**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net and we'll be happy to send the full article.
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Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Winning By Losing On Prop. 8
By Jeff Amestoy
The California Supreme Court will uphold Proposition 8, the ban on same-sex marriage passed by the state's voters in November. It is a decision that progressives ought to welcome.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/20/AR2009032002773.html
-What the Mayor Won't Tell You About D.C.
By Colbert I. King
This week ended with Mayor Adrian Fenty delivering a 2009 State of the District address that was most notable for what was left out. The speech did not report on the condition of the nation's capital. It did not contain a word about the dramatic event with which Fenty started the week: his release of a report that our city has the country's highest rates of HIV infection and AIDS -- even "higher than West Africa," said the city's HIV/AIDS administrator, Shannon Hader. (A small quibble: "West Africa" is not a country. And while several nations in that region have HIV prevalence rates below the District's, rates in Nigeria, Togo and Ivory Coast are higher, according to the Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS.)
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/20/AR2009032002927.html
-Thank God America Isn't Like Europe -- Yet
By Charles Murray
Do we want the United States to be like Europe? The European model has worked in many ways. I am delighted whenever I get a chance to go to Stockholm or Amsterdam, not to mention Rome or Paris. There's a lot to like -- a lot to love -- about day-to-day life in Europe. But I argue that the answer to this question is "no." Not for economic reasons. I want to focus on another problem with the European model: namely, that it drains too much of the life from life.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/20/AR2009032001779.html?sub=AR
-Britten's Prime 'Grimes' Stokes Fear and Loathing
By Anne Midgette
Opera is theater. Sometimes that seems to be forgotten. When a Eugene O'Neill play is revived, it's welcomed as a classic. When an opera by Benjamin Britten from the same period is revived, people still worry about its "modern music."
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/20/AR2009032003586.html
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Forwarded from Gays Without Borders
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article
-Gay seminar stirs outrage in Morocco
Outrage swept across Morocco following a gay association's announcement of a planned seminar on sexual problems. The seminar entitled "Gender and Sexuality," is set to be held in April and will tackle sensitive issues that people are too shy to discuss for religious and social reasons, said Mariam Benebodallah, media spokesperson for the Moroccan homosexual association Kif Kif. "The seminar will host experts and lecturers who will present their points of view about how Moroccans can develop their sex life," she told AlArabiya.net."We will tackle the issues at the seminar with extreme caution, and we are not trying to provoke anyone."
http://madikazemi.blogspot.com/2009/03/gay-seminar-stirs-outrage-in-morocco.html
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Forwarded from Kenneth Sherrill - Ken's List
kenslist@groups.queernet.org
Go to the links for the following articles:
Contact rays.list@comcast.net if you can't access the article
--Jamaican guilty in gay murder; Grim pics of tranny attacked by mob
Some small justice was delivered this week for a murdered gay man in Jamaica, I've located pics of a brutal attack on a transgender person in 2007, and did you know there was a "Gay Eradication Day" in East Kingston?:
http://mpetrelis.blogspot.com/2009/03/jamaican-guilty-in-gay-murder-grim-pics.html
-Study looks at poor among gays, lesbians
By Andrea Stone, USA TODAY
Lesbian couples are more likely to be poor than married heterosexuals, and children of same-sex parents are twice as likely to live in poverty as those of traditional married couples, a new report shows. UCLA's Williams Institute, which studies gay issues, says its report out today is the first to analyze poverty among gay and lesbian couples. The report is an analysis of the most recent data on same-sex unmarried partners from the 2000 Census and two smaller surveys that include questions on sexual orientation. Together, it argues, they debunk "a popular stereotype (that) paints lesbians and gay men as an affluent elite." Unlike the upper-middle-class gay characters on TV's The L Word and Will and Grace, "There are clearly many poor lesbian, gay and bisexual people," says co-author Lee Badgett, an economist at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. "That alone is an important finding," Badgett says.
http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2009-03-20-gay-poverty_N.htm
-Sager Symposium breaks off ties with Genderfuck
BY ASHIA TROIANO
While the Sager Symposium and the Genderfuck Party have never officially been associated with one another, the party is generally publicized as the culminating event of the Symposium. This year, however, the Symposium Planning Committee has formally terminated its unofficial affiliation with the party, on the grounds that the party's atmosphere is antithetical to the "safe space" that the Symposium strives to cultivate. Sager Symposoum Committee Co-Chair Maria Kelly '10, alluded to the heightened incidence of sexual misconduct and harassment at last year's party as one factor motivating the decision. "After last year, with the occurrence of homophobic events, even from people within the campus, we were getting so disheartened about the party," Kelly said. Kelly emphasized the extreme divergence between the party and the events that precede it. "The goals of the Symposium and the party are becoming separate. We talked about it and concluded that it wouldn't be associated with us. The party has been detrimental to the Symposium," Kelly said.
http://phoenix.swarthmore.edu/2009/03/19/news/sager-symposium-breaks-off-ties-with-genderfuck
-Task Force Action Fund
Count Our Marriages
Census Bureau officials announced that they would waste time and money to remove any same-sex couple from being listed as married in the 2010 census survey. They plan to go line by line erasing our relationships - even our legally recognized marriages in California, Massachusetts and Connecticut. Make sure our relationships are counted! Fill out the fields below and we'll add your name to our petition to the Census Bureau:
http://www.kintera.org/TR.asp?a=dnKIISMyHkLILVI&s=ekKYKdNVJrK3IhPVKtG&m=ikLRL7PQKhK3E&af=y
-Should Call Girls (and Boys) Kiss and Tell?
As public trainwrecks go, Spitzergate was a doozy. This week, we observe the one-year anniversary of the resignation of New York Governor Eliot Spitzer, who, after a successful career busting escort agencies, was himself felled by revelations that he was a high-paying john. Ashley Dupre, one of the escorts he was seeing, feels he's been "punished enough." The real casualties of his downfall, however, are people whose sin was trying to earn a living in one of New York's more durable service industries -- among them Kristin Davis, who is reported to have played matchmaker for the governor and spent three months in Rikers Island for operating an escort business. (Until one of her escorts spotted Spitzer in a local newspaper, Davis says she had no idea who she was dealing with.)
http://www.alternet.org/sex/130943/should_call_girls_(and_boys)_kiss_and_tell/
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Gay.Com
Wrestler won't apologize for gay porn photos
Last year, All-American wrestler Paul Donahoe (University of Nebraska) was booted from the University's team after the University learned that Donahoe and a teammate posed nude for a gay website. Paul had been on his own as a young man since high school, and did the shoot for the $4K that he earned. He says he is straight (no reason to doubt him and it's really quite irrelevant), and that he didn't tell anyone about the shoot because he didn't want the attention - just needed the money. ell, the University found out and took away his scholarship and booted him off the team. Paul sat out a semester, until getting a chance to transfer to Edinboro University in PA, where he is doing fantastically well. Paul refuses to ask for forgiveness or apologize for anything he did. And why in the hell should he? The NCAA claimed - and the University claimed - he broke rules of benefiting commercially from his image as a wrestler. So, he gave the money to a charity. And that should have been the end of it. There was zero reason to kick him off the team, and therefore zero reason for him to apologize.
http://www.gaysportsblog.com/2009/03/paul-donohoe-naked-wrestler-number-one-naitonally.html
-Gay grads of West Point come out
"We're publicly announcing our sexuality... we are standing to be counted." A new organization is taking a different path to help end the Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy by offering to partner with the nation's oldest military academy, West Point. Their goal is to "support thousands of LGBT soldiers currently serving in the armed forces, and to educate the current military leadership on the importance of accepting and honoring the sacrifices and selfless service of their LGBT soldiers and officers." Knights Out, a Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) West Point Alumni group, issued a statement pledging "to serve as a critical support and advocacy group for the full acceptance of gay service members, particularly at West Point." By publicly outing themselves, the group is striving to take ownership of their contributions to the institution and the military in general.
http://hottopics.gay.com/2009/03/gay-allies-west-point-knights-out.html
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Steve Rothaus
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Ros-Lehtinen meets with AIDS activists
From Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen:
Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen met in Washington, DC with Brandon Macsata of the ADAP Advocacy Association (aaa+) to discuss the Early Treatment of HIV Act (ETHA )which was introduced this week in the House by Representatives Eliot Engel, Ileana Ros-Lehtinen and Speaker Nancy Pelosi. ETHA would allow states to extend Medicaid coverage to low income individuals with the HIV virus before it advances to full blown AIDS. Currently, lower income persons must first become disabled by AIDS before receiving Medicaid provided care and treatment, which could have prevented them from becoming seriously ill, and at which point treatment is far more expensive.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/
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South Florida Blade
http://www.floridablade.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Anti-gay smear in Dania
Hankerson considers pressing charges against creator of illegal flyer
By JUAN CARLOS RODRIGUEZ
It might have seemed strange in the weeks leading up to the March 10 run-off election for Dania Beach City Commission that no anti-gay mud had been slung at openly gay candidate Derrick Hankerson. Then a nasty anonymous flyer, that portrayed Hankerson as a radical gay drug-dealing felon, an accusation that is not true, began circulating in the community four days before voters went to polls to elect three new commissioners.
http://www.floridablade.com/2009/3-19/news/localnews/5641.cfm
-'Silly Faggot' t-shirt dampens AIDS Walk spirit
RoadSafe Employee terminated after act
By JASON MICHAELS
Participants in last Sunday's Florida AIDS Walk received an ugly reception by a worker employed by Road Safe, the company contracted to erect and dismantle the barricades along the walk route. Shortly after the participants left Huizenga Plaza in downtown Fort Lauderdale, an unidentified employee of RoadSafe prominently faced the crowd wearing a t-shirt saying, "Silly Faggots, Dix are for Chix".
http://www.floridablade.com/2009/3-19/news/localnews/5642.cfm
-Winfrey offers DeGeneres spot on O magazine cover
Only other person to share cover was Michelle Obama
CHICAGO (AP)
Oprah Winfrey offered to share the cover of O magazine with Ellen DeGeneres, and DeGeneres - who's been campaigning for the spot - has accepted. Winfrey surprised DeGeneres with a video telephone call on Friday's episode of "The Oprah Winfrey Show." She told a shocked DeGeneres that she was "calling to officially invite you on the cover of O."
http://www.floridablade.com/thelatest/thelatest.cfm?blog_id=24597
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365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Frank Discussion on the New Gay Agenda in Washington
By 365gay Newscenter Staff
Congressman Barney Frank talks to our Ross Palombo about his hopes for the Obama presidency and the issues facing our nation. Read more...
http://www.365gay.com/video/frank-discussion-on-the-new-gay-agenda-in-washington/
-Murder trial for pair accused of incinerating gay man
A suburban London woman broke down in tears as she described seeing her neighbor engulfed in a "big ball of fire."
http://www.365gay.com/news/murder-trial-for-pair-accused-of-incinerating-gay-man/
-Anti-gay group accused of 'intimidating' lawmakers
A conservative Christian group opposing an LGBT equality bill and pressing for a constitutional amendment banning gay marriage has been accused of trying to intimidate two West Virginia lawmakers
http://www.365gay.com/news/anti-gay-group-accused-of-intimidating-lawmakers/
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Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-One-third of HIV sufferers 'face discrimination'
A survey has suggested that one-third of people living with HIV experienced discrimination relating to their status in the last year. It also found that discrimination was compounded by homophobia, racism or asylum and immigration-related prejudice.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/images/tht.jpg
-Northen Ireland MP Iris Robinson will not face prosecution for comparing homosexuality to paedophillia
A Northern Ireland MP who said gay people could be 'turned around' and compared homosexuality to paedophilia will not be prosecuted. Iris Robinson, the MP for Strangford, was investigated by police after complaints.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11683.html
-Australian government to 'block' gay websites
A blacklist of banned websites drawn up by the Australian government includes gay sites. The government is proposing a law that requires internet service providers to filter and block inappropriate content, such as that related to terrorism and abusive images of children. It has drawn up a list of sites to be blacklisted.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11686.html
-Vermont senate committee approves gay marriage bill
A Vermont senate committee has unanimously approved a bill to allow gay marriage in the state. The news comes after a week of hearings on the issue, including a public debate on Wednesday.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11684.html
-Orange County school sued over homophobic and sexist threats
Corona del Mar high school has been accused of failing to protect a female student who was targeted with gay slurs and threatened with rape and murder.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11679.html
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Daily Queer News
www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:
-$357K DC HIV Execuative Gets $25,000 Bonus
Michael Petelis | Petrelis Files
A little bird in Washington sang an anger-inducing song to me this morning, all about Craig Shniderman, the executive director of the hot meals Food and Friends AIDS service organization, receiving a $25,000 bonus since he faced brutal criticism last year over his $357, 447 salary. Here's the scoop. The Washington Blade, which has extensively covered Schniderman's pay and the cuts in services at Food and Friends with accuracy and balance, will report on its front-page tomorrow that this avaricious AIDS leader got a nice five-figure bonus recently. The story will also be on the paper's web site. Given the extreme reactions of donors, clients and accountability activists upon learning of his $357,447 pay last summer, how the heck could the board of Shniderman's agency even think of giving the man a bonus, and in this economy too, not to mention the American public's anger over bonuses to corrupt Big Banking executives? What the eff was going through the minds of Food and Friends' board members when they decided to fork over $25,000 on top of his salary? Read more
-My Frustrations with 'Christians'
DANIEL HELMINIAK | Southern Voice
Earlier this month, I presented a lecture on my best-selling book "What the Bible Really Says about Homosexuality" to students at the University of West Georgia, where I teach. Probably 150 people were there. Lambda at UWG, the campus gay-straight alliance, sponsored the event. It was fine until the Q&A segment; then all hell broke loose. As is their style, the Bible-toting "Christians" attended in force, teams of them strategically located in different corners of the hall. Initial interventions were restrained, but the intensity escalated until people were shouting at one another, cheering and arguing. The lecture officially ended as scheduled at 9 p.m. Many wanted to continue the "discussion," and in foolish good will, I agreed to stay. About 50 people remained, some leaving and then returning, until 10:30 p.m. when, emotionally drained, headachy, and absolutely frustrated, I declared I was going home, and I shut down the hall. Read more
-Gay Republicans Seek New Home
Southern Voice
Some gay Republicans are considering organizing outside of the Log Cabin Republicans, raising questions about whether a new group will form to compete with the organization. Chris Barron, a former Log Cabin political director, said he's involved with activities such as "talking to gay Republicans and kind of getting a sense for what the priorities of gay Republicans are right now." "A lot of folks who care a lot about the direction that this party is headed in . are seriously concerned about the lack of a voice for gay Republicans in the party right now," he said. Jimmy LaSalvia, a former Log Cabin policy director, said he's had discussions with gay Republicans at GOP events and concluded that Log Cabin is "missing a lot of opportunities to provide a voice for gay conservatives." Read more
-Tax Dollars for Tyrants
Richard J. Rosendall | Independent Gay Forum
First published in Bay Windows, March 19, 2009
I recently excerpted the HIV/AIDS-related items from the State Department's Country Reports on Human Rights Practices for 2008 (online at www.glaa.org). The grim survey ranges from Russia (where Moscow officials undermine prevention efforts by accusing foreign HIV/AIDS organizations of encouraging pedophilia, prostitution and drug use) to Burma and Cambodia (where sex trafficking victims are at risk for HIV/AIDS as well as physical and mental abuse). In Africa, AIDS orphans from Kenya to Swaziland resort to prostitution for survival, while adults from Burundi to Malawi rape children out of a belief that sex with virgins will cleanse them of HIV. These heartbreaking practices occur even in South Africa despite its modern economy. One program to combat the global AIDS pandemic is the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). It was reauthorized last year at $48 billion, which pays for a lot of effective prevention and treatment - at least to the extent that the funds are not being channeled to anti-science and anti-gay religious zealots. James Kirchick of The New Republic wrote on March 10, "The problems with PEPFAR were inherent in the 2003 legislation establishing the program." For example, a third of PEPFAR prevention funds were reserved for pushing abstinence until marriage. Kirchick writes, "Many organizations combating HIV - whether groups that worked with prostitutes, gays, or intravenous drug users - have been either neglected or explicitly prohibited from receiving U.S. money, while evangelical Christian organizations have had little problem accessing funds. In this way, while PEPFAR distributed drugs to millions of people living with the disease, the program undermined the global fight against HIV transmission." Read more
-Remember
William Rivers Pitt, t r u t h o u t | Columnist
A man looks at a cross set up for a soldier killed in Iraq. The cross is set up every Sunday at the beach in Santa Monica by Veterans for Peace as part of what they call "Arlington West." Six years ago, the United States of America began the invasion and occupation of Iraq. Since then, 4,259 American soldiers have been killed and tens of thousands more have been wounded. There is no accurate accounting of Iraqi dead and wounded, because as we were told, we do not do body counts. Because the Bush administration left its Iraq expenditures off the budget, and because of the tremendous amount of war-profiteering, graft and theft that has been involved, we do not know exactly how much we have spent. For the record, 2,192 days later, this is how we got here: "Simply stated, there is no doubt that Saddam Hussein now has weapons of mass destruction." Read more
-Kerry Urges Holder to Reunite Gay Couple
Ethan Jacobs | Bay Windows | EDGE Boston
Haverhill resident Tim Coco tried in vain to petition the Bush administration to allow his husband, Genesio Oliveira, Jr., to return from his native Brazil to the United States, but now Coco and Sen. John Kerry hope that they will have more success under the Obama administration. Coco and Oliveira married in 2005, but two years ago Oliveira was forced to return to Brazil after his immigration status expired. Had the couple's marriage been recognized at the federal level Oliveira would have been allowed to stay in the country. Oliveria applied for asylum in the United States in 2002, claiming he was sexually assaulted by government officials in his home country, but his application was rejected. Today Kerry sent Attorney General Eric Holder a letter asking him to review Oliveira's asylum case and overturn the immigration court's earlier ruling. Here is the text of Kerry's letter: Read more
-Unbridled Stupidity Still Plagues Republicans
HotSpots! Magazine | EDGE Boston
The image that was sent from Mayor Dean Grose's personal e-mail account. Given their disastrous showing in the 2006 and 2008 elections, conventional wisdom suggests the GOP needs to broaden its appeal. But in the past few weeks, there has been an epidemic of Republicans saying and doing some rather obnoxious things. Some Republican politicians and party leaders seem determined to alienate, rather than attract, as many voters as possible. Hopes were high for the new chairman of the Republican National Committee, Michael Steele, when he started sounding more centrist on Fox News at the beginning of February. He told Chris Wallace that, yes, the GOP needs to do a better job of reaching out to people who favor abortion rights and gay rights. After that interview, the party's right-wing forces must have heavily chastised Steele for sounding too moderate. Three weeks later, Steele's attitude showed a marked change. Appearing on Mike Gallagher's radio show on February 23rd, Gallagher asked chairman Steele whether there was room for compromise on the issue of gay marriage, and if he would consider supporting civil unions. "No, no, no. What should we do that for? What are you, crazy? No. Why would we backslide on a core, founding value of this country?" Steele's emphatic "no" was a clear indication that the Taliban wing of the Republican Party is still very much in charge. Read more
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[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
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Saturday, March 21, 2009
NATIONAL & WORLD NEWS - March 21, 2009
**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net and we'll be happy to send the full article.
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New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Rage Redux: Changing Channels
By GAIL COLLINS
Let's discuss the George W. Bush presidential library. I am doing this as a public service. Our howling about government bailouts has sent Congress into a panic attack that's getting out of hand. The White House economic team may not be all we hoped for, but let them work in peace for a few days without having to worry that some legislator in search of outrage creds is going to crash through the window and bite Tim Geithner on the ankle.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/21/opinion/21collins.html?_r=1&ref=opinion
-While Mr. Perry and Mr. Jindal Fiddle
Bobby Jindal | Rick Perry
Republican governors who have been threatening to refuse federal aid rather than sensibly expand state unemployment insurance programs are putting ideology ahead of the needs of their constituents.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/21/opinion/21sat3.html?ref=opinion
-Iran's Supreme Leader Dismisses Obama Overtures
By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
TEHRAN, Iran (AP) -- Iran's supreme leader rebuffed President Barack Obama's latest outreach on Saturday, saying Tehran was still waiting to see concrete changes in U.S. policy. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was responding to a video message Obama released Friday in which he reached out to Iran on the occasion of Nowruz, the Persian new year, and expressed hopes for an improvement in nearly 30 years of strained relations.
http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2009/03/21/world/AP-ML-Iran-Obama.html?hp
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Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Bankers Press Case Against Punitive Tax
Executives Cite Health of Industry, Economy
By Binyamin Appelbaum
An alarmed banking industry looked for friends in Washington yesterday as it tried to head off severe congressional restrictions on compensation, fearful that a wave of popular anger about vast paydays will result in permanent damage to the industry.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/20/AR2009032003737.html?hpid=topnews
-AIG Suing To Recover Taxes in IRS Dispute
Firm Says It Has Duty To Press On
By David S. Hilzenrath
As AIG takes billions of dollars from the federal government to stay afloat, it is suing the government for millions more. The big insurer is trying to recover $306.1 million of taxes, interest and penalties from the Internal Revenue Service. Among other things, AIG is contesting an IRS determination last year that the company improperly claimed $61.9 million of tax credits associated with complex international transactions.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/20/AR2009032003089.html?hpid=topnews
-Locked Out of Refinancing
As Rates Dip, Some Find They Don't Qualify
By Dina ElBoghdady and Renae Merle
The Federal Reserve's huge gesture this week to keep already-low mortgage rates down seems to be working.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/20/AR2009032003758.html?hpid=topnews
-Hungary's PM to quit amid tumbling popularity
By PABLO GORONDI
BUDAPEST -- Hungary's Prime Minister announced Saturday that he is stepping down because of his government's low popularity amid a worsening financial crisis.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/21/AR2009032100633.html?hpid=moreheadlines
-Vatican Official Defends Child's Abortion
By Francis X. Rocca
Religion News Service
The Vatican's top bioethics official said the two Brazilian doctors who performed an abortion on a 9-year-old rape victim do not merit excommunication, because they acted to save her life.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/20/AR2009032002415.html?hpid=sec-religion
-Crunch Time for Fixing Health Care
By Ruth Marcus
You wouldn't know it from the headlines, but it's crunch time on health-care reform. In a series of high-level meetings at the White House and on Capitol Hill, critical decisions are being made that will help decide whether the comprehensive health reform that has eluded policymakers for decades finally comes to fruition -- and what the system will look like for decades.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/20/AR2009032002820.html
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Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/public/us
-U.S. Sets Plan for Toxic Assets
By DEBORAH SOLOMON
The federal government will announce as soon as Monday a three-pronged plan to rid the financial system of toxic assets, betting that investors will be attracted to the combination of discount prices and government assistance.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123758981404500225.html
-Why Foreign Aid Is Hurting Africa
Money from rich countries has trapped many African nations in a cycle of corruption, slower economic growth and poverty. Cutting off the flow would be far more beneficial, says Dambisa Moyo.
By DAMBISA MOYO
A month ago I visited Kibera, the largest slum in Africa. This suburb of Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, is home to more than one million people, who eke out a living in an area of about one square mile -- roughly 75% the size of New York's Central Park. It is a sea of aluminum and cardboard shacks that forgotten families call home. The idea of a slum conjures up an image of children playing amidst piles of garbage, with no running water and the rank, rife stench of sewage. Kibera does not disappoint.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123758895999200083.html
-Russia's Rule of Lawlessness
Muckraking Attorney Is Murdered Despite Reform Pledge
By ANDREW OSBORN
MOSCOW -- Just minutes before his murder, Stanislav Markelov was at his most defiant. Protesting the release of a war criminal he had helped convict, he declared: "The person who decided to free him ... should be held criminally responsible."
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123758426519199313.html
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Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Computer attacks prompt call for national cyber-security czar
After computers were tapped, U.S. senators decided to recommend creating the post of a cyber-security czar.
BY LESLEY CLARK
Cyber-hackers believed to be based in China have tapped three times into the computer network in U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson's office, the Florida Democrat said Friday.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/southflorida/story/960804.html
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Fort Report
http://www.fortreport.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-The 100 People Who Are Changing America
It would be a luxury if the function of the list we present here were simply to shake ourselves out of complacency. But, unfortunately, we are far beyond that. With the election of Barack Obama and the deep hole that his predecessor left for him to dig his way out of, change is no longer a dreamy notion but a reality - and a responsibility. We've ranked 100 artists and leaders, policymakers, writers, thinkers, scientists and provocateurs who are fighting every day to show us what is possible - whether it's engineering a new electrical grid, reinventing the way movies are made or challenging us to let go of our illusions and face the brave new world that stands before us. This list is not necessarily about power in the old-fashioned sense but about the power of ideas, the power of innovation, the power of making people think and making them move.
http://www.rollingstone.com/news/story/26754176/the_rs_100_agents_of_change
-Which Side Are You On? 100 Days
By Christopher Hayes
Legislative fights in Washington rarely break down neatly along class lines. Often, the coalitions on either side of an issue are unwieldy and eclectic, with one sector or industry battling another. The notable exception is the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA), which would reform a broken labor elections system, making it easier (one might say possible) for workers to unionize.
http://www.thenation.com/doc/20090406/hayes?rel=hp_currently
-Welcome to double-standard America
The AIG scandal has made it apparent that we are ruled by a government of men, not laws.
By David Sirota
United Steelworkers president Leo Gerard likes to say that Washington policymakers "treat the people who take a shower after work much differently than they treat the people who shower before they go to work." In the 21st century Gilded Age, the blue-collar shower-after-work crowd is given the tough, while the white-collar shower-before-work gang gets the love, and never before this week was that doctrine made so clear.
http://www.salon.com/opinion/feature/2009/03/21/sirota/
-End water giveaway
Bottled water companies have quite the deal. They pump about 5.4 million gallons of water a day from state springs and aquifers, bottle it and sell it - and Florida does not collect a dime on those sales. Gov. Charlie Crist would not end the giveaway outright. But his proposal for a 6-cents-per-gallon tax is a reasonable starting point the Legislature should embrace.
http://www.tampabay.com/opinion/editorials/article985776.ece
-Was Eliot Spitzer Taken Out Because He Was Going to Bust AIG?
Posted by Melina Ripcoco
Eliot Spitzer is back and he's talking. The thought of this, no doubt, brings a small shiver to the boardrooms of some of the perps walking around trying to figure out how to hide the money this week. Today Edward Liddy testified that there have been death threats made to or about executives who received bonuses, so no names will be put on the record, but these anonymous players must know that the jig is up in the land of easy-money. Isn't what to do a no-brainer for these great Americans?
http://www.alternet.org/blogs/peek/132547/was_eliot_spitzer_taken_out_because_he_was_going_to_bust_aig/
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New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Rage Redux: Changing Channels
By GAIL COLLINS
Let's discuss the George W. Bush presidential library. I am doing this as a public service. Our howling about government bailouts has sent Congress into a panic attack that's getting out of hand. The White House economic team may not be all we hoped for, but let them work in peace for a few days without having to worry that some legislator in search of outrage creds is going to crash through the window and bite Tim Geithner on the ankle.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/21/opinion/21collins.html?_r=1&ref=opinion
-While Mr. Perry and Mr. Jindal Fiddle
Bobby Jindal | Rick Perry
Republican governors who have been threatening to refuse federal aid rather than sensibly expand state unemployment insurance programs are putting ideology ahead of the needs of their constituents.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/21/opinion/21sat3.html?ref=opinion
-Iran's Supreme Leader Dismisses Obama Overtures
By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
TEHRAN, Iran (AP) -- Iran's supreme leader rebuffed President Barack Obama's latest outreach on Saturday, saying Tehran was still waiting to see concrete changes in U.S. policy. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was responding to a video message Obama released Friday in which he reached out to Iran on the occasion of Nowruz, the Persian new year, and expressed hopes for an improvement in nearly 30 years of strained relations.
http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2009/03/21/world/AP-ML-Iran-Obama.html?hp
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Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Bankers Press Case Against Punitive Tax
Executives Cite Health of Industry, Economy
By Binyamin Appelbaum
An alarmed banking industry looked for friends in Washington yesterday as it tried to head off severe congressional restrictions on compensation, fearful that a wave of popular anger about vast paydays will result in permanent damage to the industry.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/20/AR2009032003737.html?hpid=topnews
-AIG Suing To Recover Taxes in IRS Dispute
Firm Says It Has Duty To Press On
By David S. Hilzenrath
As AIG takes billions of dollars from the federal government to stay afloat, it is suing the government for millions more. The big insurer is trying to recover $306.1 million of taxes, interest and penalties from the Internal Revenue Service. Among other things, AIG is contesting an IRS determination last year that the company improperly claimed $61.9 million of tax credits associated with complex international transactions.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/20/AR2009032003089.html?hpid=topnews
-Locked Out of Refinancing
As Rates Dip, Some Find They Don't Qualify
By Dina ElBoghdady and Renae Merle
The Federal Reserve's huge gesture this week to keep already-low mortgage rates down seems to be working.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/20/AR2009032003758.html?hpid=topnews
-Hungary's PM to quit amid tumbling popularity
By PABLO GORONDI
BUDAPEST -- Hungary's Prime Minister announced Saturday that he is stepping down because of his government's low popularity amid a worsening financial crisis.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/21/AR2009032100633.html?hpid=moreheadlines
-Vatican Official Defends Child's Abortion
By Francis X. Rocca
Religion News Service
The Vatican's top bioethics official said the two Brazilian doctors who performed an abortion on a 9-year-old rape victim do not merit excommunication, because they acted to save her life.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/20/AR2009032002415.html?hpid=sec-religion
-Crunch Time for Fixing Health Care
By Ruth Marcus
You wouldn't know it from the headlines, but it's crunch time on health-care reform. In a series of high-level meetings at the White House and on Capitol Hill, critical decisions are being made that will help decide whether the comprehensive health reform that has eluded policymakers for decades finally comes to fruition -- and what the system will look like for decades.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/20/AR2009032002820.html
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Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/public/us
-U.S. Sets Plan for Toxic Assets
By DEBORAH SOLOMON
The federal government will announce as soon as Monday a three-pronged plan to rid the financial system of toxic assets, betting that investors will be attracted to the combination of discount prices and government assistance.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123758981404500225.html
-Why Foreign Aid Is Hurting Africa
Money from rich countries has trapped many African nations in a cycle of corruption, slower economic growth and poverty. Cutting off the flow would be far more beneficial, says Dambisa Moyo.
By DAMBISA MOYO
A month ago I visited Kibera, the largest slum in Africa. This suburb of Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, is home to more than one million people, who eke out a living in an area of about one square mile -- roughly 75% the size of New York's Central Park. It is a sea of aluminum and cardboard shacks that forgotten families call home. The idea of a slum conjures up an image of children playing amidst piles of garbage, with no running water and the rank, rife stench of sewage. Kibera does not disappoint.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123758895999200083.html
-Russia's Rule of Lawlessness
Muckraking Attorney Is Murdered Despite Reform Pledge
By ANDREW OSBORN
MOSCOW -- Just minutes before his murder, Stanislav Markelov was at his most defiant. Protesting the release of a war criminal he had helped convict, he declared: "The person who decided to free him ... should be held criminally responsible."
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123758426519199313.html
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Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Computer attacks prompt call for national cyber-security czar
After computers were tapped, U.S. senators decided to recommend creating the post of a cyber-security czar.
BY LESLEY CLARK
Cyber-hackers believed to be based in China have tapped three times into the computer network in U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson's office, the Florida Democrat said Friday.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/southflorida/story/960804.html
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Fort Report
http://www.fortreport.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-The 100 People Who Are Changing America
It would be a luxury if the function of the list we present here were simply to shake ourselves out of complacency. But, unfortunately, we are far beyond that. With the election of Barack Obama and the deep hole that his predecessor left for him to dig his way out of, change is no longer a dreamy notion but a reality - and a responsibility. We've ranked 100 artists and leaders, policymakers, writers, thinkers, scientists and provocateurs who are fighting every day to show us what is possible - whether it's engineering a new electrical grid, reinventing the way movies are made or challenging us to let go of our illusions and face the brave new world that stands before us. This list is not necessarily about power in the old-fashioned sense but about the power of ideas, the power of innovation, the power of making people think and making them move.
http://www.rollingstone.com/news/story/26754176/the_rs_100_agents_of_change
-Which Side Are You On? 100 Days
By Christopher Hayes
Legislative fights in Washington rarely break down neatly along class lines. Often, the coalitions on either side of an issue are unwieldy and eclectic, with one sector or industry battling another. The notable exception is the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA), which would reform a broken labor elections system, making it easier (one might say possible) for workers to unionize.
http://www.thenation.com/doc/20090406/hayes?rel=hp_currently
-Welcome to double-standard America
The AIG scandal has made it apparent that we are ruled by a government of men, not laws.
By David Sirota
United Steelworkers president Leo Gerard likes to say that Washington policymakers "treat the people who take a shower after work much differently than they treat the people who shower before they go to work." In the 21st century Gilded Age, the blue-collar shower-after-work crowd is given the tough, while the white-collar shower-before-work gang gets the love, and never before this week was that doctrine made so clear.
http://www.salon.com/opinion/feature/2009/03/21/sirota/
-End water giveaway
Bottled water companies have quite the deal. They pump about 5.4 million gallons of water a day from state springs and aquifers, bottle it and sell it - and Florida does not collect a dime on those sales. Gov. Charlie Crist would not end the giveaway outright. But his proposal for a 6-cents-per-gallon tax is a reasonable starting point the Legislature should embrace.
http://www.tampabay.com/opinion/editorials/article985776.ece
-Was Eliot Spitzer Taken Out Because He Was Going to Bust AIG?
Posted by Melina Ripcoco
Eliot Spitzer is back and he's talking. The thought of this, no doubt, brings a small shiver to the boardrooms of some of the perps walking around trying to figure out how to hide the money this week. Today Edward Liddy testified that there have been death threats made to or about executives who received bonuses, so no names will be put on the record, but these anonymous players must know that the jig is up in the land of easy-money. Isn't what to do a no-brainer for these great Americans?
http://www.alternet.org/blogs/peek/132547/was_eliot_spitzer_taken_out_because_he_was_going_to_bust_aig/
=
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#####
FLORIDA DIGEST - March 21, 2009
**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net and we'll be happy to send the full article.
~~FLORIDA GLBT NEWS~~
Pridefest Fort Lauderdale is This Weekend
~~FLORIDA GENERAL NEWS~~
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Ad for Islam on Broward bus may lead to a ban
By Scott Wyman
In the wake of controversial bus ads saying Jesus followed the principles of Islam, Broward County Click here for restaurant inspection reports commissioners are considering a ban on advertising religious messages on public transportation and all other government property. The new policy would still permit churches and other religious organizations to place general ads promoting activities such as services or fairs. An ad saying "Jesus Saves" would be prohibited, but one publicizing the annual festival at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Fort Lauderdale Is your Fort Lauderdale restaurant clean? - Click Here. would be allowed.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/local/broward/sfl-flbreligads0321sbmar21,0,4723493.story
-Miramar woman jailed after aborting daughter's baby
By Juan Ortega and Rafael A. Olmeda
Outraged, the Broward judge called it tantamount to murder. Allegations against a Miramar woman charged with illegally aborting her teenage daughter's baby so troubled Judge John Hurley on Friday that he raised her bail by more than $170,000.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sfl-0321-babydeath,0,66355.story
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Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-University of Miami unveils high-tech heart labs
SURGEONS USE AN X-RAY MACHINE THAT CAN SHOW A 3-D PICTURE OF A PATIENT'S HEART
BY FRED TASKER
Like grown-up kids in a candy store, University of Miami heart doctors rushed from machine to cutting-edge machine Friday, showing off a new suite of heart-repair labs they say is one of the most advanced in the country.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/southflorida/story/960811.html
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Fort Report
http://www.fortreport.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Crist to hold back 15 percent in state spending
Buys lawmakers more time to balance state budget
By Brandon Larrabee
http://www.jacksonville.com/news/florida/2009-03-19/story/crist_to_hold_back_15_percent_in_state_spending
-Inmate programs may get the axe
Lawmakers are considering cutting education and substance abuse programs for rehabilitating prisoners. Lawmakers are considering cutting education and substance abuse programs for rehabilitating prisoners.
By Joe Follick
http://www.ocala.com/article/20090321/ARTICLES/903211011/1001/NEWS01?Title=Inmate-programs-may-get-the-axe-
-Miami-Dade school district puts off raid on school-group coffers
BY PATRICIA MAZZEI AND KATHLEEN McGRORY
Miami-Dade's cash-strapped school district will let schools keep money raised by students and parents for extracurricular activities -- for now. The students held bake sales, raising a few hundred dollars for the marching band. Car washes brought in money for the chess club.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/southflorida/story/960792.html
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#####
~~FLORIDA GLBT NEWS~~
Pridefest Fort Lauderdale is This Weekend
~~FLORIDA GENERAL NEWS~~
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Ad for Islam on Broward bus may lead to a ban
By Scott Wyman
In the wake of controversial bus ads saying Jesus followed the principles of Islam, Broward County Click here for restaurant inspection reports commissioners are considering a ban on advertising religious messages on public transportation and all other government property. The new policy would still permit churches and other religious organizations to place general ads promoting activities such as services or fairs. An ad saying "Jesus Saves" would be prohibited, but one publicizing the annual festival at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Fort Lauderdale Is your Fort Lauderdale restaurant clean? - Click Here. would be allowed.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/local/broward/sfl-flbreligads0321sbmar21,0,4723493.story
-Miramar woman jailed after aborting daughter's baby
By Juan Ortega and Rafael A. Olmeda
Outraged, the Broward judge called it tantamount to murder. Allegations against a Miramar woman charged with illegally aborting her teenage daughter's baby so troubled Judge John Hurley on Friday that he raised her bail by more than $170,000.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sfl-0321-babydeath,0,66355.story
=
Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-University of Miami unveils high-tech heart labs
SURGEONS USE AN X-RAY MACHINE THAT CAN SHOW A 3-D PICTURE OF A PATIENT'S HEART
BY FRED TASKER
Like grown-up kids in a candy store, University of Miami heart doctors rushed from machine to cutting-edge machine Friday, showing off a new suite of heart-repair labs they say is one of the most advanced in the country.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/southflorida/story/960811.html
=
Fort Report
http://www.fortreport.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Crist to hold back 15 percent in state spending
Buys lawmakers more time to balance state budget
By Brandon Larrabee
http://www.jacksonville.com/news/florida/2009-03-19/story/crist_to_hold_back_15_percent_in_state_spending
-Inmate programs may get the axe
Lawmakers are considering cutting education and substance abuse programs for rehabilitating prisoners. Lawmakers are considering cutting education and substance abuse programs for rehabilitating prisoners.
By Joe Follick
http://www.ocala.com/article/20090321/ARTICLES/903211011/1001/NEWS01?Title=Inmate-programs-may-get-the-axe-
-Miami-Dade school district puts off raid on school-group coffers
BY PATRICIA MAZZEI AND KATHLEEN McGRORY
Miami-Dade's cash-strapped school district will let schools keep money raised by students and parents for extracurricular activities -- for now. The students held bake sales, raising a few hundred dollars for the marching band. Car washes brought in money for the chess club.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/southflorida/story/960792.html
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#####
Friday, March 20, 2009
GLBT DIGEST - March 20, 2009
**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net and we'll be happy to send the full article.
=
New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Benefits for Gay Couples
To the Editor:
Re "Obama on Spot Over a Benefit to Gay Couples" (front page, March 13):
The Defense of Marriage Act does indeed harm gay federal employees who cannot get health and other benefits for their spouses as their straight co-workers can. But the damage of the act extends far beyond that.
In Gill et al. v. Office of Personnel Management et al., our lawsuit filed on March 3, we represent federal employees and retirees and others in Massachusetts harmed by the Defense of Marriage Act, including widowers whose grief the federal government compounded by denying them all Social Security benefits intended to ease the loss of a spouse.
We also represent married couples with young children who are unable to file their federal tax returns jointly - and thus pay thousands more in taxes.
The federal government acknowledges that there are 1,138 laws in which one's marital status is relevant. The path of destruction of the Defense of Marriage Act is wide. It must be removed from our laws, whether by litigation or legislation.
Gary Buseck
Legal Director, Gay and Lesbian
Advocates and Defenders
Boston, March 13, 2009
-To the Editor:
I believe that extending health benefits to spouses of gay federal employees is a matter of fundamental fairness.
I am a 20-year federal government employee. I have been with my partner for 11 years. We have two children - neglected children we adopted. I pay taxes, I own a home, and I support my kids' school. But how does the government treat my family?
When I enter my federal workplace, my partner becomes an absolute stranger to me. I cannot provide him with benefits. We constantly worry that he might lose his job and, with it, the only chance for him to have benefits.
In my office, spouses of straight couples receive benefits and can choose to stay home and watch the kids. That is not an option for us.
We do not ask for a handout. We do not ask for special favors. And we gladly and lovingly accept taking care of children cast away by others. All we ask is to be treated like everyone else.
I hope that before people reflexively criticize extending benefits to us, they listen to the stories of real-life families like mine. We are no threat to anyone; indeed, we are constructive - dare I say conservative? - members of society.
Thomas Dahdouh
San Francisco, March 13, 2009
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/20/opinion/lweb20gay.html?_r=1&scp=2&sq=gay&st=cse
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Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/public/us
-How Can Greens Make Themselves Less White
By NAOMI SCHAEFER RILEY
A few days after Barack Obama's inauguration, the newly appointed head of the Environmental Protection Agency, Lisa Jackson, gave an interview to Essence magazine. Ms. Jackson explained that she planned to "elevate the issue" of "environmental justice" during her tenure. For those who are unfamiliar with the term, environmental justice is the sweet spot where the green movement meets the racial grievance industry. As the Essence interviewer put it: "The practice of locating polluting industries in minority communities -- and the consequent health impacts -- is well documented. African Americans are almost 80 percent more likely than White Americans to live in neighborhoods near hazardous industrial pollution sites."
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123751199171791061.html
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Steve Rothaus
www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Disgraced pastor Ted Haggard, wife to appear on TV's 'Divorce Court'
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (AP) - Former evangelical pastor Ted Haggard and his wife are planning another TV appearance, this time to talk about their marriage. The two are in Los Angeles taping an appearance on the syndicated Twentieth Television show "Divorce Court," to be broadcast nationally April 1. The show's presiding judge, Lynn Toler, is interviewing the couple about how their marriage survived after a male prostitute from Denver alleged a cash-for-sex relationship with Ted Haggard in November 2006, executive producer Mark Koberg said.
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The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Bishop Denounces College for OK'ing Gay Speaker
By Michelle Garcia
Scranton, Pa.'s bishop said Wednesday that he will not set foot on a local Catholic university's campus because it invited a gay speaker to talk about LGBT issues and rights. Author and speaker Keith Boykin visited Misericordia University in February for a program held by the school's Diversity Institute, according to the Scranton Times Leader. The day before he appeared, Bishop Joseph Martino of the Diocese of Scranton issued a statement, saying that Boykin's stance on marriage equality is "disturbingly opposed to Catholic teaching."
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75816.asp
-Gay Dads Must Appear on Birth Certificate, Judge Rules
By Julie Bolcer
A federal judge has given Louisiana 15 days to add the names of two out-of-state fathers to the birth certificate of the Shreveport-born son they adopted. U.S. District Judge Jay Zainey maintains that because the adoption by Oren Adar and Mickey Ray Smith became formal in New York, the adoption law of that state applies. Gay couples can list both names on their child's birth certificate in New York.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75871.asp
-With Love, Yoko
Yoko Ono speaks out on behalf of gay rights, has had four dance mixes reach number 1 in the past decade.and she Twitters. Now, how many septuagenarians can you say that about?
