**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:
-Delinquency and Prevention
The Senate version of a reauthorized act that strengthens protections for children who end up in custody deserves the full support of Congress.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/10/opinion/10fri3.html?_r=1&ref=opinion
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Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Faith Groups Increasingly Lose Gay Rights Fights
By Jacqueline L. Salmon
Faith organizations and individuals who view homosexuality as sinful and refuse to provide services to gay people are losing a growing number of legal battles that they say are costing them their religious freedom.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/09/AR2009040904063.html?hpid=topnews
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Steve Rothaus
www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Longtime activist Cindy Brown is organizing Miami Beach's first Gay Pride parade and festival
By STEVE ROTHAUS, srothaus@MiamiHerald.com
Cindy Brown's close friends and family have known her sexual orientation since she was 18. But back in the '70s during the Anita Bryant era, being a lesbian wasn't something she wanted to broadcast. In 1992, Brown joined dozens of others in successfully lobbying Miami Beach commissioners for a citywide gay-rights ordinance. After she spoke at City Hall, a news broadcast identified her as a ``lesbian gay-rights activist.'' ''I consider myself one, but at that point in my life, I wasn't ready to have it on the TV,'' Brown recalled. ``Now, I'm ready to wear it on a T-shirt.'' More
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From Timothy J. Singer
Realtor & Associates
COLDWELL BANKER RESIDENTIAL R E, INC.
http://www.tsarealtor.com
-Offensive poll question on AOL
I am writing to bring to your attention a poll question posted on AOL's main news page by Andrew Sullivan. The question is written as follows: WILL SAME-SEX MARRIAGE REDUCE GAY PROMISCUITY? (copy below) Although written by a gay person, I think this type of wording offensive and it only perpetuates negative stereotypes promoted by the far right. As my political action organization, I am asking you to please take action and petition AOL to drop this offensive poll from its site.
Respectfully yours,
Tim Singer
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South Florida Blade
http://www.floridablade.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Wis. high court asked to review gay marriage vote
The Wisconsin Supreme Court was asked Thursday to decide whether the state's 2006 ban on gay marriage was properly put to voters. William McConkey, a University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh political science instructor, claims the referendum illegally put two issues to voters at the same time: whether to ban gay marriage and whether to outlaw civil unions. A Dane County judge dismissed the case last year, and the 66-year-old Baileys Harbor man appealed to the District 4 Court of Appeals.
http://www.floridablade.com/thelatest/thelatest.cfm?blog_id=24931
-NYC officials want gay marriages in census count
Census Bureau says DOMA bars agency from recognizing same-sex marriages
New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Council Speaker Christine Quinn are urging census officials to include same-sex marriages in the 2010 count.
http://www.floridablade.com/thelatest/thelatest.cfm?blog_id=24924
-Nationally, gay marriage ruling puts Iowa in whole new light
By MIKE KILEN
Elsie Vega is 80 and a lesbian. "If I had a partner, I would propose to her immediately and get married," she said. Vega has endured decades of societal change regarding same-sex relationships, punctuated last week by the Iowa Supreme Court's ruling legalizing marriage. It astounds her.
http://www.desmoinesregister.com/article/20090410/NEWS/904100376/1001/
-Victories in IA, VT, DC
Gay marriage in?America: the writing is on the barn wall
By WAYNE BESEN
Only ten years ago, it looked like gay people would not be able to marry until the cows came home. With an Iowa Supreme Court victory and the state legislature approving marriage in Vermont, gay couples will soon be coming home to their cows - with marriage licenses in hand. The farm teams have brought us major league victories and reinvigorated the GLBT marriage movement.
http://www.floridablade.com/2009/4-9/view/editorial/5719.cfm
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Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Religious group warns of a 'gathering storm' over gay marriage
A religious anti-gay group has defended its latest television ad which claims that gay marriage interferes with the way its members live their lives.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11964.html
-Man's appeal over gay murder conviction rejected
A man who was found guilty of murdering a man he met for sex has had his appeal against the jury's verdict rejected. David Shale, now 29, and his friend Andrew Shortt, now 30, were convicted at Bristol Crown Court of murdering 46-year-old Robert Huggett in September 1999.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11965.html
-South Park lampoons Kanye West as a 'gay fish'
R'n'B star Kanye West has been called a 'gay fish' in the latest episode of lewd TV animation show, South Park. The episode, aired on 8th April, sees West being made the butt of a joke he does not understand.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11967.html
-Gays amongst those hardest hit by recession
A report out today suggests that those in minority or vulnerable groups have been hit hardest by the recession. One in four workers in companies making staff redundant believe disproportionate numbers of people in minority or vulnerable social groups have been among the first to be dismissed.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11968.html
-Rick Warren denies supporting gay marriage ban
Preacher Rick Warren, who spoke out against gay marriage, has been accused of lying after he said he had never supported Proposition 8, which banned same-sex marriage in California.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11969.html
-Scottish LGBT organisation faces uncertain future
Staff at the Dumfries and Galloway Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Transgender organisation may be facing redundancies after council bosses cut back on their funding.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11970.html
