather than the people who will be affected by this propaganda. Something along the lines of the Pussy Riot worldwide protests would be awesome, but I'm not sure how to get people to care.
Any ideas of what I can do to get international support? I'm reaching out super slowly, one person at a time, but I really don't want Malaysia to get away with it and continue being an unsafe hostile space for people like me.
Coverboy: Rich: Rhode Island-Raised
Coverboy Interview:
If you like a Coverboy who's physically active and has a green thumb, not to mention a compelling life story, 30-year-old Rich is the one for you. Born and raised in North Providence, R.I., Rich initially followed his passion for meteorology, something that he continues to be interested in to this day. ''Most guys have their favorite actor, musician or sports hero,'' he says. ''My idol was the local weatherman.'' He eventually switched his career path, working in a senator's Capitol Hill office for four-and-a-half years before becoming the communications manager at the Hemophilia Federation of America. A hemophiliac himself, Rich spent a year-and-a-half in a wheelchair and was told he'd never walk again. Now, he's an avid jogger who's run marathons. In his spare time, he enjoys hiking and tending to his container garden.
What's on your nightstand?A picture of my family, rosary beads, and ChapStik.
Coverboy: Rich
(Photo by Julian Vankim)
What's in your nightstand drawer?A journal, an array of pictures and The Golden Girls Season 5 box set.
Where do you keep the condoms and lube?At CVS.
What are your television favorites?Grey's Anatomy, Glee, House of Cards, and anything T.G.I.F. – old-school stuff like Family Matters.
What was your favorite cartoon when you were a kid?Scooby-Doo. I always related to him on a philosophical level, because I'm laid-back, I go with the flow, and I'm a little goofy, but I'll always make you laugh. I even slept with a 4-foot Scooby-Doo in college.
So what happened to the 4-foot Scooby-Doo?I brought him home after college. My mom had an intervention with me and told me it was time to give him up.
Who's your greatest influence?My parents, because they taught me to never take ''no'' for an answer.
Are you a go-getter?I am. You can put anything in front of me, and I won't say no. My first full marathon, I pushed myself so hard that I actually ended up in the hospital.
Coverboy: Rich
(Photo by Julian Vankim)
What's your greatest fear?As an ice-cream addict, I fear there will be no more ''free cone days'' at Ben & Jerry's.
Pick three people, living or dead, who you think would make the most fascinating dinner guests imaginable.A pinch of Mother Teresa, a splash of Wanda Sykes and a dash of JFK.
What would you serve?Traditional Italian fare, from one of my grandmother's recipes. Definitely some homemade pasta with gravy – it's not sauce, it's gravy. I'd probably serve cannoli, too.
Define good in bed.Firm on the back, soft when it needs to be and all night long. Oh, wait, I thought we were talking about my therapeutic mattress.
Who should star in a movie about your life?Ellen DeGeneres. She's very qualified to dance like me.
Who was your first celebrity crush?Mark-Paul Gosselaar. He was – and still is – a dreamboat.
Who gets on your nerves?Anyone who has a weak handshake.
If your home was burning, what's the first thing you'd grab while leaving?My gratitude journal. I write down every day five things I'm grateful for or that challenge me.
What's your biggest turn-on?Hillary Clinton, in a pantsuit, with a bowl of Ben & Jerry's vanilla ice cream.
Coverboy: Rich
(Photo by Julian Vankim)
What's your biggest turn-off?Rush Limbaugh, in Hillary Clinton's pantsuit, with an empty bowl.
What's something you've always wanted to do but haven't yet tried?Taken a road trip cross-country.
What's something you've tried that you never want to do again?Propose to a girl. I was engaged for six months. Clearly, that didn't work out.
What's your favorite website?Weather.gov. I'm a weather nerd.
What position do you play in the big baseball game of life?The receiver. That's a term in baseball, right?
What's your favorite retail store?Jackthreads.com. I don't always buy, but I love to look at the site.
What's the most you'll spend on a haircut?$21, including tip. I will still only get my hair cut in Rhode Island, if I can help it. I still go to the same barber, Mickey.
What about on shoes?Right now, I'm limiting myself to $70, because I'm looking to buy a house next year.
Coverboy: Rich
(Photo by Julian Vankim)
What's your favorite food to splurge with?Ben & Jerry's vanilla with two scoops of Jif chunky peanut butter.