By Graham Kolbeins
You wouldn't think it'd be this way, but the seemingly simple concepts of peace, love, and equality have often been viewed as ridiculous, radical, even dangerous ideas. It hasn't always made her popular, but Yoko Ono has been championing these causes for more than five decades, interweaving her convictions into groundbreaking conceptual art and an awe-inspiring body of music. Ranging from enigmatic free-jazz abstraction to deeply personal pop music about feminism, loss, and cultural identity, Ono's music is widely varied -- never safe or conventional.
http://www.advocate.com/exclusive_detail_ektid75799.asp
-Florida Says No to Bestiality
Gays and lesbians can't adopt in the state of Florida. Transgender people are being branded as sexual deviants and will likely soon be barred from using bathrooms appropriate to the sex they identify with. And now, Florida's state senate agriculture committee has finally taken a small step into the 21st century and voted unanimously to charge anyone who has sex with animals with a third-degree felony, according to the Miami Herald. Florida was one of 16 states with no official law on the books banning bestiality. "There's a tremendous correlation between sexually deviant behavior and crimes against children and crimes against animals," Sen. Nan Rich, a Democrat from Sunrise, told the Miami Herald. "This is long overdue. These are heinous crimes. And people belong in jail." The bill is likely to pass later this year.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75813.asp
-New Charges Filed Against Mormon Church
The California group that in November charged the Mormon Church with failing to report the full extent of its financial involvement in Proposition 8 added to its complaint on Thursday. Fred Karger of Californians Against Hate filed charges with the California Fair Political Practices Commission accusing the church of creating the National Organization for Marriage as a front group for its efforts in the state, and failing to report the costs as required by law.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75870.asp
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365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Leadership, at last
By Lisa Neff
Thanks to Obama, America is ready to join the rest of the West in condemning the killing, torture and arbitrary arrest of GLBT people. Read more...
http://www.365gay.com/opinion/neff-leadership-at-last/
-Getting rid of the "fourth gender"
By Emma Ruby-Sachs
The United Arab Emirates has launched a public campaign to rid the country of "manly women." Read more...
http://www.365gay.com/blog/ruby-sachs-getting-rid-of-the-fourth-gender/
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Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-God Hates Fags preachers target London primary school
Preachers from the anti-gay Westboro Baptist Church have said they plan to picket a London primary school which ran lessons about gay relationships. A picket schedule on their website announces they will be at the George Tomlinson School in Leytonstone next Friday.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11677.html
-Rowan Atkinson attacks gay hate law
Comedian Rowan Atkinson has criticised hate speech legislation, saying that the House of Lords must vote against a government attempt to remove a free speech clause in a homophobic hatred offence.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11670.html
-Orange County school sued over homophobic and sexist threats
Corona del Mar high school has been accused of failing to protect a female student who was targeted with gay slurs and threatened with rape and murder.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11679.html
-Critics slate Lesbian Vampire Killers film
Lesbian Vampire Killers, the comedy-horror film by Gavin and Stacey stars James Corden and Matthew Horne, has been almost universally panned. The movie, which features the duo as a pair of friends trapped in a village and surrounded by lesbian vampires, has been slated for its lads mag humour and "moronic" script.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11678.html
-Gay man de-baptises himself
A man has asked to be 'de-baptised', saying that he was too young to decide his religion at the age of five months. John Hunt, 56, says that he wants his 1953 baptism at the St Jude and St Aidan parish church in the Southwark diocese, south London, cancelled because he was not consulted and does not believe in God.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11673.html
-LGBT advice centre chief admits to looking at child porn
The boss of a centre offering advice to young LGBT people has blamed his sex addiction for trawling the internet looking for porn. James Rennie, 38, chief executive of the Leith-based LGBT Youth Scotland admitted he had looked at child porn.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11672.html
-Dictionary redefines marriage to include gays
US dictionary-maker Merriam-Webster has redefined the word 'marriage' to include gays and lesbians. It added that the term also applies to "the state of being united to a person of the same sex in a relationship like that of a traditional marriage".
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11671.html
-Court told gay man was burnt to death by ex-boyfriend
Kingston Crown Court has been told the final moments of a gay man who was doused in petrol and set alight outside his home. Charlie Davies, 23, was attacked on June 14th last year. He died 12 days later in hospital.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11669.html
-Hundreds gather to debate gay marriage in Vermont
More than 500 people flocked to the house chamber in Montpelier, Vermont, last night to testify on same-sex marriage in the state. Amidst a week of hearings, the public debate last three hours and saw 115 people testify in favour of gay marriage and 85 against it.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11668.html
-Lesbian continues fight to be Presbyterian minister
A lesbian in San Francisco who has been a candidate for the Presbyterian ministry for 22 years is to have her case heard in church court this week. Lisa Larges' candidacy for ordination has twice been approved by her regional church authorities.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11667.html
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Daily Queer News
www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:
-More Signs that Times are Changing in DC for LGBT Americans
Bilerico Project
Editor's Note: Guest bloggers Bob Witeck, CEO of Witeck-Combs Communications in Washington, and Wes Combs, President of Witeck-Combs Communications, advise Fortune 100 companies and nonprofit organizations on gay business and market research issues. Together they wrote the first business book on marketing to the GLBT market entitled "Business Inside Out: Capturing Millions of Brand-Loyal Gay Consumers" (Kaplan Publishing, September 2006). The impact of diversity and full inclusion in any organization is strengthened when its leader "walks the walk" while "talking the talk." As business owners and residents of the Washington area, we are witnessing how the early actions of our current President are sending tangible signals to those in the nation's capital and around the world about the true meaning of diversity and its importance to successfully defining and promoting its policies. This week, we witnessed first hand how the Obama administration is renewing its early commitment to diversity and equal participation. We were fortunate to be among seven LGBT small business owners invited to attend a White House briefing when President Obama announced his administration's small business initiative. The President, joined by Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner, announced that the Treasury Department will purchase up to $15 billion in securities backed by Small Business Administration loans in an effort to unfreeze the secondary market for SBA loans. What this means to us and the other small business owners like us is that it should free up capital to make new loans to assist with business growth - and in this shattered economy, for many fragile businesses to ensure their survival too. Read more
-Over 1000 Gather as the Battle Over Prop 8 Continues
Kimmie Osborne | Somona State Star
It was only a fifty-two percent majority that banned marriage between same-sex couples and challenged civil rights for many Californians. That slight majority allowed Proposition 8 to pass in Nov. 2008. Although the proposition passed, the two sides are at it again. Each presented their case in front of seven justices at the Supreme Court hearings on Thurs., March 5. Members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community joined forces with people from many walks of life to strike down Prop. 8 in November of last year. Their efforts fell just short of a victory, with a 52 to 48 percent vote in favor of Prop. 8. "My family actively participated in the protests against Prop. 8 once it passed last November," said Don Romesburg, professor in the Women's and Gender Studies department. Since the proposition was put on the ballot last year, relentless protests, demonstrations, rallies and even lectures have taken place spreading the word about the inequality of Prop. 8. Read more
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Forwarded from Gays Without Borders
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article
-UN: Act Now to Support LGBT Rights Worldwide
Sign the petition urging the United Nations to call for an end to criminalizing people because of who they are or whom they love.
http://www.kintera.org/c.nlIWIgN2JwE/b.4567397/siteapps/advocacy/ActionItem.aspx
-KINGSTON, Jamaica, Tues. Mar. 17, 2009: A 25-year-old man was yesterday found guilty of manslaughter in the murder of former Jamaica trade ambassador, Peter King. Sheldon Pusey was found guilty by a 12-member jury who arrived at a manslaughter verdict. Pusey, of St. Mary, was charged in 2007 with the March 20, 2006 murder of King. King was found with 32 stab wounds at his home in Waterloo, St. Andrew. During the trial, the court heard tapes of alleged homosexual acts at the victim's home and testimony as to the slain ambassador's sexual lifestyle. Pusey is set to be sentenced on April 1. He admitted to stabbing King because the former ambassador, he said, tried to drug him and then have sex with him.
http://mpetrelis.blogspot.com/2009/03/jamaican-guilty-in-gay-murder-grim-pics.html
-Radicals distribute anti-gay posters in parliament
BELGRADE -- Serb Radical Party officials have been handing out offensive posters in parliament depicting the president of the Queeria NGO, Boban Stojanovic. The poster has a picture of Stojanovic in underwear and black leather trousers, carrying a whip and a nun's habit. The poster states that the anti-discrimination law is "poofy" and states that Queeria received EUR 2,725 of funding from the Serbian budget. "While Serbs are being made redundant, look who Boris Tadic and the Serbian government are financing," is the slogan on one of the posters. SRS official Aleksandar Martinovic told journalists that the party had received the posters from the Nasi association from Arandelovac and the 1389 Movement. "These photographs prove that this is not about evil and corrupt fundamentalists persecuting poor, unfortunate homosexuals, but an open war against the Serbian Orthodox Church (SPC) and against all traditional moral values," Martinovic said. He said that the law was a "persecution of Christians," and that this type of behavior should be dealt with by the state institutions because it "imperils the rights of all religious citizens in Serbia that not only belong to the SPC, but to other churches as well."
http://www.queeria.com
-Since 2006 over eight million Europeans have exercised their right to reside in another EU Member State. However, the Member States have erected many obstacles to the free movement of the EU's citizens, according to the EP Civil Liberties Committee. The public still has little awareness of its rights, including the right to vote in local and European elections in the country where they live, say MEPs in two reports.
http://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/expert/infopress_page/016-51924-075-03-12-902-20090316IPR51923-16-03-2009-2009-false/default_en.htm
-End "Corrective" Rape of Lesbians in South Africa
Target: South African Presidnet Kgalema Motlanthe
A new ActionAid report describes the shocking rise of "corrective" rape in South Africa - in which South African lesbians are being raped in an effort to "cure" them of their sexual orientation. Support groups in Cape Town say they see 10 new cases of "corrective" rape every week. And it's even more widespread around the rest of the country.
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/516925943?z00m=19752166
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Forwarded from Kenneth Sherrill - Ken's List
kenslist@groups.queernet.org
Go to the links for the following articles:
Contact rays.list@comcast.net if you can't access the article
-Chicago Frat Boys Protest Antigay Bigots!
Hey check out this video! Fred Phelps and the Westboro Baptist Church (the same folks who run the god hates fags website and protest soldiers funerals because they say they died defending the Homosexual agenda of the USA) came to the University of Chicago and were met by gay rights protesters. They were also met by protesters of an unexpected sort. Frat boys in solidarity with the gay rights protesters rallied in front of thier frat house and danced, dressed in their underwear only when the bigots marched past. They also dropped a banner from the frat house that read "NO Tolerance for INtolerance". F*****g awesome!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZfZiBRFM5w
=
Soulforce
http://www.soulforce.org/
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article
-Soulforce Spring 2009 Catholic Action
This April we are making evident the critical nature our demand to the Vatican that the Roman Catholic Church support the safety and well being of LGBT people. Our requests to Archbishop Celestino Migliore, Permanent Observer to the United Nations, are two-fold. First, we ask that the Archbishop take a personal stand against harmful language and attacks against LGBT people from leaders in the Roman Catholic Church, including Pope Benedict XVI. Second, we ask that the Archbishop work in open and good faith to push the Vatican to sign on to the United Nations Declaration on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity. You are invited to join in solidarity actions this April with Soulforce. Click here to learn more, begin your participation and register to join the New York City solidarity actions.
http://www.soulforce.org/catholic-action
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
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New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Benefits for Gay Couples
To the Editor:
Re "Obama on Spot Over a Benefit to Gay Couples" (front page, March 13):
The Defense of Marriage Act does indeed harm gay federal employees who cannot get health and other benefits for their spouses as their straight co-workers can. But the damage of the act extends far beyond that.
In Gill et al. v. Office of Personnel Management et al., our lawsuit filed on March 3, we represent federal employees and retirees and others in Massachusetts harmed by the Defense of Marriage Act, including widowers whose grief the federal government compounded by denying them all Social Security benefits intended to ease the loss of a spouse.
We also represent married couples with young children who are unable to file their federal tax returns jointly - and thus pay thousands more in taxes.
The federal government acknowledges that there are 1,138 laws in which one's marital status is relevant. The path of destruction of the Defense of Marriage Act is wide. It must be removed from our laws, whether by litigation or legislation.
Gary Buseck
Legal Director, Gay and Lesbian
Advocates and Defenders
Boston, March 13, 2009
-To the Editor:
I believe that extending health benefits to spouses of gay federal employees is a matter of fundamental fairness.
I am a 20-year federal government employee. I have been with my partner for 11 years. We have two children - neglected children we adopted. I pay taxes, I own a home, and I support my kids' school. But how does the government treat my family?
When I enter my federal workplace, my partner becomes an absolute stranger to me. I cannot provide him with benefits. We constantly worry that he might lose his job and, with it, the only chance for him to have benefits.
In my office, spouses of straight couples receive benefits and can choose to stay home and watch the kids. That is not an option for us.
We do not ask for a handout. We do not ask for special favors. And we gladly and lovingly accept taking care of children cast away by others. All we ask is to be treated like everyone else.
I hope that before people reflexively criticize extending benefits to us, they listen to the stories of real-life families like mine. We are no threat to anyone; indeed, we are constructive - dare I say conservative? - members of society.
Thomas Dahdouh
San Francisco, March 13, 2009
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/20/opinion/lweb20gay.html?_r=1&scp=2&sq=gay&st=cse
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Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/public/us
-How Can Greens Make Themselves Less White
By NAOMI SCHAEFER RILEY
A few days after Barack Obama's inauguration, the newly appointed head of the Environmental Protection Agency, Lisa Jackson, gave an interview to Essence magazine. Ms. Jackson explained that she planned to "elevate the issue" of "environmental justice" during her tenure. For those who are unfamiliar with the term, environmental justice is the sweet spot where the green movement meets the racial grievance industry. As the Essence interviewer put it: "The practice of locating polluting industries in minority communities -- and the consequent health impacts -- is well documented. African Americans are almost 80 percent more likely than White Americans to live in neighborhoods near hazardous industrial pollution sites."
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123751199171791061.html
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Steve Rothaus
www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Disgraced pastor Ted Haggard, wife to appear on TV's 'Divorce Court'
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (AP) - Former evangelical pastor Ted Haggard and his wife are planning another TV appearance, this time to talk about their marriage. The two are in Los Angeles taping an appearance on the syndicated Twentieth Television show "Divorce Court," to be broadcast nationally April 1. The show's presiding judge, Lynn Toler, is interviewing the couple about how their marriage survived after a male prostitute from Denver alleged a cash-for-sex relationship with Ted Haggard in November 2006, executive producer Mark Koberg said.
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The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Bishop Denounces College for OK'ing Gay Speaker
By Michelle Garcia
Scranton, Pa.'s bishop said Wednesday that he will not set foot on a local Catholic university's campus because it invited a gay speaker to talk about LGBT issues and rights. Author and speaker Keith Boykin visited Misericordia University in February for a program held by the school's Diversity Institute, according to the Scranton Times Leader. The day before he appeared, Bishop Joseph Martino of the Diocese of Scranton issued a statement, saying that Boykin's stance on marriage equality is "disturbingly opposed to Catholic teaching."
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75816.asp
-Gay Dads Must Appear on Birth Certificate, Judge Rules
By Julie Bolcer
A federal judge has given Louisiana 15 days to add the names of two out-of-state fathers to the birth certificate of the Shreveport-born son they adopted. U.S. District Judge Jay Zainey maintains that because the adoption by Oren Adar and Mickey Ray Smith became formal in New York, the adoption law of that state applies. Gay couples can list both names on their child's birth certificate in New York.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75871.asp
-With Love, Yoko
Yoko Ono speaks out on behalf of gay rights, has had four dance mixes reach number 1 in the past decade.and she Twitters. Now, how many septuagenarians can you say that about?
By Graham Kolbeins
You wouldn't think it'd be this way, but the seemingly simple concepts of peace, love, and equality have often been viewed as ridiculous, radical, even dangerous ideas. It hasn't always made her popular, but Yoko Ono has been championing these causes for more than five decades, interweaving her convictions into groundbreaking conceptual art and an awe-inspiring body of music. Ranging from enigmatic free-jazz abstraction to deeply personal pop music about feminism, loss, and cultural identity, Ono's music is widely varied -- never safe or conventional.
http://www.advocate.com/exclusive_detail_ektid75799.asp
-Florida Says No to Bestiality
Gays and lesbians can't adopt in the state of Florida. Transgender people are being branded as sexual deviants and will likely soon be barred from using bathrooms appropriate to the sex they identify with. And now, Florida's state senate agriculture committee has finally taken a small step into the 21st century and voted unanimously to charge anyone who has sex with animals with a third-degree felony, according to the Miami Herald. Florida was one of 16 states with no official law on the books banning bestiality. "There's a tremendous correlation between sexually deviant behavior and crimes against children and crimes against animals," Sen. Nan Rich, a Democrat from Sunrise, told the Miami Herald. "This is long overdue. These are heinous crimes. And people belong in jail." The bill is likely to pass later this year.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75813.asp
-New Charges Filed Against Mormon Church
The California group that in November charged the Mormon Church with failing to report the full extent of its financial involvement in Proposition 8 added to its complaint on Thursday. Fred Karger of Californians Against Hate filed charges with the California Fair Political Practices Commission accusing the church of creating the National Organization for Marriage as a front group for its efforts in the state, and failing to report the costs as required by law.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75870.asp
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365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Leadership, at last
By Lisa Neff
Thanks to Obama, America is ready to join the rest of the West in condemning the killing, torture and arbitrary arrest of GLBT people. Read more...
http://www.365gay.com/opinion/neff-leadership-at-last/
-Getting rid of the "fourth gender"
By Emma Ruby-Sachs
The United Arab Emirates has launched a public campaign to rid the country of "manly women." Read more...
http://www.365gay.com/blog/ruby-sachs-getting-rid-of-the-fourth-gender/
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Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-God Hates Fags preachers target London primary school
Preachers from the anti-gay Westboro Baptist Church have said they plan to picket a London primary school which ran lessons about gay relationships. A picket schedule on their website announces they will be at the George Tomlinson School in Leytonstone next Friday.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11677.html
-Rowan Atkinson attacks gay hate law
Comedian Rowan Atkinson has criticised hate speech legislation, saying that the House of Lords must vote against a government attempt to remove a free speech clause in a homophobic hatred offence.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11670.html
-Orange County school sued over homophobic and sexist threats
Corona del Mar high school has been accused of failing to protect a female student who was targeted with gay slurs and threatened with rape and murder.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11679.html
-Critics slate Lesbian Vampire Killers film
Lesbian Vampire Killers, the comedy-horror film by Gavin and Stacey stars James Corden and Matthew Horne, has been almost universally panned. The movie, which features the duo as a pair of friends trapped in a village and surrounded by lesbian vampires, has been slated for its lads mag humour and "moronic" script.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11678.html
-Gay man de-baptises himself
A man has asked to be 'de-baptised', saying that he was too young to decide his religion at the age of five months. John Hunt, 56, says that he wants his 1953 baptism at the St Jude and St Aidan parish church in the Southwark diocese, south London, cancelled because he was not consulted and does not believe in God.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11673.html
-LGBT advice centre chief admits to looking at child porn
The boss of a centre offering advice to young LGBT people has blamed his sex addiction for trawling the internet looking for porn. James Rennie, 38, chief executive of the Leith-based LGBT Youth Scotland admitted he had looked at child porn.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11672.html
-Dictionary redefines marriage to include gays
US dictionary-maker Merriam-Webster has redefined the word 'marriage' to include gays and lesbians. It added that the term also applies to "the state of being united to a person of the same sex in a relationship like that of a traditional marriage".
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11671.html
-Court told gay man was burnt to death by ex-boyfriend
Kingston Crown Court has been told the final moments of a gay man who was doused in petrol and set alight outside his home. Charlie Davies, 23, was attacked on June 14th last year. He died 12 days later in hospital.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11669.html
-Hundreds gather to debate gay marriage in Vermont
More than 500 people flocked to the house chamber in Montpelier, Vermont, last night to testify on same-sex marriage in the state. Amidst a week of hearings, the public debate last three hours and saw 115 people testify in favour of gay marriage and 85 against it.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11668.html
-Lesbian continues fight to be Presbyterian minister
A lesbian in San Francisco who has been a candidate for the Presbyterian ministry for 22 years is to have her case heard in church court this week. Lisa Larges' candidacy for ordination has twice been approved by her regional church authorities.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11667.html
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Daily Queer News
www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:
-More Signs that Times are Changing in DC for LGBT Americans
Bilerico Project
Editor's Note: Guest bloggers Bob Witeck, CEO of Witeck-Combs Communications in Washington, and Wes Combs, President of Witeck-Combs Communications, advise Fortune 100 companies and nonprofit organizations on gay business and market research issues. Together they wrote the first business book on marketing to the GLBT market entitled "Business Inside Out: Capturing Millions of Brand-Loyal Gay Consumers" (Kaplan Publishing, September 2006). The impact of diversity and full inclusion in any organization is strengthened when its leader "walks the walk" while "talking the talk." As business owners and residents of the Washington area, we are witnessing how the early actions of our current President are sending tangible signals to those in the nation's capital and around the world about the true meaning of diversity and its importance to successfully defining and promoting its policies. This week, we witnessed first hand how the Obama administration is renewing its early commitment to diversity and equal participation. We were fortunate to be among seven LGBT small business owners invited to attend a White House briefing when President Obama announced his administration's small business initiative. The President, joined by Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner, announced that the Treasury Department will purchase up to $15 billion in securities backed by Small Business Administration loans in an effort to unfreeze the secondary market for SBA loans. What this means to us and the other small business owners like us is that it should free up capital to make new loans to assist with business growth - and in this shattered economy, for many fragile businesses to ensure their survival too. Read more
-Over 1000 Gather as the Battle Over Prop 8 Continues
Kimmie Osborne | Somona State Star
It was only a fifty-two percent majority that banned marriage between same-sex couples and challenged civil rights for many Californians. That slight majority allowed Proposition 8 to pass in Nov. 2008. Although the proposition passed, the two sides are at it again. Each presented their case in front of seven justices at the Supreme Court hearings on Thurs., March 5. Members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community joined forces with people from many walks of life to strike down Prop. 8 in November of last year. Their efforts fell just short of a victory, with a 52 to 48 percent vote in favor of Prop. 8. "My family actively participated in the protests against Prop. 8 once it passed last November," said Don Romesburg, professor in the Women's and Gender Studies department. Since the proposition was put on the ballot last year, relentless protests, demonstrations, rallies and even lectures have taken place spreading the word about the inequality of Prop. 8. Read more
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Forwarded from Gays Without Borders
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article
-UN: Act Now to Support LGBT Rights Worldwide
Sign the petition urging the United Nations to call for an end to criminalizing people because of who they are or whom they love.
http://www.kintera.org/c.nlIWIgN2JwE/b.4567397/siteapps/advocacy/ActionItem.aspx
-KINGSTON, Jamaica, Tues. Mar. 17, 2009: A 25-year-old man was yesterday found guilty of manslaughter in the murder of former Jamaica trade ambassador, Peter King. Sheldon Pusey was found guilty by a 12-member jury who arrived at a manslaughter verdict. Pusey, of St. Mary, was charged in 2007 with the March 20, 2006 murder of King. King was found with 32 stab wounds at his home in Waterloo, St. Andrew. During the trial, the court heard tapes of alleged homosexual acts at the victim's home and testimony as to the slain ambassador's sexual lifestyle. Pusey is set to be sentenced on April 1. He admitted to stabbing King because the former ambassador, he said, tried to drug him and then have sex with him.
http://mpetrelis.blogspot.com/2009/03/jamaican-guilty-in-gay-murder-grim-pics.html
-Radicals distribute anti-gay posters in parliament
BELGRADE -- Serb Radical Party officials have been handing out offensive posters in parliament depicting the president of the Queeria NGO, Boban Stojanovic. The poster has a picture of Stojanovic in underwear and black leather trousers, carrying a whip and a nun's habit. The poster states that the anti-discrimination law is "poofy" and states that Queeria received EUR 2,725 of funding from the Serbian budget. "While Serbs are being made redundant, look who Boris Tadic and the Serbian government are financing," is the slogan on one of the posters. SRS official Aleksandar Martinovic told journalists that the party had received the posters from the Nasi association from Arandelovac and the 1389 Movement. "These photographs prove that this is not about evil and corrupt fundamentalists persecuting poor, unfortunate homosexuals, but an open war against the Serbian Orthodox Church (SPC) and against all traditional moral values," Martinovic said. He said that the law was a "persecution of Christians," and that this type of behavior should be dealt with by the state institutions because it "imperils the rights of all religious citizens in Serbia that not only belong to the SPC, but to other churches as well."
http://www.queeria.com
-Since 2006 over eight million Europeans have exercised their right to reside in another EU Member State. However, the Member States have erected many obstacles to the free movement of the EU's citizens, according to the EP Civil Liberties Committee. The public still has little awareness of its rights, including the right to vote in local and European elections in the country where they live, say MEPs in two reports.
http://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/expert/infopress_page/016-51924-075-03-12-902-20090316IPR51923-16-03-2009-2009-false/default_en.htm
-End "Corrective" Rape of Lesbians in South Africa
Target: South African Presidnet Kgalema Motlanthe
A new ActionAid report describes the shocking rise of "corrective" rape in South Africa - in which South African lesbians are being raped in an effort to "cure" them of their sexual orientation. Support groups in Cape Town say they see 10 new cases of "corrective" rape every week. And it's even more widespread around the rest of the country.
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/516925943?z00m=19752166
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Forwarded from Kenneth Sherrill - Ken's List
kenslist@groups.queernet.org
Go to the links for the following articles:
Contact rays.list@comcast.net if you can't access the article
-Chicago Frat Boys Protest Antigay Bigots!
Hey check out this video! Fred Phelps and the Westboro Baptist Church (the same folks who run the god hates fags website and protest soldiers funerals because they say they died defending the Homosexual agenda of the USA) came to the University of Chicago and were met by gay rights protesters. They were also met by protesters of an unexpected sort. Frat boys in solidarity with the gay rights protesters rallied in front of thier frat house and danced, dressed in their underwear only when the bigots marched past. They also dropped a banner from the frat house that read "NO Tolerance for INtolerance". F*****g awesome!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZfZiBRFM5w
=
Soulforce
http://www.soulforce.org/
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article
-Soulforce Spring 2009 Catholic Action
This April we are making evident the critical nature our demand to the Vatican that the Roman Catholic Church support the safety and well being of LGBT people. Our requests to Archbishop Celestino Migliore, Permanent Observer to the United Nations, are two-fold. First, we ask that the Archbishop take a personal stand against harmful language and attacks against LGBT people from leaders in the Roman Catholic Church, including Pope Benedict XVI. Second, we ask that the Archbishop work in open and good faith to push the Vatican to sign on to the United Nations Declaration on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity. You are invited to join in solidarity actions this April with Soulforce. Click here to learn more, begin your participation and register to join the New York City solidarity actions.
http://www.soulforce.org/catholic-action
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
NATIONAL & WORLD NEWS - March 20, 2009
**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net and we'll be happy to send the full article.
=
New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Obama and Israeli Leader Make Video Appeals to Iran
By ALAN COWELL
Invoking art, history and "the common humanity that binds us," President Obama offered a "new day" in America's relationship with Iran, using a videotaped message to make an unusual appeal directly to Iranians for a shift away from decades of confrontation.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/21/world/middleeast/21iran.html?_r=1&hp
-A Leader Beyond Reproach Limits the Possibilities for Political Change
By MICHAEL SLACKMAN
TRIPOLI, Libya - Step one block off almost any main road and the streets here are badly damaged or completely unpaved. There are problems with the schools, the health care system and the government bureaucracy, which is plagued by corruption and inefficiency. Untreated sewage is dumped right into the Mediterranean.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/20/world/africa/20libya.html?hp
-Scorn Trails A.I.G. Executives, Even in Their Driveways
By JAMES BARRON and RUSS BUETTNER
The A.I.G. executive who was nicknamed "Jackpot Jimmy" by a New York tabloid walked up the driveway toward his bay-windowed house in Fairfield, Conn., on Thursday afternoon. "How do I feel?" said the executive, James Haas, repeating the question he had just been asked. "I feel horrible. This has been a complete invasion of privacy."
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/20/nyregion/20siege.html?hp
-Giving and Taxes
Evidently, the rich still carry influence in Washington. President Obama's plan to cap itemized deductions for high-income taxpayers at a 28 percent rate flew like a lead balloon in Congress, reportedly sending the White House in search for other sources of revenue.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/20/opinion/20fri1.html?ref=opinion
-Perverse Cosmic Myopia
By DAVID BROOKS
You'd think if some tiger were lunging at your neck, your attention would be riveted on the tiger. But that's apparently not how it works in the age of global A.D.D. As a tiger sinks its teeth into the world's neck, we focus on the dust bunnies under the bed and the floorboards that need replacing on the deck. We live in the world of Perverse Cosmic Myopia, an inability to focus attention on the most perilous matter at hand.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/20/opinion/20brooks.html?ref=opinion
-Fragile Signs of Hope Emerging in the Gloom of Mugabe's Rule
By CELIA W. DUGGER
HARARE, Zimbabwe - On his first day as education minister in a government so broke that most schools were closed and millions of children idle, David Coltart said he got a startling invitation.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/20/world/africa/20zimbabwe.html?hp
-Soldiers' Accounts of Gaza Killings Raise Furor in Israel
By ETHAN BRONNER
JERUSALEM - In the two months since Israel ended its military assault on Gaza, Palestinians and international rights groups have accused it of excessive force and wanton killing in that operation, but the Israeli military has said it followed high ethical standards and took great care to avoid civilian casualties.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/20/world/middleeast/20gaza.html
-Israel Arrests 10 Hamas Leaders
By ISABEL KERSHNER
JERUSALEM - Israel arrested 10 Hamas leaders in the West Bank late Wednesday and early Thursday, including four legislators, in what Hamas said was an attempt to put pressure on the organization after the collapse of negotiations for the release of a captive Israeli soldier, Cpl. Gilad Shalit.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/20/world/middleeast/20mideast.html
-House Approves 90% Tax on Bonuses After Bailouts
By CARL HULSE and DAVID M. HERSZENHORN
The House overwhelmingly approved on Thursday a near total tax on bonuses paid this year to employees of the American International Group and other firms that have accepted large amounts of federal bailout funds, rattling Wall Street as lawmakers rushed to respond to populist anger.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/20/business/20bailout.html
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Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Main Street Is Speaking Out. But Will Obama Listen?
By William Greider
The president is getting what he asked for, but perhaps not what he had in mind. During the campaign, Barack Obama beckoned Americans to put aside their cynicism about politics and re-engage as active citizens. They are now doing so with red-hot anger. They are outraged by events and forcing their way into congressional affairs and behind closed doors where policy wonks discuss issues with cerebral civility. The president is now trapped between these two realms -- the governing elites who decide things and the people who are governed. Which side is he on? If he does not choose wisely, the popular anger could devour his presidency.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/19/AR2009031902511.html
-Does Geithner Get It?
By Eugene Robinson
President Obama's claim that Timothy Geithner faces a more daunting set of challenges than any Treasury secretary since Alexander Hamilton may be an exaggeration, but not by much. Geithner may indeed be the hardest-working man in Washington. But to survive, let alone succeed, he's going to have to make a more convincing case that he's part of the solution and not part of the problem.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/19/AR2009031903040.html?hpid=opinionsbox1
-Bonfire of the Trivialities
By Charles Krauthammer
A $14 trillion economy hangs by a thread composed of (a) a comically cynical, pitchfork-wielding Congress, (b) a hopelessly understaffed, stumbling Obama administration, and (c) $165 million.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/19/AR2009031903041.html?hpid=opinionsbox1
-Health Reform's Moment
By Thomas A. Daschle
When I withdrew from consideration to be secretary of health and human services, some pundits said health reform had received a devastating blow. While it would be flattering for me to believe that, it would also be completely wrong.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/19/AR2009031902860.html
-Church faces challenges in Africa amid pope visit
By MICHELLE FAUL
LUANDA, Angola -- In Africa, some Roman Catholic priests have children and nuns counsel patients to use condoms against the scourge of AIDS. Faithful consult medicine men even though the church condemns that as witchcraft. As Pope Benedict XVI makes his first pilgrimage this week to the continent that has the world's fastest-growing congregation of Catholics, the church faces enormous challenges despite its growing presence here.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/19/AR2009031902613.html?hpid=sec-religion
-Israeli Coalition Appears Fated to Clash With U.S.
By Howard Schneider
JERUSALEM, March 19 -- The foreign minister of Israel's incoming government lives in a West Bank settlement and will begin life as a diplomat battling the perception that he is anti-Arab.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/19/AR2009031903710.html?hpid=sec-world
=
Pew Research center
http://pewresearch.org/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-From the Polling Archive
Reluctant Suffragettes: When Women Questioned Their Right to Vote
An 86-year-old polling analysis sheds light on why female Americans were slow to appreciate the fruits of the suffragettes' hard-fought 70-year battle for access to the ballot box. Read more
-Community Climate
Most Like It Hot
Given a choice, most Americans would opt for a sun-kissed climate -- but not necessarily for a warm-weather city. Read more
-Moral Majorities
Public Has Split Verdict on Increased Level of Unmarried Motherhood
A new report shows out-of-wedlock births rose to record levels in 2007. A Pew Research survey that year found wide concern about the social costs, but only a minority saw such births as morally wrong. Read more
-More Medicine
Most Support Health Care Overhaul -- But it's Not 1993
While the public still favors government-guaranteed health insurance for all citizens, there is currently less support for rebuilding the system than there was at the beginning of the Clinton administration. Opinion about stem-cell research remains stable after lifting of the ban on federal funding. Read more
-Financial Fight Covered but not Watched
Media Match: Cramer v. Stewart
Including heavy coverage of the Daily Show-CNBC face-off, media focus turned to the hunt for villains embodying the excess that contributed to the financial system's unraveling. Read more
-Stewart-Cramer Registers Less than Rihanna-Chris Brown
As the economy remains story No. 1 for Americans, an increasing number are hearing a mix of good and bad news, not just bad news. Still, even with their attention focused on economic news, fewer Americans heard about the Cramer-Stewart interview than about Rihanna and Chris Brown. Read more
-Religion and Homosexuals
Most Mainline Protestants Say Society Should Accept Homosexuality
Among mainline Protestants overall, 56% say homosexuality should be accepted, compared with only about one-in-four evangelical Protestants. Read more
-Daily Number
51% - The Dark Side
A small majority says torture is rarely (20%) or never (31%) justified, but more than four-in-ten say torture is often (16%) or sometimes (28%) justified. Check back every weekday for another number in the news. Check back every weekday for another number in the news. Read more
=
Fort Report
http://www.fortreport.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Palin Rejects Some Stimulus Funds
By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
It's up to the Alaska Legislature to request hundreds of millions of dollars in federal stimulus funds from the federal government. Gov. Sarah Palin said Thursday that she would accept only 69 percent of the estimated $930 million dollars that could flow to the state, including $514 million for capital projects and $128 million for a hike in Medicaid reimbursement.
http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2009/03/20/us/AP-Palin-Stimulus.html?partner=MOREOVERNEWS&ei=5040
-Dodd's political stock tumbles in Connecticut
By Andrew Miga
Democrats may want to start thinking about a bailout for Senate Banking Committee Chairman Christopher Dodd, whose political stock has slipped amid the financial meltdown. As a five-term Democrat who blew out his last two opponents by 2-1 margins in a blue state that President Barack Obama won handily, Dodd, D-Conn., should be cruising to re-election in 2010. Instead, he's feeling heat from a Republican challenger eager to make him a poster boy for the tumult in the housing and financial markets.
http://www.boston.com/news/nation/washington/articles/2009/03/20/dodds_political_stock_tumbles_in_connecticut/
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
=
New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Obama and Israeli Leader Make Video Appeals to Iran
By ALAN COWELL
Invoking art, history and "the common humanity that binds us," President Obama offered a "new day" in America's relationship with Iran, using a videotaped message to make an unusual appeal directly to Iranians for a shift away from decades of confrontation.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/21/world/middleeast/21iran.html?_r=1&hp
-A Leader Beyond Reproach Limits the Possibilities for Political Change
By MICHAEL SLACKMAN
TRIPOLI, Libya - Step one block off almost any main road and the streets here are badly damaged or completely unpaved. There are problems with the schools, the health care system and the government bureaucracy, which is plagued by corruption and inefficiency. Untreated sewage is dumped right into the Mediterranean.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/20/world/africa/20libya.html?hp
-Scorn Trails A.I.G. Executives, Even in Their Driveways
By JAMES BARRON and RUSS BUETTNER
The A.I.G. executive who was nicknamed "Jackpot Jimmy" by a New York tabloid walked up the driveway toward his bay-windowed house in Fairfield, Conn., on Thursday afternoon. "How do I feel?" said the executive, James Haas, repeating the question he had just been asked. "I feel horrible. This has been a complete invasion of privacy."
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/20/nyregion/20siege.html?hp
-Giving and Taxes
Evidently, the rich still carry influence in Washington. President Obama's plan to cap itemized deductions for high-income taxpayers at a 28 percent rate flew like a lead balloon in Congress, reportedly sending the White House in search for other sources of revenue.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/20/opinion/20fri1.html?ref=opinion
-Perverse Cosmic Myopia
By DAVID BROOKS
You'd think if some tiger were lunging at your neck, your attention would be riveted on the tiger. But that's apparently not how it works in the age of global A.D.D. As a tiger sinks its teeth into the world's neck, we focus on the dust bunnies under the bed and the floorboards that need replacing on the deck. We live in the world of Perverse Cosmic Myopia, an inability to focus attention on the most perilous matter at hand.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/20/opinion/20brooks.html?ref=opinion
-Fragile Signs of Hope Emerging in the Gloom of Mugabe's Rule
By CELIA W. DUGGER
HARARE, Zimbabwe - On his first day as education minister in a government so broke that most schools were closed and millions of children idle, David Coltart said he got a startling invitation.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/20/world/africa/20zimbabwe.html?hp
-Soldiers' Accounts of Gaza Killings Raise Furor in Israel
By ETHAN BRONNER
JERUSALEM - In the two months since Israel ended its military assault on Gaza, Palestinians and international rights groups have accused it of excessive force and wanton killing in that operation, but the Israeli military has said it followed high ethical standards and took great care to avoid civilian casualties.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/20/world/middleeast/20gaza.html
-Israel Arrests 10 Hamas Leaders
By ISABEL KERSHNER
JERUSALEM - Israel arrested 10 Hamas leaders in the West Bank late Wednesday and early Thursday, including four legislators, in what Hamas said was an attempt to put pressure on the organization after the collapse of negotiations for the release of a captive Israeli soldier, Cpl. Gilad Shalit.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/20/world/middleeast/20mideast.html
-House Approves 90% Tax on Bonuses After Bailouts
By CARL HULSE and DAVID M. HERSZENHORN
The House overwhelmingly approved on Thursday a near total tax on bonuses paid this year to employees of the American International Group and other firms that have accepted large amounts of federal bailout funds, rattling Wall Street as lawmakers rushed to respond to populist anger.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/20/business/20bailout.html
=
Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Main Street Is Speaking Out. But Will Obama Listen?
By William Greider
The president is getting what he asked for, but perhaps not what he had in mind. During the campaign, Barack Obama beckoned Americans to put aside their cynicism about politics and re-engage as active citizens. They are now doing so with red-hot anger. They are outraged by events and forcing their way into congressional affairs and behind closed doors where policy wonks discuss issues with cerebral civility. The president is now trapped between these two realms -- the governing elites who decide things and the people who are governed. Which side is he on? If he does not choose wisely, the popular anger could devour his presidency.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/19/AR2009031902511.html
-Does Geithner Get It?
By Eugene Robinson
President Obama's claim that Timothy Geithner faces a more daunting set of challenges than any Treasury secretary since Alexander Hamilton may be an exaggeration, but not by much. Geithner may indeed be the hardest-working man in Washington. But to survive, let alone succeed, he's going to have to make a more convincing case that he's part of the solution and not part of the problem.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/19/AR2009031903040.html?hpid=opinionsbox1
-Bonfire of the Trivialities
By Charles Krauthammer
A $14 trillion economy hangs by a thread composed of (a) a comically cynical, pitchfork-wielding Congress, (b) a hopelessly understaffed, stumbling Obama administration, and (c) $165 million.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/19/AR2009031903041.html?hpid=opinionsbox1
-Health Reform's Moment
By Thomas A. Daschle
When I withdrew from consideration to be secretary of health and human services, some pundits said health reform had received a devastating blow. While it would be flattering for me to believe that, it would also be completely wrong.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/19/AR2009031902860.html
-Church faces challenges in Africa amid pope visit
By MICHELLE FAUL
LUANDA, Angola -- In Africa, some Roman Catholic priests have children and nuns counsel patients to use condoms against the scourge of AIDS. Faithful consult medicine men even though the church condemns that as witchcraft. As Pope Benedict XVI makes his first pilgrimage this week to the continent that has the world's fastest-growing congregation of Catholics, the church faces enormous challenges despite its growing presence here.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/19/AR2009031902613.html?hpid=sec-religion
-Israeli Coalition Appears Fated to Clash With U.S.
By Howard Schneider
JERUSALEM, March 19 -- The foreign minister of Israel's incoming government lives in a West Bank settlement and will begin life as a diplomat battling the perception that he is anti-Arab.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/19/AR2009031903710.html?hpid=sec-world
=
Pew Research center
http://pewresearch.org/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-From the Polling Archive
Reluctant Suffragettes: When Women Questioned Their Right to Vote
An 86-year-old polling analysis sheds light on why female Americans were slow to appreciate the fruits of the suffragettes' hard-fought 70-year battle for access to the ballot box. Read more
-Community Climate
Most Like It Hot
Given a choice, most Americans would opt for a sun-kissed climate -- but not necessarily for a warm-weather city. Read more
-Moral Majorities
Public Has Split Verdict on Increased Level of Unmarried Motherhood
A new report shows out-of-wedlock births rose to record levels in 2007. A Pew Research survey that year found wide concern about the social costs, but only a minority saw such births as morally wrong. Read more
-More Medicine
Most Support Health Care Overhaul -- But it's Not 1993
While the public still favors government-guaranteed health insurance for all citizens, there is currently less support for rebuilding the system than there was at the beginning of the Clinton administration. Opinion about stem-cell research remains stable after lifting of the ban on federal funding. Read more
-Financial Fight Covered but not Watched
Media Match: Cramer v. Stewart
Including heavy coverage of the Daily Show-CNBC face-off, media focus turned to the hunt for villains embodying the excess that contributed to the financial system's unraveling. Read more
-Stewart-Cramer Registers Less than Rihanna-Chris Brown
As the economy remains story No. 1 for Americans, an increasing number are hearing a mix of good and bad news, not just bad news. Still, even with their attention focused on economic news, fewer Americans heard about the Cramer-Stewart interview than about Rihanna and Chris Brown. Read more
-Religion and Homosexuals
Most Mainline Protestants Say Society Should Accept Homosexuality
Among mainline Protestants overall, 56% say homosexuality should be accepted, compared with only about one-in-four evangelical Protestants. Read more
-Daily Number
51% - The Dark Side
A small majority says torture is rarely (20%) or never (31%) justified, but more than four-in-ten say torture is often (16%) or sometimes (28%) justified. Check back every weekday for another number in the news. Check back every weekday for another number in the news. Read more
=
Fort Report
http://www.fortreport.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Palin Rejects Some Stimulus Funds
By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
It's up to the Alaska Legislature to request hundreds of millions of dollars in federal stimulus funds from the federal government. Gov. Sarah Palin said Thursday that she would accept only 69 percent of the estimated $930 million dollars that could flow to the state, including $514 million for capital projects and $128 million for a hike in Medicaid reimbursement.
http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2009/03/20/us/AP-Palin-Stimulus.html?partner=MOREOVERNEWS&ei=5040
-Dodd's political stock tumbles in Connecticut
By Andrew Miga
Democrats may want to start thinking about a bailout for Senate Banking Committee Chairman Christopher Dodd, whose political stock has slipped amid the financial meltdown. As a five-term Democrat who blew out his last two opponents by 2-1 margins in a blue state that President Barack Obama won handily, Dodd, D-Conn., should be cruising to re-election in 2010. Instead, he's feeling heat from a Republican challenger eager to make him a poster boy for the tumult in the housing and financial markets.
http://www.boston.com/news/nation/washington/articles/2009/03/20/dodds_political_stock_tumbles_in_connecticut/
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
FLORIDA DIGEST - March 20, 2009
**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net and we'll be happy to send the full article.
~~FLORIDA GLBT NEWS~~
Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Lift Florida's gay adoption ban
OUR OPINION: Bill allows judges to decide based solely on child's best interests
The fundamental unfairness and illogic of Florida's ban on gay adoptions gets more obvious with every new legal assault on it. The ban has been found unconstitutional in two state court circuits and is the target of two new bills in the Legislature. Whether the Florida Supreme Court will agree that the ban is unconstitutional, or lawmakers will come to their senses this year and end the ban isn't clear. But when momentum for a just cause reaches this point, it is only a matter of time until fairness prevails. We wish that day would come sooner rather than later. The ban hurts Florida's foster children most. Florida is the only state with a complete ban on gay and lesbian adoptions of foster children. But the state thinks it's fine for them to be foster parents. This hypocritical policy means the state considers a gay couple's home perfectly fit for foster kids but not good enough for giving that child a permanent, stable, loving life. Sen. Nan Rich, D-Weston, has introduced two bills that, in separate ways, would overturn the ban approved by the Legislature in 1977. The first bill would repeal the law. The second would require judges to determine adoptions based solely on what is in the best interest of the child. This is so reasonable that it should be impossible for any lawmaker to reject it. Unfortunately, politics still trumps common sense when it comes to issues involving homosexuality in Florida. While the private sector has kept up with changing times by offering partner benefits, for example, the public sector is still hampered by political expediency. It is time for lawmakers to put Florida's foster children before politics.
http://www.miamiherald.com/opinion/editorials/story/957197.html
=
2009 PrideFest - Ft. Lauderdale
12-7:00 p.m. Saturday, March 21 & Sunday, March 22
Holiday Park / War Memorial Auditorium - 730 North Federal Hwy
$8 per person per day
$5 per Student per day (w/valid ID)
Great DJ's! Dance Tent with Dance Floor
Food Court and Cocktails
Outside Stage - Indoor Stage
Florida's Largest AIDS Memorial Quilt Display
=
Sunshine Community Foundation
Bravissimo Charity Musical Gala March 28
Sunshine Community Foundation hosts a musical extravaganza with trained operatic voices from the Lyric Orchestra under the direction of Maestro Franco Bertacci and exceptional vocal talent from South Florida, singing Broadway favorites under the direction of acclaimed tenor, Kurt Litzenberger. Mark your calendars for BRAVISSIMO 2009! The highly anticipated performance, showcasing 26 volunteer performers, new and seasoned talent from the Lyric Orchestra of Fort Lauderdale and local Broadway voices, will be on March 28th, in the spectacular newly renovated Walt Lawrence & Stephen Lewis Center for Worship and the Arts, 1480 SW 9th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale. The performance begins at 8:00 pm. BRAVISSIMO! benefits the Sunshine Community Foundation, Inc., which owns the Sunshine Cathedral campus. The Sunshine Cathedral campus is home to more than 25 other organizations and groups that support a broad spectrum of needs and activities in the GLBT community. Tickets for the concert are now on sale. For more information, please click www.bravissimo2009.org or contact jeff@sunfound.net.
=
ArtsUnited Presents POP! - Ft. Lauderdale
Pop Art - Reception - Monday, April 6 at - 6:30-8pm
Stonewall Library & Archives
Beautiful New Location - 1300 East Sunrise Blvd.
ArtServe Building - Across from Publix
=
~~FLORIDA GENERAL NEWS~~
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-South Florida mortgage rates tumble after Fed action
By Mary Ellen Podmolik
How long can they stay this low? Less than a day after the Federal Reserve said it would double its purchases of mortgage debt, fixed rates on conforming 30-year mortgages dropped as much as half a percentage point, to well under 5 percent, and there's belief that rates aren't headed back up anytime soon.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/business/sfl-flzlowrates0320sbmar20,0,4364745.story
-South Florida schools debate volume of homework
'I hold them to a higher standard. Math is like ... a sport. You have to practice.'
By Akilah Johnson
Ask a class full of eighth-graders at Lauderdale Lakes Middle School how many hours of homework they receive each night and hear as many responses as there are students. One thing they agree on is which teacher gives them the most.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/schools/sfl-flbhomework0320sbmar20,0,4484382.story
-South Florida population exodus slowing, census reveals
Poor economy may force more people to stay in Broward County
By Georgia East and John Maines
People aren't leaving Broward and Palm Beach counties at the rapid rate they were just two years ago, according to census data released today. In fact, the overall population is slightly up. The census report looks at net domestic migration, which takes into account the number of people who moved in from elsewhere in the United States, less those who moved out.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/local/broward/sfl-flbcensus0320sbmar20,0,3162113.story
=
Fort Report
http://www.fortreport.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Crist freezes $800 million in state spending
By Steve Bousquet
As Florida's finances continue to unravel, Gov. Charlie Crist froze 15 percent of state spending on Thursday for the rest of this budget year. The effect is to hold back about $800 million that already cash-strapped agencies were expecting to pay their bills for the rest of the budget year ending June 30. State Education Commissioner Eric Smith told school districts that they will continue to get all of their money through early May.
http://www.tampabay.com/news/politics/legislature/article985454.ece
-New Fort Lauderdale Mayor Jack Seiler: His ideas, his backers
Broward Politics is going to take a look at each of Fort Lauderdale's election winners. Who did you elect, and what are their ideas? Let's start with the mayor, Jack Seiler. He raised $266,705 to win the post, but didn't spend it all. Here's a link to the contribution reports, where you can find out who backed him, and how he spent his money as of mid-February.
http://weblogs.sun-sentinel.com/news/politics/broward/blog/2009/03/jack_seiler_goes_after_indepen.html
-Court hearing leads to no conclusion for Palm Beach mayoral runoff challenge
By GEORGE BENNETT
In a case that could influence the way absentee ballots are handled statewide, attorneys and witnesses spent hours today trying to reconstruct what happened to nine ballots that arrived too late to be counted in a Palm Beach mayor's race that was decided by a single vote. Testimony is scheduled to continue next week.
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/localnews/content/local_news/epaper/2009/03/19/0319pbrecountlawsuit.html
-Tourist industry pitches Florida to the locals as recession puts brakes on travel
By Steve Huettel
With nervous consumers looking for bargains, local tourist businesses are setting their sights on Florida residents this summer. "People want to travel, but with less expense," Gregg Laskowski, a spokesman for AAA Auto Club South, told representatives from local hotels and attractions Thursday. "They want to stay closer to home."
http://www.tampabay.com/news/business/tourism/article985490.ece
-For schools, the buck stops in Legislature
OUR OPINION: State lawmakers can't shirk education funding responsibility For too long the Florida Legislature has been reducing its general-revenue contribution to the state's public-education budget and making up the difference by raising a school-board tax called the Local Required Effort. Though school boards had no control over this, it looked as though they were responsible for increasing property taxes when it was really done by state lawmakers.
http://www.miamiherald.com/opinion/editorials/story/959117.html\
=
JustNews.com
http://www.justnews.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Miami-Dade Passes Anti-Tethering Law
Pet Owners Can't Leave Animals Chained
Miami-Dade County has passed a law that makes it illegal for pet owners to leave their animals chained while they are not home. In a news release Thursday, county officials said the law, which is an amendment to Chapter V of the Miami-Dade County Code, will go into effect in April. The law says that owners cannot chain their pets unless they are present. Pet owners will be warned at the first violation. If they don't fix the problem, county officials said, the owners will face civil penalties of $100 for cruelty and $500 for additional offenses.
http://www.justnews.com/news/18967667/detail.html?treets=mia&tid=2655619429813&tml=mia_dailyforecast&tmi=mia_dailyforecast_1_04000103202009&ts=H
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
~~FLORIDA GLBT NEWS~~
Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Lift Florida's gay adoption ban
OUR OPINION: Bill allows judges to decide based solely on child's best interests
The fundamental unfairness and illogic of Florida's ban on gay adoptions gets more obvious with every new legal assault on it. The ban has been found unconstitutional in two state court circuits and is the target of two new bills in the Legislature. Whether the Florida Supreme Court will agree that the ban is unconstitutional, or lawmakers will come to their senses this year and end the ban isn't clear. But when momentum for a just cause reaches this point, it is only a matter of time until fairness prevails. We wish that day would come sooner rather than later. The ban hurts Florida's foster children most. Florida is the only state with a complete ban on gay and lesbian adoptions of foster children. But the state thinks it's fine for them to be foster parents. This hypocritical policy means the state considers a gay couple's home perfectly fit for foster kids but not good enough for giving that child a permanent, stable, loving life. Sen. Nan Rich, D-Weston, has introduced two bills that, in separate ways, would overturn the ban approved by the Legislature in 1977. The first bill would repeal the law. The second would require judges to determine adoptions based solely on what is in the best interest of the child. This is so reasonable that it should be impossible for any lawmaker to reject it. Unfortunately, politics still trumps common sense when it comes to issues involving homosexuality in Florida. While the private sector has kept up with changing times by offering partner benefits, for example, the public sector is still hampered by political expediency. It is time for lawmakers to put Florida's foster children before politics.
http://www.miamiherald.com/opinion/editorials/story/957197.html
=
2009 PrideFest - Ft. Lauderdale
12-7:00 p.m. Saturday, March 21 & Sunday, March 22
Holiday Park / War Memorial Auditorium - 730 North Federal Hwy
$8 per person per day
$5 per Student per day (w/valid ID)
Great DJ's! Dance Tent with Dance Floor
Food Court and Cocktails
Outside Stage - Indoor Stage
Florida's Largest AIDS Memorial Quilt Display
=
Sunshine Community Foundation
Bravissimo Charity Musical Gala March 28
Sunshine Community Foundation hosts a musical extravaganza with trained operatic voices from the Lyric Orchestra under the direction of Maestro Franco Bertacci and exceptional vocal talent from South Florida, singing Broadway favorites under the direction of acclaimed tenor, Kurt Litzenberger. Mark your calendars for BRAVISSIMO 2009! The highly anticipated performance, showcasing 26 volunteer performers, new and seasoned talent from the Lyric Orchestra of Fort Lauderdale and local Broadway voices, will be on March 28th, in the spectacular newly renovated Walt Lawrence & Stephen Lewis Center for Worship and the Arts, 1480 SW 9th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale. The performance begins at 8:00 pm. BRAVISSIMO! benefits the Sunshine Community Foundation, Inc., which owns the Sunshine Cathedral campus. The Sunshine Cathedral campus is home to more than 25 other organizations and groups that support a broad spectrum of needs and activities in the GLBT community. Tickets for the concert are now on sale. For more information, please click www.bravissimo2009.org or contact jeff@sunfound.net.
=
ArtsUnited Presents POP! - Ft. Lauderdale
Pop Art - Reception - Monday, April 6 at - 6:30-8pm
Stonewall Library & Archives
Beautiful New Location - 1300 East Sunrise Blvd.
ArtServe Building - Across from Publix
=
~~FLORIDA GENERAL NEWS~~
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-South Florida mortgage rates tumble after Fed action
By Mary Ellen Podmolik
How long can they stay this low? Less than a day after the Federal Reserve said it would double its purchases of mortgage debt, fixed rates on conforming 30-year mortgages dropped as much as half a percentage point, to well under 5 percent, and there's belief that rates aren't headed back up anytime soon.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/business/sfl-flzlowrates0320sbmar20,0,4364745.story
-South Florida schools debate volume of homework
'I hold them to a higher standard. Math is like ... a sport. You have to practice.'
By Akilah Johnson
Ask a class full of eighth-graders at Lauderdale Lakes Middle School how many hours of homework they receive each night and hear as many responses as there are students. One thing they agree on is which teacher gives them the most.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/schools/sfl-flbhomework0320sbmar20,0,4484382.story
-South Florida population exodus slowing, census reveals
Poor economy may force more people to stay in Broward County
By Georgia East and John Maines
People aren't leaving Broward and Palm Beach counties at the rapid rate they were just two years ago, according to census data released today. In fact, the overall population is slightly up. The census report looks at net domestic migration, which takes into account the number of people who moved in from elsewhere in the United States, less those who moved out.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/local/broward/sfl-flbcensus0320sbmar20,0,3162113.story
=
Fort Report
http://www.fortreport.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Crist freezes $800 million in state spending
By Steve Bousquet
As Florida's finances continue to unravel, Gov. Charlie Crist froze 15 percent of state spending on Thursday for the rest of this budget year. The effect is to hold back about $800 million that already cash-strapped agencies were expecting to pay their bills for the rest of the budget year ending June 30. State Education Commissioner Eric Smith told school districts that they will continue to get all of their money through early May.
http://www.tampabay.com/news/politics/legislature/article985454.ece
-New Fort Lauderdale Mayor Jack Seiler: His ideas, his backers
Broward Politics is going to take a look at each of Fort Lauderdale's election winners. Who did you elect, and what are their ideas? Let's start with the mayor, Jack Seiler. He raised $266,705 to win the post, but didn't spend it all. Here's a link to the contribution reports, where you can find out who backed him, and how he spent his money as of mid-February.
http://weblogs.sun-sentinel.com/news/politics/broward/blog/2009/03/jack_seiler_goes_after_indepen.html
-Court hearing leads to no conclusion for Palm Beach mayoral runoff challenge
By GEORGE BENNETT
In a case that could influence the way absentee ballots are handled statewide, attorneys and witnesses spent hours today trying to reconstruct what happened to nine ballots that arrived too late to be counted in a Palm Beach mayor's race that was decided by a single vote. Testimony is scheduled to continue next week.
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/localnews/content/local_news/epaper/2009/03/19/0319pbrecountlawsuit.html
-Tourist industry pitches Florida to the locals as recession puts brakes on travel
By Steve Huettel
With nervous consumers looking for bargains, local tourist businesses are setting their sights on Florida residents this summer. "People want to travel, but with less expense," Gregg Laskowski, a spokesman for AAA Auto Club South, told representatives from local hotels and attractions Thursday. "They want to stay closer to home."
http://www.tampabay.com/news/business/tourism/article985490.ece
-For schools, the buck stops in Legislature
OUR OPINION: State lawmakers can't shirk education funding responsibility For too long the Florida Legislature has been reducing its general-revenue contribution to the state's public-education budget and making up the difference by raising a school-board tax called the Local Required Effort. Though school boards had no control over this, it looked as though they were responsible for increasing property taxes when it was really done by state lawmakers.
http://www.miamiherald.com/opinion/editorials/story/959117.html\
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JustNews.com
http://www.justnews.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Miami-Dade Passes Anti-Tethering Law
Pet Owners Can't Leave Animals Chained
Miami-Dade County has passed a law that makes it illegal for pet owners to leave their animals chained while they are not home. In a news release Thursday, county officials said the law, which is an amendment to Chapter V of the Miami-Dade County Code, will go into effect in April. The law says that owners cannot chain their pets unless they are present. Pet owners will be warned at the first violation. If they don't fix the problem, county officials said, the owners will face civil penalties of $100 for cruelty and $500 for additional offenses.
http://www.justnews.com/news/18967667/detail.html?treets=mia&tid=2655619429813&tml=mia_dailyforecast&tmi=mia_dailyforecast_1_04000103202009&ts=H
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[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
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Thursday, March 19, 2009
GLBT DIGEST - March 19, 2009
**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net and we'll be happy to send the full article.
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New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-A.C.L.U. Sues School Involved in 'Rent' Tussle
By PATRICK HEALY; Compiled by Dave Itzkoff
The American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California filed a lawsuit on
Wednesday in state Superior Court contending that an Orange County high school allowed a hostile environment to develop against gay and female students there, citing the brief cancellation of a school production of the musical "Rent" as one piece of evidence. The lawsuit, which argues that state and federal equal protection laws were violated, was filed on behalf of a female student at Corona del Mar High School who was said to be a target of rape and death threats by male students. It contends that sexist and homophobic comments are common at the school and that school officials have done little in response. The school drama teacher, Ron Martin, said last month that the school's principal, Fal Asrani, had canceled the "Rent" production; Ms. Asrani said that was not true, and later she approved the production. A spokeswoman for the Newport-Mesa Unified School District said that she had no immediate comment, but that one would be forthcoming.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/19/theater/19arts-ACLUSUESSCHO_BRF.html?scp=4&sq=gay&st=cse
-First Chapter: 'Unfriendly Fire'
By NATHANIEL FRANK
Brain Drain: Arabic Linguists: On September 10th, 2001, the United States government intercepted two phone calls placed from Afghanistan between Al Qaeda operatives. "Tomorrow is zero hour," said one of the voices. "The match is about to begin," came another ominous line. The National Security Agency intercepts millions of messages every hour, but these calls came from sources deemed to be high priority. They were, of course, spoken in Arabic, so they made their way to a translator's queue, waiting to be interpreted. Unfortunately, in the fall of 2001 our government did not have enough Arabic linguists to translate the messages quickly. The phone calls were not translated until two days later, on September 12, 2001. It was two days too late.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/19/books/chapters/chapter-unfriendly-fire.html?scp=3&sq=gay&st=cse
-Prostate Test Found to Save Few Lives
By GINA KOLATA
The PSA blood test, used to screen for prostate cancer, saves few lives and leads to risky and unnecessary treatments for large numbers of men, two large studies have found.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/19/health/19cancer.html?hp
-Obama Administration to Stop Raids on Medical Marijuana Dispensers
By DAVID JOHNSTON and NEIL A. LEWIS
Attorney General Eric H. Holder Jr. on Wednesday outlined a shift in the enforcement of federal drug laws, saying the administration would effectively end the Bush administration's frequent raids on distributors of medical marijuana.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/19/us/19holder.html
-Suriname to Provide Free Circumcision
Suriname is offering free circumcisions to young boys and men ages 4 to 21 in an effort to curb sexually transmitted diseases, including H.I.V./AIDS, Agence France-Presse reports. Some 2 percent of the Suriname population is infected with H.I.V.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/18/health/18round.html
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Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Dwyer Doesn't Want to Caucus, Nor Does He Wish To Talk About It
Del. Donald H. Dwyer Jr. (R-Anne Arundel), one of the House of Delegates' most conservative members, has told fellow party members that he no longer plans to caucus with the group. Dwyer sent colleagues an e-mail last week announcing his intentions, indicating he did not wish to discuss his decision or explain his reasoning. A member of the caucus confirmed the e-mail for The Washington Post. Dwyer has been busy: Last week, committees heard testimony about his constitutional proposals to ban gay marriage and to assert "personhood" rights starting at conception, an antiabortion measure. Annapolis blogger Judd Legum, who first reported the defection, wrote that it was the caucus's failure to take a position in support of the latter amendment that pushed Dwyer out. The Republican caucus member, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the situation, said Dwyer sent a second e-mail reiterating his desire to keep his reasoning private but indicating the personhood amendment was not his motivation. Dwyer also emphasized that he remains a member of the party but will not attend caucus meetings. "I wouldn't expect Don to abandon conservative principles one iota," the caucus member said. As for Dwyer, he's not talking. "I'm not discussing this issue with anybody, at any time," he said last week.
-- ROSALIND S. HELDERMAN
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/18/AR2009031804128.html
-Mexico sees rare, openly gay mayoral candidate
The Associated Press
MEXICO CITY -- A small Mexican political party has made an unusual choice in tapping an openly gay candidate to run for mayor of the conservative city of Guadalajara. The Social Democratic Party is nominating 31-year-old helicopter pilot Miguel Antonio Galan for the July 5 election.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/19/AR2009031904430.html
-Teenage Birthrate Increases For Second Consecutive Year
By Rob Stein and Donna St. George
The rate at which teenage girls in the United States are having babies has risen for a second year in a row, government statistics show, putting one of the nation's most successful social and public health campaigns in jeopardy.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/18/AR2009031801597.html?hpid=moreheadlines
-Condom Sense
Pope Benedict XVI is wrong.
THE LATE New York senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan once said, "Everyone is entitled to his own opinion but not his own facts." This holds true even for the pope.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/18/AR2009031803136.html
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Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/public/us
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Will Gay Couples' Marriage Vows Survive California Court Review?
By GEOFFREY A. FOWLER
The California Supreme Court is weighing an incendiary question: Should it recognize the gay couples who married last year, when same-sex marriage was briefly legal? Within the next 10 weeks, the court is expected to rule on a petition to overturn the state's voter-mandated gay marriage ban, called Proposition 8. Legal scholars and even many gay-marriage advocates say the justices' questions during a March 5 hearing leave little doubt that the court will allow the ban to stay, partly out of respect for California's voter initiative process.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123742286210779017.html
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Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Lift Florida's gay adoption ban
OUR OPINION: Bill allows judges to decide based solely on child's best interests
The fundamental unfairness and illogic of Florida's ban on gay adoptions gets more obvious with every new legal assault on it. The ban has been found unconstitutional in two state court circuits and is the target of two new bills in the Legislature. Whether the Florida Supreme Court will agree that the ban is unconstitutional, or lawmakers will come to their senses this year and end the ban isn't clear. But when momentum for a just cause reaches this point, it is only a matter of time until fairness prevails. We wish that day would come sooner rather than later. The ban hurts Florida's foster children most. Florida is the only state with a complete ban on gay and lesbian adoptions of foster children. But the state thinks it's fine for them to be foster parents. This hypocritical policy means the state considers a gay couple's home perfectly fit for foster kids but not good enough for giving that child a permanent, stable, loving life. Sen. Nan Rich, D-Weston, has introduced two bills that, in separate ways, would overturn the ban approved by the Legislature in 1977. The first bill would repeal the law. The second would require judges to determine adoptions based solely on what is in the best interest of the child. This is so reasonable that it should be impossible for any lawmaker to reject it. Unfortunately, politics still trumps common sense when it comes to issues involving homosexuality in Florida. While the private sector has kept up with changing times by offering partner benefits, for example, the public sector is still hampered by political expediency. It is time for lawmakers to put Florida's foster children before politics.
http://www.miamiherald.com/opinion/editorials/story/957197.html
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Forwarded from Gays Without Borders
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article
-It's mighty unusual, to say the least, that an individual representing a foreign government, and one that is so homo-hating as the political leaders in Jamaica, has been allowed to conduct consular affairs on San Francisco property. Last week, I filed a Sunshine Act request with Ms. Eileen Shields, public information officer for the Department of Public Health, for all contracts and leases between the DPH and the honorary consul of Jamaica. This was her first reply: My initial information is that a while back a UCSF oral surgeon from Jamaica inadvisably used his work address at SFGH as the contact point for an "honorary consulate." It does not appear there was any formalized agreement, it was more a Jamaican resident who wanted to be available to other Jamaicans in the Bay Area. Still, the information managed to work its way onto the web.
http://mpetrelis.blogspot.com/2009/03/sf-dph-to-jamaican-consul-cease.html
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Forwarded from Euro-Queer
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article:
-"Members of the European Parliament ask Germany to properly apply EU legislation for a gay asylum seeker from Iran."
On 18 March Members of the European Parliament's Intergroup on Gay and Lesbian Rights sent a letter to the German Minister of Justice Brigitte Zypries and Minister of the Interior Wolfgang Schäuble asking them to find a proper solution for an Iranian gay asylum seeker who has seen his asylum application being rejected in Germany. "We would like to remind you that Member States of the European Union cannot apply European and national laws and procedures in a way resulting in the expulsion of persons to a third country where they would risk persecution, torture and death, as this would amount to a violation of European and international human rights obligations," states the letter to the German ministers.
http://www.lgbt-ep.eu
-Colombia: Protest the Murder of LGBT Human Rights Defender
The rights violated in this case include: The right to life, the right to be free from discrimination and the right to equality. On March 6, 2009, unknown men killed the human rights defender Álvaro Miguel Rivera in the city of Cali, Colombia. Álvaro was the representative of a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) organization, Tínku. He was also a member of Planeta Paz, a national peace network, and of the Polo Rosa, the LGBTI section of a left wing political party. Álvaro was far and foremost a committed activist who worked for the rights of the LGBTI community and people living with HIV. In the past, threats against his life had already made Álvaro flee Villavicencio, a city in Eastern Colombia.
http://www.iglhrc.org/cgi-bin/iowa/article/takeaction/globalactionalerts/213.html
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SunShine Cathedral - Ft. Lauderdale
The leadership of Sunshine Cathedral (MCC) applauds DignityUSA's, New Ways Ministry's, and Call to Action's prompt and clear response to Pope Benedict's outrageous, misleading, and dangerous suggestion that condom use might increase HIV infections in Africa. Sunshine Cathedral unequivocally supports the use of condoms to reduce the risk of HIV infection. We are appreciative of the resistance being offered by faithful Roman Catholics to the out-dated, irresponsible teaching against safer-sex practices. We share with you the following statement by Dignity/New Ways/CTA:
...................................................................................................................
DIGNITYUSA, NEW WAYS MINISTRY, CALL TO ACTION
PRESS RELEASE
March 18, 2000
Media Contact:
Marianne Duddy-Burke, DignityUSA, C: 617-669-7810
Nicole Sotelo, Call To Action, O: 773.404.0004 x285; C: 857.928.4112 Francis DeBernardo, New Ways Ministry, O: 301.277.5674; C: 240.432.2489 Gay Catholic Groups Condemn Pope's Statements in Africa on Condom Use Leade s of DignityUSA, New Ways Ministry and Call To Action-three groups that support gay rights in the Catholic Church-spoke out to condemn the Pope's comments that implied that using condoms could increase the incidents of HIV/AIDS. Marianne Duddy-Burke, DignityUSA's Executive Director, said, "The Pope's statement that '...the distribution of condoms...aggravates the problems' is amazingly insensitive to all the people living with HIV/AIDS in Africa. A 2006 United Nations report confirms that, 'Sub-Saharan Africa remains the worst-affected region in the world. In 2005, there were 24.5 million in sub-Saharan Africa living with HIV. Globally, 64% of all people living with HIV live in sub-Saharan Africa.' This UN study goes on to cite Zimbabwe as a country that had a 2% decrease in HIV/AIDS due to condom use and deferral of sex by young people. "Numerous medical studies prove that proper use of condoms greatly reduces the spread of HIV/AIDS. This includes the wives and partners of HIV positive men who have relations with their husbands or partners infected by HIV/AIDS-whether by choice or coercion. DignityUSA has long called on the Vatican to acknowledge the importance of educating people on the proper use of condoms, and to support making them widely available as a way of saving lives of vulnerable people around the world." Nicole Sotelo, Communications Director of Call To Action, said, "Catholics throughout the world understand that condoms save lives. We must stop making orphans of children throughout the world because of misinformation. To this day, the Vatican bans the use of condoms by Catholics. This is just morally wrong." Francis DeBernardo, Executive Director of New Ways Ministry, added, "Once again, the Pope's use of discredited beliefs endangers people across the globe. This is a violation of the deepest values of the Catholic faith. We urge Catholics to express their concern about the Pope's stance on condoms directly to the Vatican, and to support organizations providing medically appropriate information and resources to people with or at risk of becoming infected with HIV."
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Call To Action (CTA) is a Catholic movement working for equality and justice in the Church and society. An independent national organization of over 25,000 people and 53 local chapters, CTA believes that the Spirit of God is at work in the whole church, not just its appointed leaders. Visit our website at www.cta-usa.org. DignityUSA is the nation's foremost organization of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Catholics, as well as their families, friends, and supporters. Founded in 1969, the group has members and Chapters throughout the United States. New Ways Ministry is a 32-year-old Roman Catholic bridge-building ministry of justice, education, and reconciliation for lesbian/gay Catholics and the wider church community.
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From GLCCSF - Ft. Lauderdale
Olivia All-Inclusive Island Paradise Retreat - May 2-9, 2009
For Two - Including Airfare
A $6,700 Value
Tickets $50 - Only 100 Tickets Will be Sold
If you're looking for a private oasis with all the amenities, then welcome to heaven! In fact, you'll be pampered at this all-inclusive island retreat where food, most drinks (yes, even cocktails) and most activities are yours to enjoy at no additional cost! You and 500 women will take over the beautiful Columbus Isle Paradise Resort, the centerpiece of this exclusive island. Don't miss this amazing opportunity to meet the sun-drenched shores and smile-studded nights of Columbus Isle. Best of all, at this all-inclusive, all-indulgent resort, you can leave your credit card in your room-just grab your sarong and your flip-flops. Tickets available at the GLCC and New Moon Bar - Drawing will be held on March 28, 2009 For more information, please call Linda Jain at the GLCC, 954-463-9005 or ljain@glccsf.org
-"OUTlet: Plugging Young Women in the Arts"
A First Ever Conference in South Floirda for and by Young Lesbians, Bi, Trans, Queer, Questioning Women and our Allies For the first time ever South Florida's young lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning young women and their allies ages 15 to young adult have a place to expand minds, experience creativity and meet other young people like themselves. Through the generous support of Aqua Foundation for Women and under the leadership of Safe Schools South Florida, "OUTlet: Plugging Young Women into the Arts - A Conference for and by Young Lesbian, Bi, Trans, Queer and Questioning Women and our Allies" will take place on Saturday, April 18th at Sunserve in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 1480 South West 9th Avenue, 33315. The electric OUTlet: Plugging Young Women into the Arts First Ever Conference" is absolutely free to all participants in Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties. In order to attend you must register on line at: www.outlet4youngwomen.com
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South Florida Blade
http://www.floridablade.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Father of SoCal teen in slaying case found dead
William McInerney's death will delay preliminary hearing
The father of a 15-year-old boy accused of killing a gay classmate has been found dead at his Southern California home. Ventura County Senior Deputy Medical Examiner Craig Stevens says 45-year-old William McInerney was found dead about 7:30 a.m. Wednesday by a friend who was going to take him to a court hearing involving McInerney's son. Stevens says there was no indication of foul play. An autopsy is planned. McInerney's son, Brandon, has been charged as an adult in the February 2008 shooting of 15-year-old Larry King in a classroom at their junior high school in Oxnard. He has pleaded not guilty. The preliminary hearing was delayed once word came that Brandon's father was found dead.
http://www.floridablade.com/thelatest/thelatest.cfm?blog_id=24569
-US endorses UN gay rights statement
Declaration, rejected by Bush administration, aims to decriminalize homosexuality
The Obama administration on Wednesday formally endorsed a U.N. declaration calling for the worldwide decriminalization of homosexuality, a measure that former President George W. Bush had refused to sign. The move was the administration's latest in reversing Bush-era decisions that have been heavily criticized by human rights and other groups. The United States was the only western nation not to sign onto the declaration when it came up at the U.N. General Assembly in December.
http://www.floridablade.com/thelatest/thelatest.cfm?blog_id=24553
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The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Spain Counters Pope, Sends Condoms to Africa
Spain announced that it will send a million condoms to Africa to fight the rampant spread of HIV/AIDS in the continent. The announcement comes a day after Pope Benedict XVI said that condoms conversely "increase the problem." On his way to Cameroon, Benedict told reporters, "You can't resolve [AIDS] with the distribution of condoms." The disbursement of the condoms are to fight HIV with a proven method, the Spanish health ministry said in a statement today. "Condoms have been demonstrated to be a necessary element in prevention policies and an efficient barrier against the virus." The Pope's statements on Tuesday were the first time he had addressed the use of condoms since taking over as the head of the Catholic Church in 2005, according to the New York Times. The Vatican is strongly against contraception including birth control pills and condoms, and Spain's government, headed by Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero, has been clashing with Vatican sentiments since 2004 when he entered office.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75701.asp
-Lawsuit Greets School That Cancelled Rent
By Julie Bolcer
The American Civil Liberties Union sued officials of Corona del Mar High School in Newport Beach, C.A. on Wednesday, charging that administrators fostered a "sexist" and "homophobic" environment, according to the Los Angeles Times .
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75736.asp
-Gay Marriage Hearing Draws Crowds in Vermont
By Julie Bolcer
Nearly 1,000 people crowded into the house chamber in Montpelier, V.T. on Wednesday evening to testify about a gay marriage bill before the house and senate judiciary committees. Legislators heard three hours of passionate testimony on questions such as the purpose of marriage and the meaning of family.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75733.asp
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365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Pope beefs up his anti-science cred
By Jenna Lowenstein
During a visit to Africa on Tuesday, Pope Benedict reiterated the Catholic Church's controversial anti-condom stance, and went as far as to claim that the use of condoms contribute to the spread of the AIDS epidemic. "[AIDS] cannot be overcome by the distribution of condoms. On the contrary, they increase the problem."
http://www.365gay.com/blog/lowenstein-pope-beefs-up-his-anti-science-cred/
-New era begins in Ft. Lauderdale
By 365gay Newscenter Staff
Jack Seiler began his first full day as Fort Lauderdale mayor Wednesday, putting an official end to the 18-year, polarizing term of Jim Naugle. During his term in the mayor's chair Naugle had been blamed for divisive anti-gay rhetoric. Naugle, who was prevented from running last month by term limits. Although he backed Seiler it is unknown much it helped. A former state legislator, Seiler had a huge war chest and spent heavily, defeating two openly gay candidates.
http://www.365gay.com/news/new-era-begins-in-ft-lauderdale/
-Gay marriage gets recognition - in the dictionary
By The Associated Press
Same-sex marriage might not be recognized in most states, but it is in the dictionary. Merriam-Webster included a secondary definition of marriage to recognize same-sex relationships several years before gay couples were allowed to tie the knot anywhere in the United States, but the change had gone largely unnoticed until the conservative World Net Daily news site reported it Tuesday.
http://www.365gay.com/news/gay-marriage-gets-recognition-in-the-dictionary/
-Is Uncle Sam over-charging gay couples?
By Matt Simonette
Early last year, Chicagoan Victoria Stagg Elliott was relieved to put her spouse, Karen Shoffner, on her employer's health coverage. But there was a catch. Stagg Elliott found out she would be taxed on the portion of Shoffner's coverage paid for by the employer. She estimated that the coverage represents about $100 worth of monthly income, meaning she has to declare about $1,200 more in income each year than a straight married colleague with an equivalent insurance package.
http://www.365gay.com/living/is-uncle-sam-over-charging-gay-couples/
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Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Amnesty asks Pope to defend gay rights
Amnesty International has urged Pope Benedict XVI to condemn the criminalisation of homosexuality when he meets with African bishops today in Cameroon, which criminalises same-sex relations.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11664.html
-Gay hotel: Sewage 'was actually sand'
It has been claimed that Club Tucanes, the gay hotel in Gran Canaria which evacuated guests due to a 'sewage leak', was actually evicted for non-payment of rent.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11662.html
-Scottish hate crimes law to be extended to cover anti-gay crimes
Scottish justice secretary Kenny MacAskill has said that extending hate crime laws to protect LGBT people and the disabled will send out a "clear message" that such crimes cannot be tolerated.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11659.html
-Minnesota gay marriage ban 'will prevent world from ending'
The Minnesota Family Council has introduced an amendment to ban gay marriage, which it claims will stop the world from ending.
PinkNews.co.uk Webslice
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11654.html
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Daily Queer News
www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Remembering Queer History
Elizabeth Rubin | Daily Pennsylvanian
Could "gay shame" ever take the place of "gay pride?" It did in the past. Professor Heather Love appeared at the Penn Bookstore last night to discuss her book, Feeling Backward: Loss and the Politics of Queer History, which highlights the importance of remembering the dark and lonely past of the gay and lesbian community . "Gay pride" is a ubiquitous term that represents the great strides that the gay community has made in political rights and social acceptance. Love, however, presented an alternate view of this assimilation and acceptance. In her discussion she said, "I am happy about clear advances, but troubled by gay normalization." Seeing shows like "Queer Eye for the Straight Guy" as "sell-outs," Love argues that the history of social exclusion resulted in a unique community. By commercializing the gay community and promoting assimilation to social norms, Love feels that the unique personailities of her friends are at risk of being lost. Read more
-In Anticipation of Prop 8 D-Day, Activists to March to Sacramento this Month
LGBTQ News
LGBTQ people and allies eagerly await the California Supreme Court decision that will either reject or affirm anti-gay Proposition 8. Marriage equality activists say that if the court rules to only uphold the existing same sex marriages, but allows the rest of Prop 8 to stand, it will not be a victory. Many are calling for a return to the streets with direct action and civil disobedience if discrimination is written back into the California Constitution. The California Supreme Court must rule within 90 days of March 5, 2009, when they heard the case, meaning a decision is expected at the latest by June 3. In anticipation of an earlier decision, lesbian/gay/bi/trans activists and allies will leave Berkeley, California for a 100-mile walk to the state Capitol in Sacramento on March 25. The event will begin with a rally on the steps of San Francisco's City Hall at Noon on Tuesday, March 24 with speakers, including a representative from Supervisor Tom Ammiano's office and inspirational music by the Raging Grannies and Brass Liberation Orchestra, followed by a symbolic march to the State Supreme Court building. Marchers hope to build bridges with local communities along the way and enlist former antagonists to help repeal the ban on same-sex marriages. The march is initiated by the direct action group One Struggle One Fight, and supported by a range of organizations including the LGBT labor alliance Pride At Work and the group And Marriage For All, which coordinated No On 8 outreach among LGBT people of color. More than 50 people from 10 cities and towns are already signed up to participate in the peaceful event, including 78-year-old Dolores Huerta, the co-founder and First Vice President Emeritus of the United Farm Workers of America, and Robert Moore, a 28-year-old gay Mormon who said, "I encourage everyone that wants to see equal rights for ALL to join us in this march and show that we will not be divided." The group will walk through both large and small cities on the way to the capital, entering bustling suburbs like Pleasant Hill and small Delta towns such as Locke. Marchers are inviting local communities to join in evening discussions. The march will culminate in a day of action in Sacramento on Monday, March 30, to demand the repeal of Proposition 8 and spotlight the need for better health care and immigration rights for all people.
-Legion to White House: Don't Bill Our Heroes
Our Voice
Our National Headquarters phones and email boxes in Indianapolis and Washington, DC have been flooded with calls concerning the President's proposal to bill private insurance companies for VA treatment of wounded heroes' injuries and disabilities. Our mail boxes are jammed full with hundreds of messages and we are responding as quickly as possible. If your message is not returned, please understand that we are simply overwhelmed by your good thoughts and wishes and we appreciate each and every one. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE.!
-Just How Bad Off is the Republican Party (Part 2)
Salon
As of press time, Tuesday evening, March 17, Michael Steele is still running the Republican National Committee. But tomorrow is another day, as Katon Dawson, I mean Scarlett O'Hara, once said. Perhaps Steele will be ushered offstage soon - if, say, the GOP fails to win back Kirsten Gillibrand's old seat in New York's traditionally Republican 20th Congressional District on March 31. Perhaps Michael Steele will survive till 2010, and lead his party in a miraculous comeback in the midterms. But as the nation waits to learn Steele's fate, we thought we'd take a ground-level look at the state of his party after two consecutive electoral drubbings. The following list examines the trends in each of the 50 states over the past three election cycles, assessing demographic shifts, voting patterns, rising and falling political stars and organizational strengths and weaknesses. The picture it paints is not pretty, but it is not hopeless either. We have (roughly) ordered the list by the relative love that each state has for its Grand Old Party. While there are some places where love is not for sale, there are others where love is all around, and even some spots where hearts are growing fonder. Each entry also includes the cold, hard numeric facts about the electoral strength of the party in 2005 versus its strength today. (Most data on state legislatures is from the National Conference of State Legislatures. State legislature numbers list majority party first, minority party second and independents third; figures below may not account for all special election results, party switches and vacancies.) Read more
-Gay Rights are Civil Rights; Cafeteria Christians
Andoni | Citizen Crain
NAACP Board Chair Julian Bond addressed the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Dinner in Los Angeles last Saturday night and made one of the clearest and most compelling cases for gay rights ever. It is definitely worth your time to hear what this dynamic African American leader has to say on gay rights. In his speech, he makes innumerable good points, including: 1. Gay rights indeed are civil rights. 2. Like race, our sexuality isn't a preference. It is immutable; it is unchangeable. And the constitution protects us against prejudices and discrimination based on immutable differences. 3. Too many Christians are cafeteria Christians. They choose item A from the Bible, then go on to ignore items B through Z (minute 14:30 of the speech). Read more
-AIG and Congressional Blowhards
Andoni | Citizen Crain
It's amazing to see the tirade in Congress over the $165 million in bonuses that have been paid to employees of A.I.G.'s credit swap derivatives division in London. That's the division that took the company to insolvency and the world to the brink of financial disaster. Am I happy about these bonuses? Absolutely not. I'm very angry about it. In fact I'm sick over the whole A.I.G. mess. But what I suggest is that what we see going on in Washington over A.I.G. is 535 adults acting like children.
Consider the following:
1. these A.I.G. employees are based in London. Unless any are U.S. citizens, all the proposals to claw back 99% of the money by raising the income tax on them won't apply. These people are British citizens. You would have to get the British government to go along and pass similar laws. This is a feel good solution that won't work. Read more
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Forwarded from Kenneth Sherrill - Ken's List
kenslist@groups.queernet.org
Go to the links for the following articles:
Contact rays.list@comcast.net if you can't access the article
-LGBT Equality Caucus Briefing
Not a rosy picture: poverty among lesbian, gay and bisexual Americans
Friday, March 20, 2009 - 10:00am - 11:00am - HC-8
On behalf of the Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus, we would like to invite you and your staff to attend an upcoming briefing on The Williams Institute's newest report, Poverty In The Lesbian, Gay, and BisexualCommunity. Two authors of this groundbreaking report, M. V. Lee Badgett and Randy Albelda, will present their findings and discuss the prevalence of poverty among lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults and families. The briefing will take place on Friday, March 20, 2009 at 10:00am in HC-8. In 2007, the United States Census counted 12.5% of Americans as officially poor. Lesbian, gay, and bisexual people are largely invisible in these poverty statistics, but this report - the first analysis of its kind - finds that poverty rates for lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults and families are as high as, or higher than, those of heterosexuals. Other key findings that will be discussed in more depth at the briefing:
* In general, lesbian couples have much higher poverty rates than either different-sex couples or gay male couples;
* African-Americans in same-sex couples have poverty rates that are significantly higher than black people in different-sex married couples; and
* Employment discrimination, lack of access to marriage, and a greater likelihood of being uninsured exacerbate poverty among lesbian, gay, and bisexual people.
The Williams Institute study focuses on sexual orientation as no nationally or locally representative data exist for transgender Americans. Although the researchers were unfortunately unable to specifically analyze poverty in this part of the LGBT community in their report, transgender people who are also lesbian, gay, or bisexual may be included in the analysis by virtue of their sexual orientation. Further, the study reports findings from a prior Williams Institute study showing that many transgender people are living at or below the poverty level.
-Obama, U.N. elevating homosexuality to new heights
http://www.onenewsnow.com/newsbrief/smallemail.aspx
-Chicago Frat Boys Protest Antigay Bigots!
Hey check out this video! Fred Phelps and the Westboro Baptist Church (the same folks who run the god hates fags website and protest soldiers funerals because they say they died defending the Homosexual agenda of the USA) came to the University of Chicago and were met by gay rights protesters. They were also met by protesters of an unexpected sort. Frat boys in solidarity with the gay rights protesters rallied in front of thier frat house and danced, dressed in their underwear only when the bigots marched past. They also dropped a banner from the frat house that read "NO Tolerance for INtolerance". F*****g awesome!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZfZiBRFM5w
-My name is Nick Teich, and I am the founder and president of Camp Aranu'tiq, a weeklong summer camp for transgender and gender-variant youth in the New England area. Our program will begin in summer 2010, but we would like to get the word out now to agencies or other entitites that deal with transgender and gender-variant individuals. Our age range is 8 through 15. We are on the web at: www.camparanutiq.org
-Dramatic spike in gay hate crimes in Calif.
http://www.365gay.com/news/dramatic-spike-in-gay-hate-crimes-in-calif/
-A Gay-Marriage Solution: End Marriage?