What's your favorite season?Fall. There's nothing like opening the windows on a cool, crisp night and snuggling into a comforter cocoon.
What kind of animal would you be?A llama. They're intelligent, they're gentle, and you'd get to spit and not get in trouble.
What kind of plant would you be?Bamboo. It bends, but doesn't break.
What kind of car would you be?A Lamborghini. Because it's Italian, fast and has character.
What are you most grateful for?My health. Despite how I look right now, my body has been through a lot, and I will never take it for granted.
What's something you want more of?Mi famiglia. I'm Italian. That's how we roll. If someone's in trouble, the entire extended family will come running to your side.
State your life philosophy in 10 words or less.Comparing yourself to others makes you lose who you are. ...more
If you like a Coverboy who's physically active and has a green thumb, not to mention a compelling life story, 30-year-old Rich is the one for you. Born and raised in North Providence, R.I., Rich initially followed his passion for meteorology, something that he continues to be interested in to this day. ''Most guys have their favorite actor, musician or sports hero,'' he says. ''My idol was the local weatherman.'' He eventually switched his career path, working in a senator's Capitol Hill office for four-and-a-half years before becoming the communications manager at the Hemophilia Federation of America. A hemophiliac himself, Rich spent a year-and-a-half in a wheelchair and was told he'd never walk again. Now, he's an avid jogger who's run marathons. In his spare time, he enjoys hiking and tending to his container garden.
What's on your nightstand?A picture of my family, rosary beads, and ChapStik.
Coverboy: Rich
(Photo by Julian Vankim)
What's in your nightstand drawer?A journal, an array of pictures and The Golden Girls Season 5 box set.
Where do you keep the condoms and lube?At CVS.
What are your television favorites?Grey's Anatomy, Glee, House of Cards, and anything T.G.I.F. – old-school stuff like Family Matters.
What was your favorite cartoon when you were a kid?Scooby-Doo. I always related to him on a philosophical level, because I'm laid-back, I go with the flow, and I'm a little goofy, but I'll always make you laugh. I even slept with a 4-foot Scooby-Doo in college.
So what happened to the 4-foot Scooby-Doo?I brought him home after college. My mom had an intervention with me and told me it was time to give him up.
Who's your greatest influence?My parents, because they taught me to never take ''no'' for an answer.
Are you a go-getter?I am. You can put anything in front of me, and I won't say no. My first full marathon, I pushed myself so hard that I actually ended up in the hospital.
Coverboy: Rich
(Photo by Julian Vankim)
What's your greatest fear?As an ice-cream addict, I fear there will be no more ''free cone days'' at Ben & Jerry's.
Pick three people, living or dead, who you think would make the most fascinating dinner guests imaginable.A pinch of Mother Teresa, a splash of Wanda Sykes and a dash of JFK.
What would you serve?Traditional Italian fare, from one of my grandmother's recipes. Definitely some homemade pasta with gravy – it's not sauce, it's gravy. I'd probably serve cannoli, too.
Define good in bed.Firm on the back, soft when it needs to be and all night long. Oh, wait, I thought we were talking about my therapeutic mattress.
Who should star in a movie about your life?Ellen DeGeneres. She's very qualified to dance like me.
Who was your first celebrity crush?Mark-Paul Gosselaar. He was – and still is – a dreamboat.
Who gets on your nerves?Anyone who has a weak handshake.
If your home was burning, what's the first thing you'd grab while leaving?My gratitude journal. I write down every day five things I'm grateful for or that challenge me.
What's your biggest turn-on?Hillary Clinton, in a pantsuit, with a bowl of Ben & Jerry's vanilla ice cream.
Coverboy: Rich
(Photo by Julian Vankim)
What's your biggest turn-off?Rush Limbaugh, in Hillary Clinton's pantsuit, with an empty bowl.
What's something you've always wanted to do but haven't yet tried?Taken a road trip cross-country.
What's something you've tried that you never want to do again?Propose to a girl. I was engaged for six months. Clearly, that didn't work out.
What's your favorite website?Weather.gov. I'm a weather nerd.
What position do you play in the big baseball game of life?The receiver. That's a term in baseball, right?
What's your favorite retail store?Jackthreads.com. I don't always buy, but I love to look at the site.