By Michael A. Lindenberger
When a Jewish boy turns 13, he heads to a temple for a deeply meaningful rite of passage, his bar mitzvah. When a Catholic girl reaches about the same age, she stands in front of the local bishop, who touches her forehead with holy oil as she is confirmed into a 2,000-year-old faith tradition. But missing in each of those cases - and in countless others of equal religious importance - is any role for government. There is no baptism certificate issued by the local courthouse and no federal tax benefit attached to the confessional booth, the into-the-water-and-out born-again ceremony or any of the other sacraments that believers hold sacred.
http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1885190,00.html
-Win for Anti-Bias Rules
A federal appeals court on Tuesday gave a major win to public universities and advocates for gay rights who have wanted to preserve in full the institutional anti-bias policies that bar discrimination based on sexual orientation. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit ruled -- in a two-sentence decision -- that the Hastings College of Law of the University of California was within its rights to deny recognition to a branch of the Christian Legal Society. Hastings said that the student group's ban on members who engage in "unrepentant homosexual conduct" violated the law school's anti-bias policies. In turn, the Christian Legal Society argued that its First Amendment rights were being violated by the law school in that it was forcing the law students in the society to abandon their religious beliefs in return for recognition.
http://www.insidehighered.com/news/2009/03/18/hastings
-Censoring sexual orientation "equally"
Consumerist reports that Microsoft will ban anyone who mentions their sexual orientation on the XBox Live site. Microsoft's official policy is to prohibit anything suggesting "content of a potentially sexual nature," and to them that includes "expression of any type of orientation, be that hetero or other." Thus, Microsoft has it that its policy is non-discriminatory: straight and queer people alike are forbidden from mentioning their sexual orientation. (H/t feministing.)
http://polyperversity.blogspot.com/2009/03/censoring-sexually-orientation-equally.html
-"Freedom of speech is not absolute."
by Dan Savage
That's an interesting argument for a law professor to advance-I mean, we all know that you're not allowed to scream "fire" in the proverbial crowded theater (unless your proverb is actually on fire), and libel is a no-no, butmost Americans regard freedom of speech as absolutely absolute otherwise, particularly where newspapers are concerned, seeing as... Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press.... But a sex column in a student newspaper at the the University of Montana has two law professors arguing against freedom of speech and in favor of censorship.
http://slog.thestranger.com/slog/archives/2009/03/12/_freedom_of_speech_is_not_abso
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[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
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New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-A.C.L.U. Sues School Involved in 'Rent' Tussle
By PATRICK HEALY; Compiled by Dave Itzkoff
The American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California filed a lawsuit on
Wednesday in state Superior Court contending that an Orange County high school allowed a hostile environment to develop against gay and female students there, citing the brief cancellation of a school production of the musical "Rent" as one piece of evidence. The lawsuit, which argues that state and federal equal protection laws were violated, was filed on behalf of a female student at Corona del Mar High School who was said to be a target of rape and death threats by male students. It contends that sexist and homophobic comments are common at the school and that school officials have done little in response. The school drama teacher, Ron Martin, said last month that the school's principal, Fal Asrani, had canceled the "Rent" production; Ms. Asrani said that was not true, and later she approved the production. A spokeswoman for the Newport-Mesa Unified School District said that she had no immediate comment, but that one would be forthcoming.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/19/theater/19arts-ACLUSUESSCHO_BRF.html?scp=4&sq=gay&st=cse
-First Chapter: 'Unfriendly Fire'
By NATHANIEL FRANK
Brain Drain: Arabic Linguists: On September 10th, 2001, the United States government intercepted two phone calls placed from Afghanistan between Al Qaeda operatives. "Tomorrow is zero hour," said one of the voices. "The match is about to begin," came another ominous line. The National Security Agency intercepts millions of messages every hour, but these calls came from sources deemed to be high priority. They were, of course, spoken in Arabic, so they made their way to a translator's queue, waiting to be interpreted. Unfortunately, in the fall of 2001 our government did not have enough Arabic linguists to translate the messages quickly. The phone calls were not translated until two days later, on September 12, 2001. It was two days too late.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/19/books/chapters/chapter-unfriendly-fire.html?scp=3&sq=gay&st=cse
-Prostate Test Found to Save Few Lives
By GINA KOLATA
The PSA blood test, used to screen for prostate cancer, saves few lives and leads to risky and unnecessary treatments for large numbers of men, two large studies have found.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/19/health/19cancer.html?hp
-Obama Administration to Stop Raids on Medical Marijuana Dispensers
By DAVID JOHNSTON and NEIL A. LEWIS
Attorney General Eric H. Holder Jr. on Wednesday outlined a shift in the enforcement of federal drug laws, saying the administration would effectively end the Bush administration's frequent raids on distributors of medical marijuana.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/19/us/19holder.html
-Suriname to Provide Free Circumcision
Suriname is offering free circumcisions to young boys and men ages 4 to 21 in an effort to curb sexually transmitted diseases, including H.I.V./AIDS, Agence France-Presse reports. Some 2 percent of the Suriname population is infected with H.I.V.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/18/health/18round.html
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Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Dwyer Doesn't Want to Caucus, Nor Does He Wish To Talk About It
Del. Donald H. Dwyer Jr. (R-Anne Arundel), one of the House of Delegates' most conservative members, has told fellow party members that he no longer plans to caucus with the group. Dwyer sent colleagues an e-mail last week announcing his intentions, indicating he did not wish to discuss his decision or explain his reasoning. A member of the caucus confirmed the e-mail for The Washington Post. Dwyer has been busy: Last week, committees heard testimony about his constitutional proposals to ban gay marriage and to assert "personhood" rights starting at conception, an antiabortion measure. Annapolis blogger Judd Legum, who first reported the defection, wrote that it was the caucus's failure to take a position in support of the latter amendment that pushed Dwyer out. The Republican caucus member, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the situation, said Dwyer sent a second e-mail reiterating his desire to keep his reasoning private but indicating the personhood amendment was not his motivation. Dwyer also emphasized that he remains a member of the party but will not attend caucus meetings. "I wouldn't expect Don to abandon conservative principles one iota," the caucus member said. As for Dwyer, he's not talking. "I'm not discussing this issue with anybody, at any time," he said last week.
-- ROSALIND S. HELDERMAN
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/18/AR2009031804128.html
-Mexico sees rare, openly gay mayoral candidate
The Associated Press
MEXICO CITY -- A small Mexican political party has made an unusual choice in tapping an openly gay candidate to run for mayor of the conservative city of Guadalajara. The Social Democratic Party is nominating 31-year-old helicopter pilot Miguel Antonio Galan for the July 5 election.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/19/AR2009031904430.html
-Teenage Birthrate Increases For Second Consecutive Year
By Rob Stein and Donna St. George
The rate at which teenage girls in the United States are having babies has risen for a second year in a row, government statistics show, putting one of the nation's most successful social and public health campaigns in jeopardy.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/18/AR2009031801597.html?hpid=moreheadlines
-Condom Sense
Pope Benedict XVI is wrong.
THE LATE New York senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan once said, "Everyone is entitled to his own opinion but not his own facts." This holds true even for the pope.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/18/AR2009031803136.html
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Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/public/us
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Will Gay Couples' Marriage Vows Survive California Court Review?
By GEOFFREY A. FOWLER
The California Supreme Court is weighing an incendiary question: Should it recognize the gay couples who married last year, when same-sex marriage was briefly legal? Within the next 10 weeks, the court is expected to rule on a petition to overturn the state's voter-mandated gay marriage ban, called Proposition 8. Legal scholars and even many gay-marriage advocates say the justices' questions during a March 5 hearing leave little doubt that the court will allow the ban to stay, partly out of respect for California's voter initiative process.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123742286210779017.html
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Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Lift Florida's gay adoption ban
OUR OPINION: Bill allows judges to decide based solely on child's best interests
The fundamental unfairness and illogic of Florida's ban on gay adoptions gets more obvious with every new legal assault on it. The ban has been found unconstitutional in two state court circuits and is the target of two new bills in the Legislature. Whether the Florida Supreme Court will agree that the ban is unconstitutional, or lawmakers will come to their senses this year and end the ban isn't clear. But when momentum for a just cause reaches this point, it is only a matter of time until fairness prevails. We wish that day would come sooner rather than later. The ban hurts Florida's foster children most. Florida is the only state with a complete ban on gay and lesbian adoptions of foster children. But the state thinks it's fine for them to be foster parents. This hypocritical policy means the state considers a gay couple's home perfectly fit for foster kids but not good enough for giving that child a permanent, stable, loving life. Sen. Nan Rich, D-Weston, has introduced two bills that, in separate ways, would overturn the ban approved by the Legislature in 1977. The first bill would repeal the law. The second would require judges to determine adoptions based solely on what is in the best interest of the child. This is so reasonable that it should be impossible for any lawmaker to reject it. Unfortunately, politics still trumps common sense when it comes to issues involving homosexuality in Florida. While the private sector has kept up with changing times by offering partner benefits, for example, the public sector is still hampered by political expediency. It is time for lawmakers to put Florida's foster children before politics.
http://www.miamiherald.com/opinion/editorials/story/957197.html
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Forwarded from Gays Without Borders
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article
-It's mighty unusual, to say the least, that an individual representing a foreign government, and one that is so homo-hating as the political leaders in Jamaica, has been allowed to conduct consular affairs on San Francisco property. Last week, I filed a Sunshine Act request with Ms. Eileen Shields, public information officer for the Department of Public Health, for all contracts and leases between the DPH and the honorary consul of Jamaica. This was her first reply: My initial information is that a while back a UCSF oral surgeon from Jamaica inadvisably used his work address at SFGH as the contact point for an "honorary consulate." It does not appear there was any formalized agreement, it was more a Jamaican resident who wanted to be available to other Jamaicans in the Bay Area. Still, the information managed to work its way onto the web.
http://mpetrelis.blogspot.com/2009/03/sf-dph-to-jamaican-consul-cease.html
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Forwarded from Euro-Queer
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article:
-"Members of the European Parliament ask Germany to properly apply EU legislation for a gay asylum seeker from Iran."
On 18 March Members of the European Parliament's Intergroup on Gay and Lesbian Rights sent a letter to the German Minister of Justice Brigitte Zypries and Minister of the Interior Wolfgang Schäuble asking them to find a proper solution for an Iranian gay asylum seeker who has seen his asylum application being rejected in Germany. "We would like to remind you that Member States of the European Union cannot apply European and national laws and procedures in a way resulting in the expulsion of persons to a third country where they would risk persecution, torture and death, as this would amount to a violation of European and international human rights obligations," states the letter to the German ministers.
http://www.lgbt-ep.eu
-Colombia: Protest the Murder of LGBT Human Rights Defender
The rights violated in this case include: The right to life, the right to be free from discrimination and the right to equality. On March 6, 2009, unknown men killed the human rights defender Álvaro Miguel Rivera in the city of Cali, Colombia. Álvaro was the representative of a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) organization, Tínku. He was also a member of Planeta Paz, a national peace network, and of the Polo Rosa, the LGBTI section of a left wing political party. Álvaro was far and foremost a committed activist who worked for the rights of the LGBTI community and people living with HIV. In the past, threats against his life had already made Álvaro flee Villavicencio, a city in Eastern Colombia.
http://www.iglhrc.org/cgi-bin/iowa/article/takeaction/globalactionalerts/213.html
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SunShine Cathedral - Ft. Lauderdale
The leadership of Sunshine Cathedral (MCC) applauds DignityUSA's, New Ways Ministry's, and Call to Action's prompt and clear response to Pope Benedict's outrageous, misleading, and dangerous suggestion that condom use might increase HIV infections in Africa. Sunshine Cathedral unequivocally supports the use of condoms to reduce the risk of HIV infection. We are appreciative of the resistance being offered by faithful Roman Catholics to the out-dated, irresponsible teaching against safer-sex practices. We share with you the following statement by Dignity/New Ways/CTA:
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DIGNITYUSA, NEW WAYS MINISTRY, CALL TO ACTION
PRESS RELEASE
March 18, 2000
Media Contact:
Marianne Duddy-Burke, DignityUSA, C: 617-669-7810
Nicole Sotelo, Call To Action, O: 773.404.0004 x285; C: 857.928.4112 Francis DeBernardo, New Ways Ministry, O: 301.277.5674; C: 240.432.2489 Gay Catholic Groups Condemn Pope's Statements in Africa on Condom Use Leade s of DignityUSA, New Ways Ministry and Call To Action-three groups that support gay rights in the Catholic Church-spoke out to condemn the Pope's comments that implied that using condoms could increase the incidents of HIV/AIDS. Marianne Duddy-Burke, DignityUSA's Executive Director, said, "The Pope's statement that '...the distribution of condoms...aggravates the problems' is amazingly insensitive to all the people living with HIV/AIDS in Africa. A 2006 United Nations report confirms that, 'Sub-Saharan Africa remains the worst-affected region in the world. In 2005, there were 24.5 million in sub-Saharan Africa living with HIV. Globally, 64% of all people living with HIV live in sub-Saharan Africa.' This UN study goes on to cite Zimbabwe as a country that had a 2% decrease in HIV/AIDS due to condom use and deferral of sex by young people. "Numerous medical studies prove that proper use of condoms greatly reduces the spread of HIV/AIDS. This includes the wives and partners of HIV positive men who have relations with their husbands or partners infected by HIV/AIDS-whether by choice or coercion. DignityUSA has long called on the Vatican to acknowledge the importance of educating people on the proper use of condoms, and to support making them widely available as a way of saving lives of vulnerable people around the world." Nicole Sotelo, Communications Director of Call To Action, said, "Catholics throughout the world understand that condoms save lives. We must stop making orphans of children throughout the world because of misinformation. To this day, the Vatican bans the use of condoms by Catholics. This is just morally wrong." Francis DeBernardo, Executive Director of New Ways Ministry, added, "Once again, the Pope's use of discredited beliefs endangers people across the globe. This is a violation of the deepest values of the Catholic faith. We urge Catholics to express their concern about the Pope's stance on condoms directly to the Vatican, and to support organizations providing medically appropriate information and resources to people with or at risk of becoming infected with HIV."
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Call To Action (CTA) is a Catholic movement working for equality and justice in the Church and society. An independent national organization of over 25,000 people and 53 local chapters, CTA believes that the Spirit of God is at work in the whole church, not just its appointed leaders. Visit our website at www.cta-usa.org. DignityUSA is the nation's foremost organization of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Catholics, as well as their families, friends, and supporters. Founded in 1969, the group has members and Chapters throughout the United States. New Ways Ministry is a 32-year-old Roman Catholic bridge-building ministry of justice, education, and reconciliation for lesbian/gay Catholics and the wider church community.
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From GLCCSF - Ft. Lauderdale
Olivia All-Inclusive Island Paradise Retreat - May 2-9, 2009
For Two - Including Airfare
A $6,700 Value
Tickets $50 - Only 100 Tickets Will be Sold
If you're looking for a private oasis with all the amenities, then welcome to heaven! In fact, you'll be pampered at this all-inclusive island retreat where food, most drinks (yes, even cocktails) and most activities are yours to enjoy at no additional cost! You and 500 women will take over the beautiful Columbus Isle Paradise Resort, the centerpiece of this exclusive island. Don't miss this amazing opportunity to meet the sun-drenched shores and smile-studded nights of Columbus Isle. Best of all, at this all-inclusive, all-indulgent resort, you can leave your credit card in your room-just grab your sarong and your flip-flops. Tickets available at the GLCC and New Moon Bar - Drawing will be held on March 28, 2009 For more information, please call Linda Jain at the GLCC, 954-463-9005 or ljain@glccsf.org
-"OUTlet: Plugging Young Women in the Arts"
A First Ever Conference in South Floirda for and by Young Lesbians, Bi, Trans, Queer, Questioning Women and our Allies For the first time ever South Florida's young lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning young women and their allies ages 15 to young adult have a place to expand minds, experience creativity and meet other young people like themselves. Through the generous support of Aqua Foundation for Women and under the leadership of Safe Schools South Florida, "OUTlet: Plugging Young Women into the Arts - A Conference for and by Young Lesbian, Bi, Trans, Queer and Questioning Women and our Allies" will take place on Saturday, April 18th at Sunserve in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 1480 South West 9th Avenue, 33315. The electric OUTlet: Plugging Young Women into the Arts First Ever Conference" is absolutely free to all participants in Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties. In order to attend you must register on line at: www.outlet4youngwomen.com
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South Florida Blade
http://www.floridablade.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Father of SoCal teen in slaying case found dead
William McInerney's death will delay preliminary hearing
The father of a 15-year-old boy accused of killing a gay classmate has been found dead at his Southern California home. Ventura County Senior Deputy Medical Examiner Craig Stevens says 45-year-old William McInerney was found dead about 7:30 a.m. Wednesday by a friend who was going to take him to a court hearing involving McInerney's son. Stevens says there was no indication of foul play. An autopsy is planned. McInerney's son, Brandon, has been charged as an adult in the February 2008 shooting of 15-year-old Larry King in a classroom at their junior high school in Oxnard. He has pleaded not guilty. The preliminary hearing was delayed once word came that Brandon's father was found dead.
http://www.floridablade.com/thelatest/thelatest.cfm?blog_id=24569
-US endorses UN gay rights statement
Declaration, rejected by Bush administration, aims to decriminalize homosexuality
The Obama administration on Wednesday formally endorsed a U.N. declaration calling for the worldwide decriminalization of homosexuality, a measure that former President George W. Bush had refused to sign. The move was the administration's latest in reversing Bush-era decisions that have been heavily criticized by human rights and other groups. The United States was the only western nation not to sign onto the declaration when it came up at the U.N. General Assembly in December.
http://www.floridablade.com/thelatest/thelatest.cfm?blog_id=24553
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The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Spain Counters Pope, Sends Condoms to Africa
Spain announced that it will send a million condoms to Africa to fight the rampant spread of HIV/AIDS in the continent. The announcement comes a day after Pope Benedict XVI said that condoms conversely "increase the problem." On his way to Cameroon, Benedict told reporters, "You can't resolve [AIDS] with the distribution of condoms." The disbursement of the condoms are to fight HIV with a proven method, the Spanish health ministry said in a statement today. "Condoms have been demonstrated to be a necessary element in prevention policies and an efficient barrier against the virus." The Pope's statements on Tuesday were the first time he had addressed the use of condoms since taking over as the head of the Catholic Church in 2005, according to the New York Times. The Vatican is strongly against contraception including birth control pills and condoms, and Spain's government, headed by Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero, has been clashing with Vatican sentiments since 2004 when he entered office.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75701.asp
-Lawsuit Greets School That Cancelled Rent
By Julie Bolcer
The American Civil Liberties Union sued officials of Corona del Mar High School in Newport Beach, C.A. on Wednesday, charging that administrators fostered a "sexist" and "homophobic" environment, according to the Los Angeles Times .
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75736.asp
-Gay Marriage Hearing Draws Crowds in Vermont
By Julie Bolcer
Nearly 1,000 people crowded into the house chamber in Montpelier, V.T. on Wednesday evening to testify about a gay marriage bill before the house and senate judiciary committees. Legislators heard three hours of passionate testimony on questions such as the purpose of marriage and the meaning of family.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75733.asp
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365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Pope beefs up his anti-science cred
By Jenna Lowenstein
During a visit to Africa on Tuesday, Pope Benedict reiterated the Catholic Church's controversial anti-condom stance, and went as far as to claim that the use of condoms contribute to the spread of the AIDS epidemic. "[AIDS] cannot be overcome by the distribution of condoms. On the contrary, they increase the problem."
http://www.365gay.com/blog/lowenstein-pope-beefs-up-his-anti-science-cred/
-New era begins in Ft. Lauderdale
By 365gay Newscenter Staff
Jack Seiler began his first full day as Fort Lauderdale mayor Wednesday, putting an official end to the 18-year, polarizing term of Jim Naugle. During his term in the mayor's chair Naugle had been blamed for divisive anti-gay rhetoric. Naugle, who was prevented from running last month by term limits. Although he backed Seiler it is unknown much it helped. A former state legislator, Seiler had a huge war chest and spent heavily, defeating two openly gay candidates.
http://www.365gay.com/news/new-era-begins-in-ft-lauderdale/
-Gay marriage gets recognition - in the dictionary
By The Associated Press
Same-sex marriage might not be recognized in most states, but it is in the dictionary. Merriam-Webster included a secondary definition of marriage to recognize same-sex relationships several years before gay couples were allowed to tie the knot anywhere in the United States, but the change had gone largely unnoticed until the conservative World Net Daily news site reported it Tuesday.
http://www.365gay.com/news/gay-marriage-gets-recognition-in-the-dictionary/
-Is Uncle Sam over-charging gay couples?
By Matt Simonette
Early last year, Chicagoan Victoria Stagg Elliott was relieved to put her spouse, Karen Shoffner, on her employer's health coverage. But there was a catch. Stagg Elliott found out she would be taxed on the portion of Shoffner's coverage paid for by the employer. She estimated that the coverage represents about $100 worth of monthly income, meaning she has to declare about $1,200 more in income each year than a straight married colleague with an equivalent insurance package.
http://www.365gay.com/living/is-uncle-sam-over-charging-gay-couples/
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Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Amnesty asks Pope to defend gay rights
Amnesty International has urged Pope Benedict XVI to condemn the criminalisation of homosexuality when he meets with African bishops today in Cameroon, which criminalises same-sex relations.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11664.html
-Gay hotel: Sewage 'was actually sand'
It has been claimed that Club Tucanes, the gay hotel in Gran Canaria which evacuated guests due to a 'sewage leak', was actually evicted for non-payment of rent.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11662.html
-Scottish hate crimes law to be extended to cover anti-gay crimes
Scottish justice secretary Kenny MacAskill has said that extending hate crime laws to protect LGBT people and the disabled will send out a "clear message" that such crimes cannot be tolerated.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11659.html
-Minnesota gay marriage ban 'will prevent world from ending'
The Minnesota Family Council has introduced an amendment to ban gay marriage, which it claims will stop the world from ending.
PinkNews.co.uk Webslice
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11654.html
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Daily Queer News
www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Remembering Queer History
Elizabeth Rubin | Daily Pennsylvanian
Could "gay shame" ever take the place of "gay pride?" It did in the past. Professor Heather Love appeared at the Penn Bookstore last night to discuss her book, Feeling Backward: Loss and the Politics of Queer History, which highlights the importance of remembering the dark and lonely past of the gay and lesbian community . "Gay pride" is a ubiquitous term that represents the great strides that the gay community has made in political rights and social acceptance. Love, however, presented an alternate view of this assimilation and acceptance. In her discussion she said, "I am happy about clear advances, but troubled by gay normalization." Seeing shows like "Queer Eye for the Straight Guy" as "sell-outs," Love argues that the history of social exclusion resulted in a unique community. By commercializing the gay community and promoting assimilation to social norms, Love feels that the unique personailities of her friends are at risk of being lost. Read more
-In Anticipation of Prop 8 D-Day, Activists to March to Sacramento this Month
LGBTQ News
LGBTQ people and allies eagerly await the California Supreme Court decision that will either reject or affirm anti-gay Proposition 8. Marriage equality activists say that if the court rules to only uphold the existing same sex marriages, but allows the rest of Prop 8 to stand, it will not be a victory. Many are calling for a return to the streets with direct action and civil disobedience if discrimination is written back into the California Constitution. The California Supreme Court must rule within 90 days of March 5, 2009, when they heard the case, meaning a decision is expected at the latest by June 3. In anticipation of an earlier decision, lesbian/gay/bi/trans activists and allies will leave Berkeley, California for a 100-mile walk to the state Capitol in Sacramento on March 25. The event will begin with a rally on the steps of San Francisco's City Hall at Noon on Tuesday, March 24 with speakers, including a representative from Supervisor Tom Ammiano's office and inspirational music by the Raging Grannies and Brass Liberation Orchestra, followed by a symbolic march to the State Supreme Court building. Marchers hope to build bridges with local communities along the way and enlist former antagonists to help repeal the ban on same-sex marriages. The march is initiated by the direct action group One Struggle One Fight, and supported by a range of organizations including the LGBT labor alliance Pride At Work and the group And Marriage For All, which coordinated No On 8 outreach among LGBT people of color. More than 50 people from 10 cities and towns are already signed up to participate in the peaceful event, including 78-year-old Dolores Huerta, the co-founder and First Vice President Emeritus of the United Farm Workers of America, and Robert Moore, a 28-year-old gay Mormon who said, "I encourage everyone that wants to see equal rights for ALL to join us in this march and show that we will not be divided." The group will walk through both large and small cities on the way to the capital, entering bustling suburbs like Pleasant Hill and small Delta towns such as Locke. Marchers are inviting local communities to join in evening discussions. The march will culminate in a day of action in Sacramento on Monday, March 30, to demand the repeal of Proposition 8 and spotlight the need for better health care and immigration rights for all people.
-Legion to White House: Don't Bill Our Heroes
Our Voice
Our National Headquarters phones and email boxes in Indianapolis and Washington, DC have been flooded with calls concerning the President's proposal to bill private insurance companies for VA treatment of wounded heroes' injuries and disabilities. Our mail boxes are jammed full with hundreds of messages and we are responding as quickly as possible. If your message is not returned, please understand that we are simply overwhelmed by your good thoughts and wishes and we appreciate each and every one. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE.!
-Just How Bad Off is the Republican Party (Part 2)
Salon
As of press time, Tuesday evening, March 17, Michael Steele is still running the Republican National Committee. But tomorrow is another day, as Katon Dawson, I mean Scarlett O'Hara, once said. Perhaps Steele will be ushered offstage soon - if, say, the GOP fails to win back Kirsten Gillibrand's old seat in New York's traditionally Republican 20th Congressional District on March 31. Perhaps Michael Steele will survive till 2010, and lead his party in a miraculous comeback in the midterms. But as the nation waits to learn Steele's fate, we thought we'd take a ground-level look at the state of his party after two consecutive electoral drubbings. The following list examines the trends in each of the 50 states over the past three election cycles, assessing demographic shifts, voting patterns, rising and falling political stars and organizational strengths and weaknesses. The picture it paints is not pretty, but it is not hopeless either. We have (roughly) ordered the list by the relative love that each state has for its Grand Old Party. While there are some places where love is not for sale, there are others where love is all around, and even some spots where hearts are growing fonder. Each entry also includes the cold, hard numeric facts about the electoral strength of the party in 2005 versus its strength today. (Most data on state legislatures is from the National Conference of State Legislatures. State legislature numbers list majority party first, minority party second and independents third; figures below may not account for all special election results, party switches and vacancies.) Read more
-Gay Rights are Civil Rights; Cafeteria Christians
Andoni | Citizen Crain
NAACP Board Chair Julian Bond addressed the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Dinner in Los Angeles last Saturday night and made one of the clearest and most compelling cases for gay rights ever. It is definitely worth your time to hear what this dynamic African American leader has to say on gay rights. In his speech, he makes innumerable good points, including: 1. Gay rights indeed are civil rights. 2. Like race, our sexuality isn't a preference. It is immutable; it is unchangeable. And the constitution protects us against prejudices and discrimination based on immutable differences. 3. Too many Christians are cafeteria Christians. They choose item A from the Bible, then go on to ignore items B through Z (minute 14:30 of the speech). Read more
-AIG and Congressional Blowhards
Andoni | Citizen Crain
It's amazing to see the tirade in Congress over the $165 million in bonuses that have been paid to employees of A.I.G.'s credit swap derivatives division in London. That's the division that took the company to insolvency and the world to the brink of financial disaster. Am I happy about these bonuses? Absolutely not. I'm very angry about it. In fact I'm sick over the whole A.I.G. mess. But what I suggest is that what we see going on in Washington over A.I.G. is 535 adults acting like children.
Consider the following:
1. these A.I.G. employees are based in London. Unless any are U.S. citizens, all the proposals to claw back 99% of the money by raising the income tax on them won't apply. These people are British citizens. You would have to get the British government to go along and pass similar laws. This is a feel good solution that won't work. Read more
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Forwarded from Kenneth Sherrill - Ken's List
kenslist@groups.queernet.org
Go to the links for the following articles:
Contact rays.list@comcast.net if you can't access the article
-LGBT Equality Caucus Briefing
Not a rosy picture: poverty among lesbian, gay and bisexual Americans
Friday, March 20, 2009 - 10:00am - 11:00am - HC-8
On behalf of the Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus, we would like to invite you and your staff to attend an upcoming briefing on The Williams Institute's newest report, Poverty In The Lesbian, Gay, and BisexualCommunity. Two authors of this groundbreaking report, M. V. Lee Badgett and Randy Albelda, will present their findings and discuss the prevalence of poverty among lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults and families. The briefing will take place on Friday, March 20, 2009 at 10:00am in HC-8. In 2007, the United States Census counted 12.5% of Americans as officially poor. Lesbian, gay, and bisexual people are largely invisible in these poverty statistics, but this report - the first analysis of its kind - finds that poverty rates for lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults and families are as high as, or higher than, those of heterosexuals. Other key findings that will be discussed in more depth at the briefing:
* In general, lesbian couples have much higher poverty rates than either different-sex couples or gay male couples;
* African-Americans in same-sex couples have poverty rates that are significantly higher than black people in different-sex married couples; and
* Employment discrimination, lack of access to marriage, and a greater likelihood of being uninsured exacerbate poverty among lesbian, gay, and bisexual people.
The Williams Institute study focuses on sexual orientation as no nationally or locally representative data exist for transgender Americans. Although the researchers were unfortunately unable to specifically analyze poverty in this part of the LGBT community in their report, transgender people who are also lesbian, gay, or bisexual may be included in the analysis by virtue of their sexual orientation. Further, the study reports findings from a prior Williams Institute study showing that many transgender people are living at or below the poverty level.
-Obama, U.N. elevating homosexuality to new heights
http://www.onenewsnow.com/newsbrief/smallemail.aspx
-Chicago Frat Boys Protest Antigay Bigots!
Hey check out this video! Fred Phelps and the Westboro Baptist Church (the same folks who run the god hates fags website and protest soldiers funerals because they say they died defending the Homosexual agenda of the USA) came to the University of Chicago and were met by gay rights protesters. They were also met by protesters of an unexpected sort. Frat boys in solidarity with the gay rights protesters rallied in front of thier frat house and danced, dressed in their underwear only when the bigots marched past. They also dropped a banner from the frat house that read "NO Tolerance for INtolerance". F*****g awesome!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZfZiBRFM5w
-My name is Nick Teich, and I am the founder and president of Camp Aranu'tiq, a weeklong summer camp for transgender and gender-variant youth in the New England area. Our program will begin in summer 2010, but we would like to get the word out now to agencies or other entitites that deal with transgender and gender-variant individuals. Our age range is 8 through 15. We are on the web at: www.camparanutiq.org
-Dramatic spike in gay hate crimes in Calif.
http://www.365gay.com/news/dramatic-spike-in-gay-hate-crimes-in-calif/
-A Gay-Marriage Solution: End Marriage?
By Michael A. Lindenberger
When a Jewish boy turns 13, he heads to a temple for a deeply meaningful rite of passage, his bar mitzvah. When a Catholic girl reaches about the same age, she stands in front of the local bishop, who touches her forehead with holy oil as she is confirmed into a 2,000-year-old faith tradition. But missing in each of those cases - and in countless others of equal religious importance - is any role for government. There is no baptism certificate issued by the local courthouse and no federal tax benefit attached to the confessional booth, the into-the-water-and-out born-again ceremony or any of the other sacraments that believers hold sacred.
http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1885190,00.html
-Win for Anti-Bias Rules
A federal appeals court on Tuesday gave a major win to public universities and advocates for gay rights who have wanted to preserve in full the institutional anti-bias policies that bar discrimination based on sexual orientation. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit ruled -- in a two-sentence decision -- that the Hastings College of Law of the University of California was within its rights to deny recognition to a branch of the Christian Legal Society. Hastings said that the student group's ban on members who engage in "unrepentant homosexual conduct" violated the law school's anti-bias policies. In turn, the Christian Legal Society argued that its First Amendment rights were being violated by the law school in that it was forcing the law students in the society to abandon their religious beliefs in return for recognition.
http://www.insidehighered.com/news/2009/03/18/hastings
-Censoring sexual orientation "equally"
Consumerist reports that Microsoft will ban anyone who mentions their sexual orientation on the XBox Live site. Microsoft's official policy is to prohibit anything suggesting "content of a potentially sexual nature," and to them that includes "expression of any type of orientation, be that hetero or other." Thus, Microsoft has it that its policy is non-discriminatory: straight and queer people alike are forbidden from mentioning their sexual orientation. (H/t feministing.)
http://polyperversity.blogspot.com/2009/03/censoring-sexually-orientation-equally.html
-"Freedom of speech is not absolute."
by Dan Savage
That's an interesting argument for a law professor to advance-I mean, we all know that you're not allowed to scream "fire" in the proverbial crowded theater (unless your proverb is actually on fire), and libel is a no-no, butmost Americans regard freedom of speech as absolutely absolute otherwise, particularly where newspapers are concerned, seeing as... Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press.... But a sex column in a student newspaper at the the University of Montana has two law professors arguing against freedom of speech and in favor of censorship.
http://slog.thestranger.com/slog/archives/2009/03/12/_freedom_of_speech_is_not_abso
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[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
NATIONAL & WORLD NEWS - March 19, 2009
**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net and we'll be happy to send the full article.
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New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-It's the Regulations, Not the Regulator
It has become a truism of the financial crisis that the system was prone to collapse because there was no single regulator who had the legal tools and authority to prevent a systemwide meltdown. That belief has led to calls from some lawmakers and major banks, among others, for a new "systemic risk regulator" - one regulator to monitor the entire financial landscape for problems that could lead to cascading failures.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/19/opinion/19thu1.html?_r=1&ref=opinion
-Religious Belief Linked to Desire for Aggressive Treatment in Terminal Patients
By RONI CARYN RABIN
Terminally ill cancer patients who drew comfort from religion were far more likely to seek aggressive, life-prolonging care in the week before they died than were less religious patients and far more likely to want doctors to do everything possible to keep them alive, a study has found.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/18/health/research/18faith.html
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Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Obama Drops Plan to Bill Veterans' Private Insurers
By Philip Rucker
President Obama yesterday abandoned a proposal to bill veterans' private insurance companies for the treatment at VA hospitals of combat-related injuries amid an outcry over the measure from veterans' service organizations and members of Congress.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/18/AR2009031803394.html?hpid=sec-health
-Our Must-Win War
The 'Minimalist' Path Is Wrong for Afghanistan
By John McCain and Joseph Lieberman
Later this month, the Obama administration will unveil a new strategy for the war in Afghanistan. This comes as most important indicators in Afghanistan are pointing in the wrong direction. President Obama's decision last month to deploy an additional 17,000 U.S. troops was an important step in the right direction, but a comprehensive overhaul of our war plan is needed, and quickly.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/18/AR2009031802932.html
-Road Map for Afghanistan
By David Ignatius
Last October, the Bush administration arranged a briefing for aides to Barack Obama and John McCain on the deteriorating situation in Afghanistan. Among the expert advisers was David Kilcullen, an Australian counterinsurgency guru who had been one of the architects of the U.S. troop surge in Iraq.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/18/AR2009031802931.html
-Populism's Virtues
By E.J. Dionne Jr.
Conservatives have argued for decades that the sins most dangerous to our society were rooted in lust when in fact they were rooted in greed. We are at the beginning of a great popular rebellion against those who showed no self-restraint when it came to lining their own pockets. Their entitlement mentality arose from an inflated sense of their own value and of how much smarter they were than everyone else.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/18/AR2009031803190.html
-Saving Pakistan
The U.S. will need to foster political stability if it wants success against al-Qaeda and the Taliban.
PAKISTAN'S LATEST crisis has eased, after President Asif Ali Zardari capitulated to protesters who threatened to march on the capital, Islamabad. But for the Obama administration, the challenge of political dysfunction in this nuclear-armed state has hardly diminished. As they showed during the past week, Pakistan's civilian and secular political leaders are more concerned with destroying each other than with fighting the Islamic extremists who are rapidly gaining strength in the country. The Pakistani army, for its part, remains more focused on the perceived threat from India than on the Taliban and al-Qaeda. These problems are deeply rooted -- but the new U.S. administration will have to take them on if it is to successfully combat the terrorist threat to the United States.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/18/AR2009031803384.html
-Pope to meet with Muslims, hold Mass in Cameroon
By VICTOR L. SIMPSON
YAOUNDE, Cameroon -- Pope Benedict XVI meets Thursday with representatives of Cameroon's sizable Muslim minority before celebrating Mass for thousands of African Catholics in the capital's soccer stadium.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/18/AR2009031800831.html?hpid=sec-religion
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Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/public/us
-Dodd's Amendment at Crux of Bonus Issue
By JONATHAN WEISMAN
A provision in President Barack Obama's stimulus law might have forestalled payment of $165 million in bonuses to employees of American International Group Inc., but was altered before final passage at the request of the Obama administration, Senate Banking Committee Chairman Christopher Dodd said Wednesday night. Mr. Dodd, a Connecticut Democrat, introduced a provision into the stimulus that capped executive pay, among other things. But the final language specifically excluded bonuses included in contracts signed before the bill's passage -- a broad category that included the AIG bonuses. At the time, few objected to that move, which was designed to ensure the measure was constitutional.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123741741674677723.html?mod=article-outset-box
-New Mexico Governor Signs Death Penalty Repeal
Gov. Bill Richardson signed legislation Wednesday repealing New Mexico's death penalty, making it the second state to ban executions since the U.S. Supreme Court reinstated the death penalty in 1976. Gov. Richardson, a Democrat who formerly supported capital punishment, said signing the bill was the "most difficult decision" of his political life.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123742198012278789.html
-Obama's AIG Panic
The AIG Beltway bonfire continued yesterday with the spectacle of Ed Liddy, AIG's government-appointed CEO, enduring the wrath of Congress for embarrassing the Members with post-bailout bonuses. What we now have is a full-blown political panic ignited by no less than President Obama himself that is threatening to engulf his attempts to revive the financial system, and is undermining confidence in his leadership. This is no way to promote an economic recovery.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123742023932678335.html
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Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Don't expect sympathy cards from crooks, corrupt politicians
By LEONARD PITTS JR.
On the day the last newspaper is published, I expect no sympathy card from Kwame Kilpatrick. Were it not for a newspaper -- The Detroit Free Press -- his use of public funds to cover up his affair with one of his aides would be unrevealed and, he might still be mayor of Detroit. Nor will I expect flowers from Larry Craig. Were it not for a newspaper -- The Idaho Statesman -- we would not know of his propensity for taking a ''wide stance'' in airport men's rooms and he might still be serving in the U.S. Senate. And I doubt there will be a toast of commiseration from Reynaldo Diaz and Oscar Rivero. Were it not for a newspaper -- The Miami Herald -- they would still be living large on money scammed from an agency that builds housing for the poor.
http://www.miamiherald.com/living/columnists/leonard-pitts/story/955386.html
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
=
New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-It's the Regulations, Not the Regulator
It has become a truism of the financial crisis that the system was prone to collapse because there was no single regulator who had the legal tools and authority to prevent a systemwide meltdown. That belief has led to calls from some lawmakers and major banks, among others, for a new "systemic risk regulator" - one regulator to monitor the entire financial landscape for problems that could lead to cascading failures.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/19/opinion/19thu1.html?_r=1&ref=opinion
-Religious Belief Linked to Desire for Aggressive Treatment in Terminal Patients
By RONI CARYN RABIN
Terminally ill cancer patients who drew comfort from religion were far more likely to seek aggressive, life-prolonging care in the week before they died than were less religious patients and far more likely to want doctors to do everything possible to keep them alive, a study has found.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/18/health/research/18faith.html
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Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Obama Drops Plan to Bill Veterans' Private Insurers
By Philip Rucker
President Obama yesterday abandoned a proposal to bill veterans' private insurance companies for the treatment at VA hospitals of combat-related injuries amid an outcry over the measure from veterans' service organizations and members of Congress.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/18/AR2009031803394.html?hpid=sec-health
-Our Must-Win War
The 'Minimalist' Path Is Wrong for Afghanistan
By John McCain and Joseph Lieberman
Later this month, the Obama administration will unveil a new strategy for the war in Afghanistan. This comes as most important indicators in Afghanistan are pointing in the wrong direction. President Obama's decision last month to deploy an additional 17,000 U.S. troops was an important step in the right direction, but a comprehensive overhaul of our war plan is needed, and quickly.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/18/AR2009031802932.html
-Road Map for Afghanistan
By David Ignatius
Last October, the Bush administration arranged a briefing for aides to Barack Obama and John McCain on the deteriorating situation in Afghanistan. Among the expert advisers was David Kilcullen, an Australian counterinsurgency guru who had been one of the architects of the U.S. troop surge in Iraq.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/18/AR2009031802931.html
-Populism's Virtues
By E.J. Dionne Jr.
Conservatives have argued for decades that the sins most dangerous to our society were rooted in lust when in fact they were rooted in greed. We are at the beginning of a great popular rebellion against those who showed no self-restraint when it came to lining their own pockets. Their entitlement mentality arose from an inflated sense of their own value and of how much smarter they were than everyone else.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/18/AR2009031803190.html
-Saving Pakistan
The U.S. will need to foster political stability if it wants success against al-Qaeda and the Taliban.
PAKISTAN'S LATEST crisis has eased, after President Asif Ali Zardari capitulated to protesters who threatened to march on the capital, Islamabad. But for the Obama administration, the challenge of political dysfunction in this nuclear-armed state has hardly diminished. As they showed during the past week, Pakistan's civilian and secular political leaders are more concerned with destroying each other than with fighting the Islamic extremists who are rapidly gaining strength in the country. The Pakistani army, for its part, remains more focused on the perceived threat from India than on the Taliban and al-Qaeda. These problems are deeply rooted -- but the new U.S. administration will have to take them on if it is to successfully combat the terrorist threat to the United States.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/18/AR2009031803384.html
-Pope to meet with Muslims, hold Mass in Cameroon
By VICTOR L. SIMPSON
YAOUNDE, Cameroon -- Pope Benedict XVI meets Thursday with representatives of Cameroon's sizable Muslim minority before celebrating Mass for thousands of African Catholics in the capital's soccer stadium.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/18/AR2009031800831.html?hpid=sec-religion
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Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/public/us
-Dodd's Amendment at Crux of Bonus Issue
By JONATHAN WEISMAN
A provision in President Barack Obama's stimulus law might have forestalled payment of $165 million in bonuses to employees of American International Group Inc., but was altered before final passage at the request of the Obama administration, Senate Banking Committee Chairman Christopher Dodd said Wednesday night. Mr. Dodd, a Connecticut Democrat, introduced a provision into the stimulus that capped executive pay, among other things. But the final language specifically excluded bonuses included in contracts signed before the bill's passage -- a broad category that included the AIG bonuses. At the time, few objected to that move, which was designed to ensure the measure was constitutional.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123741741674677723.html?mod=article-outset-box
-New Mexico Governor Signs Death Penalty Repeal
Gov. Bill Richardson signed legislation Wednesday repealing New Mexico's death penalty, making it the second state to ban executions since the U.S. Supreme Court reinstated the death penalty in 1976. Gov. Richardson, a Democrat who formerly supported capital punishment, said signing the bill was the "most difficult decision" of his political life.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123742198012278789.html
-Obama's AIG Panic
The AIG Beltway bonfire continued yesterday with the spectacle of Ed Liddy, AIG's government-appointed CEO, enduring the wrath of Congress for embarrassing the Members with post-bailout bonuses. What we now have is a full-blown political panic ignited by no less than President Obama himself that is threatening to engulf his attempts to revive the financial system, and is undermining confidence in his leadership. This is no way to promote an economic recovery.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123742023932678335.html
=
Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Don't expect sympathy cards from crooks, corrupt politicians
By LEONARD PITTS JR.
On the day the last newspaper is published, I expect no sympathy card from Kwame Kilpatrick. Were it not for a newspaper -- The Detroit Free Press -- his use of public funds to cover up his affair with one of his aides would be unrevealed and, he might still be mayor of Detroit. Nor will I expect flowers from Larry Craig. Were it not for a newspaper -- The Idaho Statesman -- we would not know of his propensity for taking a ''wide stance'' in airport men's rooms and he might still be serving in the U.S. Senate. And I doubt there will be a toast of commiseration from Reynaldo Diaz and Oscar Rivero. Were it not for a newspaper -- The Miami Herald -- they would still be living large on money scammed from an agency that builds housing for the poor.
http://www.miamiherald.com/living/columnists/leonard-pitts/story/955386.html
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
FLORIDA DIGEST - March 19, 2009
**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net and we'll be happy to send the full article.
~~FLORIDA GLBT NEWS~~
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From Transgender Equality
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article
-We are organizing two marches, Friday, March 20, and Monday, March 23, underway at 5:30, in opposition to Gainesville charter amendment 1. The Friday march will begin at the swimming-pool parking lot at Westside Park and will move east along the sidewalk on NW 8th Avenue to the boardwalk and back. Total distance is 6/10 of a mile. The Monday walk will launch from the UF Plant Facility parking lot (open parking after 4:30) on Radio Road just a few feet off SW 34th St. We will walk south along the sidewalk on 34th St to Hull Road and back. Total distance is approximately 1/2 mile. We did a trial run last week with should-born, stroller-bound, walking, skipping, chatting kids and parents on 8th Avenue and generated a lot of positive horn honking. This march is not for families only. All are welcome, and the more people the more impressive the march. We want to get press attention for this. Bring your "Vote No" yard signs to carry or create your own. Finally, please pass this email around to drum up participants. Canvassers have told me the vote is going to be close. Thanks and see you there.
Jack E. Davis
Associate Professor
Department of History
University of Florida
http://www.clas.ufl.edu/users/davisjac/
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Lambda Legal invites you to help spread the word about ways we are making the case for equality!
Join us for one or more of these Pride season events:
....Pridefest South Florida at Ft. Lauderdale - Saturday and Sunday, March 21-22
....Pridefest of the Palm Beaches at Lake Worth - Saturday and Sunday, March 28 -29
...Miami Beach Gay Pride Festival at Miami Beach - Saturday, April 18
...AIDS Walk Miami - Sunday, April 19
And be sure to join us at our information booth where you can take away fun and educational Lambda Legal materials! We especially like to be joined by members and supporters like you. Each year over one hundred volunteers make it possible for us to attend Prides all across the country! If you want to help out at the Lambda Legal booth please RSVP to Simone Bell or call 404-897-1880. Please indicate when you are available. We'll then email you details about where and when to meet us. Visit Lambda Legal's Pride Central for details.
http://www.lambdalegal.org/take-action/campaigns/lambda-legal-pride-central/lambda-legal-pride-central.html
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From LGBTQ Equality
Today, we are making public the Equality & Religious Freedom Act Proposal(Omnibus Equality Bill). This is important because we believe that we need to have a concrete proposal (in terms of an actual bill) to ask for our rights all at once. We have created a mini site ("Blueprint for LGBT Equality") where you can:
- Download the most recent version of the proposed bill.