What's the most you'll spend on a haircut?$21, including tip. I will still only get my hair cut in Rhode Island, if I can help it. I still go to the same barber, Mickey.
What about on shoes?Right now, I'm limiting myself to $70, because I'm looking to buy a house next year.
Coverboy: Rich
(Photo by Julian Vankim)
What's your favorite food to splurge with?Ben & Jerry's vanilla with two scoops of Jif chunky peanut butter.
What's your favorite season?Fall. There's nothing like opening the windows on a cool, crisp night and snuggling into a comforter cocoon.
What kind of animal would you be?A llama. They're intelligent, they're gentle, and you'd get to spit and not get in trouble.
What kind of plant would you be?Bamboo. It bends, but doesn't break.
What kind of car would you be?A Lamborghini. Because it's Italian, fast and has character.
What are you most grateful for?My health. Despite how I look right now, my body has been through a lot, and I will never take it for granted.
What's something you want more of?Mi famiglia. I'm Italian. That's how we roll. If someone's in trouble, the entire extended family will come running to your side.
State your life philosophy in 10 words or less.Comparing yourself to others makes you lose who you are. ...more
Analysis of Supreme Court marriage decisions Aug. 22
"What the Supreme Court Rulings on DOMA and Prop 8 Mean for You" is the subject of a free event at the Center on Halsted Thursday. Aug. 22, 3656 N. Halsted St. The event is presented by James E. Elvord, first vice president-financial advisor with RBC Wealth Management and co-sponsored by Windy City Times and Center on Halsted.
(10) Back From Hiatus
Thanks Nadya, for Babkas Bikini Wax Messages, Back from Techno-challenges, Child Abusers, Vibrating i-Phones, Pseudo-Lesbians have babies, Joe Walsh as a cure for insomnia, Combi-Christ for adults, Hilary for president, but only because she has a vagina.
Chantilly Trek: Go the distance for the air-and-space rewards at the Udvar-Hazy Center
Feature Story:
Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
(Photo by Todd Franson)
Depending on traffic, where you're coming from, and a few other variables, getting to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum's Udvar-Hazy Center can be a bit of a trek. But if you're in any way a fan of the Air and Space mother ship downtown on the National Mall, it's a trek worth taking. If you don't have a car, rent one. Take Metrobus to Dulles International and transfer to a Virginia Regional Transit Association bus for the short hop to the center. And how many museums offer directions to visit by air?
''Welcome Pilots!'' reads the Udvar-Hazy greeting. ''Fly your own plane into Washington Dulles International Airport, Leesburg Executive Airport, or other nearby fields.''
Seriously? Yes. This is a far-out complex – roughly 30 miles from downtown Washington – that takes everything related to flight very seriously. It's evident the moment a visitor pulls into the parking lot, where inscribed airfoils create the ''Wall of Honor,'' recognizing great names of aviation and space exploration, along with those who've helped make the center a reality.
Udvar-Hazy Center
(Photo by Todd Franson)
Of course, the real treats are inside.
Greeting visitors -- just past security and the elaborate gift shop -- is arguably the Udvar-Hazy showpiece, the SR-71 Blackbird spy plane, featured as part of the Cold War Aviation exhibit. It's certainly got that testosterone edge that brings plenty to look at the amazing array of military planes. Like its downtown parent, however, this is by no means a military museum.
Sure, there's the Enola Gay, remembered this month for the plane's role in delivering the atomic bomb to Hiroshima, Japan, Aug. 6, 1945, and plenty of other warplanes. But that's just scratching the surface, because if there's an advantage to being in the fields of Chantilly, it's space. Lots of it. And Udvar-Hazy is filled to the brim.
Udvar-Hazy Center: Space Shuttle Discovery
(Photo by Todd Franson)
Balloon mania: Udvar-Hazy Center
(Photo by Todd Franson)
Stand within feet of the Space Shuttle Discovery. Study the belly from beneath an Air France Concorde, or climb to a higher perch and examine this unique plane from above. These are just a few of the heavy-hitters filling these enormous halls.
Do not, however, forget the interesting bits off to the side. Hugging the wall behind the Concorde, for example, just past the cup and saucer recovered from the Hindenburg, learn about ''Balloonmania,'' which reportedly had balloons taking over popular culture after a French balloon flight in 1783. Along with exhibits of balloon-inspired furniture, fabric and souvenirs, etc., Benjamin Franklin is quoted as saying in France, ''All the conversation here at present turns on the balloons, and the means of managing them so as to give men the advantage of flying.''