- See in detail the pros and cons of such a bill (with detailed FAQ).
- Review the status of all the current incremental LGBT legislation (including noting if a particular incremental legislation falls short of the ideal). Here is the link:
www.eQualityGiving.org/Blueprint-for-LGBT-EqualityOur position is that we should pursue both incremental bills as well as an Omnibus Equality Bill. Feel free to write about this proposed bill as well as distribute the above link to your lists. Let me know if you have any questions via email or cell (305) 924-1515.
Juan Ahonen-Jover, Ph.D.
cofounder, www.eQualityGiving.org
The Online Donor Community
for LGBTQ Equality
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GLCCSF - Ft. Lauderdale
Community Meetings/Events
..OUT GIRLS MOVIE NIGHT - Friday, March 27, 7:00PM, "Affinity" Not your average women's prison flick. Stonewall Library, 1300 East Sunrise Blvd.
..DR. ANN MODY LEWIS - Saturday, March 28, 2:00 pm. Stonewall will host a lecture by psychotherapist and writer Dr. Ann Mody Lewis. Dr. Lewis will be speaking about her new book "Me, Again: The Untold Story of Every Woman's Life." For further information, please call 954-763-8565. 1300 East Sunrise Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL
..P-FLAG MEETING - April 9, 7:00PM, PFLAG promotes the health and well-being of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender persons, their families and friends. Sunserve, 1480 SW Ninth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, 33315, 1st floor, 1st door. PFLAG meets the 2nd Thursday of each month.
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WANT TO HELP PROMOTE THE AIDS WALK?
ASK US FOR PLEDGE FORMS AND POSTERS FOR YOUR BUSINESS.
Pledge forms and posters are available. If you need pledge forms or event posters for your business or would like to help distribute to local merchants, churches or your local hangout, please contact Carlos Rodriguez at crodriguez@careresource.org or 305-576-1234 x 257. Trying to get others at work to participate with you and need help with your membership drive? AIDS Walk Miami representatives are available to come to your company to help recruit your team members. Create your own donation web page directly through the www.aidswalkmiami.org web site and add pictures, graphics, company logos, poems or links to your myspace, facebook or favorite web page. By using the web site features, you can email your friends and family with a link directly to your personal web page and obtain reports on who has donated. AIDS Walk Miami is a 5K walk-a-thon starting at 9:00 AM from the Miami Beach Botanical Gardens, taking a scenic route through the commercial heart of Miami Beach, along the ocean, down Lincoln Road and back to the Miami Beach Botanical Gardens. The walk is followed by an exciting post-walk celebration with entertainment sponsored by MTV Latin America featuring DJ Mauricio Parra, performance by Elastic Bond, COURTESY OF MTV LATIN AMERICA & CYLOOP.COM; Sean Ensign and Ana Cristina; an amazing day of fun for the entire family. Visit our sponsors, relax with a free massage provided by Miami-Dade College School of Massage, enjoy food, drinks and more.
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Steve Rothaus
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-VisitBritain launches new campaign for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender travelers
News release from VisitBritain, which markets Britain as a tourist destination to the rest of the world:
Focus is on individuality, diversity of Britain's gay scene VisitBritain knows that LGBT travelers come in every color of the rainbow. Some visit new places to taste exotic local cuisines. Others go for the culture, and spend hours exploring museums and galleries. And some do their sightseeing at night, searching for the best dance club. Whatever their motivation, not all travelers are after the same thing in a destination, which is why VisitBritain, the national tourist office for England, Scotland and Wales, is launching its new campaign partnered with Visit Manchester, the tourist board for greater Manchester. Visitors to visitbritain.com/rainbow can pick the persona they most identify with and plan a whole trip on their particular interest, allowing for maximum fun in fabulous Britain.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/
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Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Lift Florida's gay adoption ban
OUR OPINION: Bill allows judges to decide based solely on child's best interests
The fundamental unfairness and illogic of Florida's ban on gay adoptions gets more obvious with every new legal assault on it. The ban has been found unconstitutional in two state court circuits and is the target of two new bills in the Legislature. Whether the Florida Supreme Court will agree that the ban is unconstitutional, or lawmakers will come to their senses this year and end the ban isn't clear. But when momentum for a just cause reaches this point, it is only a matter of time until fairness prevails. We wish that day would come sooner rather than later. The ban hurts Florida's foster children most. Florida is the only state with a complete ban on gay and lesbian adoptions of foster children. But the state thinks it's fine for them to be foster parents. This hypocritical policy means the state considers a gay couple's home perfectly fit for foster kids but not good enough for giving that child a permanent, stable, loving life. Sen. Nan Rich, D-Weston, has introduced two bills that, in separate ways, would overturn the ban approved by the Legislature in 1977. The first bill would repeal the law. The second would require judges to determine adoptions based solely on what is in the best interest of the child. This is so reasonable that it should be impossible for any lawmaker to reject it. Unfortunately, politics still trumps common sense when it comes to issues involving homosexuality in Florida. While the private sector has kept up with changing times by offering partner benefits, for example, the public sector is still hampered by political expediency.
It is time for lawmakers to put Florida's foster children before politics.
http://www.miamiherald.com/opinion/editorials/story/957197.html
-Lawmaker seeks to legalize adoption by gays in Florida
Florida's gay-adoption ban will now face two challenges: one in a Miami appeals court, the other in the state Legislature.
BY CAROL MARBIN MILLER
As gay-rights advocates and religious groups queue up in an effort to influence the outcome of a Miami appeals court case that will help decide whether gay people can adopt children in Florida, a state lawmaker has quietly introduced two bills that could render the dispute moot.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/miami-dade/story/945660.html
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Fort Report
http://www.fortreport.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Bestiality + gay adoption = Daily Show for Nan Rich
Sen. Nan Rich, a Weston Democrat who's trying to outlaw bestiality and lift a ban on gay adoption, has earned a spot on the Daily Show, she tells us. Rich said she's scheduled to be interviewed in her office in the coming days. More on the gay-adoption ban here
~~FLORIDA GENERAL NEWS~~
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Hospice by the Sea officials: Chaplain wrong about ban on use of 'God'
By Howard Goodman
In two written statements Wednesday, Hospice by the Sea disputed claims that it banned the use of the word "God" in some secular settings. "There is absolutely no change to the way we and our chaplain corps cares for our patients; nor has there been any directive, implicit or implied, that restricts chaplains from referring to God," Paula J. Alderson, president and CEO, said in one statement.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/local/palmbeach/sfl-flphospice0319pnmar19,0,2100931.story
-South Florida families march in Tallahassee to protest school cuts
Education deficit is $3 billion
By Josh Hafenbrack
Hoisting signs, a vocal and angry assembly of several thousand parents, students and school officials jammed the capitol Wednesday to protest slashed education spending with a simple mantra: No more cuts.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/local/broward/sfl-031909-educationcutsrally,0,5138691.story
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Fort Report
http://www.fortreport.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-How bad is it? Orange schools in $240 million hole
'Everything is on the table' for savings, leaders say
Erika Hobbs
The budget sinkhole for Orange County schools has grown to a staggering $240 million for next school year as sales- and property-tax revenue continue heir historic free fall. Until this week, school leaders in the country's 11th-largest district were projecting $102 million to $125 million in cuts.
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/orange/orl-asec-schools-031909,0,2933215.story?track=rss
-Crist skips PTA rally to tout spending in Duval
By David Hunt
As educators descended on Tallahassee to demonstrate for better school funding, Gov. Charlie Crist was in Jacksonville promising a better tomorrow through the state's share of federal stimulus funding. The governor made stops Wednesday at an employment agency and the city's Blount Island Marine Terminal before taking questions from a crowd of a few hundred people at Mayport Naval Station.
http://www.jacksonville.com/news/metro/2009-03-19/story/crist_skips_pta_rally_to_tout_spending_in_duval
-Crist defends his stimulus math
For more than a week, when reporters bring up the budget deficit, Gov. Charlie Crist quickly reminds us that the state has $13.4b in stimulus money. But that money is to be spread out over three years, and legislative budget writers say only $3.5b of it can be used to plug the deficit next year. Is Crist misleading, confusing the issue? The gov responds here.
http://blogs.tampabay.com/buzz/2009/03/crist-defends-his-stimulus-math.html
-$9 billion estimate for Everglades work has 'no credibility,' supporter of U.S. Sugar deal says
By PAUL QUINLAN
Forget $3 billion, $4 billion or even $5 billion. It could cost the South Florida Water Management District as much as $9.1 billion to make use of the 180,000 acres of farmland that Gov. Charlie Crist has proposed buying from U.S. Sugar Corp. to save the Everglades, according to a consultant's report commissioned by opponents of the deal.
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/localnews/content/local_news/epaper/2009/03/18/0318ussugar.html
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[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
~~FLORIDA GLBT NEWS~~
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From Transgender Equality
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article
-We are organizing two marches, Friday, March 20, and Monday, March 23, underway at 5:30, in opposition to Gainesville charter amendment 1. The Friday march will begin at the swimming-pool parking lot at Westside Park and will move east along the sidewalk on NW 8th Avenue to the boardwalk and back. Total distance is 6/10 of a mile. The Monday walk will launch from the UF Plant Facility parking lot (open parking after 4:30) on Radio Road just a few feet off SW 34th St. We will walk south along the sidewalk on 34th St to Hull Road and back. Total distance is approximately 1/2 mile. We did a trial run last week with should-born, stroller-bound, walking, skipping, chatting kids and parents on 8th Avenue and generated a lot of positive horn honking. This march is not for families only. All are welcome, and the more people the more impressive the march. We want to get press attention for this. Bring your "Vote No" yard signs to carry or create your own. Finally, please pass this email around to drum up participants. Canvassers have told me the vote is going to be close. Thanks and see you there.
Jack E. Davis
Associate Professor
Department of History
University of Florida
http://www.clas.ufl.edu/users/davisjac/
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Lambda Legal invites you to help spread the word about ways we are making the case for equality!
Join us for one or more of these Pride season events:
....Pridefest South Florida at Ft. Lauderdale - Saturday and Sunday, March 21-22
....Pridefest of the Palm Beaches at Lake Worth - Saturday and Sunday, March 28 -29
...Miami Beach Gay Pride Festival at Miami Beach - Saturday, April 18
...AIDS Walk Miami - Sunday, April 19
And be sure to join us at our information booth where you can take away fun and educational Lambda Legal materials! We especially like to be joined by members and supporters like you. Each year over one hundred volunteers make it possible for us to attend Prides all across the country! If you want to help out at the Lambda Legal booth please RSVP to Simone Bell or call 404-897-1880. Please indicate when you are available. We'll then email you details about where and when to meet us. Visit Lambda Legal's Pride Central for details.
http://www.lambdalegal.org/take-action/campaigns/lambda-legal-pride-central/lambda-legal-pride-central.html
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From LGBTQ Equality
Today, we are making public the Equality & Religious Freedom Act Proposal(Omnibus Equality Bill). This is important because we believe that we need to have a concrete proposal (in terms of an actual bill) to ask for our rights all at once. We have created a mini site ("Blueprint for LGBT Equality") where you can:
- Download the most recent version of the proposed bill.
- See in detail the pros and cons of such a bill (with detailed FAQ).
- Review the status of all the current incremental LGBT legislation (including noting if a particular incremental legislation falls short of the ideal). Here is the link:
www.eQualityGiving.org/Blueprint-for-LGBT-EqualityOur position is that we should pursue both incremental bills as well as an Omnibus Equality Bill. Feel free to write about this proposed bill as well as distribute the above link to your lists. Let me know if you have any questions via email or cell (305) 924-1515.
Juan Ahonen-Jover, Ph.D.
cofounder, www.eQualityGiving.org
The Online Donor Community
for LGBTQ Equality
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GLCCSF - Ft. Lauderdale
Community Meetings/Events
..OUT GIRLS MOVIE NIGHT - Friday, March 27, 7:00PM, "Affinity" Not your average women's prison flick. Stonewall Library, 1300 East Sunrise Blvd.
..DR. ANN MODY LEWIS - Saturday, March 28, 2:00 pm. Stonewall will host a lecture by psychotherapist and writer Dr. Ann Mody Lewis. Dr. Lewis will be speaking about her new book "Me, Again: The Untold Story of Every Woman's Life." For further information, please call 954-763-8565. 1300 East Sunrise Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL
..P-FLAG MEETING - April 9, 7:00PM, PFLAG promotes the health and well-being of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender persons, their families and friends. Sunserve, 1480 SW Ninth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, 33315, 1st floor, 1st door. PFLAG meets the 2nd Thursday of each month.
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WANT TO HELP PROMOTE THE AIDS WALK?
ASK US FOR PLEDGE FORMS AND POSTERS FOR YOUR BUSINESS.
Pledge forms and posters are available. If you need pledge forms or event posters for your business or would like to help distribute to local merchants, churches or your local hangout, please contact Carlos Rodriguez at crodriguez@careresource.org or 305-576-1234 x 257. Trying to get others at work to participate with you and need help with your membership drive? AIDS Walk Miami representatives are available to come to your company to help recruit your team members. Create your own donation web page directly through the www.aidswalkmiami.org web site and add pictures, graphics, company logos, poems or links to your myspace, facebook or favorite web page. By using the web site features, you can email your friends and family with a link directly to your personal web page and obtain reports on who has donated. AIDS Walk Miami is a 5K walk-a-thon starting at 9:00 AM from the Miami Beach Botanical Gardens, taking a scenic route through the commercial heart of Miami Beach, along the ocean, down Lincoln Road and back to the Miami Beach Botanical Gardens. The walk is followed by an exciting post-walk celebration with entertainment sponsored by MTV Latin America featuring DJ Mauricio Parra, performance by Elastic Bond, COURTESY OF MTV LATIN AMERICA & CYLOOP.COM; Sean Ensign and Ana Cristina; an amazing day of fun for the entire family. Visit our sponsors, relax with a free massage provided by Miami-Dade College School of Massage, enjoy food, drinks and more.
=
Steve Rothaus
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-VisitBritain launches new campaign for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender travelers
News release from VisitBritain, which markets Britain as a tourist destination to the rest of the world:
Focus is on individuality, diversity of Britain's gay scene VisitBritain knows that LGBT travelers come in every color of the rainbow. Some visit new places to taste exotic local cuisines. Others go for the culture, and spend hours exploring museums and galleries. And some do their sightseeing at night, searching for the best dance club. Whatever their motivation, not all travelers are after the same thing in a destination, which is why VisitBritain, the national tourist office for England, Scotland and Wales, is launching its new campaign partnered with Visit Manchester, the tourist board for greater Manchester. Visitors to visitbritain.com/rainbow can pick the persona they most identify with and plan a whole trip on their particular interest, allowing for maximum fun in fabulous Britain.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/
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Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Lift Florida's gay adoption ban
OUR OPINION: Bill allows judges to decide based solely on child's best interests
The fundamental unfairness and illogic of Florida's ban on gay adoptions gets more obvious with every new legal assault on it. The ban has been found unconstitutional in two state court circuits and is the target of two new bills in the Legislature. Whether the Florida Supreme Court will agree that the ban is unconstitutional, or lawmakers will come to their senses this year and end the ban isn't clear. But when momentum for a just cause reaches this point, it is only a matter of time until fairness prevails. We wish that day would come sooner rather than later. The ban hurts Florida's foster children most. Florida is the only state with a complete ban on gay and lesbian adoptions of foster children. But the state thinks it's fine for them to be foster parents. This hypocritical policy means the state considers a gay couple's home perfectly fit for foster kids but not good enough for giving that child a permanent, stable, loving life. Sen. Nan Rich, D-Weston, has introduced two bills that, in separate ways, would overturn the ban approved by the Legislature in 1977. The first bill would repeal the law. The second would require judges to determine adoptions based solely on what is in the best interest of the child. This is so reasonable that it should be impossible for any lawmaker to reject it. Unfortunately, politics still trumps common sense when it comes to issues involving homosexuality in Florida. While the private sector has kept up with changing times by offering partner benefits, for example, the public sector is still hampered by political expediency.
It is time for lawmakers to put Florida's foster children before politics.
http://www.miamiherald.com/opinion/editorials/story/957197.html
-Lawmaker seeks to legalize adoption by gays in Florida
Florida's gay-adoption ban will now face two challenges: one in a Miami appeals court, the other in the state Legislature.
BY CAROL MARBIN MILLER
As gay-rights advocates and religious groups queue up in an effort to influence the outcome of a Miami appeals court case that will help decide whether gay people can adopt children in Florida, a state lawmaker has quietly introduced two bills that could render the dispute moot.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/miami-dade/story/945660.html
=
Fort Report
http://www.fortreport.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Bestiality + gay adoption = Daily Show for Nan Rich
Sen. Nan Rich, a Weston Democrat who's trying to outlaw bestiality and lift a ban on gay adoption, has earned a spot on the Daily Show, she tells us. Rich said she's scheduled to be interviewed in her office in the coming days. More on the gay-adoption ban here
~~FLORIDA GENERAL NEWS~~
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Hospice by the Sea officials: Chaplain wrong about ban on use of 'God'
By Howard Goodman
In two written statements Wednesday, Hospice by the Sea disputed claims that it banned the use of the word "God" in some secular settings. "There is absolutely no change to the way we and our chaplain corps cares for our patients; nor has there been any directive, implicit or implied, that restricts chaplains from referring to God," Paula J. Alderson, president and CEO, said in one statement.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/local/palmbeach/sfl-flphospice0319pnmar19,0,2100931.story
-South Florida families march in Tallahassee to protest school cuts
Education deficit is $3 billion
By Josh Hafenbrack
Hoisting signs, a vocal and angry assembly of several thousand parents, students and school officials jammed the capitol Wednesday to protest slashed education spending with a simple mantra: No more cuts.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/local/broward/sfl-031909-educationcutsrally,0,5138691.story
=
Fort Report
http://www.fortreport.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-How bad is it? Orange schools in $240 million hole
'Everything is on the table' for savings, leaders say
Erika Hobbs
The budget sinkhole for Orange County schools has grown to a staggering $240 million for next school year as sales- and property-tax revenue continue heir historic free fall. Until this week, school leaders in the country's 11th-largest district were projecting $102 million to $125 million in cuts.
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/orange/orl-asec-schools-031909,0,2933215.story?track=rss
-Crist skips PTA rally to tout spending in Duval
By David Hunt
As educators descended on Tallahassee to demonstrate for better school funding, Gov. Charlie Crist was in Jacksonville promising a better tomorrow through the state's share of federal stimulus funding. The governor made stops Wednesday at an employment agency and the city's Blount Island Marine Terminal before taking questions from a crowd of a few hundred people at Mayport Naval Station.
http://www.jacksonville.com/news/metro/2009-03-19/story/crist_skips_pta_rally_to_tout_spending_in_duval
-Crist defends his stimulus math
For more than a week, when reporters bring up the budget deficit, Gov. Charlie Crist quickly reminds us that the state has $13.4b in stimulus money. But that money is to be spread out over three years, and legislative budget writers say only $3.5b of it can be used to plug the deficit next year. Is Crist misleading, confusing the issue? The gov responds here.
http://blogs.tampabay.com/buzz/2009/03/crist-defends-his-stimulus-math.html
-$9 billion estimate for Everglades work has 'no credibility,' supporter of U.S. Sugar deal says
By PAUL QUINLAN
Forget $3 billion, $4 billion or even $5 billion. It could cost the South Florida Water Management District as much as $9.1 billion to make use of the 180,000 acres of farmland that Gov. Charlie Crist has proposed buying from U.S. Sugar Corp. to save the Everglades, according to a consultant's report commissioned by opponents of the deal.
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/localnews/content/local_news/epaper/2009/03/18/0318ussugar.html
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[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
GLBT DIGEST - March 18, 2009
**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net and we'll be happy to send the full article.
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New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-The Pope on Condoms and AIDS
Pope Benedict XVI has every right to express his opposition to the use of condoms on moral grounds, in accordance with the official stance of the Roman Catholic Church. But he deserves no credence when he distorts scientific findings about the value of condoms in slowing the spread of the AIDS virus.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/18/opinion/18wed2.html?ref=opinion
-Vermont Lawmakers Consider Same-Sex Marriage Bill
By KATHARINE Q. SEELYE
Vermont legislators are holding hearings this week on a measure that could make the state the third to allow same-sex marriage. The state pioneered civil unions, becoming the first to grant them in 2000, but advocates of same-sex marriage have said civil unions are inadequate, and they are pressing for the further rights and recognition that such marriages could bestow.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/18/us/18vermont.html?scp=2&sq=gay&st=cse
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Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Sources: US to sign UN gay rights declaration
The Obama administration will endorse a U.N. declaration calling for the worldwide decriminalization of homosexualitythat then-President George W. Bush had refused to sign, The Associated Press has learned. U.S. officials said Tuesday they had notified the declaration's French sponsors that the administration wants to be added as a supporter. The Bush administration was criticized in December when it was the only western government that refused to sign on. The move was made after an interagency review of the Bush administration's position on the nonbinding document, which was signed by all 27 European Union members as well as Japan, Australia, Mexico and three dozen other countries, the officials said.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/17/AR2009031703023.html
-D.C.: From Bad to Worse
The HIV/AIDS epidemic is ravaging the District. WE'VE LONG known that HIV and AIDS stalk the District. But the startling "District of Columbia HIV/AIDS Epidemiology Update 2008" released Monday shows the breathtaking devastation that the disease with no cure has unleashed on the District. According to the report, in defining an HIV epidemic as "generalized and severe," the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the United Nations Joint Program on HIV/AIDS have said that "the overall percentage of disease among residents of a specific geographic area exceeds 1 percent."
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/17/AR2009031703181.html
://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/17/AR2009031703363.html
-Men are from Tyre,
Women are from Bethany
In 1969, sociologist Jeffrey K. Hadden warned of the "gathering storm in the churches," between an increasingly liberal clergy and a moderate to conservative laity. The new Mainline Protestant Clergy Voices Survey, however, shows a diminishing clergy-laity gap. In fact, over the last two decades, we show the clergy holding fairly steady in terms of political ideology and partisan affiliation, and the laity moving into closer alignment with that position over this period.
http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/onfaith/guestvoices/2009/03/men_are_from_tyre_women_are_from_bethany.html
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Forwarded from Gays Without Borders
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article
-Armenia: Young guy could be raped at the army
We were informed by e-mail that a young guy ran away from the army on March 17th, because officers understood that he is gay and they wanted to rape him. The situation is out of control, he is hidden somewhere now and waiting that in the morning police will make a search. We are trying to clearify and in case to protect him.
http://pinkarmenia.blogspot.com/
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Forwarded from Kenneth Sherrill - Ken's List
kenslist@groups.queernet.org
Go to the links for the following articles:
Contact rays.list@comcast.net if you can't access the article
-New Video Calls for Dignity and Safety for Transgender People
Alishia is a firefighter. Enoch is a university professor. Dana is a software engineer. Jesse is an HIV prevention educator. Each makes invaluable contributions in the work place and in the community. And each faces the threat of losing a job, being denied housing or health care, and suffering violence and harassment - simply for being transgender.
http://www.glad.org/work/everyone-matters
-Out NYC polItician to show Irish pride in nation's capital
Out New York City Council Speaker Christine Quinn once again was unable to persuade the organizers of New York City's St. Patrick's Day Parade to allow LGBT participation. The New York City St. Patrick's Parade and Celebration Committee in the past has invited Quinn to march in the event, with the stipulation that she not wear any gay-pride paraphernalia; she has refused to participate under those conditions. Quinn plans to mark St. Patrick's Day at a reception at the White House with Irish Prime Minister Brian Cowen.
http://www.smartbrief.com/servlet/wireless?issueid=8DD8D88F-FA80-4ED5-9E3C-F7C1119DE049&sid=cceff240-fcc9-4929-9275-8e44a573a4cb
-State Dept: Targeted shootings of gays in Jamaica; Boycott developing
Another year goes by, and another frightening report from the US State Department is issued on the murders and human rights abuses of gays and people with AIDS in Jamaica.
http://mpetrelis.blogspot.com/2009/03/state-dept-targeted-shootings-of-gays.html
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Anything but Straight
http://www.waynebesen.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Obama's Parent In The Pulpit Complex
George W. Bush longed to escape his daddy's shadow, while Barack Obama has turned to shadowy preachers in his long search for a father figure. His filial approach to faith began with Rev. Jeremiah Wright and has now taken a sharp turn right. The New York Times reports that the president has surrounded himself with a cadre of clerical crackpots known as the "Circle of Five." These holy men are: Rev. Joel Hunter, former head of the Christian Coalition; anti-gay Bishop T.D. Jakes; the ex-gay loving Rev. Kirbyjon Caldwell; and Jim "waffling" Wallis, a protean progressive. The only Obama shaman who isn't shameless is the civil rights era preacher Rev. Otis Moss Jr. Rev. Jakes refers to homosexuality as "brokenness" and has claimed that he wouldn't hire a sexually active gay person. But it seems T.D. can't even keep his own son off the D.L. (down low). His "sexually broken" heir was arrested earlier this year for cruising a Dallas Park in search of gay men. Wallis, the chief executive of Sojourners, a Christian magazine, holds "traditional" views on homosexuality and abortion, according to the Times article. Although Wallis has taken some affirmative steps on GLBT equality, he prides himself on not being a part of "the religious left."
http://www.waynebesen.com/
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Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Obama administration reverses Bush policy on gay rights at UN
By MATTHEW LEE
The Obama administration is formally endorsing a U.N. declaration calling for the worldwide decriminalization of homosexuality, a measure former President George W. Bush had refused to sign. The move was the administration's latest step in reversing Bush-era decisions that have been heavily criticized by human rights and other groups. The United States was the only western nation not to sign onto the declaration when it came up at the U.N. General Assembly in December.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/nationworld/politics/wire/sns-ap-obama-gay-rights,0,6863317.story
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South Florida Blade
http://www.floridablade.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Obama names lesbian as OPM counsel
Kaplan to serve under Berry
By LOU CHIBBARO JR, Washington Blade
The Obama administration has appointed lesbian attorney Elaine Kaplan as general counsel for the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, where she will serve under the office's gay director, John Berry. Kaplan's appointment was announced Tuesday by OPM acting director Kathie Ann Whipple.
http://www.floridablade.com/thelatest/thelatest.cfm?blog_id=24532
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The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Anti-gay Bias Feared in Canadian Immigration Official
By Julie Bolcer
Gay and lesbian groups in Canada argue that a newly appointed immigration official should be removed because he has previously expressed anti-gay views. Doug Cryer, a Conservative Party booster, was appointed last month to a three-year term on the Immigration and Refugee Board for the Toronto district. His selection prompted an outcry because of his opposition to same-sex marriage and previous defense of the church's right to say that homosexual behavior is "sinful."
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75627.asp
-Anonymous E-mail Accuses Diversity Program of Promoting 'Gay Agenda'
By Julie Bolcer
An anonymous e-mail potentially sent to thousands of parents accused the Castro Valley High School in California of promoting a "gay agenda" in its diversity program last week. The high school near San Francisco is the alma mater of lesbian MSNBC host, Rachel Maddow.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75609.asp
-'Rumored Gay' O.C. Officer Wins $1.2 Million
By Neal Broverman
On Tuesday a Newport Beach, Calif., police officer was awarded $1.2 million
by an Orange County jury who believed his claim that he was denied promotions partly because of false rumors that he is gay. The Los Angeles Times reports that Neil Harvey -- a 27-year veteran of the NBPD -- alleges he was passed over for lieutenant despite having more experience and more formal education than other candidates, and that former police chief Bob McDonell never promoted anyone perceived to be gay. Harvey also claimed he was unpopular in the department because he previously reported misconduct by fellow officers.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75579.asp
-Bill To Federally Fund Responsible Sex Ed Introduced
By Kerry Eleveld
Legislation to federally fund comprehensive, medically accurate sex education in public schools was introduced in both chambers of Congress Tuesday. Senator Frank R. Lautenberg (D-NJ) and Representative Barbara Lee (D-CA) submitted the Responsible Education About Life (REAL) Act, which is titled, "A bill to provide for the reduction of adolescent pregnancy, HIV rates, and other sexually transmitted diseases, and for other purposes."
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75633.asp
-Identical Twins, Gay Porn, and a Crime Spree
Keyon Goffney turned the modeling industry on its ear when it was discovered that the Nike and Ralph Lauren model and his identical twin brother were the "Twin Brother Bandits," wanted in three states for nearly a dozen burglaries. And that's just the beginning of the story. The twins also appeared in hard-core gay porn films together, making $1,000 dollars per scene and starring in films including BlackBalled 5. GQ recounts their story in the article "The Curious Case of Gay-Porn-Star Identical Twins."
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75574.asp
-Do you think President Obama's stimulus plan is going to work?
Yes, it's time for this new plan of action. 76% It's a good idea, but he is changing too much too soon. 3% No, the money is just going to banks and executives who will keep it, and not give it to the people who need it. 19%
http://www.floridablade.com/theq.cfm?CFID=26640949&CFTOKEN=82930413
=
365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Bond nails it at the HRC dinner
By James Withers, contributing editor, 365Gay Blog
Occasionally on gay political blogs some commentators will leave missives about how black organizations are AWOL when it comes to gay rights. This type of rhetoric became even more heated after the Prop 8 vote.
http://www.365gay.com/blog/031809-julian-bond-makes-a-great-speech-for-freedom/
=
Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-New York senior official in bid to become first openly gay senator
Jon Cooper, the majority leader of the Suffolk County legislature in New York, has announced he is considering whether to challenge US senator Kirsten Gillibrand in the Democratic primary in 2010. Cooper, who is openly gay and has five adopted children, would be the first out senator if successful.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11657.html
-Italian footballer calls homosexuality 'a sin'
Juventus defender Nicola Legrottaglie has denounced homosexuality as a sin and said it is "seen like fashion" these days. In his autobiography, released today, he discussed his Christian beliefs and recommended that gay people should read the Bible.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11651.html
-LGBT workers call for 'dignity and respect' at work
The top priority of LGBT staff is "dignity and respect" at work, a Unite survey has shown. The union's Have Your Say survey also revealed that workers believe trade unions must use education to eliminate homophobia and tackle discrimination.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11650.html
=
Daily Queer News
www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Comments on 'A Reconciliation on Gay Marriage'
Carlos T. Mock, M.D. | Windy City Times
Jack Drescher and Nan Hunter both addressed a supposed compromise on the issue of same-sex marriage. In a New York Times article published Feb. 21, Jonathan Rauch, a vocal conservative gay and same-sex marriage advocate, and David Blankenhorn, president of the Institute for American Values, a right-wing think tank, reached across the aisle to come to this compromise.
It would work like this:
"Congress would bestow the status of federal civil unions on same-sex marriages and civil unions granted at the state level, thereby conferring upon them most or all of the federal benefits and rights of marriage. But there would be a condition: Washington would recognize only those unions licensed in states with robust religious-conscience exceptions, which provide that religious organizations need not recognize same-sex unions against their will. The federal government would also enact religious-conscience protections of its own. All of these changes would be enacted in the same bill." I would like to address both Jack Drescher and Nan Hunter: Your idea is not a compromise! The case for allowing gays to marry begins with equality, pure and simple. Read more
-Civil Rights, Law - Anti-Gay Bias Feared in Canadian Immigration Official
Julie Bolcer | Advocate
Gay and lesbian groups in Canada argue that a newly appointed immigration official should be removed because he has previously expressed anti-gay views. Doug Cryer, a Conservative Party booster, was appointed last month to a three-year term on the Immigration and Refugee Board for the Toronto district. His selection prompted an outcry because of his opposition to same-sex marriage and previous defense of the church's right to say that homosexual behavior is "sinful." "If you want to appoint him, put him on the Wheat Board where he's not going to be making life and death decisions on refugee claims," Helen Kennedy, executive director of the gay and lesbian group EGALE, told the Edmonton Sun. Immigration Minister Jason Kenney defends the appointment, however, and notes that applicants have been appointed to similar positions from a variety of religious backgrounds. Read more
-International:Gay, Lesbian Employees Sue for Federal Spouse Benefits
STEPHEN LOSEY | Federal Times
Gay and lesbian federal employees and their spouses are suing the government for full retirement and health care benefits that are now denied them under the Defense of Marriage Act. The organization Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders filed the suit challenging section 3 of DOMA on March 3 in the U.S. District Court of Massachusetts. The 1996 law defines marriage as between a man and a woman. And it blocks federal spousal benefits, such as health and pension benefits, from going to legally married same-sex spouses of federal employees and retirees. The lawsuit concerns only couples who are legally married and have received marriage licenses. Massachusetts and Connecticut are the only states where marriage is legal for same-sex couples. The lawsuit does not address civil unions or other forms of domestic partnerships some gay and lesbian couples have adopted. Dean Hara of Boston, the husband of the late Rep. Gerry Studds, D-Mass., is one of the lawsuit's 19 plaintiffs. Since Studds died in 2006, Hara has not been able to receive his late husband's congressional pension, health insurance and other benefits, GLAD said in a release. Read more
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
=
New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-The Pope on Condoms and AIDS
Pope Benedict XVI has every right to express his opposition to the use of condoms on moral grounds, in accordance with the official stance of the Roman Catholic Church. But he deserves no credence when he distorts scientific findings about the value of condoms in slowing the spread of the AIDS virus.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/18/opinion/18wed2.html?ref=opinion
-Vermont Lawmakers Consider Same-Sex Marriage Bill
By KATHARINE Q. SEELYE
Vermont legislators are holding hearings this week on a measure that could make the state the third to allow same-sex marriage. The state pioneered civil unions, becoming the first to grant them in 2000, but advocates of same-sex marriage have said civil unions are inadequate, and they are pressing for the further rights and recognition that such marriages could bestow.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/18/us/18vermont.html?scp=2&sq=gay&st=cse
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Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Sources: US to sign UN gay rights declaration
The Obama administration will endorse a U.N. declaration calling for the worldwide decriminalization of homosexualitythat then-President George W. Bush had refused to sign, The Associated Press has learned. U.S. officials said Tuesday they had notified the declaration's French sponsors that the administration wants to be added as a supporter. The Bush administration was criticized in December when it was the only western government that refused to sign on. The move was made after an interagency review of the Bush administration's position on the nonbinding document, which was signed by all 27 European Union members as well as Japan, Australia, Mexico and three dozen other countries, the officials said.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/17/AR2009031703023.html
-D.C.: From Bad to Worse
The HIV/AIDS epidemic is ravaging the District. WE'VE LONG known that HIV and AIDS stalk the District. But the startling "District of Columbia HIV/AIDS Epidemiology Update 2008" released Monday shows the breathtaking devastation that the disease with no cure has unleashed on the District. According to the report, in defining an HIV epidemic as "generalized and severe," the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the United Nations Joint Program on HIV/AIDS have said that "the overall percentage of disease among residents of a specific geographic area exceeds 1 percent."
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/17/AR2009031703181.html
://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/17/AR2009031703363.html
-Men are from Tyre,
Women are from Bethany
In 1969, sociologist Jeffrey K. Hadden warned of the "gathering storm in the churches," between an increasingly liberal clergy and a moderate to conservative laity. The new Mainline Protestant Clergy Voices Survey, however, shows a diminishing clergy-laity gap. In fact, over the last two decades, we show the clergy holding fairly steady in terms of political ideology and partisan affiliation, and the laity moving into closer alignment with that position over this period.
http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/onfaith/guestvoices/2009/03/men_are_from_tyre_women_are_from_bethany.html
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Forwarded from Gays Without Borders
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article
-Armenia: Young guy could be raped at the army
We were informed by e-mail that a young guy ran away from the army on March 17th, because officers understood that he is gay and they wanted to rape him. The situation is out of control, he is hidden somewhere now and waiting that in the morning police will make a search. We are trying to clearify and in case to protect him.
http://pinkarmenia.blogspot.com/
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Forwarded from Kenneth Sherrill - Ken's List
kenslist@groups.queernet.org
Go to the links for the following articles:
Contact rays.list@comcast.net if you can't access the article
-New Video Calls for Dignity and Safety for Transgender People
Alishia is a firefighter. Enoch is a university professor. Dana is a software engineer. Jesse is an HIV prevention educator. Each makes invaluable contributions in the work place and in the community. And each faces the threat of losing a job, being denied housing or health care, and suffering violence and harassment - simply for being transgender.
http://www.glad.org/work/everyone-matters
-Out NYC polItician to show Irish pride in nation's capital
Out New York City Council Speaker Christine Quinn once again was unable to persuade the organizers of New York City's St. Patrick's Day Parade to allow LGBT participation. The New York City St. Patrick's Parade and Celebration Committee in the past has invited Quinn to march in the event, with the stipulation that she not wear any gay-pride paraphernalia; she has refused to participate under those conditions. Quinn plans to mark St. Patrick's Day at a reception at the White House with Irish Prime Minister Brian Cowen.
http://www.smartbrief.com/servlet/wireless?issueid=8DD8D88F-FA80-4ED5-9E3C-F7C1119DE049&sid=cceff240-fcc9-4929-9275-8e44a573a4cb
-State Dept: Targeted shootings of gays in Jamaica; Boycott developing
Another year goes by, and another frightening report from the US State Department is issued on the murders and human rights abuses of gays and people with AIDS in Jamaica.
http://mpetrelis.blogspot.com/2009/03/state-dept-targeted-shootings-of-gays.html
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Anything but Straight
http://www.waynebesen.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Obama's Parent In The Pulpit Complex
George W. Bush longed to escape his daddy's shadow, while Barack Obama has turned to shadowy preachers in his long search for a father figure. His filial approach to faith began with Rev. Jeremiah Wright and has now taken a sharp turn right. The New York Times reports that the president has surrounded himself with a cadre of clerical crackpots known as the "Circle of Five." These holy men are: Rev. Joel Hunter, former head of the Christian Coalition; anti-gay Bishop T.D. Jakes; the ex-gay loving Rev. Kirbyjon Caldwell; and Jim "waffling" Wallis, a protean progressive. The only Obama shaman who isn't shameless is the civil rights era preacher Rev. Otis Moss Jr. Rev. Jakes refers to homosexuality as "brokenness" and has claimed that he wouldn't hire a sexually active gay person. But it seems T.D. can't even keep his own son off the D.L. (down low). His "sexually broken" heir was arrested earlier this year for cruising a Dallas Park in search of gay men. Wallis, the chief executive of Sojourners, a Christian magazine, holds "traditional" views on homosexuality and abortion, according to the Times article. Although Wallis has taken some affirmative steps on GLBT equality, he prides himself on not being a part of "the religious left."
http://www.waynebesen.com/
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Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Obama administration reverses Bush policy on gay rights at UN
By MATTHEW LEE
The Obama administration is formally endorsing a U.N. declaration calling for the worldwide decriminalization of homosexuality, a measure former President George W. Bush had refused to sign. The move was the administration's latest step in reversing Bush-era decisions that have been heavily criticized by human rights and other groups. The United States was the only western nation not to sign onto the declaration when it came up at the U.N. General Assembly in December.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/nationworld/politics/wire/sns-ap-obama-gay-rights,0,6863317.story
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South Florida Blade
http://www.floridablade.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Obama names lesbian as OPM counsel
Kaplan to serve under Berry
By LOU CHIBBARO JR, Washington Blade
The Obama administration has appointed lesbian attorney Elaine Kaplan as general counsel for the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, where she will serve under the office's gay director, John Berry. Kaplan's appointment was announced Tuesday by OPM acting director Kathie Ann Whipple.
http://www.floridablade.com/thelatest/thelatest.cfm?blog_id=24532
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The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Anti-gay Bias Feared in Canadian Immigration Official
By Julie Bolcer
Gay and lesbian groups in Canada argue that a newly appointed immigration official should be removed because he has previously expressed anti-gay views. Doug Cryer, a Conservative Party booster, was appointed last month to a three-year term on the Immigration and Refugee Board for the Toronto district. His selection prompted an outcry because of his opposition to same-sex marriage and previous defense of the church's right to say that homosexual behavior is "sinful."
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75627.asp
-Anonymous E-mail Accuses Diversity Program of Promoting 'Gay Agenda'
By Julie Bolcer
An anonymous e-mail potentially sent to thousands of parents accused the Castro Valley High School in California of promoting a "gay agenda" in its diversity program last week. The high school near San Francisco is the alma mater of lesbian MSNBC host, Rachel Maddow.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75609.asp
-'Rumored Gay' O.C. Officer Wins $1.2 Million
By Neal Broverman
On Tuesday a Newport Beach, Calif., police officer was awarded $1.2 million
by an Orange County jury who believed his claim that he was denied promotions partly because of false rumors that he is gay. The Los Angeles Times reports that Neil Harvey -- a 27-year veteran of the NBPD -- alleges he was passed over for lieutenant despite having more experience and more formal education than other candidates, and that former police chief Bob McDonell never promoted anyone perceived to be gay. Harvey also claimed he was unpopular in the department because he previously reported misconduct by fellow officers.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75579.asp
-Bill To Federally Fund Responsible Sex Ed Introduced
By Kerry Eleveld
Legislation to federally fund comprehensive, medically accurate sex education in public schools was introduced in both chambers of Congress Tuesday. Senator Frank R. Lautenberg (D-NJ) and Representative Barbara Lee (D-CA) submitted the Responsible Education About Life (REAL) Act, which is titled, "A bill to provide for the reduction of adolescent pregnancy, HIV rates, and other sexually transmitted diseases, and for other purposes."
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75633.asp
-Identical Twins, Gay Porn, and a Crime Spree
Keyon Goffney turned the modeling industry on its ear when it was discovered that the Nike and Ralph Lauren model and his identical twin brother were the "Twin Brother Bandits," wanted in three states for nearly a dozen burglaries. And that's just the beginning of the story. The twins also appeared in hard-core gay porn films together, making $1,000 dollars per scene and starring in films including BlackBalled 5. GQ recounts their story in the article "The Curious Case of Gay-Porn-Star Identical Twins."
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75574.asp
-Do you think President Obama's stimulus plan is going to work?
Yes, it's time for this new plan of action. 76% It's a good idea, but he is changing too much too soon. 3% No, the money is just going to banks and executives who will keep it, and not give it to the people who need it. 19%
http://www.floridablade.com/theq.cfm?CFID=26640949&CFTOKEN=82930413
=
365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Bond nails it at the HRC dinner
By James Withers, contributing editor, 365Gay Blog
Occasionally on gay political blogs some commentators will leave missives about how black organizations are AWOL when it comes to gay rights. This type of rhetoric became even more heated after the Prop 8 vote.
http://www.365gay.com/blog/031809-julian-bond-makes-a-great-speech-for-freedom/
=
Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-New York senior official in bid to become first openly gay senator
Jon Cooper, the majority leader of the Suffolk County legislature in New York, has announced he is considering whether to challenge US senator Kirsten Gillibrand in the Democratic primary in 2010. Cooper, who is openly gay and has five adopted children, would be the first out senator if successful.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11657.html
-Italian footballer calls homosexuality 'a sin'
Juventus defender Nicola Legrottaglie has denounced homosexuality as a sin and said it is "seen like fashion" these days. In his autobiography, released today, he discussed his Christian beliefs and recommended that gay people should read the Bible.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11651.html
-LGBT workers call for 'dignity and respect' at work
The top priority of LGBT staff is "dignity and respect" at work, a Unite survey has shown. The union's Have Your Say survey also revealed that workers believe trade unions must use education to eliminate homophobia and tackle discrimination.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11650.html
=
Daily Queer News
www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Comments on 'A Reconciliation on Gay Marriage'
Carlos T. Mock, M.D. | Windy City Times
Jack Drescher and Nan Hunter both addressed a supposed compromise on the issue of same-sex marriage. In a New York Times article published Feb. 21, Jonathan Rauch, a vocal conservative gay and same-sex marriage advocate, and David Blankenhorn, president of the Institute for American Values, a right-wing think tank, reached across the aisle to come to this compromise.
It would work like this:
"Congress would bestow the status of federal civil unions on same-sex marriages and civil unions granted at the state level, thereby conferring upon them most or all of the federal benefits and rights of marriage. But there would be a condition: Washington would recognize only those unions licensed in states with robust religious-conscience exceptions, which provide that religious organizations need not recognize same-sex unions against their will. The federal government would also enact religious-conscience protections of its own. All of these changes would be enacted in the same bill." I would like to address both Jack Drescher and Nan Hunter: Your idea is not a compromise! The case for allowing gays to marry begins with equality, pure and simple. Read more
-Civil Rights, Law - Anti-Gay Bias Feared in Canadian Immigration Official
Julie Bolcer | Advocate
Gay and lesbian groups in Canada argue that a newly appointed immigration official should be removed because he has previously expressed anti-gay views. Doug Cryer, a Conservative Party booster, was appointed last month to a three-year term on the Immigration and Refugee Board for the Toronto district. His selection prompted an outcry because of his opposition to same-sex marriage and previous defense of the church's right to say that homosexual behavior is "sinful." "If you want to appoint him, put him on the Wheat Board where he's not going to be making life and death decisions on refugee claims," Helen Kennedy, executive director of the gay and lesbian group EGALE, told the Edmonton Sun. Immigration Minister Jason Kenney defends the appointment, however, and notes that applicants have been appointed to similar positions from a variety of religious backgrounds. Read more
-International:Gay, Lesbian Employees Sue for Federal Spouse Benefits
STEPHEN LOSEY | Federal Times
Gay and lesbian federal employees and their spouses are suing the government for full retirement and health care benefits that are now denied them under the Defense of Marriage Act. The organization Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders filed the suit challenging section 3 of DOMA on March 3 in the U.S. District Court of Massachusetts. The 1996 law defines marriage as between a man and a woman. And it blocks federal spousal benefits, such as health and pension benefits, from going to legally married same-sex spouses of federal employees and retirees. The lawsuit concerns only couples who are legally married and have received marriage licenses. Massachusetts and Connecticut are the only states where marriage is legal for same-sex couples. The lawsuit does not address civil unions or other forms of domestic partnerships some gay and lesbian couples have adopted. Dean Hara of Boston, the husband of the late Rep. Gerry Studds, D-Mass., is one of the lawsuit's 19 plaintiffs. Since Studds died in 2006, Hara has not been able to receive his late husband's congressional pension, health insurance and other benefits, GLAD said in a release. Read more
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
NATIONAL & WORLD NEWS - March 18, 2009
**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net and we'll be happy to send the full article.
=
New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Outcry Builds in Washington for Recovery of A.I.G. Bonuses
By JACKIE CALMES and LOUISE STORY
The bonuses that the American International Group awarded last week were paid to 418 employees and included $33.6 million for 52 people who have left the failed insurance conglomerate, according to the office of the New York attorney general. The company paid the bonuses, including more than $1 million each to 73 people, to almost all of the employees in the financial products unit responsible for creating the exotic derivatives that caused A.I.G.'s near collapse and started the government rescue to avoid a global financial crisis.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/18/business/18bailout.html?_r=1&hp
-U.S. Weighs Taliban Strike Into Pakistan
By DAVID E. SANGER and ERIC SCHMITT
President Obama and his national security advisers are considering expanding the American covert war in Pakistan far beyond the unruly tribal areas to strike at a different center of Taliban power in Baluchistan, where top Taliban leaders are orchestrating attacks into southern Afghanistan.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/18/world/asia/18terror.html?hp
-Madoff's Accountant Is Charged With Securities Fraud
By WILLIAM K. RASHBAUM
The accountant who provided auditing services to Bernard L. Madoff's investment advisory business for more than a decade, operating out of a tiny storefront office in Rockland County, was charged on Wednesday with securities fraud and aiding investment adviser fraud in connection with Mr. Madoff's vast Ponzi scheme.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/19/business/19madoff.html?hp
-Still Broken
In last year's presidential election, as many as three million registered voters were not allowed to cast ballots and millions more chose not to because of extremely long lines and other frustrating obstacles. Ever since the 2000 election in Florida, the serious flaws in the voting system have been abundantly clear. More than eight years later, Congress must finally deliver on its promise of electoral reform.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/18/opinion/18wed1.html?ref=opinion
-Obama's Real Test
By THOMAS L. FRIEDMAN
When you hear a sitting U.S. senator call for bankers to commit suicide, you know that the anger level in the country is reaching a "Bonfire of the Vanities," get-out-the-pitchforks danger level. It is dangerous for so many reasons, but most of all because this real anger about A.I.G. could overwhelm the still really difficult but critically important things we must do in the next few weeks to defuse this financial crisis.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/18/opinion/18friedman.html?ref=opinion
-NY: Report Shows Steep Gains by Students From Abroad
By JAVIER C. HERNANDEZ
Days after it was criticized by lawmakers for failing to make gains with students struggling with English, the city's Department of Education released a report on Tuesday showing that unprecedented numbers of those students became proficient in English last year and that more of them passed state tests in English and math.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/18/nyregion/18schools.html\
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Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-US orders diplomats to leave Madagascar
By MATTHEW LEE
The Associated Press
The State Department on Tuesday ordered all nonessential staff at the U.S. Embassy in Madagascar and the families of all American personnel there to leave the country due to the uncertain security situation after the ouster of the Indian Ocean island's president.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/18/AR2009031804115.html?hpid=sec-nation
-The Nationalization Option
By Harold Meyerson
You might think that having anted up $173 billion of our own money, we taxpayers would have some leverage at AIG, now that we own 80 percent of the shares. You might think that when chief executive Edward Liddy, a holdover appointee of Hank Paulson's, told Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner that he had just mailed $165 million of our money as bonuses to the geniuses at the firm's financial products unit -- who probably did more on a per-banker basis to destroy global capitalism than any other kindred group -- that Geithner, upon hearing this news, would have responded, "Liddy, you're fired."
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/17/AR2009031702939.html
-Brake Lights on Iran
From Obama, a Mix of Caution and Confusion
By Michael Gerson
One of the snippiest arguments between Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton during the Democratic primaries concerned negotiations with Iran. Obama impulsively pledged his willingness to meet with the leaders of various outlaw regimes in his first year as president. Clinton countered, "I don't want to be used for propaganda purposes. . . . We're not going to just have our president meet with Fidel Castro and Hugo Chávez and, you know, the president of North Korea, Iran and Syria until we know better what the way forward would be."
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/17/AR2009031702938.html?hpid=opinionsbox1
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Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/public/us
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Parliament's Fate Unclear Amid Kuwait Turmoil
By MARIA ABI-HABIB
DUBAI -- Kuwait's political system was again in turmoil Tuesday amid speculation that the country's emir would dissolve Parliament following the resignation of his cabinet the previous day. The government resigned Monday to prevent the questioning in Parliament of the country's prime minister, the nephew of Kuwait's emir, concerning a host of issues, including alleged mismanagement and land-use concerns. The government has resigned before to avoid similar questioning of the prime minister.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123732738349962223.html
-Unionizing Fight Focuses on 3 States
By KRIS MAHER and BRODY MULLINS
The battle over a bill that would ease union organizing is zeroing in on lawmakers in three states -- Pennsylvania, Arkansas and Colorado. Business and labor are pressuring three key senators who are up for re-election in 2010, sparing little expense as they ratchet up television and radio ads, and recruit well-connected lobbyists.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123733320541163447.html
-Kremlin Signals a Harder Line on Relations With the U.S.
By ANDREW OSBORN
MOSCOW -- Russian President Dmitry Medvedev struck a Cold War tone on Tuesday, pledging to press ahead with an ambitious rearmament program in response to what he described as NATO's military expansion close to Russia's borders.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123730715570057705.html
-North Korea Ejects Aid Groups
Associated Press
North Korea has rejected American food shipments and asked aid groups to leave the country by the end of the month, the United States and a leading aid agency said. The moves adds to mounting tension as Pyongyang plans a rocket launch that Washington sees as cover for a long-range missile test.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123735583757367561.html
-In Defense of Tax Havens
By RICHARD W. RAHN
If the government suddenly said you would incur more onerous and expensive tax regulations and reporting requirements if you moved your business to a low-tax state such as Texas or Florida from a high-tax state such as New York or California, you would be justifiably outraged. Now substitute Switzerland and Bermuda for Texas and Florida, and France and Germany for New York and California, and you'll understand a new form of "tax protectionism" that is infecting Washington.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123733986323064857.html
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Pew Research center
http://pewresearch.org/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-State of the News Media
2009 Report on American Journalism
In the last year, two important things happened that have effectively shortened the time left on the news industry's survival clock. A new report highlights some chilling numbers. Read more
-Obamameter
The President's Approval Rating Slips Amid Division Over Economic Policies
Most think Barack Obama is doing as much as he can to fix the economy, but opinion is divided on many of his major programs. The popularity of GOP congressional leaders hits a record low. Iraq pullout applauded but views are split on Afghanistan buildup. Read more
-Faithful Finance
Losing Wealth, Finding God?
Is the falling economy raising attendance at religious services? Read moreChurch and Press
Religion in the News: 2008
Religion coverage clustered around big events such as the pope's visit and stories tended to fade quickly from the headlines. Read more
-Pew Interne Update
PewInternet.org Has Launched its New Website
The Pew Internet & American Life Project has updated its website, pewinternet.org. Be sure to give it a look. Read more
-Daily Number
21 of 24 - Out of Afghanistan
The Obama administration's plan to step up U.S. involvement in Afghanistan is unlikely to be welcomed in many of the world's nations; even in the U.S., only a small majority supports a troop buildup. Check back every weekday for another number in the news. Read more
=
Fort Report
http://www.fortreport.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Obama says he doesn't have luxury of taking on single problem at a time, defends budget plan
By JULIE PACE
President Barack Obama on Tuesday brushed aside criticism that he's trying to take on too many issues at once, defending a $3.6 trillion budget that seeks to shore up the economy while also overhauling health care, energy and education.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/politics/sns-ap-obama-budget,0,3195442.story
-Just how bad off is the Republican Party (Part 2)?
A state-by-state look at the state of the Grand Old Party in the Age of Steele.
By Salon staff
As of press time, Tuesday evening, March 17, Michael Steele is still running the Republican National Committee. But tomorrow is another day, as Katon Dawson, I mean Scarlett O'Hara, once said. Perhaps Steele will be ushered offstage soon -- if, say, the GOP fails to win back Kirsten Gillibrand's old seat in New York's traditionally Republican 20th Congressional District on March 31. Perhaps Michael Steele will survive till 2010, and lead his party in a miraculous comeback in the midterms.
http://www.salon.com/news/feature/2009/03/18/state_of_the_gop/
-AIG bonus flap may cost recipients
Lawmakers aim to place a huge levy on the money. The firm will pay $165 million and lose that amount in bailout funding.
By Jim Puzzanghera and Janet Hook
Reporting from Washington -- The government will deduct $165 million in proposed aid to bailed-out American International Group Inc. to recoup the cost of bonuses paid to employees of the giant insurer last week, Treasury Secretary Timothy F. Geithner said Tuesday. In a letter sent to congressional leaders, Geithner said he persuaded AIG Chief Executive Edward M. Liddy last week to scrap or cut hundreds of millions of dollars in future salaries and other compensation after determining that the bonuses already granted would be "legally difficult to prevent."
http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-aig-taxes18-2009mar18,0,3230773.story
-In Letter to Kerry, Bernanke Warned of Fed's 'Limited Rights' in AIG Oversight
Fed chair Bernanke warned that the Fed did not monitor bonuses by the company
By MATTHEW JAFFE, JONATHAN KARL and JUSTIN ROOD
Just one day before the Obama administration expressed its disapproval of AIG's $165 million in bonuses, Federal Reserve chairman Ben Bernanke warned in a private letter to a key lawmaker that the Federal Reserve did not monitor bonuses by the company.
http://abcnews.go.com/Blotter/story?id=7107011&page=1
-Obama axes GOP in new budget push
By Walter Alarkon
President Obama ditched his bipartisan budget sales pitch Tuesday and went on the offense against his Republican critics. The move comes after the president felt substantial pushback from lawmakers in both parties who sharply attacked key elements in his $3.55 trillion proposal.
http://thehill.com/leading-the-news/obama-axes-gop-in-new-budget-push-2009-03-17.html
-Specter won't rule out run as an Independent
By Aaron Blake
Sen. Arlen Specter said Tuesday that he will not run for reelection in 2010 as a Democrat, but might run as an Independent. The Pennsylvania Republican has been under tremendous pressure from the GOP base since being one of just three Republicans to vote for the Democratic-led stimulus package last month.
http://thehill.com/leading-the-news/specter-wont-rule-out-run-as-an-independent-2009-03-17.html
-Troop deaths in Iraq
Poll: More view Afghan war as 'mistake'
By Tom Vanden Brook, USA TODAY
American support for the war in Afghanistan has ebbed to a new low, as attacks on U.S. troops and their allies have hit record levels and commanders are pleading for reinforcements, a USA TODAY/Gallup Poll shows.
http://www.usatoday.com/news/world/2009-03-16-poll_N.htm
-Darfur aid crisis: As aid groups pull out, worries over humanitarian efforts mount
As aid groups are expelled, camps soon may lack resources
By Edmund Sanders
ZAM ZAM CAMP, Sudan-Feverish and dehydrated since fleeing to this overcrowded displacement camp last month, 2-year-old Manahel Abakar was supposed to be one of the beneficiaries of the International Criminal Court's effort to bring justice to Darfur. Instead she became one of its unintended casualties.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/chi-darfur-aid_18mar18,0,3892227.story
-Why Clean Coal Is Years Away
Coal is here to stay, but efforts to cut emissions are ambitious, expensive, and have largely stumbled
By Kent Garber
America runs on coal. It's cheap, plentiful (at least for another 100 years or so), and comfortingly domestic. Two hundred years ago, it powered the industrial revolution. Today, it spits out nearly half of the country's electricity.
http://www.usnews.com/articles/news/energy/2009/03/17/why-clean-coal-is-years-away.html
-Obama Tries to Draw Up an Inclusive Energy Plan
By JAD MOUAWAD
After gasoline prices rose above $4 a gallon last summer, Republican cries of "drill, baby, drill" forced candidate Barack Obama into a rare retreat. Under pressure, he said he would support some expansion of offshore oil drilling, while still emphasizing conservation and renewable energy.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/18/business/energy-environment/18offshore.html
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
=
New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Outcry Builds in Washington for Recovery of A.I.G. Bonuses
By JACKIE CALMES and LOUISE STORY
The bonuses that the American International Group awarded last week were paid to 418 employees and included $33.6 million for 52 people who have left the failed insurance conglomerate, according to the office of the New York attorney general. The company paid the bonuses, including more than $1 million each to 73 people, to almost all of the employees in the financial products unit responsible for creating the exotic derivatives that caused A.I.G.'s near collapse and started the government rescue to avoid a global financial crisis.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/18/business/18bailout.html?_r=1&hp
-U.S. Weighs Taliban Strike Into Pakistan
By DAVID E. SANGER and ERIC SCHMITT
President Obama and his national security advisers are considering expanding the American covert war in Pakistan far beyond the unruly tribal areas to strike at a different center of Taliban power in Baluchistan, where top Taliban leaders are orchestrating attacks into southern Afghanistan.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/18/world/asia/18terror.html?hp
-Madoff's Accountant Is Charged With Securities Fraud
By WILLIAM K. RASHBAUM
The accountant who provided auditing services to Bernard L. Madoff's investment advisory business for more than a decade, operating out of a tiny storefront office in Rockland County, was charged on Wednesday with securities fraud and aiding investment adviser fraud in connection with Mr. Madoff's vast Ponzi scheme.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/19/business/19madoff.html?hp
-Still Broken
In last year's presidential election, as many as three million registered voters were not allowed to cast ballots and millions more chose not to because of extremely long lines and other frustrating obstacles. Ever since the 2000 election in Florida, the serious flaws in the voting system have been abundantly clear. More than eight years later, Congress must finally deliver on its promise of electoral reform.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/18/opinion/18wed1.html?ref=opinion
-Obama's Real Test
By THOMAS L. FRIEDMAN
When you hear a sitting U.S. senator call for bankers to commit suicide, you know that the anger level in the country is reaching a "Bonfire of the Vanities," get-out-the-pitchforks danger level. It is dangerous for so many reasons, but most of all because this real anger about A.I.G. could overwhelm the still really difficult but critically important things we must do in the next few weeks to defuse this financial crisis.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/18/opinion/18friedman.html?ref=opinion
-NY: Report Shows Steep Gains by Students From Abroad
By JAVIER C. HERNANDEZ
Days after it was criticized by lawmakers for failing to make gains with students struggling with English, the city's Department of Education released a report on Tuesday showing that unprecedented numbers of those students became proficient in English last year and that more of them passed state tests in English and math.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/18/nyregion/18schools.html\
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Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-US orders diplomats to leave Madagascar
By MATTHEW LEE
The Associated Press
The State Department on Tuesday ordered all nonessential staff at the U.S. Embassy in Madagascar and the families of all American personnel there to leave the country due to the uncertain security situation after the ouster of the Indian Ocean island's president.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/18/AR2009031804115.html?hpid=sec-nation
-The Nationalization Option
By Harold Meyerson
You might think that having anted up $173 billion of our own money, we taxpayers would have some leverage at AIG, now that we own 80 percent of the shares. You might think that when chief executive Edward Liddy, a holdover appointee of Hank Paulson's, told Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner that he had just mailed $165 million of our money as bonuses to the geniuses at the firm's financial products unit -- who probably did more on a per-banker basis to destroy global capitalism than any other kindred group -- that Geithner, upon hearing this news, would have responded, "Liddy, you're fired."
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/17/AR2009031702939.html
-Brake Lights on Iran
From Obama, a Mix of Caution and Confusion
By Michael Gerson
One of the snippiest arguments between Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton during the Democratic primaries concerned negotiations with Iran. Obama impulsively pledged his willingness to meet with the leaders of various outlaw regimes in his first year as president. Clinton countered, "I don't want to be used for propaganda purposes. . . . We're not going to just have our president meet with Fidel Castro and Hugo Chávez and, you know, the president of North Korea, Iran and Syria until we know better what the way forward would be."
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/17/AR2009031702938.html?hpid=opinionsbox1
=
Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/public/us
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Parliament's Fate Unclear Amid Kuwait Turmoil
By MARIA ABI-HABIB
DUBAI -- Kuwait's political system was again in turmoil Tuesday amid speculation that the country's emir would dissolve Parliament following the resignation of his cabinet the previous day. The government resigned Monday to prevent the questioning in Parliament of the country's prime minister, the nephew of Kuwait's emir, concerning a host of issues, including alleged mismanagement and land-use concerns. The government has resigned before to avoid similar questioning of the prime minister.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123732738349962223.html
-Unionizing Fight Focuses on 3 States
By KRIS MAHER and BRODY MULLINS
The battle over a bill that would ease union organizing is zeroing in on lawmakers in three states -- Pennsylvania, Arkansas and Colorado. Business and labor are pressuring three key senators who are up for re-election in 2010, sparing little expense as they ratchet up television and radio ads, and recruit well-connected lobbyists.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123733320541163447.html
-Kremlin Signals a Harder Line on Relations With the U.S.
By ANDREW OSBORN
MOSCOW -- Russian President Dmitry Medvedev struck a Cold War tone on Tuesday, pledging to press ahead with an ambitious rearmament program in response to what he described as NATO's military expansion close to Russia's borders.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123730715570057705.html
-North Korea Ejects Aid Groups
Associated Press
North Korea has rejected American food shipments and asked aid groups to leave the country by the end of the month, the United States and a leading aid agency said. The moves adds to mounting tension as Pyongyang plans a rocket launch that Washington sees as cover for a long-range missile test.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123735583757367561.html
-In Defense of Tax Havens
By RICHARD W. RAHN
If the government suddenly said you would incur more onerous and expensive tax regulations and reporting requirements if you moved your business to a low-tax state such as Texas or Florida from a high-tax state such as New York or California, you would be justifiably outraged. Now substitute Switzerland and Bermuda for Texas and Florida, and France and Germany for New York and California, and you'll understand a new form of "tax protectionism" that is infecting Washington.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123733986323064857.html
=
Pew Research center
http://pewresearch.org/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-State of the News Media
2009 Report on American Journalism
In the last year, two important things happened that have effectively shortened the time left on the news industry's survival clock. A new report highlights some chilling numbers. Read more
-Obamameter
The President's Approval Rating Slips Amid Division Over Economic Policies
Most think Barack Obama is doing as much as he can to fix the economy, but opinion is divided on many of his major programs. The popularity of GOP congressional leaders hits a record low. Iraq pullout applauded but views are split on Afghanistan buildup. Read more
-Faithful Finance
Losing Wealth, Finding God?
Is the falling economy raising attendance at religious services? Read moreChurch and Press
Religion in the News: 2008
Religion coverage clustered around big events such as the pope's visit and stories tended to fade quickly from the headlines. Read more
-Pew Interne Update
PewInternet.org Has Launched its New Website
The Pew Internet & American Life Project has updated its website, pewinternet.org. Be sure to give it a look. Read more
-Daily Number
21 of 24 - Out of Afghanistan
The Obama administration's plan to step up U.S. involvement in Afghanistan is unlikely to be welcomed in many of the world's nations; even in the U.S., only a small majority supports a troop buildup. Check back every weekday for another number in the news. Read more
=
Fort Report
http://www.fortreport.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Obama says he doesn't have luxury of taking on single problem at a time, defends budget plan
By JULIE PACE
President Barack Obama on Tuesday brushed aside criticism that he's trying to take on too many issues at once, defending a $3.6 trillion budget that seeks to shore up the economy while also overhauling health care, energy and education.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/politics/sns-ap-obama-budget,0,3195442.story
-Just how bad off is the Republican Party (Part 2)?
A state-by-state look at the state of the Grand Old Party in the Age of Steele.
By Salon staff
As of press time, Tuesday evening, March 17, Michael Steele is still running the Republican National Committee. But tomorrow is another day, as Katon Dawson, I mean Scarlett O'Hara, once said. Perhaps Steele will be ushered offstage soon -- if, say, the GOP fails to win back Kirsten Gillibrand's old seat in New York's traditionally Republican 20th Congressional District on March 31. Perhaps Michael Steele will survive till 2010, and lead his party in a miraculous comeback in the midterms.
http://www.salon.com/news/feature/2009/03/18/state_of_the_gop/
-AIG bonus flap may cost recipients
Lawmakers aim to place a huge levy on the money. The firm will pay $165 million and lose that amount in bailout funding.
By Jim Puzzanghera and Janet Hook
Reporting from Washington -- The government will deduct $165 million in proposed aid to bailed-out American International Group Inc. to recoup the cost of bonuses paid to employees of the giant insurer last week, Treasury Secretary Timothy F. Geithner said Tuesday. In a letter sent to congressional leaders, Geithner said he persuaded AIG Chief Executive Edward M. Liddy last week to scrap or cut hundreds of millions of dollars in future salaries and other compensation after determining that the bonuses already granted would be "legally difficult to prevent."
http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-aig-taxes18-2009mar18,0,3230773.story
-In Letter to Kerry, Bernanke Warned of Fed's 'Limited Rights' in AIG Oversight
Fed chair Bernanke warned that the Fed did not monitor bonuses by the company
By MATTHEW JAFFE, JONATHAN KARL and JUSTIN ROOD
Just one day before the Obama administration expressed its disapproval of AIG's $165 million in bonuses, Federal Reserve chairman Ben Bernanke warned in a private letter to a key lawmaker that the Federal Reserve did not monitor bonuses by the company.
http://abcnews.go.com/Blotter/story?id=7107011&page=1
-Obama axes GOP in new budget push
By Walter Alarkon
President Obama ditched his bipartisan budget sales pitch Tuesday and went on the offense against his Republican critics. The move comes after the president felt substantial pushback from lawmakers in both parties who sharply attacked key elements in his $3.55 trillion proposal.
http://thehill.com/leading-the-news/obama-axes-gop-in-new-budget-push-2009-03-17.html
-Specter won't rule out run as an Independent
By Aaron Blake
Sen. Arlen Specter said Tuesday that he will not run for reelection in 2010 as a Democrat, but might run as an Independent. The Pennsylvania Republican has been under tremendous pressure from the GOP base since being one of just three Republicans to vote for the Democratic-led stimulus package last month.
http://thehill.com/leading-the-news/specter-wont-rule-out-run-as-an-independent-2009-03-17.html
-Troop deaths in Iraq
Poll: More view Afghan war as 'mistake'
By Tom Vanden Brook, USA TODAY
American support for the war in Afghanistan has ebbed to a new low, as attacks on U.S. troops and their allies have hit record levels and commanders are pleading for reinforcements, a USA TODAY/Gallup Poll shows.
http://www.usatoday.com/news/world/2009-03-16-poll_N.htm
-Darfur aid crisis: As aid groups pull out, worries over humanitarian efforts mount
As aid groups are expelled, camps soon may lack resources
By Edmund Sanders
ZAM ZAM CAMP, Sudan-Feverish and dehydrated since fleeing to this overcrowded displacement camp last month, 2-year-old Manahel Abakar was supposed to be one of the beneficiaries of the International Criminal Court's effort to bring justice to Darfur. Instead she became one of its unintended casualties.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/chi-darfur-aid_18mar18,0,3892227.story
-Why Clean Coal Is Years Away
Coal is here to stay, but efforts to cut emissions are ambitious, expensive, and have largely stumbled
By Kent Garber
America runs on coal. It's cheap, plentiful (at least for another 100 years or so), and comfortingly domestic. Two hundred years ago, it powered the industrial revolution. Today, it spits out nearly half of the country's electricity.
http://www.usnews.com/articles/news/energy/2009/03/17/why-clean-coal-is-years-away.html
-Obama Tries to Draw Up an Inclusive Energy Plan
By JAD MOUAWAD
After gasoline prices rose above $4 a gallon last summer, Republican cries of "drill, baby, drill" forced candidate Barack Obama into a rare retreat. Under pressure, he said he would support some expansion of offshore oil drilling, while still emphasizing conservation and renewable energy.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/18/business/energy-environment/18offshore.html
=
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#####
FLORIDA DIGEST - March 18, 2009
**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net and we'll be happy to send the full article.
~~FLORIDA GLBT NEWS~~
Please join us this weekend at the Ft. Lauderdale GLCC to help call known progressive voters in Gainesville to ask them to go out and vote against this discriminatory ammendment on Tuesday, March 24th. Can you spare an hour or two to help preserve hard won Florida LGBT rights? We are asking for your help any evening this week from 5:45pm to 9pm, or Sat/Sun this weekend from noon-5pm, and then again on Monday, March 23rd from 5:45pm to 9pm. Please call JD Camp (of the Dolphin Democrats) at (954) 802-2202 in advance to schedule your time or the GLCC at 954-463-9005 to leave a message for JD. Pizza and soft drinks will be served.
=
Steve Rothaus
www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Spending spree leads to suspect in Wilton Manors killing
By DAVID SMILEY, dsmiley@MiamiHerald.com
A pair of shoes, an iPod and a night at a strip club -- charged to a slain Wilton Manors man's credit cards -- led authorities to South Beach on Monday, where they arrested a wanted Delaware man on a murder charge, the Broward Sheriff's Office said. Gabriel Nock, 27, has been charged with first-degree murder in the killing of 68-year-old Larry Ellison, whose body was found March 10 in his Wilton Manors home. Detectives say Nock's spending spree was his undoing.
-GayPolitics.com: Only openly gay member of Brazilian legislature dies
From GayPolitics.com:
The Victory Fund has learned that Clodovil Hernandes, the openly gay member of Brazil's Chamber of Deputies, has died. He was the only openly gay elected official in the country. Hernandes was admitted to a Brasilia hospital yesterday after suffering a stroke. Known for his colorful career as a fashion designer and television gossip show host, Hernandes represented Sao Paolo in the country's national legislature. He recently introduced a bill adding employer-paid prostate exams for workers over 40 years of age to the country's labor laws.
~~FLORIDA GENERAL NEWS~~
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Chaplain at Hospice by the Sea in Boca Raton resigns over ban on word 'God'
Ban on word 'God' at meetings has chilling effect, she says A chaplain at Hospice by the Sea in Boca Raton has resigned, she says, over a ban on use of the words "God" or "Lord" in public settings. Chaplains still speak freely of the Almighty in private sessions with patients or families but, the Rev. Mirta Signorelli said: "I can't do chaplain's work if I can't say 'God' - if I'm scripted." Hospice CEO Paula Alderson said the ban on religious references applies only to the inspirational messages that chaplains deliver in staff meetings. The hospice remains fully comfortable with ministers, priests and rabbis offering religious counsel to the dying and grieving.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/community/news/bocaraton/sfl-flphospice0318pnmar18,0,5601993.story
=
Fort Report
http://www.fortreport.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Two new property tax cuts in the offing
Property tax cut proposals could help business owners and others while draining money from local governments.
BY ALEX LEARY
Business owners, snowbirds and first-time home buyers could save $1.2 billion over three years if a pair of property tax cut plans are adopted. But one person's cut is another's burden. The same amount would be drained from local government coffers and, officials warn, services would be cut when people need them most.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/legislature/story/953507.html
-'Stimulus czar:' Fla. has met all deadlines so far
By BILL KACZOR
Florida has met all deadlines so far and is well ahead of schedule with the submission of a key document needed to obtain billions in federal recovery money, Gov. Charlie Crist's "stimulus czar" said Tuesday. Don Winstead provided Crist, Lt. Gov. Jeff Kottkamp and agency heads with an update on Florida's stimulus progress. He also reported on a stimulus meeting in Washington last week with Vice President Joe Biden and other federal officials.
http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/F/FL_FLORIDA_STIMULUS_FLOL-?SITE=FLTAM&SECTION=HOME
-Don't backtrack on commitment to reduce class size
Guest column by Representative Martin Kiar, D-Parkland, Florida House Democratic Ranking Member of K-12 Education Issues. More than six years ago, Floridians approved the constitutional Class Size Reduction Amendment, which demands that the Legislature provide our children with smaller class sizes and better learning environments.
http://www.fortreport.com/content/Kiar.pdf
-GOP Bill Raises Academic Bar, Not Funding
By CATHERINE DOLINSKI
High-school students would have to pass the FCAT and higher-level math and science courses to receive diplomas under a plan Republicans are pushing in the state House and Senate. The legislation, which gets its first committee hearing today, would require freshmen entering high school in fall 2010 to pass algebra I, geometry and biology before receiving a high-school diploma. They also would have to pass the 10th-grade Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test.
http://www2.tbo.com/content/2009/mar/18/na-gop-bill-raises-academic-bar-not-funding/news-politics/
-Vloggers for dollars: South Florida students 'Rally in Tally' to get money for schools
By PATRICIA MAZZEI and KATHLEEN McGRORY
They're bringing petitions, pickets and poster board - and, of course, pillows, video games and DVDs. After all, it's a nine-hour bus ride to Tallahassee.
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/state/content/state/epaper/2009/03/17/0317kidsrally.html
-Community colleges could face overload in budget crisis
Thousands of students could be shut out of Florida's community colleges
By Luis Zaragoza
Thousands of students pinning their hopes for a degree on Florida's community colleges could be left without a seat in class next fall because of state budget cuts and mushrooming enrollment.
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/education/orl-asec-college031809,0,1362606.story
=
JustNews.com
http://www.justnews.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Parents, Teachers To Rally In Tallahassee
Broward County parents and teachers are heading to Tallahassee on Tuesday to demand that no more cuts be made to the education budget. Thousands are expected to travel to Tallahassee overnight and converge on the Capitol steps Wednesday morning.
http://www.justnews.com/news/18947418/detail.html?treets=mia&tid=2655619429813&tml=mia_dailyforecast&tmi=mia_dailyforecast_1_04000103182009&ts=H
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
~~FLORIDA GLBT NEWS~~
Please join us this weekend at the Ft. Lauderdale GLCC to help call known progressive voters in Gainesville to ask them to go out and vote against this discriminatory ammendment on Tuesday, March 24th. Can you spare an hour or two to help preserve hard won Florida LGBT rights? We are asking for your help any evening this week from 5:45pm to 9pm, or Sat/Sun this weekend from noon-5pm, and then again on Monday, March 23rd from 5:45pm to 9pm. Please call JD Camp (of the Dolphin Democrats) at (954) 802-2202 in advance to schedule your time or the GLCC at 954-463-9005 to leave a message for JD. Pizza and soft drinks will be served.
=
Steve Rothaus
www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Spending spree leads to suspect in Wilton Manors killing
By DAVID SMILEY, dsmiley@MiamiHerald.com
A pair of shoes, an iPod and a night at a strip club -- charged to a slain Wilton Manors man's credit cards -- led authorities to South Beach on Monday, where they arrested a wanted Delaware man on a murder charge, the Broward Sheriff's Office said. Gabriel Nock, 27, has been charged with first-degree murder in the killing of 68-year-old Larry Ellison, whose body was found March 10 in his Wilton Manors home. Detectives say Nock's spending spree was his undoing.
-GayPolitics.com: Only openly gay member of Brazilian legislature dies
From GayPolitics.com:
The Victory Fund has learned that Clodovil Hernandes, the openly gay member of Brazil's Chamber of Deputies, has died. He was the only openly gay elected official in the country. Hernandes was admitted to a Brasilia hospital yesterday after suffering a stroke. Known for his colorful career as a fashion designer and television gossip show host, Hernandes represented Sao Paolo in the country's national legislature. He recently introduced a bill adding employer-paid prostate exams for workers over 40 years of age to the country's labor laws.
~~FLORIDA GENERAL NEWS~~
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Chaplain at Hospice by the Sea in Boca Raton resigns over ban on word 'God'
Ban on word 'God' at meetings has chilling effect, she says A chaplain at Hospice by the Sea in Boca Raton has resigned, she says, over a ban on use of the words "God" or "Lord" in public settings. Chaplains still speak freely of the Almighty in private sessions with patients or families but, the Rev. Mirta Signorelli said: "I can't do chaplain's work if I can't say 'God' - if I'm scripted." Hospice CEO Paula Alderson said the ban on religious references applies only to the inspirational messages that chaplains deliver in staff meetings. The hospice remains fully comfortable with ministers, priests and rabbis offering religious counsel to the dying and grieving.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/community/news/bocaraton/sfl-flphospice0318pnmar18,0,5601993.story
=
Fort Report
http://www.fortreport.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Two new property tax cuts in the offing
Property tax cut proposals could help business owners and others while draining money from local governments.
BY ALEX LEARY
Business owners, snowbirds and first-time home buyers could save $1.2 billion over three years if a pair of property tax cut plans are adopted. But one person's cut is another's burden. The same amount would be drained from local government coffers and, officials warn, services would be cut when people need them most.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/legislature/story/953507.html
-'Stimulus czar:' Fla. has met all deadlines so far
By BILL KACZOR
Florida has met all deadlines so far and is well ahead of schedule with the submission of a key document needed to obtain billions in federal recovery money, Gov. Charlie Crist's "stimulus czar" said Tuesday. Don Winstead provided Crist, Lt. Gov. Jeff Kottkamp and agency heads with an update on Florida's stimulus progress. He also reported on a stimulus meeting in Washington last week with Vice President Joe Biden and other federal officials.
http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/F/FL_FLORIDA_STIMULUS_FLOL-?SITE=FLTAM&SECTION=HOME
-Don't backtrack on commitment to reduce class size
Guest column by Representative Martin Kiar, D-Parkland, Florida House Democratic Ranking Member of K-12 Education Issues. More than six years ago, Floridians approved the constitutional Class Size Reduction Amendment, which demands that the Legislature provide our children with smaller class sizes and better learning environments.
http://www.fortreport.com/content/Kiar.pdf
-GOP Bill Raises Academic Bar, Not Funding
By CATHERINE DOLINSKI
High-school students would have to pass the FCAT and higher-level math and science courses to receive diplomas under a plan Republicans are pushing in the state House and Senate. The legislation, which gets its first committee hearing today, would require freshmen entering high school in fall 2010 to pass algebra I, geometry and biology before receiving a high-school diploma. They also would have to pass the 10th-grade Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test.
http://www2.tbo.com/content/2009/mar/18/na-gop-bill-raises-academic-bar-not-funding/news-politics/
-Vloggers for dollars: South Florida students 'Rally in Tally' to get money for schools
By PATRICIA MAZZEI and KATHLEEN McGRORY
They're bringing petitions, pickets and poster board - and, of course, pillows, video games and DVDs. After all, it's a nine-hour bus ride to Tallahassee.
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/state/content/state/epaper/2009/03/17/0317kidsrally.html
-Community colleges could face overload in budget crisis
Thousands of students could be shut out of Florida's community colleges
By Luis Zaragoza
Thousands of students pinning their hopes for a degree on Florida's community colleges could be left without a seat in class next fall because of state budget cuts and mushrooming enrollment.
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/education/orl-asec-college031809,0,1362606.story
=
JustNews.com
http://www.justnews.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Parents, Teachers To Rally In Tallahassee
Broward County parents and teachers are heading to Tallahassee on Tuesday to demand that no more cuts be made to the education budget. Thousands are expected to travel to Tallahassee overnight and converge on the Capitol steps Wednesday morning.
http://www.justnews.com/news/18947418/detail.html?treets=mia&tid=2655619429813&tml=mia_dailyforecast&tmi=mia_dailyforecast_1_04000103182009&ts=H
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
GLBT DIGEST - March 17, 2009
**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net and we'll be happy to send the full article.
=
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Vermont debates gay marriage bill
The Associated Press
Nine years after it played host to a bitter fight over civil unions, Vermont's Statehouse is again a gay rights battleground. More than 200 same-sex marriage opponents, cheering and wearing buttons that read "Marriage - A Mother & Father for Every Child," converged Monday on Montpelier as lawmakers began a week of hearings on a bill that would allow gay and lesbian couples to marry. If approved, Vermont would join Massachusetts and Connecticut as the only U.S. states that allow gay marriage.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/nationworld/sfl-flagay0317sbmar17,0,4663715.story
=
South Florida Blade
http://www.floridablade.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
- Lambda Literary Awards nominees announced
Ceremony to take place May 28
From Washington Blade staff reports
The Lambda Literary Fountaion has announced the nominees for the 21st annual Lambda Literary Awards. This year, 105 finalists representing 72 publishers are competing for awards in 22 categories.
http://www.floridablade.com/thelatest/thelatest.cfm?blog_id=24520
-Ind. school district allows girl to wear tux to prom
Senior student had filed lawsuit last week
The Lebanon school district has reversed its policy that barred a female student from wearing a tuxedo to her school's prom. The unidentified 17-year-old Lebanon High School senior filed a lawsuit last week. Court filings said she is a lesbian and does not wear dresses because she believes they represent a sexual identity she rejects. Superintendent Robert L. Taylor said formal attire will be required at the prom, but the requirements won't be "gender-based." He said the School Board would have to vote Tuesday to accept the agreement. American Civil Liberties Union of Indiana legal director Ken Falk, who was the girl's attorney, told The Indianapolis Star that the teen is pleased with the decision and will attend the April prom in a tuxedo.
http://www.floridablade.com/thelatest/thelatest.cfm?blog_id=24521
- Vermont begins hearings on same-sex marriage bill
Supporters say passage would give couples insurance, health care rights Vermont lawmakers are starting a week of hearings on a bill to legalize same-sex marriage. In 2000, Vermont became the first state in the U.S. to adopt civil unions. House and Senate leaders want to pass the gay marriage bill this legislative session, which ends in May.
http://www.floridablade.com/thelatest/thelatest.cfm?blog_id=24513
=
The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Cuadra to Serve Life in Prison
By Michelle Garcia
Harlow Cuadra, who was convicted last week for the 2007 murder of gay porn producer Bryan Kocis, was sentenced on Monday to life in prison without parole.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75434.asp
-Grant Gay Immigrant Couples Equal Rights
By Michelle Garcia
Congress should pass an act to allow gay and lesbian citizens the same right to sponsor committed same-sex partners for U.S. citizenship that heterosexual citizens already enjoy as a benefit of federal marriage, The Washington Post said Monday in an editorial.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75438.asp
=
365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Is Uncle Sam over-charging gay couples?
By Matt Simonette
Early last year, Chicagoan Victoria Stagg Elliott was relieved to put her spouse, Karen Shoffner, on her employer's health coverage. But there was a catch. Stagg Elliott found out she would be taxed on the portion of Shoffner's coverage paid for by the employer. She estimated that the coverage represents about $100 worth of monthly income, meaning she has to declare about $1,200 more in income each year than a straight married colleague with an equivalent insurance package.
http://www.365gay.com/living/is-uncle-sam-over-charging-gay-couples/
-Queerty steps in it
By James Withers
I love my Queerty.com brothers. Visit the site everyday and like their take on things. While I'm on the confessional tour, my Querty ardor would be the same even if they didn't let me write a few things for them back in the day. So serve me Queerty juice chilled thank you. However, yesterday the site crossed the line. Stepped in a big pile of mess they could have easily avoided. The topic was radio host Don Imus and his prostate cancer announcement. Queerty decided to say this:
http://www.365gay.com/blog/withers-queerty-steps-in-it/
-RachelWatch: You can't spell bonus without "on us"
By AliDavis
Outrage. AIG is back in the news. How come no one at any of the FOUR public relations firms they have on the payroll figured out that now would be a bad time to give out millions of dollars in bonuses?
http://www.365gay.com/living/rachelwatch-you-can%e2%80%99t-spell-bonus-without-%e2%80%9con-us%e2%80%9d/
=
Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Oklahoma teacher resigns over gay film
A teacher in Oklahoma, US, has lost her job after showing students The Laramie Project, a film about murdered gay teenager Matthew Shepard. Debra Taylor resigned from Grandfield High School after showing the film and allowing students to film their own short clips about it. Click here for full article
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11630.html
-Mexican politician hopes to be first gay mayor
An openly gay Social Democrat Party (PSD) politician is to stand for mayor of Guadalajara in Mexico. Miguel Galán, 31, will discover whether his party will put him forward as the official candidate at the end of this month, reports The Argentimes. Click here for full article
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11626.html
-Opponents seek to repeal gay and trans protection provisions in Florida
Voting has begun today on whether to repeal a Gainesville, Florida, ordinance that gives protection to LGBT citizens. If passed, the Charter Amendment 1 will make the ordinance conform to the Florida Civil Rights Act, cancelling the anti-discrimination protections Gainesville extends to gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans people. Click here for full article
-Homophobic hate crimes 'linked to Prop 8'
A surge in anti-gay hate crimes has been linked to Proposition 8, the initiative that banned same-sex marriage in California. Homophobic incidents accounted for more than half of hate crime cases last year - 56 per cent up frpm 15 per cent in 2007. Click here for full article
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11614.html
=
JustNews.com
http://www.justnews.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Sen. To AIG Execs: Quit Or 'Commit Suicide'
Iowa Senator Says AIG Execs Should Apologize
Lawmakers from both parties are joining President Barack Obama in blasting insurance giant AIG for its millions of dollars in executive bonuses, but some are more livid than others. Iowa Sen. Charles Grassley suggested that AIG executives should take a Japanese approach toward accepting responsibility for the collapse of the insurance giant by resigning or killing themselves.
http://www.justnews.com/money/18946538/detail.html?treets=mia&tid=2655619429813&tml=mia_9am&tmi=mia_9am_1_08000103172009&ts=H
=
Forwarded from Gays Without Borders
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article
-According to an article in Jamaica's leading newspaper, The Gleaner, in early March the prime minister, Bruce Golding, renewed his campaign against gay people when he opposed a legislative effort to decriminalize the sodomy statutes: [Golding] described gay advocates as "perhaps the most organised lobby in the world", but has vowed not to yield to pressure to wipe buggery from the books as a crime. "We are not going to yield to the pressure, whether that pressure comes from individual organisations, individuals, whether that pressure comes from foreign governments or groups of countries, to liberalise the laws as it relates to buggery," Golding said in Parliament yesterday. ... But Golding made it clear that his government was not prepared to accept suggestions or demands for the crime of buggery to disappear from the books. ...
http://mpetrelis.blogspot.com/2009/03/jamaican-consul-in-s.html
-Urgent Action: Germany Threatens to Deport Mehdi N. to Iran
We request your assistance with an urgent case involving Mehdi N., a
29-year-old gay Iranian who seeks asylum in Germany. Mehdi N. escaped from Iran at the beginning of 2007 due to his well-known fear of persecution on the basis of his sexual orientation. He stayed in Istanbul, Turkey for six months, but was unaware of his ability to apply for refugee status with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in Turkey. At that time, he was also uninformed about the existence of the IRanian Queer Railroad and our ability to support him. Mehdi N. was lonely in Turkey. His biggest fear was that Turkish police would arrest him and deport him back to Iran. Eventually, someone took him to Germany where he sought to claim asylum. "When I got to the airport, I introduced myself to police. I told them that I am gay and am seeking asylum. The police officer then shouted, 'what are you doing here?!' I feared death, and then started to cry," Mehdi N. wrote in his letter to the IRQR.
http://gayswithoutborders.wordpress.com/2009/03/17/urgent-action-germany-threatens-to-deport-mehdi-n-to-iran/
-BELGRADE -- The Gay Pride parade that has been announced in Belgrade will be supported by the Ministry for Human and Minority Rights. This is according one of the secretary of state with the ministry, Marko Karadzic, who spoke last night in a B92 TV talk show. The Constitution, Karadzic explained, guarantees each citizen a right to peaceful assembly. Gay Pride parades are meant to draw attention to the problems that are faced by persons of different sexual orientation in their daily lives.
www.queerbeograd.org
=
Forwarded from Kenneth Sherrill - Ken's List
kenslist@groups.queernet.org
Go to the links for the following articles:
Contact rays.list@comcast.net if you can't access the article
-Nigeria: ANGLICAN ARCHBISHOP'S HOMOPHOBIC OUTBURST CONDEMNED
SAME SEX MARRIAGE IS "CAPABLE OF ENGENDERING MORAL AND SOCIAL HOLOCAUST"
A leading Nigerian Humanist has roundly condemned the latest homophobic outburst from the country's Anglican Archbishop. Archbishop Peter Akinola, the champion of Anglican conservatives worldwide, wants all witnesses to gay weddings to be sentenced to a year in jail. In a position paper submitted by the church to a Nigerian parliamentary committee which is planning a law against gay marriage, the Archbishop says: "Same sex marriage, apart from being ungodly, is unscriptural, unnatural, unprofitable, unhealthy, un-cultural, un-African and un-Nigerian. It is a perversion, a deviation and an aberration that is capable of engendering moral and social holocaust in this country. It is also capable of existincting [sic] mankind and as such should never be allowed to take root in Nigeria. Outlawing it is to ensure the continued existence of this nation. The need for doing this is urgent, compelling, and imperative."