Udvar-Hazy Center
(Photo by Todd Franson)
The Udvar-Hazy Center is a glorious confirmation that men – and women – indeed have managed the means of flying. So much so that this temple dedicated to human achievements in air and space need not feel like hallowed ground. The center is also up for some fun, with flight simulators, an observation deck – for peering on Virginia flatlands and Dulles in the distance – and the Airbus Imax Theater, offering beer and wine in all classes, along with both documentaries and blockbusters.
The Udvar-Hazy Center is located at 14390 Air and Space Museum Parkway, Chantilly, Va. The museum is open year round, except Christmas Day. Regular hours are 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Admission is free, but parking is $15, free after 4 p.m. For more information, call 703-572-4118 or visit airandsapce.si.edu.
Udvar-Hazy Center
(Photo by Todd Franson)
...more
Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
(Photo by Todd Franson)
Depending on traffic, where you're coming from, and a few other variables, getting to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum's Udvar-Hazy Center can be a bit of a trek. But if you're in any way a fan of the Air and Space mother ship downtown on the National Mall, it's a trek worth taking. If you don't have a car, rent one. Take Metrobus to Dulles International and transfer to a Virginia Regional Transit Association bus for the short hop to the center. And how many museums offer directions to visit by air?
''Welcome Pilots!'' reads the Udvar-Hazy greeting. ''Fly your own plane into Washington Dulles International Airport, Leesburg Executive Airport, or other nearby fields.''
Seriously? Yes. This is a far-out complex – roughly 30 miles from downtown Washington – that takes everything related to flight very seriously. It's evident the moment a visitor pulls into the parking lot, where inscribed airfoils create the ''Wall of Honor,'' recognizing great names of aviation and space exploration, along with those who've helped make the center a reality.
Udvar-Hazy Center
(Photo by Todd Franson)
Of course, the real treats are inside.
Greeting visitors -- just past security and the elaborate gift shop -- is arguably the Udvar-Hazy showpiece, the SR-71 Blackbird spy plane, featured as part of the Cold War Aviation exhibit. It's certainly got that testosterone edge that brings plenty to look at the amazing array of military planes. Like its downtown parent, however, this is by no means a military museum.
Sure, there's the Enola Gay, remembered this month for the plane's role in delivering the atomic bomb to Hiroshima, Japan, Aug. 6, 1945, and plenty of other warplanes. But that's just scratching the surface, because if there's an advantage to being in the fields of Chantilly, it's space. Lots of it. And Udvar-Hazy is filled to the brim.
Udvar-Hazy Center: Space Shuttle Discovery
(Photo by Todd Franson)
Balloon mania: Udvar-Hazy Center
(Photo by Todd Franson)
Stand within feet of the Space Shuttle Discovery. Study the belly from beneath an Air France Concorde, or climb to a higher perch and examine this unique plane from above. These are just a few of the heavy-hitters filling these enormous halls.
Do not, however, forget the interesting bits off to the side. Hugging the wall behind the Concorde, for example, just past the cup and saucer recovered from the Hindenburg, learn about ''Balloonmania,'' which reportedly had balloons taking over popular culture after a French balloon flight in 1783. Along with exhibits of balloon-inspired furniture, fabric and souvenirs, etc., Benjamin Franklin is quoted as saying in France, ''All the conversation here at present turns on the balloons, and the means of managing them so as to give men the advantage of flying.''
Udvar-Hazy Center
(Photo by Todd Franson)
The Udvar-Hazy Center is a glorious confirmation that men – and women – indeed have managed the means of flying. So much so that this temple dedicated to human achievements in air and space need not feel like hallowed ground. The center is also up for some fun, with flight simulators, an observation deck – for peering on Virginia flatlands and Dulles in the distance – and the Airbus Imax Theater, offering beer and wine in all classes, along with both documentaries and blockbusters.
The Udvar-Hazy Center is located at 14390 Air and Space Museum Parkway, Chantilly, Va. The museum is open year round, except Christmas Day. Regular hours are 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Admission is free, but parking is $15, free after 4 p.m. For more information, call 703-572-4118 or visit airandsapce.si.edu.
Udvar-Hazy Center
(Photo by Todd Franson)
...more
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