-Obama could tip appeals courts to Dems
by Deb Price
Want a hint of how much President Barack Obama's eventual appointees will change the federal appeals courts? Take a peek at a tip sheet offered by a scholar at the Brookings Institution. Before the November elections, Russell Wheeler, a visiting fellow at the Brookings Institution and court watcher, calculated what impact the victor could have in one term over these powerful federal courts. A John McCain presidency, he estimated, would result in all 13 federal courts of appeals having Republican majorities, with 11 of those being "solid majorities." McCain -- under Wheeler's projections based largely on anticipated retirements, eventual creation of 14 appeals court judgeships and confirmation of the president's nominees -- would have left the appeals courts with more Republican appointees call- ing the shots: 74 percent Republican to 26 percent Democratic.
http://detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090316/OPINION03/903160334/1031
-The Culture Warriors Get Laid Off
By FRANK RICH
SOMEDAY we'll learn the whole story of why George W. Bush brushed off that intelligence briefing of Aug. 6, 2001, "Bin Laden Determined to Strike in U.S." But surely a big distraction was the major speech he was readying for delivery on Aug. 9, his first prime-time address to the nation. The subject - which Bush hyped as "one of the most profound of our time" - was stem cells. For a presidency in thrall to a thriving religious right (and a presidency incapable of multi-tasking), nothing, not even terrorism, could be more urgent. When Barack Obama ended the Bush stem-cell policy last week, there were no such overheated theatrics. No oversold prime-time address. No hysteria from politicians, the news media or the public. The family-values dinosaurs that once stalked the earth - Falwell, Robertson, Dobson and Reed - are now either dead, retired or disgraced.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/15/opinion/15rich.html?emc=tnt&tntemail1=y
-Colorado: Trans murder trial faces hurdle; media makes a sideshow of pronouns
A Colorado man is set to go on trial next month for the murder of 18-year-old Angie Zapata - though that trial is now facing a potentially serious snag after the judge ordered the defendant's confession thrown out because of overreaching by police. The local Greeley Tribune has covered the story extensively; the quality of their coverage has been mixed. (Compare this to a very professional and respectful profile of the case by ABC News.) Today they an unfortunately sensational article devoted to the use of pronouns in the case.
http://polyperversity.blogspot.com/2009/03/trans-murder-trial-faces-hurdle-media.html
-I'm pleased to announce the names of the 105 finalists representing 72 publishers for the 21st Lambda Literary Awards. Winners will be announced on Thursday, May 28, at a ceremony in New York, and tickets are now on sale --
I hope you can join us!
http://www.lambdaliterary.org/awards/annual_llf_awards.html
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
=
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Vermont debates gay marriage bill
The Associated Press
Nine years after it played host to a bitter fight over civil unions, Vermont's Statehouse is again a gay rights battleground. More than 200 same-sex marriage opponents, cheering and wearing buttons that read "Marriage - A Mother & Father for Every Child," converged Monday on Montpelier as lawmakers began a week of hearings on a bill that would allow gay and lesbian couples to marry. If approved, Vermont would join Massachusetts and Connecticut as the only U.S. states that allow gay marriage.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/nationworld/sfl-flagay0317sbmar17,0,4663715.story
=
South Florida Blade
http://www.floridablade.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
- Lambda Literary Awards nominees announced
Ceremony to take place May 28
From Washington Blade staff reports
The Lambda Literary Fountaion has announced the nominees for the 21st annual Lambda Literary Awards. This year, 105 finalists representing 72 publishers are competing for awards in 22 categories.
http://www.floridablade.com/thelatest/thelatest.cfm?blog_id=24520
-Ind. school district allows girl to wear tux to prom
Senior student had filed lawsuit last week
The Lebanon school district has reversed its policy that barred a female student from wearing a tuxedo to her school's prom. The unidentified 17-year-old Lebanon High School senior filed a lawsuit last week. Court filings said she is a lesbian and does not wear dresses because she believes they represent a sexual identity she rejects. Superintendent Robert L. Taylor said formal attire will be required at the prom, but the requirements won't be "gender-based." He said the School Board would have to vote Tuesday to accept the agreement. American Civil Liberties Union of Indiana legal director Ken Falk, who was the girl's attorney, told The Indianapolis Star that the teen is pleased with the decision and will attend the April prom in a tuxedo.
http://www.floridablade.com/thelatest/thelatest.cfm?blog_id=24521
- Vermont begins hearings on same-sex marriage bill
Supporters say passage would give couples insurance, health care rights Vermont lawmakers are starting a week of hearings on a bill to legalize same-sex marriage. In 2000, Vermont became the first state in the U.S. to adopt civil unions. House and Senate leaders want to pass the gay marriage bill this legislative session, which ends in May.
http://www.floridablade.com/thelatest/thelatest.cfm?blog_id=24513
=
The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Cuadra to Serve Life in Prison
By Michelle Garcia
Harlow Cuadra, who was convicted last week for the 2007 murder of gay porn producer Bryan Kocis, was sentenced on Monday to life in prison without parole.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75434.asp
-Grant Gay Immigrant Couples Equal Rights
By Michelle Garcia
Congress should pass an act to allow gay and lesbian citizens the same right to sponsor committed same-sex partners for U.S. citizenship that heterosexual citizens already enjoy as a benefit of federal marriage, The Washington Post said Monday in an editorial.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75438.asp
=
365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Is Uncle Sam over-charging gay couples?
By Matt Simonette
Early last year, Chicagoan Victoria Stagg Elliott was relieved to put her spouse, Karen Shoffner, on her employer's health coverage. But there was a catch. Stagg Elliott found out she would be taxed on the portion of Shoffner's coverage paid for by the employer. She estimated that the coverage represents about $100 worth of monthly income, meaning she has to declare about $1,200 more in income each year than a straight married colleague with an equivalent insurance package.
http://www.365gay.com/living/is-uncle-sam-over-charging-gay-couples/
-Queerty steps in it
By James Withers
I love my Queerty.com brothers. Visit the site everyday and like their take on things. While I'm on the confessional tour, my Querty ardor would be the same even if they didn't let me write a few things for them back in the day. So serve me Queerty juice chilled thank you. However, yesterday the site crossed the line. Stepped in a big pile of mess they could have easily avoided. The topic was radio host Don Imus and his prostate cancer announcement. Queerty decided to say this:
http://www.365gay.com/blog/withers-queerty-steps-in-it/
-RachelWatch: You can't spell bonus without "on us"
By AliDavis
Outrage. AIG is back in the news. How come no one at any of the FOUR public relations firms they have on the payroll figured out that now would be a bad time to give out millions of dollars in bonuses?
http://www.365gay.com/living/rachelwatch-you-can%e2%80%99t-spell-bonus-without-%e2%80%9con-us%e2%80%9d/
=
Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Oklahoma teacher resigns over gay film
A teacher in Oklahoma, US, has lost her job after showing students The Laramie Project, a film about murdered gay teenager Matthew Shepard. Debra Taylor resigned from Grandfield High School after showing the film and allowing students to film their own short clips about it. Click here for full article
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11630.html
-Mexican politician hopes to be first gay mayor
An openly gay Social Democrat Party (PSD) politician is to stand for mayor of Guadalajara in Mexico. Miguel Galán, 31, will discover whether his party will put him forward as the official candidate at the end of this month, reports The Argentimes. Click here for full article
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11626.html
-Opponents seek to repeal gay and trans protection provisions in Florida
Voting has begun today on whether to repeal a Gainesville, Florida, ordinance that gives protection to LGBT citizens. If passed, the Charter Amendment 1 will make the ordinance conform to the Florida Civil Rights Act, cancelling the anti-discrimination protections Gainesville extends to gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans people. Click here for full article
-Homophobic hate crimes 'linked to Prop 8'
A surge in anti-gay hate crimes has been linked to Proposition 8, the initiative that banned same-sex marriage in California. Homophobic incidents accounted for more than half of hate crime cases last year - 56 per cent up frpm 15 per cent in 2007. Click here for full article
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11614.html
=
JustNews.com
http://www.justnews.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Sen. To AIG Execs: Quit Or 'Commit Suicide'
Iowa Senator Says AIG Execs Should Apologize
Lawmakers from both parties are joining President Barack Obama in blasting insurance giant AIG for its millions of dollars in executive bonuses, but some are more livid than others. Iowa Sen. Charles Grassley suggested that AIG executives should take a Japanese approach toward accepting responsibility for the collapse of the insurance giant by resigning or killing themselves.
http://www.justnews.com/money/18946538/detail.html?treets=mia&tid=2655619429813&tml=mia_9am&tmi=mia_9am_1_08000103172009&ts=H
=
Forwarded from Gays Without Borders
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article
-According to an article in Jamaica's leading newspaper, The Gleaner, in early March the prime minister, Bruce Golding, renewed his campaign against gay people when he opposed a legislative effort to decriminalize the sodomy statutes: [Golding] described gay advocates as "perhaps the most organised lobby in the world", but has vowed not to yield to pressure to wipe buggery from the books as a crime. "We are not going to yield to the pressure, whether that pressure comes from individual organisations, individuals, whether that pressure comes from foreign governments or groups of countries, to liberalise the laws as it relates to buggery," Golding said in Parliament yesterday. ... But Golding made it clear that his government was not prepared to accept suggestions or demands for the crime of buggery to disappear from the books. ...
http://mpetrelis.blogspot.com/2009/03/jamaican-consul-in-s.html
-Urgent Action: Germany Threatens to Deport Mehdi N. to Iran
We request your assistance with an urgent case involving Mehdi N., a
29-year-old gay Iranian who seeks asylum in Germany. Mehdi N. escaped from Iran at the beginning of 2007 due to his well-known fear of persecution on the basis of his sexual orientation. He stayed in Istanbul, Turkey for six months, but was unaware of his ability to apply for refugee status with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in Turkey. At that time, he was also uninformed about the existence of the IRanian Queer Railroad and our ability to support him. Mehdi N. was lonely in Turkey. His biggest fear was that Turkish police would arrest him and deport him back to Iran. Eventually, someone took him to Germany where he sought to claim asylum. "When I got to the airport, I introduced myself to police. I told them that I am gay and am seeking asylum. The police officer then shouted, 'what are you doing here?!' I feared death, and then started to cry," Mehdi N. wrote in his letter to the IRQR.
http://gayswithoutborders.wordpress.com/2009/03/17/urgent-action-germany-threatens-to-deport-mehdi-n-to-iran/
-BELGRADE -- The Gay Pride parade that has been announced in Belgrade will be supported by the Ministry for Human and Minority Rights. This is according one of the secretary of state with the ministry, Marko Karadzic, who spoke last night in a B92 TV talk show. The Constitution, Karadzic explained, guarantees each citizen a right to peaceful assembly. Gay Pride parades are meant to draw attention to the problems that are faced by persons of different sexual orientation in their daily lives.
www.queerbeograd.org
=
Forwarded from Kenneth Sherrill - Ken's List
kenslist@groups.queernet.org
Go to the links for the following articles:
Contact rays.list@comcast.net if you can't access the article
-Nigeria: ANGLICAN ARCHBISHOP'S HOMOPHOBIC OUTBURST CONDEMNED
SAME SEX MARRIAGE IS "CAPABLE OF ENGENDERING MORAL AND SOCIAL HOLOCAUST"
A leading Nigerian Humanist has roundly condemned the latest homophobic outburst from the country's Anglican Archbishop. Archbishop Peter Akinola, the champion of Anglican conservatives worldwide, wants all witnesses to gay weddings to be sentenced to a year in jail. In a position paper submitted by the church to a Nigerian parliamentary committee which is planning a law against gay marriage, the Archbishop says: "Same sex marriage, apart from being ungodly, is unscriptural, unnatural, unprofitable, unhealthy, un-cultural, un-African and un-Nigerian. It is a perversion, a deviation and an aberration that is capable of engendering moral and social holocaust in this country. It is also capable of existincting [sic] mankind and as such should never be allowed to take root in Nigeria. Outlawing it is to ensure the continued existence of this nation. The need for doing this is urgent, compelling, and imperative."
-Obama could tip appeals courts to Dems
by Deb Price
Want a hint of how much President Barack Obama's eventual appointees will change the federal appeals courts? Take a peek at a tip sheet offered by a scholar at the Brookings Institution. Before the November elections, Russell Wheeler, a visiting fellow at the Brookings Institution and court watcher, calculated what impact the victor could have in one term over these powerful federal courts. A John McCain presidency, he estimated, would result in all 13 federal courts of appeals having Republican majorities, with 11 of those being "solid majorities." McCain -- under Wheeler's projections based largely on anticipated retirements, eventual creation of 14 appeals court judgeships and confirmation of the president's nominees -- would have left the appeals courts with more Republican appointees call- ing the shots: 74 percent Republican to 26 percent Democratic.
http://detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090316/OPINION03/903160334/1031
-The Culture Warriors Get Laid Off
By FRANK RICH
SOMEDAY we'll learn the whole story of why George W. Bush brushed off that intelligence briefing of Aug. 6, 2001, "Bin Laden Determined to Strike in U.S." But surely a big distraction was the major speech he was readying for delivery on Aug. 9, his first prime-time address to the nation. The subject - which Bush hyped as "one of the most profound of our time" - was stem cells. For a presidency in thrall to a thriving religious right (and a presidency incapable of multi-tasking), nothing, not even terrorism, could be more urgent. When Barack Obama ended the Bush stem-cell policy last week, there were no such overheated theatrics. No oversold prime-time address. No hysteria from politicians, the news media or the public. The family-values dinosaurs that once stalked the earth - Falwell, Robertson, Dobson and Reed - are now either dead, retired or disgraced.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/15/opinion/15rich.html?emc=tnt&tntemail1=y
-Colorado: Trans murder trial faces hurdle; media makes a sideshow of pronouns
A Colorado man is set to go on trial next month for the murder of 18-year-old Angie Zapata - though that trial is now facing a potentially serious snag after the judge ordered the defendant's confession thrown out because of overreaching by police. The local Greeley Tribune has covered the story extensively; the quality of their coverage has been mixed. (Compare this to a very professional and respectful profile of the case by ABC News.) Today they an unfortunately sensational article devoted to the use of pronouns in the case.
http://polyperversity.blogspot.com/2009/03/trans-murder-trial-faces-hurdle-media.html
-I'm pleased to announce the names of the 105 finalists representing 72 publishers for the 21st Lambda Literary Awards. Winners will be announced on Thursday, May 28, at a ceremony in New York, and tickets are now on sale --
I hope you can join us!
http://www.lambdaliterary.org/awards/annual_llf_awards.html
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
FLORIDA DIGEST - March 17, 2009
**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net and we'll be happy to send the full article.
~~FLORIDA GLBT NEWS~~
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Let all serve equally
March 17, 2009
There should not be a difference of nationalities or whether they are different in being single, married or gay. If anyone wants to be involved in the service, there should not be any differences among each other. I feel that anyone who wants to be in the service, they must be qualified to serve, as many want to be able to learn for their education as well. I know of some young fellows who want to serve for the good of America.
Theresa Hobmeier, Tamarac
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/opinion/sfl-brmail631pnmar17,0,4755600.story
=
Steve Rothaus
www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:
-2009 Miami Latin Gay Film Festival unveils program line-up
News release from the Miami Latin Gay Film Festival: The Miami Latin Gay Film Festival has unveiled the line-up of the best Latin Gay and Lesbian films from around the world that will be featured during the 4 day event from April 16 to 19. The announcement was made today by Executive Director Jim Dobson with Festival Director Ellen Wedner.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/
-More than 40 join Sidelines team at Florida AIDS Walk in Fort Lauderdale
News release from Sidelines Sports Bar: Over forty (40) members of Team Sidelines crossed the finish line on Sunday, March 15, 2009 demonstrating their commitment to help stop the spread of HIV/AIDS by completing the 10 kilometer (6.2 miles) walk through the heart of downtown, Fort Lauderdale for the Florida AIDS Walk. The picture-perfect day began at Huizenga Plaza where thousands of walkers and volunteers gathered to hear the sweet, melodic music of the Gay Men's Chorus, words of gratitude from community leaders and the much awaited special guest appearance of actor, Blair Underwood, making his second appearance at the Florida AIDS Walk.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/
-Compass grand opening celebrates public-private partnership and Pridefest kickoff
On Friday March 20th, 2009 at 5:30pm, Compass, the Gay and Lesbian Community
Center of Palm Beach County, will hold a grand opening celebration at its new location on 201 North Dixie Highway in Lake Worth, FL, formerly the Palm Beach County Mid-County Senior Citizens Center. The event will highlight the successful completion of the first phase of Compass' Landmark & Legacy Campaign.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/
=
Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Tallahassee rally urges lifting of gay adoption ban
BY DAVID DECAMP
Gay rights advocates hope Hollywood can step in where Florida political muscle struggled. Flanked by the nephew of Harvey Milk -- the first openly gay city official in California, who was slain in 1978 -- lawmakers and advocates pushed for changes to laws during a rally Monday outside the Capitol. Among other things, the changes would allow gays to adopt children. ''I think that the fact of the matter is, it's really disheartening that we have one of the largest, most important, critical states in the country that still doesn't have a fully inclusive, nondiscrimination law [for gay and transgender people],'' said Broward County resident Stuart Milk.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/southflorida/story/953511.html
-The calendar for March 17
SKATE 8 P.M.
Intoxiskate, the weekly gay-friendly skate party, celebrates St. Patrick's Day with beer pong, skating games, drink specials and $2 skate rental. Gold Coast Roller Rink, 2604 S. Federal Hwy., Fort Lauderdale; 954-523-6783.
DRINK 5 p.m.
JohnMartin's Restaurant and Irish Pub hosts its annual St. Patrick's Day street party showcasing bands like Paddy Kelligan, Brooks Reid and the Sonickats. 253 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables; 305-445-3777. Send events to areyes@MiamiHerald.com.
http://www.miamiherald.com/entertainment/people/story/953489.html
-Advocacy groups to test their luck with Florida lawmakers
BY STEVE BOUSQUET
TALLAHASSEE -- On a day traditionally devoted to wearing green, grass-roots advocates all across the political spectrum will try their luck influencing decisions by Florida legislators. The 60-day legislative session at the Capitol in Tallahassee is a continuous forum for advocacy of all kinds, and St. Patrick's Day is no exception.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/breaking-news/story/953878.html
=
Anthony Niedwiecki to be sworn in - Oakland Park
Please join us as I get sworn in to the Oakland Park City Commission this Wednesday March 18th! This would not have been possible without all of the support from friends, family, and residents, so your presence will make this occasion truly special. The meeting begins at 6:30 p.m., and the ceremony should occur sometime between 7 and 7:30. It will take place at Oakland Park City Hall, 3650 NE 12th Avenue. There will be cake and punch after the ceremony, and then we will have a champagne toast at Oakland Park Main Street, which is located at 3407 N. Dixie Hwy (in the Squires shopping center across from City Hall). In addition to becoming a commissioner, my birthday is on March 18th, so come celebrate both occasions with us this Wednesday! Thanks again to everyone who made this possible!
Anthony Niedwiecki
Commissioner-Elect of Oakland Park, Seat 4
www.Anthony09.com
~~FLORIDA GENERAL NEWS~~
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Fort Lauderdale Mayor Jim Naugle leaves office today
Public weighs in on Naugle's 24 years in office.
By Brittany Wallman
Tomorrow, he'll be a colorful piece of Fort Lauderdale history, as Mayor Jack Seiler's predecessor. James Thomas Naugle had a role in city leadership for 24 years, a quarter of the life of Fort Lauderdale.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/community/news/fort_lauderdale/sfl-flbgoodbye0317sbmar17,0,6994227.story
-Broward schools weigh policy to have bullets, shells classified as weapons
By Kathy Bushouse
A box of bullets or shotgun shells brought onto Broward County school grounds would be considered weapons if the School Board approves a recommended change to the district's student code of conduct.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/schools/sfl-flbbullet0317sbmar17,0,4276225.story
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
~~FLORIDA GLBT NEWS~~
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Let all serve equally
March 17, 2009
There should not be a difference of nationalities or whether they are different in being single, married or gay. If anyone wants to be involved in the service, there should not be any differences among each other. I feel that anyone who wants to be in the service, they must be qualified to serve, as many want to be able to learn for their education as well. I know of some young fellows who want to serve for the good of America.
Theresa Hobmeier, Tamarac
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/opinion/sfl-brmail631pnmar17,0,4755600.story
=
Steve Rothaus
www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:
-2009 Miami Latin Gay Film Festival unveils program line-up
News release from the Miami Latin Gay Film Festival: The Miami Latin Gay Film Festival has unveiled the line-up of the best Latin Gay and Lesbian films from around the world that will be featured during the 4 day event from April 16 to 19. The announcement was made today by Executive Director Jim Dobson with Festival Director Ellen Wedner.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/
-More than 40 join Sidelines team at Florida AIDS Walk in Fort Lauderdale
News release from Sidelines Sports Bar: Over forty (40) members of Team Sidelines crossed the finish line on Sunday, March 15, 2009 demonstrating their commitment to help stop the spread of HIV/AIDS by completing the 10 kilometer (6.2 miles) walk through the heart of downtown, Fort Lauderdale for the Florida AIDS Walk. The picture-perfect day began at Huizenga Plaza where thousands of walkers and volunteers gathered to hear the sweet, melodic music of the Gay Men's Chorus, words of gratitude from community leaders and the much awaited special guest appearance of actor, Blair Underwood, making his second appearance at the Florida AIDS Walk.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/
-Compass grand opening celebrates public-private partnership and Pridefest kickoff
On Friday March 20th, 2009 at 5:30pm, Compass, the Gay and Lesbian Community
Center of Palm Beach County, will hold a grand opening celebration at its new location on 201 North Dixie Highway in Lake Worth, FL, formerly the Palm Beach County Mid-County Senior Citizens Center. The event will highlight the successful completion of the first phase of Compass' Landmark & Legacy Campaign.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/
=
Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Tallahassee rally urges lifting of gay adoption ban
BY DAVID DECAMP
Gay rights advocates hope Hollywood can step in where Florida political muscle struggled. Flanked by the nephew of Harvey Milk -- the first openly gay city official in California, who was slain in 1978 -- lawmakers and advocates pushed for changes to laws during a rally Monday outside the Capitol. Among other things, the changes would allow gays to adopt children. ''I think that the fact of the matter is, it's really disheartening that we have one of the largest, most important, critical states in the country that still doesn't have a fully inclusive, nondiscrimination law [for gay and transgender people],'' said Broward County resident Stuart Milk.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/southflorida/story/953511.html
-The calendar for March 17
SKATE 8 P.M.
Intoxiskate, the weekly gay-friendly skate party, celebrates St. Patrick's Day with beer pong, skating games, drink specials and $2 skate rental. Gold Coast Roller Rink, 2604 S. Federal Hwy., Fort Lauderdale; 954-523-6783.
DRINK 5 p.m.
JohnMartin's Restaurant and Irish Pub hosts its annual St. Patrick's Day street party showcasing bands like Paddy Kelligan, Brooks Reid and the Sonickats. 253 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables; 305-445-3777. Send events to areyes@MiamiHerald.com.
http://www.miamiherald.com/entertainment/people/story/953489.html
-Advocacy groups to test their luck with Florida lawmakers
BY STEVE BOUSQUET
TALLAHASSEE -- On a day traditionally devoted to wearing green, grass-roots advocates all across the political spectrum will try their luck influencing decisions by Florida legislators. The 60-day legislative session at the Capitol in Tallahassee is a continuous forum for advocacy of all kinds, and St. Patrick's Day is no exception.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/breaking-news/story/953878.html
=
Anthony Niedwiecki to be sworn in - Oakland Park
Please join us as I get sworn in to the Oakland Park City Commission this Wednesday March 18th! This would not have been possible without all of the support from friends, family, and residents, so your presence will make this occasion truly special. The meeting begins at 6:30 p.m., and the ceremony should occur sometime between 7 and 7:30. It will take place at Oakland Park City Hall, 3650 NE 12th Avenue. There will be cake and punch after the ceremony, and then we will have a champagne toast at Oakland Park Main Street, which is located at 3407 N. Dixie Hwy (in the Squires shopping center across from City Hall). In addition to becoming a commissioner, my birthday is on March 18th, so come celebrate both occasions with us this Wednesday! Thanks again to everyone who made this possible!
Anthony Niedwiecki
Commissioner-Elect of Oakland Park, Seat 4
www.Anthony09.com
~~FLORIDA GENERAL NEWS~~
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Fort Lauderdale Mayor Jim Naugle leaves office today
Public weighs in on Naugle's 24 years in office.
By Brittany Wallman
Tomorrow, he'll be a colorful piece of Fort Lauderdale history, as Mayor Jack Seiler's predecessor. James Thomas Naugle had a role in city leadership for 24 years, a quarter of the life of Fort Lauderdale.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/community/news/fort_lauderdale/sfl-flbgoodbye0317sbmar17,0,6994227.story
-Broward schools weigh policy to have bullets, shells classified as weapons
By Kathy Bushouse
A box of bullets or shotgun shells brought onto Broward County school grounds would be considered weapons if the School Board approves a recommended change to the district's student code of conduct.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/schools/sfl-flbbullet0317sbmar17,0,4276225.story
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
Monday, March 16, 2009
GLBT DIGEST - March 06, 2009
**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net and we'll be happy to send the full article.
=
Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Fenty to Release Report on D.C. AIDS Epidemic
By Darryl Fears
Mayor Adrian M. Fenty is scheduled to release an 82-page report this morning saying that 3 percent of District residents have HIV or AIDS, a total that surpasses the threshold that constitutes a severe epidemic.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/16/AR2009031600891.html
-Separation Anxiety
Gay couples should be allowed to stay together in the United States. THE UNITING American Families Act would allow gay and lesbian Americans and permanent residents to sponsor their foreign-born partners for legal residency in the United States. The bill, introduced last month in the Senate by Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) and in the House by Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.), would add "permanent partner" and "permanent partnership" after the words "spouse" and "marriage" in relevant sections of the Immigration and Nationality Act. If passed, it would right a gross unfairness.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/15/AR2009031501669.html
=
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Melvin Wheatley, bishop
By Elaine Woo | Los Angeles Times
Bishop Melvin E. Wheatley, who risked censure in the United Methodist Church for appointing his denomination's first openly gay pastor in 1982, died March 1 at 93 in Mission Viejo after an illness, a church spokesman said. Bishop Wheatley was known for promoting dialogue across faiths and cultures during nearly two decades in Los Angeles as senior pastor of the Westwood United Methodist Church. In 1972, he was elected bishop and assigned to Denver as the gay rights movement was under way.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/nationworld/sfl-flowheatleysbmar16,0,3068089.story
=
The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
- First Openly Gay Mayoral Candidate Runs in Mexico
By Julie Bolcer
Mexico received its first openly gay mayoral candidate on Friday, when the minority Social Democratic Party (PSD) selected Miguel Antonio Galán to run for the local office in Guadalajara, the second most populous city in the country.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75394.asp
=
365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Report: DC has nation's highest HIV/AIDS rate
By The Associated Press
A new report by D.C. health officials says that at least 3 percent of residents in the nation's capital are living with HIV or AIDS and every mode of transmission is on the rise.
http://www.365gay.com/news/report-dc-has-nations-highest-hivaids-rate/
-Guyana credits U.S. campaign with slashing AIDS rate
By The Associated Press
(Georgetown, Guyana) Guyana says a U.S.-funded AIDS prevention program has helped slash the HIV infection rate in the South American country from nearly 3 percent to about 1 percent.
http://www.365gay.com/news/guyana-credits-us-campaign-with-slashing-aids-rate/
-Gay marriage bills heading for showdowns in Maine, Vermont
By 365gay Newscenter Staff
Support is growing for legislation that would allow same-sex couples to marry in Maine. The bill now has more than 60 lawmakers as co-sponsors.
http://www.365gay.com/news/gay-marriage-bills-heading-for-showdowns-in-maine-vermont/
-Washington D.C. HIV rates equal to Uganda
By James Withers
This should shock no one, especially after the late summer 2008 report by the Black AIDS Institute. A study today will show that at least 3 percent of Washington D.C. residents have either HIV or AIDS. "Our rates are higher than West Africa," said Shannon L. Hader, director of the District's HIV/AIDS Administration, who headed the Federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's work in Zimbabwe. "They're on par with Uganda and some parts of Kenya."
http://www.365gay.com/blog/031609-washington-dc-hiv-rates-equal-to-uganda/
=
Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Homophobic hate crimes 'linked to Prop 8'
A surge in anti-gay hate crimes has been linked to Proposition 8, the initiative that banned same-sex marriage in California. Homophobic incidents accounted for more than half of hate crime cases last year - 56 per cent up frpm 15 per cent in 2007.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11614.html
-Study to be released on poverty among gay Americans
By Jessica Geen
An analysis of poverty among lesbian, gay and bisexual Americans is to be presented to Congress next Friday. Produced by the Williams Institute at the UCLA School of Law, the survey has been described as the first of its kind.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11602.html
-Obama to decide on gay partnership rights
By Staff Writer
US president Barack Obama is to decide whether the government must provide health insurance benefits to the same-sex partners of federal employees. The New York Times reports that he is faced with a choice between disappointing the liberal base which elected him or angering the conservatives at a time he needs their help on his domestic agenda.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11601.html
-Robert Pattinson reveals struggle over gay scene
By Staff Writer, PinkNews.co.uk
Twilight actor Robert Pattinson has described filming a gay scene in his latest film Little Ashes. He told GQ: "And here I am, with Javier [Beltrán], who plays Lorca, doing an extremely hard-core sex scene, where I have a nervous breakdown afterward. And because we're both straight, what we were doing seemed kind of ridiculous.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11609.html
-Nigerian Archbishop 'wants gay wedding witnesses to be jailed"
Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Nigeria, Peter Akinola, has said that gay marriage is "capable of engendering moral and social holocaust" and has called for those who attend gay weddings to be sentenced to a year in jail.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11612.html
=
Daily Queer News
www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Brian-Injury GIs Could Number 360,000
Associated Press | Military.com
The number of U.S. troops who have suffered wartime brain injuries may be as high as 360,000 and could cast more attention on such injuries among civilians, Defense Department doctors said Wednesday. The estimate of the number injured - the vast majority of them suffering concussions - represents 20 percent of the roughly 1.8 million men and women who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan, where blast injuries are common from roadside bombs and other explosives, the doctors said. The estimate came in a Pentagon news conference on activities planned this month to bring attention to brain injuries. The doctors said the number could be as low as 180,000, based on estimates that between 10 percent and 20 percent of troops might have received such injuries. The previous high estimate offered publicly was 320,000 in a study released a year ago by the private Rand Corp. It was based on about 1.6 million who had done tours of duty in the wars from late 2001. Read more
-Half of Church in Conflict Over Gay Ordination.
Deny Consent to Buddhist Bishop
David Virtue | Virtue Online
On fire for Christ. The idea of being on fire for Christ will strike some people as dangerous emotionalism. 'Surely,' they say, 'we are not meant to go to extremes? You are not asking us to become hot-gospel fanatics?' Well, of course, it depends what you mean. If by 'fanaticism' you really mean 'wholeheartedness', then Christianity is a fanatical religion and every Christian should be a fanatic. But wholeheartedness is not the same as fanaticism. Fanaticism is an unreasoning and unintelligent wholeheartedness. It is the running away of the heart with the head. At the end of a statement prepared for a conference on science, philosophy and religion at Princeton University in 1940 came these words: 'Commitment without reflection is fanaticism in action; but reflection without commitment is the paralysis of all action.' What Jesus Christ desires and deserves is the reflection which leads to commitment and the commitment which is born of reflection. This is the meaning of wholeheartedness, of being aflame for God. - From "What Christ Thinks of the Church" by John R.W. Stott. No associate members. We must expect every Christian believer to be an active church member. We cannot afford to have associate members who want privileges without responsibilities. - From "Parochial Evangelism by the Laity" (London: Church Information Board) Read more
-The Gay Marriage Debate in Vermont
Rutland Herald
As the controversy grows over a proposal to allow gay marriage in Vermont, readers are again divided on the idea, the politics and the merits of the proposed legislation. Marriage, a contract between a man and women - Take it to the people (takeittothepeople.com) is an excellent resource for information that you can visit for complete information on the civil/marriage issue. The Legislature is prepared to hold one public hearing and then go to the House and Senate to vote on S115, an act relating to civil marriage. Only one public hearing, and then they will vote on this issue is how our legislative body defines democracy. Let's look at some facts. After some extensive research, I have discovered that over 53 percent of Vermonters do not approve of same-sex marriages, while only 30 percent do approve. Vital statistics reported that in 2005 there were 5,532 marriages and 452 civil unions. Read more
-Two San Jose Gym Teachers Accused of Lesbian Tryst with Students
Kilian Melloy | EDGE Contributor | EDGE Boston
Rita Brum (Source:San Jose Police Dept.)
Two arrests in a short period of time have been made concerning female gym instructors alleged to have had romantic relationships with female students while teaching in San Jose area schools. A Mar. 11 story in the Mercury News reported the arrest of 24-year-old Rita Brum, a P.E. instructor accused of having had an affair with a 17-year-old girl who was one of her students. Brum taught at East San Jose's Mt. Pleasant High School, the article said. Evidence for the affair was discovered by the student's mother, who reportedly found a love letter from Brum to the girl. When the girl was asked about the letter, she told her mother that she and Brum had been involved. The girl later detailed the relationship to police, saying that she'd been invited to Brum's house last December to watch sports on TV when the two shared their first kiss. Read more
=
JustNews.com
http://www.justnews.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Frank Says He's Disgusted By AIG Bonuses
Lawmaker Calls For Shake-Up At AIG
Lawmakers are heaping criticism on insurance giant American International Group after learning that the bailed-out company has been passing out millions of dollars in executive bonuses. Massachusetts lawmaker Barney Frank said he's disgusted by the latest $165 million in AIG payouts, part of a larger payout of about $450 million. The company has received more than $170 billion in federal rescue funds.
http://www.justnews.com/money/18938973/detail.html?treets=mia&tml=mia_12pm&ts=T&tmi=mia_12pm_1_11000203162009#
-Obama Wants To Halt AIG Bonuses
Payouts Followed Recklessness And Greed," Obama Says
President Barack Obama said his administration will "pursue every legal avenue" to stop insurance giant American International Group from paying $165 million in executive bonuses. Obama made the declaration at the outset of an appearance at the White House to announce new steps to ease loans for small businesses hurt by the economic crisis. AIG is in financial straits because of "recklessness and greed," Obama said. "It's hard to understand how derivative traders at AIG warranted any bonuses, much less $165 million in extra pay."
http://www.justnews.com/money/18938973/detail.html?treets=mia&tml=mia_natlbreak&ts=T&tmi=mia_natlbreak_1_11440103162009
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
=
Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Fenty to Release Report on D.C. AIDS Epidemic
By Darryl Fears
Mayor Adrian M. Fenty is scheduled to release an 82-page report this morning saying that 3 percent of District residents have HIV or AIDS, a total that surpasses the threshold that constitutes a severe epidemic.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/16/AR2009031600891.html
-Separation Anxiety
Gay couples should be allowed to stay together in the United States. THE UNITING American Families Act would allow gay and lesbian Americans and permanent residents to sponsor their foreign-born partners for legal residency in the United States. The bill, introduced last month in the Senate by Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) and in the House by Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.), would add "permanent partner" and "permanent partnership" after the words "spouse" and "marriage" in relevant sections of the Immigration and Nationality Act. If passed, it would right a gross unfairness.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/15/AR2009031501669.html
=
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Melvin Wheatley, bishop
By Elaine Woo | Los Angeles Times
Bishop Melvin E. Wheatley, who risked censure in the United Methodist Church for appointing his denomination's first openly gay pastor in 1982, died March 1 at 93 in Mission Viejo after an illness, a church spokesman said. Bishop Wheatley was known for promoting dialogue across faiths and cultures during nearly two decades in Los Angeles as senior pastor of the Westwood United Methodist Church. In 1972, he was elected bishop and assigned to Denver as the gay rights movement was under way.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/nationworld/sfl-flowheatleysbmar16,0,3068089.story
=
The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
- First Openly Gay Mayoral Candidate Runs in Mexico
By Julie Bolcer
Mexico received its first openly gay mayoral candidate on Friday, when the minority Social Democratic Party (PSD) selected Miguel Antonio Galán to run for the local office in Guadalajara, the second most populous city in the country.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid75394.asp
=
365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Report: DC has nation's highest HIV/AIDS rate
By The Associated Press
A new report by D.C. health officials says that at least 3 percent of residents in the nation's capital are living with HIV or AIDS and every mode of transmission is on the rise.
http://www.365gay.com/news/report-dc-has-nations-highest-hivaids-rate/
-Guyana credits U.S. campaign with slashing AIDS rate
By The Associated Press
(Georgetown, Guyana) Guyana says a U.S.-funded AIDS prevention program has helped slash the HIV infection rate in the South American country from nearly 3 percent to about 1 percent.
http://www.365gay.com/news/guyana-credits-us-campaign-with-slashing-aids-rate/
-Gay marriage bills heading for showdowns in Maine, Vermont
By 365gay Newscenter Staff
Support is growing for legislation that would allow same-sex couples to marry in Maine. The bill now has more than 60 lawmakers as co-sponsors.
http://www.365gay.com/news/gay-marriage-bills-heading-for-showdowns-in-maine-vermont/
-Washington D.C. HIV rates equal to Uganda
By James Withers
This should shock no one, especially after the late summer 2008 report by the Black AIDS Institute. A study today will show that at least 3 percent of Washington D.C. residents have either HIV or AIDS. "Our rates are higher than West Africa," said Shannon L. Hader, director of the District's HIV/AIDS Administration, who headed the Federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's work in Zimbabwe. "They're on par with Uganda and some parts of Kenya."
http://www.365gay.com/blog/031609-washington-dc-hiv-rates-equal-to-uganda/
=
Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Homophobic hate crimes 'linked to Prop 8'
A surge in anti-gay hate crimes has been linked to Proposition 8, the initiative that banned same-sex marriage in California. Homophobic incidents accounted for more than half of hate crime cases last year - 56 per cent up frpm 15 per cent in 2007.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11614.html
-Study to be released on poverty among gay Americans
By Jessica Geen
An analysis of poverty among lesbian, gay and bisexual Americans is to be presented to Congress next Friday. Produced by the Williams Institute at the UCLA School of Law, the survey has been described as the first of its kind.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11602.html
-Obama to decide on gay partnership rights
By Staff Writer
US president Barack Obama is to decide whether the government must provide health insurance benefits to the same-sex partners of federal employees. The New York Times reports that he is faced with a choice between disappointing the liberal base which elected him or angering the conservatives at a time he needs their help on his domestic agenda.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11601.html
-Robert Pattinson reveals struggle over gay scene
By Staff Writer, PinkNews.co.uk
Twilight actor Robert Pattinson has described filming a gay scene in his latest film Little Ashes. He told GQ: "And here I am, with Javier [Beltrán], who plays Lorca, doing an extremely hard-core sex scene, where I have a nervous breakdown afterward. And because we're both straight, what we were doing seemed kind of ridiculous.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11609.html
-Nigerian Archbishop 'wants gay wedding witnesses to be jailed"
Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Nigeria, Peter Akinola, has said that gay marriage is "capable of engendering moral and social holocaust" and has called for those who attend gay weddings to be sentenced to a year in jail.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11612.html
=
Daily Queer News
www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Brian-Injury GIs Could Number 360,000
Associated Press | Military.com
The number of U.S. troops who have suffered wartime brain injuries may be as high as 360,000 and could cast more attention on such injuries among civilians, Defense Department doctors said Wednesday. The estimate of the number injured - the vast majority of them suffering concussions - represents 20 percent of the roughly 1.8 million men and women who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan, where blast injuries are common from roadside bombs and other explosives, the doctors said. The estimate came in a Pentagon news conference on activities planned this month to bring attention to brain injuries. The doctors said the number could be as low as 180,000, based on estimates that between 10 percent and 20 percent of troops might have received such injuries. The previous high estimate offered publicly was 320,000 in a study released a year ago by the private Rand Corp. It was based on about 1.6 million who had done tours of duty in the wars from late 2001. Read more
-Half of Church in Conflict Over Gay Ordination.
Deny Consent to Buddhist Bishop
David Virtue | Virtue Online
On fire for Christ. The idea of being on fire for Christ will strike some people as dangerous emotionalism. 'Surely,' they say, 'we are not meant to go to extremes? You are not asking us to become hot-gospel fanatics?' Well, of course, it depends what you mean. If by 'fanaticism' you really mean 'wholeheartedness', then Christianity is a fanatical religion and every Christian should be a fanatic. But wholeheartedness is not the same as fanaticism. Fanaticism is an unreasoning and unintelligent wholeheartedness. It is the running away of the heart with the head. At the end of a statement prepared for a conference on science, philosophy and religion at Princeton University in 1940 came these words: 'Commitment without reflection is fanaticism in action; but reflection without commitment is the paralysis of all action.' What Jesus Christ desires and deserves is the reflection which leads to commitment and the commitment which is born of reflection. This is the meaning of wholeheartedness, of being aflame for God. - From "What Christ Thinks of the Church" by John R.W. Stott. No associate members. We must expect every Christian believer to be an active church member. We cannot afford to have associate members who want privileges without responsibilities. - From "Parochial Evangelism by the Laity" (London: Church Information Board) Read more
-The Gay Marriage Debate in Vermont
Rutland Herald
As the controversy grows over a proposal to allow gay marriage in Vermont, readers are again divided on the idea, the politics and the merits of the proposed legislation. Marriage, a contract between a man and women - Take it to the people (takeittothepeople.com) is an excellent resource for information that you can visit for complete information on the civil/marriage issue. The Legislature is prepared to hold one public hearing and then go to the House and Senate to vote on S115, an act relating to civil marriage. Only one public hearing, and then they will vote on this issue is how our legislative body defines democracy. Let's look at some facts. After some extensive research, I have discovered that over 53 percent of Vermonters do not approve of same-sex marriages, while only 30 percent do approve. Vital statistics reported that in 2005 there were 5,532 marriages and 452 civil unions. Read more
-Two San Jose Gym Teachers Accused of Lesbian Tryst with Students
Kilian Melloy | EDGE Contributor | EDGE Boston
Rita Brum (Source:San Jose Police Dept.)
Two arrests in a short period of time have been made concerning female gym instructors alleged to have had romantic relationships with female students while teaching in San Jose area schools. A Mar. 11 story in the Mercury News reported the arrest of 24-year-old Rita Brum, a P.E. instructor accused of having had an affair with a 17-year-old girl who was one of her students. Brum taught at East San Jose's Mt. Pleasant High School, the article said. Evidence for the affair was discovered by the student's mother, who reportedly found a love letter from Brum to the girl. When the girl was asked about the letter, she told her mother that she and Brum had been involved. The girl later detailed the relationship to police, saying that she'd been invited to Brum's house last December to watch sports on TV when the two shared their first kiss. Read more
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JustNews.com
http://www.justnews.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Frank Says He's Disgusted By AIG Bonuses
Lawmaker Calls For Shake-Up At AIG
Lawmakers are heaping criticism on insurance giant American International Group after learning that the bailed-out company has been passing out millions of dollars in executive bonuses. Massachusetts lawmaker Barney Frank said he's disgusted by the latest $165 million in AIG payouts, part of a larger payout of about $450 million. The company has received more than $170 billion in federal rescue funds.
http://www.justnews.com/money/18938973/detail.html?treets=mia&tml=mia_12pm&ts=T&tmi=mia_12pm_1_11000203162009#
-Obama Wants To Halt AIG Bonuses
Payouts Followed Recklessness And Greed," Obama Says
President Barack Obama said his administration will "pursue every legal avenue" to stop insurance giant American International Group from paying $165 million in executive bonuses. Obama made the declaration at the outset of an appearance at the White House to announce new steps to ease loans for small businesses hurt by the economic crisis. AIG is in financial straits because of "recklessness and greed," Obama said. "It's hard to understand how derivative traders at AIG warranted any bonuses, much less $165 million in extra pay."
http://www.justnews.com/money/18938973/detail.html?treets=mia&tml=mia_natlbreak&ts=T&tmi=mia_natlbreak_1_11440103162009
=
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#####
FLORIDA DIGEST - March 16, 2009
**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net and we'll be happy to send the full article.
~~FLORIDA GLBT NEWS~~
Steve Rothaus
www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Bilerico Project: A murder in Fort Lauderdale
From Father Tony of The Bilerico Project:
The body of Larry Ellison, a 68 year old resident of Wilton Manors, was found in his home by friends who wondered why he had not arrived for dinner with them. He had been murdered. The police and media reports are vague, but note that his car, a silver Infiniti FX35 with Illinois tag number LBE14, was stolen. The real news quickly ran through the gay community. Larry Ellison met someone at the gay beach and brought him home. To read more, click here.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/
=
Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Miami-Dade Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce: Monthly Business Builders Luncheon for the Upper Eastside-Midtown area membership group. Member Laura Steckler of Raymond James moderates the event. Registration starts at 11:30 a.m. with luncheon and networking noon-1 p.m., Soyka, 5556 NE Fourth Ct., Biscayne Corridor; $30. 305-573-4000 or mdglcc@bellsouth.net.
http://www.miamiherald.com/business/story/946661.html
~~FLORIDA GENERAL NEWS~~
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Broward College, PBCC open enrollment in jeopardy
Latecomers might find smaller campuses too crowded to admit them
By Scott Travis | South Florida Sun-Sentinel
A surge in enrollment coupled with state budget cuts threatens to put the open-door policies of Florida's community colleges in jeopardy, school officials warn. Registration could turn into a free-for-all this summer, as students rush to their computers to sign up for classes before they fill up. Students who can't get classes may have to wait longer to graduate.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/schools/sfl-flpcommunity0316sbmar16,0,6894321.story
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
~~FLORIDA GLBT NEWS~~
Steve Rothaus
www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Bilerico Project: A murder in Fort Lauderdale
From Father Tony of The Bilerico Project:
The body of Larry Ellison, a 68 year old resident of Wilton Manors, was found in his home by friends who wondered why he had not arrived for dinner with them. He had been murdered. The police and media reports are vague, but note that his car, a silver Infiniti FX35 with Illinois tag number LBE14, was stolen. The real news quickly ran through the gay community. Larry Ellison met someone at the gay beach and brought him home. To read more, click here.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/
=
Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Miami-Dade Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce: Monthly Business Builders Luncheon for the Upper Eastside-Midtown area membership group. Member Laura Steckler of Raymond James moderates the event. Registration starts at 11:30 a.m. with luncheon and networking noon-1 p.m., Soyka, 5556 NE Fourth Ct., Biscayne Corridor; $30. 305-573-4000 or mdglcc@bellsouth.net.
http://www.miamiherald.com/business/story/946661.html
~~FLORIDA GENERAL NEWS~~
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Broward College, PBCC open enrollment in jeopardy
Latecomers might find smaller campuses too crowded to admit them
By Scott Travis | South Florida Sun-Sentinel
A surge in enrollment coupled with state budget cuts threatens to put the open-door policies of Florida's community colleges in jeopardy, school officials warn. Registration could turn into a free-for-all this summer, as students rush to their computers to sign up for classes before they fill up. Students who can't get classes may have to wait longer to graduate.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/schools/sfl-flpcommunity0316sbmar16,0,6894321.story
=
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#####
Sunday, March 15, 2009
GLBT DIGEST - March 15, 2009
**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net and we'll be happy to send the full article.
=
New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-The Culture Warriors Get Laid Off
By FRANK RICH
SOMEDAY we'll learn the whole story of why George W. Bush brushed off that intelligence briefing of Aug. 6, 2001, "Bin Laden Determined to Strike in U.S." But surely a big distraction was the major speech he was readying for delivery on Aug. 9, his first prime-time address to the nation. The subject - which Bush hyped as "one of the most profound of our time" - was stem cells. For a presidency in thrall to a thriving religious right (and a presidency incapable of multi-tasking), nothing, not even terrorism, could be more urgent.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/15/opinion/15rich.html?scp=5&sq=Gay&st=cse
-Isn't He Bromantic?
By DENNIS LIM
FANS of Paul Rudd have not gone wanting in recent years: he has popped up with comforting regularity in movies big and small, on television sitcoms and sketch shows, and he leaves an impression, however tiny the role. But they have had reason to wonder why this good-looking, likeable, quick-witted actor has so often played the sidekick and not the romantic leading man.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/15/movies/15lim.html?scp=3&sq=Gay&st=cse
-At a Pier to Be Redone, Gay Youth Seek a Haven
By JOSEPH HUFF-HANNON
STANDING in front of a banquet hall in Greenwich Village packed with more than 100 young people on Monday evening, Glo Ross tailored her pitch to the audience. "So we all just went on a date with the Hudson River Park Trust," said Ms. Ross, who is an organizer with Fierce, a group of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender minority youths. "But you know, we're a little fed up."
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/15/nyregion/thecity/15pier.html?scp=2&sq=Gay&st=cse
=
Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Where to Now?
2008 was a spectacular year for women in politics. But the sober reality is that the race has just begun.
By Vanessa Gezari
Jennifer James Soto arrived in Georgia on a Friday afternoon. The air was thick with humidity, and the campus on the outskirts of Atlanta was deserted except for her and the other women. They carried their suitcases into dormitories and laid out their clothes on narrow student beds. That evening, Jennifer dressed carefully, choosing dangly earrings because her kids weren't around to tug them. This weekend would be the longest she'd spent away from her son and daughter since they were born.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/06/AR2009030601712_pf.html
-Civil Marriage Is a Healthy Choice
By PETER BEILENSON
This month, the Maryland General Assembly again will hear arguments in favor of granting same-sex couples the ability to legally marry. In this debate, we've heard much about the importance of bestowing legal and economic protections on these couples and their children. But what about the strong body of evidence that married couples fare much better, both physically and psychologically, than unmarried, cohabitating couples? This evidence alone illustrates that denying same-sex couples access to civil marriage is, quite simply, relegating them to inferior health status. As public health advocates, we are deeply troubled that yet another year of inaction by our legislature will compromise the simple good health of thousands of Marylanders.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/14/AR2009031401559.html
-HIV/AIDS Rate in D.C. Hits 3%
Considered a 'Severe' Epidemic, Every Mode of Transmission Is Increasing, City Study Finds
By Jose Antonio Vargas and Darryl Fears
At least 3 percent of District residents have HIV or AIDS, a total that far surpasses the 1 percent threshold that constitutes a "generalized and severe" epidemic, according to a report scheduled to be released by health officials tomorrow.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/14/AR2009031402176_pf.html
-Come Out, Then Branch Out
Frustrated by the Local Scene, 20-Something Entrepreneurs Build Their Own LGBT Outlets
By Ian Shapira
One is a former drag king, the other is a laid-off newspaper reporter-turned blogger, and each, in their own way, is trying to transform Washington's gay scene. Eboné Bell, 27, and Zack Rosen, 25, friends and entrepreneurs, have a politically subtle mission: to integrate the region's gay scene, which they say caters to crowds that are typically older, white, wealthier and male.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/14/AR2009031401936.html
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365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Lowenstein: We must not compromise on equality
By Jenna Lowenstein 03.13.2009
We can compromise on taxes and on infrastructure funding and on health care costs. But we cannot-- we must not-- sell out the fundamental right to equality. Read more...
http://www.365gay.com/blog/lowenstein-we-must-not-compromise-on-equality/
-Police accused of ignoring transwoman's pleas for help
Human rights groups say a Turkish transwoman would be alive today if police had taken seriously her pleas for help
http://www.365gay.com/news/police-accused-of-ignoring-transwomans-pleas-for-help/
-Iowa gender-neutral marriage bill withers
Legislation that would make marriage gender neutral in Iowa appeared dead Friday after it was stripped from the list of measures to be take up by lawmakers this session.
http://www.365gay.com/news/iowa-gender-neutral-marriage-bill-withers/
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Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Study to be released on poverty among gay Americans
An analysis of poverty among lesbian, gay and bisexual Americans is to be presented to Congress next Friday. Produced by the Williams Institute at the UCLA School of Law, the survey has been described as the first of its kind.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11602.html
=
Daily Queer News
www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:
-GA: Pulpit Power
MATT SCHAFER | Southern Voice
While the election of President Barack Obama has been widely seen as a defeat for social conservatives at the national level, this year's state legislative session shows the so-called "religious right" still wields considerable clout in Georgia. As the Georgia General Assembly churned past "crossover day" on March 12 - the day a bill has to clear either the House or Senate or be considered dead - Christian groups stood on the brink of achieving most of their legislative goals, while effectively blocking any pro-gay legislation. On Feb. 10, conservative Christian groups rallied on the state Capitol steps to bring attention to their highest priorities: defeating the referendum that would allow Sunday alcohol sales in stores; school vouchers; restricting stem cell and in vitro fertilization; and statements opposing the proposed casino in Underground Atlanta. "Generally we're pleased," Georgia Christian Coalition President Jim Beck said. "I would probably give them [state lawmakers] a B+ if I had to. I can't think of anything we wanted them to do [that they didn't do], just a few missed opportunities." Read more
-GA: Police Classify Attack on Gay Man as Possible Hate Crime
DYANA BAGBY | Southern Voice
The Atlanta Police Department's LGBT liaison said Wednesday that an attack on a gay man in Midtown on March 8 is being classified as a possible hate crime and an investigation is ongoing. An initial police report made after the incident stated "there is no evidence that this was a bias crime." Officer Dani Lee Harris said she interviewed the victim March 11. She told Southern Voice about 2 p.m. that day the police would investigate the attack as a hate crime. Five hours later, she called back to clarify that it is being investigated as a possible hate crime. Although she can consider the attack a hate crime, she cannot speak for the department, she said. "Because of the discrepancies in the report and what the victim told me, we are looking into this as a possible hate crime," Harris said. Read more
-"Family Guy" Gay Gene Episode Offensive.or Not?
GayTVBlog
Fox's "Family Guy" is coming under fire for it's "Gay Gene" episode, in which Peter Griffin voluntarily gets injected with the "gay gene" as part of a medical experiment. And though the show is a favorite among gays, many, including GLAAD, are crying foul. Make no mistake: the jokes came fast and furious, and while many relied on the oldest stereotypes in the books, (limp wrists, musicals), things got a bit dicier with references to orgies, glory holes and fisting. Personally, I was ok with it. While a couple of things made me a bit uncomfortable (including the bizarre bit when Chris hits Lois), I am a fan of off-color humor at the expense of anyone and everyone.including myself and my friends. Read more
-Inheriting Halliburton's Army: What Will Obama Do With KBR?
Pratap Chatterjee, Tomdispatch.com | AlterNet
President Obama will almost certainly touch down in Baghdad and Kabul in Air Force One sometime in the coming year to meet his counterparts in Iraq and Afghanistan, and he will just as certainly pay a visit to a U.S. military base or two. Should he stay for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or midnight chow with the troops, he will no less certainly choose from a menu prepared by migrant Asian workers under contract to Houston-based KBR, the former subsidiary of Halliburton. If Barack Obama takes the Rhino Runner armor-plated bus from Baghdad Airport to the Green Zone, or travels by Catfish Air's Blackhawk helicopters (the way mere mortals like diplomats and journalists do), instead of by presidential chopper, he will be assigned a seat by U.S. civilian workers easily identified by the red KBR lanyards they wear around their necks. Even if Obama gets the ultra-red carpet treatment, he will still tread on walkways and enter buildings that have been constructed over the last six years by an army of some 50,000 workers in the employ of KBR. And should Obama chose to order the troops in Iraq home tomorrow, he will effectively sign a blank check for billions of dollars in withdrawal logistics contracts that will largely be carried out by a company once overseen by Dick Cheney. Read more
-KY: Well-Deserved Death
Kentucky.com
It's entirely possible that this year's gay-bashing bill died in the Senate because Republican leaders didn't want to waste a good wedge issue in a non-election year. What we'd like to think, though, is that Republicans are realizing how mean and out-of-touch they look by trying to force everyone into a narrow definition of what a family should be. Sen. Gary Tapp, R-Shelbyville, told reporter Deborah Yetter of The Courier-Journal in Louisville that he didn't know why his caucus's leaders bottled up his bill, which would have disqualified unmarried couples from adopting children or serving as foster parents. The measure was being pushed by the Family Foundation; 15 states have adopted similar prohibitions. Read more
-Gay Men in Jamaica 'Face Higher Levels of HIV Due to Discrimination'
Pink News
Gay Jamaican men are suffering from high levels of sexually-transmitted diseases due to discriminaty barriers in accessing healthcare, it has been suggested. According to the Caribbean HIV & AIDS Alliance, gay men are reluctant to go to healthcare providers because of homophobic laws and attitudes in the country. A 2008 survey commissioned by the Ministry of Health suggested that 31.8 per cent of gay men in Jamaica are living with HIV. Another 8.5 per cent were reported to have chlamydia, while 2.5 per cent had gonorrhea and 5.5 per cent had syphilis. Read more
-Rise in 'Corrective Rapes' on Lesbians in South Africa
Jessica Geen | Pink News
A new report has suggested a rise in 'corrective rapes' on lesbians in South Africa. According to charity ActionAid, women in Johannesburg and Cape Town are suffering an increase in homophobic attacks and sexual assaults which are seen as a form of punishment or "cure". One lesbian and gay support group says it is dealing with 10 new cases of lesbian women being targeted for 'corrective' rape every week in Cape Town alone. Figures suggest there are an estimated 500,000 rapes in South Africa every year and for every 25 men accused of rape in the country, 24 walk free. Read more
-Study to be Released on Proverty Among Gay Americans
Jessica Geen | Pink News
An analysis of poverty among lesbian, gay and bisexual Americans is to be presented to Congress next Friday. Produced by the Williams Institute at the UCLA School of Law, the survey has been described as the first of its kind. Its authors have said it undermines myth of gay affluence and demonstrates that lesbian, gay and bisexual citizens are as likely, or more likely, to be poor than heterosexuals. They added: "Because the U.S. Census Bureau does not explicitly ask questions about sexual orientation, LGB families have been invisible in poverty statistics. Read more
=
Forwarded from Euro-Queer
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article:
-Armenia gays face long walk to freedom
By PINK Armenia
He gained this freedom - involuntarily - after being sent to jail for his sexual orientation. After that, the whole of his former neighbourhood and his relatives learnt about it and there was nothing to hide. His nightmare began in 1999, when police arrested him and accused him .... Since Armenia became a member of the Council of Europe in 2001, people generally have started to more actively defend their rights, and more and more homosexuals are open about their identity. ...
http://pinkarmenia.blogspot.com/
-LGBT Rights Movement Sent Official Request to Moscow Chief of Police
According to previous reports, Vladimir Pronin, chief of Moscow police, made following comments during press-conference on March 6: "No one will dare to do it [gay pride parade in Moscow] - such "daredevil" would be just torn to pieces. I'm in total agreement with church, with the Patriarch, politicians, especially with [major] Luzhkov, who are convinced, that man and woman should love each other. This is the order of God and nature". In response to this statement Movement For The Rights Of Lesbian Gays Bisexual And Transgender People In Russia - LGBT Rights - sent him official letter with request to clarify his comments. "As the citizen of Russian Federation (and according to Constitution's article 3, subparagraph 1, 2, and 4 I'm the part of the only bearer and source of power in Russian Federation - its multinational population), I'm unable to understand why Moscow chief of police make comments, that are based not on laws, but on Bible dogmas", - said chief of "LGBT Rights" coordination committee, Noir Nechaev. "He has degree in law, he's a professional, who works in interior security from 1971, so he should know, that in Russian Federation there is separation of church and state and country's Constitution directly forbids promotion of religious superiority".
http://lgbtrights.ru/eng/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=81&Itemid=1
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[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
=
New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-The Culture Warriors Get Laid Off
By FRANK RICH
SOMEDAY we'll learn the whole story of why George W. Bush brushed off that intelligence briefing of Aug. 6, 2001, "Bin Laden Determined to Strike in U.S." But surely a big distraction was the major speech he was readying for delivery on Aug. 9, his first prime-time address to the nation. The subject - which Bush hyped as "one of the most profound of our time" - was stem cells. For a presidency in thrall to a thriving religious right (and a presidency incapable of multi-tasking), nothing, not even terrorism, could be more urgent.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/15/opinion/15rich.html?scp=5&sq=Gay&st=cse
-Isn't He Bromantic?
By DENNIS LIM
FANS of Paul Rudd have not gone wanting in recent years: he has popped up with comforting regularity in movies big and small, on television sitcoms and sketch shows, and he leaves an impression, however tiny the role. But they have had reason to wonder why this good-looking, likeable, quick-witted actor has so often played the sidekick and not the romantic leading man.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/15/movies/15lim.html?scp=3&sq=Gay&st=cse
-At a Pier to Be Redone, Gay Youth Seek a Haven
By JOSEPH HUFF-HANNON
STANDING in front of a banquet hall in Greenwich Village packed with more than 100 young people on Monday evening, Glo Ross tailored her pitch to the audience. "So we all just went on a date with the Hudson River Park Trust," said Ms. Ross, who is an organizer with Fierce, a group of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender minority youths. "But you know, we're a little fed up."
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/15/nyregion/thecity/15pier.html?scp=2&sq=Gay&st=cse
=
Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Where to Now?
2008 was a spectacular year for women in politics. But the sober reality is that the race has just begun.
By Vanessa Gezari
Jennifer James Soto arrived in Georgia on a Friday afternoon. The air was thick with humidity, and the campus on the outskirts of Atlanta was deserted except for her and the other women. They carried their suitcases into dormitories and laid out their clothes on narrow student beds. That evening, Jennifer dressed carefully, choosing dangly earrings because her kids weren't around to tug them. This weekend would be the longest she'd spent away from her son and daughter since they were born.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/06/AR2009030601712_pf.html
-Civil Marriage Is a Healthy Choice
By PETER BEILENSON
This month, the Maryland General Assembly again will hear arguments in favor of granting same-sex couples the ability to legally marry. In this debate, we've heard much about the importance of bestowing legal and economic protections on these couples and their children. But what about the strong body of evidence that married couples fare much better, both physically and psychologically, than unmarried, cohabitating couples? This evidence alone illustrates that denying same-sex couples access to civil marriage is, quite simply, relegating them to inferior health status. As public health advocates, we are deeply troubled that yet another year of inaction by our legislature will compromise the simple good health of thousands of Marylanders.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/14/AR2009031401559.html
-HIV/AIDS Rate in D.C. Hits 3%
Considered a 'Severe' Epidemic, Every Mode of Transmission Is Increasing, City Study Finds
By Jose Antonio Vargas and Darryl Fears
At least 3 percent of District residents have HIV or AIDS, a total that far surpasses the 1 percent threshold that constitutes a "generalized and severe" epidemic, according to a report scheduled to be released by health officials tomorrow.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/14/AR2009031402176_pf.html
-Come Out, Then Branch Out
Frustrated by the Local Scene, 20-Something Entrepreneurs Build Their Own LGBT Outlets
By Ian Shapira
One is a former drag king, the other is a laid-off newspaper reporter-turned blogger, and each, in their own way, is trying to transform Washington's gay scene. Eboné Bell, 27, and Zack Rosen, 25, friends and entrepreneurs, have a politically subtle mission: to integrate the region's gay scene, which they say caters to crowds that are typically older, white, wealthier and male.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/14/AR2009031401936.html
=
365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Lowenstein: We must not compromise on equality
By Jenna Lowenstein 03.13.2009
We can compromise on taxes and on infrastructure funding and on health care costs. But we cannot-- we must not-- sell out the fundamental right to equality. Read more...
http://www.365gay.com/blog/lowenstein-we-must-not-compromise-on-equality/
-Police accused of ignoring transwoman's pleas for help
Human rights groups say a Turkish transwoman would be alive today if police had taken seriously her pleas for help
http://www.365gay.com/news/police-accused-of-ignoring-transwomans-pleas-for-help/
-Iowa gender-neutral marriage bill withers
Legislation that would make marriage gender neutral in Iowa appeared dead Friday after it was stripped from the list of measures to be take up by lawmakers this session.
http://www.365gay.com/news/iowa-gender-neutral-marriage-bill-withers/
=
Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Study to be released on poverty among gay Americans
An analysis of poverty among lesbian, gay and bisexual Americans is to be presented to Congress next Friday. Produced by the Williams Institute at the UCLA School of Law, the survey has been described as the first of its kind.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11602.html
=
Daily Queer News
www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:
-GA: Pulpit Power
MATT SCHAFER | Southern Voice
While the election of President Barack Obama has been widely seen as a defeat for social conservatives at the national level, this year's state legislative session shows the so-called "religious right" still wields considerable clout in Georgia. As the Georgia General Assembly churned past "crossover day" on March 12 - the day a bill has to clear either the House or Senate or be considered dead - Christian groups stood on the brink of achieving most of their legislative goals, while effectively blocking any pro-gay legislation. On Feb. 10, conservative Christian groups rallied on the state Capitol steps to bring attention to their highest priorities: defeating the referendum that would allow Sunday alcohol sales in stores; school vouchers; restricting stem cell and in vitro fertilization; and statements opposing the proposed casino in Underground Atlanta. "Generally we're pleased," Georgia Christian Coalition President Jim Beck said. "I would probably give them [state lawmakers] a B+ if I had to. I can't think of anything we wanted them to do [that they didn't do], just a few missed opportunities." Read more
-GA: Police Classify Attack on Gay Man as Possible Hate Crime
DYANA BAGBY | Southern Voice
The Atlanta Police Department's LGBT liaison said Wednesday that an attack on a gay man in Midtown on March 8 is being classified as a possible hate crime and an investigation is ongoing. An initial police report made after the incident stated "there is no evidence that this was a bias crime." Officer Dani Lee Harris said she interviewed the victim March 11. She told Southern Voice about 2 p.m. that day the police would investigate the attack as a hate crime. Five hours later, she called back to clarify that it is being investigated as a possible hate crime. Although she can consider the attack a hate crime, she cannot speak for the department, she said. "Because of the discrepancies in the report and what the victim told me, we are looking into this as a possible hate crime," Harris said. Read more
-"Family Guy" Gay Gene Episode Offensive.or Not?
GayTVBlog
Fox's "Family Guy" is coming under fire for it's "Gay Gene" episode, in which Peter Griffin voluntarily gets injected with the "gay gene" as part of a medical experiment. And though the show is a favorite among gays, many, including GLAAD, are crying foul. Make no mistake: the jokes came fast and furious, and while many relied on the oldest stereotypes in the books, (limp wrists, musicals), things got a bit dicier with references to orgies, glory holes and fisting. Personally, I was ok with it. While a couple of things made me a bit uncomfortable (including the bizarre bit when Chris hits Lois), I am a fan of off-color humor at the expense of anyone and everyone.including myself and my friends. Read more
-Inheriting Halliburton's Army: What Will Obama Do With KBR?
Pratap Chatterjee, Tomdispatch.com | AlterNet
President Obama will almost certainly touch down in Baghdad and Kabul in Air Force One sometime in the coming year to meet his counterparts in Iraq and Afghanistan, and he will just as certainly pay a visit to a U.S. military base or two. Should he stay for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or midnight chow with the troops, he will no less certainly choose from a menu prepared by migrant Asian workers under contract to Houston-based KBR, the former subsidiary of Halliburton. If Barack Obama takes the Rhino Runner armor-plated bus from Baghdad Airport to the Green Zone, or travels by Catfish Air's Blackhawk helicopters (the way mere mortals like diplomats and journalists do), instead of by presidential chopper, he will be assigned a seat by U.S. civilian workers easily identified by the red KBR lanyards they wear around their necks. Even if Obama gets the ultra-red carpet treatment, he will still tread on walkways and enter buildings that have been constructed over the last six years by an army of some 50,000 workers in the employ of KBR. And should Obama chose to order the troops in Iraq home tomorrow, he will effectively sign a blank check for billions of dollars in withdrawal logistics contracts that will largely be carried out by a company once overseen by Dick Cheney. Read more
-KY: Well-Deserved Death
Kentucky.com
It's entirely possible that this year's gay-bashing bill died in the Senate because Republican leaders didn't want to waste a good wedge issue in a non-election year. What we'd like to think, though, is that Republicans are realizing how mean and out-of-touch they look by trying to force everyone into a narrow definition of what a family should be. Sen. Gary Tapp, R-Shelbyville, told reporter Deborah Yetter of The Courier-Journal in Louisville that he didn't know why his caucus's leaders bottled up his bill, which would have disqualified unmarried couples from adopting children or serving as foster parents. The measure was being pushed by the Family Foundation; 15 states have adopted similar prohibitions. Read more
-Gay Men in Jamaica 'Face Higher Levels of HIV Due to Discrimination'
Pink News
Gay Jamaican men are suffering from high levels of sexually-transmitted diseases due to discriminaty barriers in accessing healthcare, it has been suggested. According to the Caribbean HIV & AIDS Alliance, gay men are reluctant to go to healthcare providers because of homophobic laws and attitudes in the country. A 2008 survey commissioned by the Ministry of Health suggested that 31.8 per cent of gay men in Jamaica are living with HIV. Another 8.5 per cent were reported to have chlamydia, while 2.5 per cent had gonorrhea and 5.5 per cent had syphilis. Read more
-Rise in 'Corrective Rapes' on Lesbians in South Africa
Jessica Geen | Pink News
A new report has suggested a rise in 'corrective rapes' on lesbians in South Africa. According to charity ActionAid, women in Johannesburg and Cape Town are suffering an increase in homophobic attacks and sexual assaults which are seen as a form of punishment or "cure". One lesbian and gay support group says it is dealing with 10 new cases of lesbian women being targeted for 'corrective' rape every week in Cape Town alone. Figures suggest there are an estimated 500,000 rapes in South Africa every year and for every 25 men accused of rape in the country, 24 walk free. Read more
-Study to be Released on Proverty Among Gay Americans
Jessica Geen | Pink News
An analysis of poverty among lesbian, gay and bisexual Americans is to be presented to Congress next Friday. Produced by the Williams Institute at the UCLA School of Law, the survey has been described as the first of its kind. Its authors have said it undermines myth of gay affluence and demonstrates that lesbian, gay and bisexual citizens are as likely, or more likely, to be poor than heterosexuals. They added: "Because the U.S. Census Bureau does not explicitly ask questions about sexual orientation, LGB families have been invisible in poverty statistics. Read more
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Forwarded from Euro-Queer
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article:
-Armenia gays face long walk to freedom
By PINK Armenia
He gained this freedom - involuntarily - after being sent to jail for his sexual orientation. After that, the whole of his former neighbourhood and his relatives learnt about it and there was nothing to hide. His nightmare began in 1999, when police arrested him and accused him .... Since Armenia became a member of the Council of Europe in 2001, people generally have started to more actively defend their rights, and more and more homosexuals are open about their identity. ...
http://pinkarmenia.blogspot.com/
-LGBT Rights Movement Sent Official Request to Moscow Chief of Police
According to previous reports, Vladimir Pronin, chief of Moscow police, made following comments during press-conference on March 6: "No one will dare to do it [gay pride parade in Moscow] - such "daredevil" would be just torn to pieces. I'm in total agreement with church, with the Patriarch, politicians, especially with [major] Luzhkov, who are convinced, that man and woman should love each other. This is the order of God and nature". In response to this statement Movement For The Rights Of Lesbian Gays Bisexual And Transgender People In Russia - LGBT Rights - sent him official letter with request to clarify his comments. "As the citizen of Russian Federation (and according to Constitution's article 3, subparagraph 1, 2, and 4 I'm the part of the only bearer and source of power in Russian Federation - its multinational population), I'm unable to understand why Moscow chief of police make comments, that are based not on laws, but on Bible dogmas", - said chief of "LGBT Rights" coordination committee, Noir Nechaev. "He has degree in law, he's a professional, who works in interior security from 1971, so he should know, that in Russian Federation there is separation of church and state and country's Constitution directly forbids promotion of religious superiority".
http://lgbtrights.ru/eng/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=81&Itemid=1
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NATIONAL & WORLD DIGEST - March 15, 2009
**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net and we'll be happy to send the full article.
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New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-A.I.G. Planning Huge Bonuses After $170 Billion Bailout
By EDMUND L. ANDREWS and PETER BAKER
WASHINGTON - The American International Group, which has received more than $170 billion in taxpayer bailout money from the Treasury and Federal Reserve, plans to pay about $165 million in bonuses by Sunday to executives in the same business unit that brought the company to the brink of collapse last year. Word of the bonuses last week stirred such deep consternation inside the Obama administration that Treasury Secretary Timothy F. Geithner told the firm they were unacceptable and demanded they be renegotiated, a senior administration official said. But the bonuses will go forward because lawyers said the firm was contractually obligated to pay them. The payments to A.I.G.'s financial products unit are in addition to $121 million in previously scheduled bonuses for the company's senior executives and 6,400 employees across the sprawling corporation. Mr. Geithner last week pressured A.I.G. to cut the $9.6 million going to the top 50 executives in half and tie the rest to performance. The payment of so much money at a company at the heart of the financial collapse that sent the broader economy into a tailspin almost certainly will fuel a popular backlash against the government's efforts to prop up Wall Street. Past bonuses already have prompted President Obama and Congress to impose tough rules on corporate executive compensation at firms bailed out with taxpayer money.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/15/business/15AIG.html?_r=1&hp
-Issue of Gun Rights Still Holds Sway
By CARL HULSE
Democrats have been exorcising some of their most stubborn political demons of late.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/15/us/politics/14web-hulse.html?_r=2&partner=MOREOVERNEWS&ei=5040
-Harnessing the Sun, With Help From Cities
By LESLIE KAUFMAN
Rick Clark's garage is loaded with fast toys for playing in the sun. He has a buggy for racing on sand dunes, two sleek power boats for pulling water skiers, and a new favorite: 48 solar panels that send his energy meter whirring backward.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/15/science/earth/15solar.html
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Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Wake-up call for organized religion
By LEONARD PITTS JR.
lpitts@miamiherald.com
We are losing our religion. That, with apologies to R.E.M., is the startling conclusion of a new study, the American Religious Identification Survey, conducted by researchers at Trinity College of Hartford, Conn. The poll of over 54,000 American adults found a sharp erosion in the number of people claiming religious affiliation.
http://www.miamiherald.com/opinion/other-views/story/948713.html
=
Fort Report
http://www.fortreport.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Steele's Focus Turns to Nuts and Bolts
Basic Tasks Loom Large After GOP Chairman Appears to Survive Early Gaffes
By Perry Bacon Jr.
Michael S. Steele, the man tapped six weeks ago to run the Republican National Committee, had never been known as a successful manager. He struggled to make money in a private legal consulting firm he founded before entering politics, led few winning races as the head of the Republican parties of Prince George's County and later the state of Maryland, and lost in his attempts to win statewide office on his own.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/14/AR2009031401601.html?hpid=moreheadlines
-D.C. to Wall Street: Drop Dead
Investors' anger at Obama is misplaced. Stock indexes don't 'think.' They don't like one president and dislike the next.
http://www.newsweek.com/id/189231
-In His First 50 Days, President Obama Rapidly Reverses Bush Policies
From Gitmo to Stem Cell Research, Obama Veers Away From Bush's Policies
By HUMA KHAN
President Obama may not have changed the decor of the Oval Office, but he's quickly taking steps to overturn policies that marked the legacy of his predecessor, George W. Bush.
http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/President44/story?id=7042171&page=1
-Ron Paul argues for earmarks
'It's like a tax credit,' the Texas libertarian tells Fox News. 'If I can give my district any money back, I encourage that.'
By Johanna Neuman
Reporting from Washington -- Ron Paul, the Texas congressman who is the darling of the libertarian right, has more earmarks in the pork-laden $410-billion spending bill than any other Republican. That's not according to the MSM, or the liberal blogosphere. That's what Fox News is reporting.
http://www.latimes.com/news/printedition/asection/la-na-ticket15-2009mar15,0,2758431.story
-Administration Is Open to Taxing Health Benefits
JACKIE CALMES and ROBERT PEAR
The Obama administration is signaling to Congress that the president could support taxing some employee health benefits, as several influential lawmakers and many economists favor, to help pay for overhauling the health care system.
http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20090315/ZNYT01/903153007/-1/NEWS03?Title=Administration-Is-Open-to-Taxing-Health-Benefits
-Draw a line on stem cells
By Charles Krauthammer
Last week, the White House invited me to a signing ceremony overturning the Bush (43) executive order on stem cell research. I assume this was because I have long argued in these columns and during my five years on the President's Council on Bioethics that, contrary to the Bush policy, federal funding should be extended to research on embryonic stem cell lines derived from discarded embryos in fertility clinics.
http://www.tampabay.com/opinion/columns/article983549.ece
-Democrats, GOP draw battle lines on healthcare plan
By Lisa Wangsness
Democrats and Republicans are battling over what is shaping up to be one of the most contentious issues in the healthcare debate: whether the government should establish a Medicare-style public insurance option for people under 65.
http://www.boston.com/news/nation/washington/articles/2009/03/15/democrats_gop_draw_battle_lines_on_healthcare_plan/
-Ginsburg: Possible Supreme Court Opening "Soon"
MELISSA TRUJILLO
Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg told law students Friday there could be an opening on the Supreme Court soon but didn't hint at who might be leaving.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/03/13/justice-ginsburg-possible_n_174819.html
-Obama's Plan
Fixing the schools
President Obama may have the right lesson plan to finally fix the country's failing schools. In his first major speech on education, Obama fulfilled a campaign pledge to initiate a long-overdue overhaul of the public education system.
http://www.philly.com/inquirer/opinion/20090313_Editorial__Obama_s_Plan.html
=
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#####
=
New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-A.I.G. Planning Huge Bonuses After $170 Billion Bailout
By EDMUND L. ANDREWS and PETER BAKER
WASHINGTON - The American International Group, which has received more than $170 billion in taxpayer bailout money from the Treasury and Federal Reserve, plans to pay about $165 million in bonuses by Sunday to executives in the same business unit that brought the company to the brink of collapse last year. Word of the bonuses last week stirred such deep consternation inside the Obama administration that Treasury Secretary Timothy F. Geithner told the firm they were unacceptable and demanded they be renegotiated, a senior administration official said. But the bonuses will go forward because lawyers said the firm was contractually obligated to pay them. The payments to A.I.G.'s financial products unit are in addition to $121 million in previously scheduled bonuses for the company's senior executives and 6,400 employees across the sprawling corporation. Mr. Geithner last week pressured A.I.G. to cut the $9.6 million going to the top 50 executives in half and tie the rest to performance. The payment of so much money at a company at the heart of the financial collapse that sent the broader economy into a tailspin almost certainly will fuel a popular backlash against the government's efforts to prop up Wall Street. Past bonuses already have prompted President Obama and Congress to impose tough rules on corporate executive compensation at firms bailed out with taxpayer money.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/15/business/15AIG.html?_r=1&hp
-Issue of Gun Rights Still Holds Sway
By CARL HULSE
Democrats have been exorcising some of their most stubborn political demons of late.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/15/us/politics/14web-hulse.html?_r=2&partner=MOREOVERNEWS&ei=5040
-Harnessing the Sun, With Help From Cities
By LESLIE KAUFMAN
Rick Clark's garage is loaded with fast toys for playing in the sun. He has a buggy for racing on sand dunes, two sleek power boats for pulling water skiers, and a new favorite: 48 solar panels that send his energy meter whirring backward.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/15/science/earth/15solar.html
=
Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Wake-up call for organized religion
By LEONARD PITTS JR.
lpitts@miamiherald.com
We are losing our religion. That, with apologies to R.E.M., is the startling conclusion of a new study, the American Religious Identification Survey, conducted by researchers at Trinity College of Hartford, Conn. The poll of over 54,000 American adults found a sharp erosion in the number of people claiming religious affiliation.
http://www.miamiherald.com/opinion/other-views/story/948713.html
=
Fort Report
http://www.fortreport.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Steele's Focus Turns to Nuts and Bolts
Basic Tasks Loom Large After GOP Chairman Appears to Survive Early Gaffes
By Perry Bacon Jr.
Michael S. Steele, the man tapped six weeks ago to run the Republican National Committee, had never been known as a successful manager. He struggled to make money in a private legal consulting firm he founded before entering politics, led few winning races as the head of the Republican parties of Prince George's County and later the state of Maryland, and lost in his attempts to win statewide office on his own.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/14/AR2009031401601.html?hpid=moreheadlines
-D.C. to Wall Street: Drop Dead
Investors' anger at Obama is misplaced. Stock indexes don't 'think.' They don't like one president and dislike the next.
http://www.newsweek.com/id/189231
-In His First 50 Days, President Obama Rapidly Reverses Bush Policies
From Gitmo to Stem Cell Research, Obama Veers Away From Bush's Policies
By HUMA KHAN
President Obama may not have changed the decor of the Oval Office, but he's quickly taking steps to overturn policies that marked the legacy of his predecessor, George W. Bush.
http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/President44/story?id=7042171&page=1
-Ron Paul argues for earmarks
'It's like a tax credit,' the Texas libertarian tells Fox News. 'If I can give my district any money back, I encourage that.'
By Johanna Neuman
Reporting from Washington -- Ron Paul, the Texas congressman who is the darling of the libertarian right, has more earmarks in the pork-laden $410-billion spending bill than any other Republican. That's not according to the MSM, or the liberal blogosphere. That's what Fox News is reporting.
http://www.latimes.com/news/printedition/asection/la-na-ticket15-2009mar15,0,2758431.story
-Administration Is Open to Taxing Health Benefits
JACKIE CALMES and ROBERT PEAR
The Obama administration is signaling to Congress that the president could support taxing some employee health benefits, as several influential lawmakers and many economists favor, to help pay for overhauling the health care system.
http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20090315/ZNYT01/903153007/-1/NEWS03?Title=Administration-Is-Open-to-Taxing-Health-Benefits
-Draw a line on stem cells
By Charles Krauthammer
Last week, the White House invited me to a signing ceremony overturning the Bush (43) executive order on stem cell research. I assume this was because I have long argued in these columns and during my five years on the President's Council on Bioethics that, contrary to the Bush policy, federal funding should be extended to research on embryonic stem cell lines derived from discarded embryos in fertility clinics.
http://www.tampabay.com/opinion/columns/article983549.ece
-Democrats, GOP draw battle lines on healthcare plan
By Lisa Wangsness
Democrats and Republicans are battling over what is shaping up to be one of the most contentious issues in the healthcare debate: whether the government should establish a Medicare-style public insurance option for people under 65.
http://www.boston.com/news/nation/washington/articles/2009/03/15/democrats_gop_draw_battle_lines_on_healthcare_plan/
-Ginsburg: Possible Supreme Court Opening "Soon"
MELISSA TRUJILLO
Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg told law students Friday there could be an opening on the Supreme Court soon but didn't hint at who might be leaving.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/03/13/justice-ginsburg-possible_n_174819.html
-Obama's Plan
Fixing the schools
President Obama may have the right lesson plan to finally fix the country's failing schools. In his first major speech on education, Obama fulfilled a campaign pledge to initiate a long-overdue overhaul of the public education system.
http://www.philly.com/inquirer/opinion/20090313_Editorial__Obama_s_Plan.html
=
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#####
FLORIDA DIGEST - March 15, 2009
**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net and we'll be happy to send the full article.
~~FLORIDA GENERAL NEWS~~
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Broward County hospital district officials gather at costly resorts
District retreats sometimes held at costly resorts
The tax-assisted Broward Health hospital district paid almost $60,000 to hold its last two January retreats at the four-star PGA National Resort & Spa in Palm Beach Gardens. Both times the district, which serves central and north Broward County Click here for restaurant inspection reports, violated its own written policy of not paying for accommodations and meals in the tri-county area. The overnight stays came as the district grappled with state budget cuts, more uninsured patients and other financial pressures.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/features/health/sfl-flbtravel0308pnmar15,0,5629548.story
=
Fort Report
http://www.fortreport.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-4-day school week an idea to save cash
Northeast Florida reviews options but is wary of hidden costs for students. With the nation's school districts strapped for cash, more and more are considering a schedule that delights students and makes working parents cringe: Class only four days a week.
http://thehill.com/leading-the-news/meek-scores-big-union-nods-2009-03-14.html
-Florida urged to change rights-restoration rules for felons
Advocates are urging the state to make it easier for felons to have their civil rights restored.
BY JANET ZINK
As Gov. Charlie Crist met last week with members of his Cabinet to consider requests from felons who want their civil rights restored, the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition planned events throughout the state to call attention to what it says are problems with the process.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/florida/story/950710.html
-Cherish public's right to know
Each year, Sunshine Week celebrates Florida's cherished heritage of open government. The Public Records and Sunshine Laws, as well as our unique open government constitutional amendment, stand out among other state laws in safeguarding the public's right of access to government records and proceedings.
http://www.tampabay.com/opinion/columns/article983808.ece
-Great/awful choice for judge
Palm Beach Post Editorial
The scene: Gov. Crist's judicial appointments office. The topic: Two Palm Beach County circuit court vacancies, which the governor will fill.
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/opinion/content/opinion/epaper/2009/03/15/a26a_schultzcol_0315.html
-4-day school week an idea to save cash
Northeast Florida reviews options but is wary of hidden costs for students.
Times-Union writers Brandon Larrabee, Topher Sanders and Walter Jones contributed to this report.
http://www.jacksonville.com/news/metro/schools/2009-03-14/story/4-day_school_week_an_idea_to_save_cash
=
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#####
~~FLORIDA GENERAL NEWS~~
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Broward County hospital district officials gather at costly resorts
District retreats sometimes held at costly resorts
The tax-assisted Broward Health hospital district paid almost $60,000 to hold its last two January retreats at the four-star PGA National Resort & Spa in Palm Beach Gardens. Both times the district, which serves central and north Broward County Click here for restaurant inspection reports, violated its own written policy of not paying for accommodations and meals in the tri-county area. The overnight stays came as the district grappled with state budget cuts, more uninsured patients and other financial pressures.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/features/health/sfl-flbtravel0308pnmar15,0,5629548.story
=
Fort Report
http://www.fortreport.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-4-day school week an idea to save cash
Northeast Florida reviews options but is wary of hidden costs for students. With the nation's school districts strapped for cash, more and more are considering a schedule that delights students and makes working parents cringe: Class only four days a week.
http://thehill.com/leading-the-news/meek-scores-big-union-nods-2009-03-14.html
-Florida urged to change rights-restoration rules for felons
Advocates are urging the state to make it easier for felons to have their civil rights restored.
BY JANET ZINK
As Gov. Charlie Crist met last week with members of his Cabinet to consider requests from felons who want their civil rights restored, the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition planned events throughout the state to call attention to what it says are problems with the process.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/florida/story/950710.html
-Cherish public's right to know
Each year, Sunshine Week celebrates Florida's cherished heritage of open government. The Public Records and Sunshine Laws, as well as our unique open government constitutional amendment, stand out among other state laws in safeguarding the public's right of access to government records and proceedings.
http://www.tampabay.com/opinion/columns/article983808.ece
-Great/awful choice for judge
Palm Beach Post Editorial
The scene: Gov. Crist's judicial appointments office. The topic: Two Palm Beach County circuit court vacancies, which the governor will fill.
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/opinion/content/opinion/epaper/2009/03/15/a26a_schultzcol_0315.html
-4-day school week an idea to save cash
Northeast Florida reviews options but is wary of hidden costs for students.
Times-Union writers Brandon Larrabee, Topher Sanders and Walter Jones contributed to this report.
http://www.jacksonville.com/news/metro/schools/2009-03-14/story/4-day_school_week_an_idea_to_save_cash
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