-Confusion grows over reports of gay executions in Iraq
Human rights organisations are working to establish whether a number of men have been executed in Iraq for being gay. Homosexuality is not illegal in Iraq but is seen as a taboo. Last week, six gay men were shot and killed in the Baghdad Shiite slum of Sadr City
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11959.html
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Daily Queer News
www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Gingrich: Iowa Ruling Shows ‘Judicial Arrogance’
SHANNON McCAFFREY | Associated Press Writer | Chicago Tribune
Former Republican House Speaker Newt Gingrich said Tuesday that a recent Iowa Supreme Court decision to legalize gay marriage was “outrageously wrong,” but called a legislative override that made it legal in Vermont “healthier.” Gingrich, who has been mentioned as a possible Republican presidential contender in 2012, spoke after wrapping up a class he has been teaching on the judicial system at the University of Georgia’s law school. Gingrich said he sees the beginning of a “major movement” to bring the judicial branch into check in the wake of last Friday’s Iowa Supreme Court decision. The ruling said a state law limiting marriage to a man and a woman violates the constitutional rights of equal protection. “It’s the height of judicial arrogance,” Gingrich said. “You have seven lawyers who have decided, on their own, to fundamentally change Iowa.” Read more
-Next We Move Forward
Bo Shuff | The Bilerico Project
Within the span of five days the supporters of marriage equality have moved forward in three very different jurisdictions in very different ways. All of this progress is cause for massive celebration. Honestly I think the Iowa decision is the most impactful of the three, but I don’t want to diminish anything that has happened. The question that has to be asked is what comes next. Read more
-Unemployment Is Hitting Men Particularly Hard–and Both Sexes Are Losing Out
Betsy Reed, The Nation. Alternet
The Los Angeles Times is calling it the “he-cession.” The stark facts show that the economic crisis is hitting men particularly hard: The official male unemployment rate just spiked to 8.8 percent, while the figure for women is on a slower rise, now at 7 percent. So we can add to the old-fashioned gender gap in wages (favoring men, who make one dollar to a woman’s 80 cents for the same job), a new gender gap in unemployment, favoring women. With women working more, there has been a role reversal of sorts, but it’s hardly the kind feminists envisioned. As men lose their jobs, households are depending increasingly on the relatively meager wages of women to stay afloat. And the newly unemployed men aren’t spending their freed-up time packing lunches and schlepping the kids to soccer games. According to a recent analysis of time use data by economists Alan B. Krueger and Andreas Mueller, they’re devoting those hours to looking for new jobs — and sleeping more, and watching more TV. The picture of domestic life that emerges is not the gendered suburban dystopia of Revolutionary Road. But vestiges of that old order persist, mixing in new and potentially combustible ways with the legacy of feminism (the increased participation of women in the labor force), its unfinished business (their lower wages, and the lack of social supports for working motherhood), and the vagaries of this particular downturn, which has been especially merciless in male-dominated sectors like construction and manufacturing. Read more
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Inside Higher Education
http://www.insidehighered.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-A Special Relationship
When bishops and college presidents don't get along, things can get very complicated for those leading Catholic colleges. This is the case with the four Roman Catholic colleges in the Diocese of Scranton. Bishop Joseph F. Martino has twice in recent months issued public calls asking colleges to document their practices with regard to Catholic moral teachings -- with the latest exchanges coming this week.
http://www.insidehighered.com/news/2009/04/10/scranton
-Diversifying Middle American Campuses
Predominantly white and conservative community college in Wyoming aims to celebrate differences in culture, ethnicity and sexual orientation where there are few.
http://www.insidehighered.com/news/2009/04/08/wyoming
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South Florida Blade
http://www.floridablade.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Fort Lauderdale Gay Man Appointed Interim Ambassador to India
Burleigh has over 34 years of experience with the U.S. State Department
By JAMES MICHAELS
President Obama has appointed Fort Lauderdale gay man, Ambassador Peter Burleigh, as the interim ambassador to India. Burleigh will hold the position until a permanent ambassador can be named. Burleigh has over 34 years of experience with the U.S. State Department, and is open about his sexuality. South Florida Blade interviewed Burleigh in January 2008 and he said, “Up until the 1980s, it was dangerous [to be out] because you couldn’t do foreign work without security clearance. By 1990, it was no longer a problem if you were out.”
http://www.floridablade.com/2009/4-9/news/localnews/5711.cfm
-Patti Labelle Grand Marshall at Miami Beach Pride
Icon to headline first festival on Ocean Drive
By JAMES MICHAELS
On April 18, history will be made as Miami Beach holds its first gay pride celebration on Ocean Drive. And at the festival itself, history too will be made as gay favorite Patti Labelle headlines as the Grand Marshal of the festivities. During her career, Labelle has won numerous Grammy awards and was honored with an Excellence in Media Award by Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) for her life-long work for gay and lesbian rights and participation in the fight against AIDS.
http://www.floridablade.com/2009/4-9/news/localnews/5714.cfm
-Wis. high court asked to review gay marriage vote
The Wisconsin Supreme Court was asked Thursday to decide whether the state's 2006 ban on gay marriage was properly put to voters. William McConkey, a University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh political science instructor, claims the referendum illegally put two issues to voters at the same time: whether to ban gay marriage and whether to outlaw civil unions. A Dane County judge dismissed the case last year, and the 66-year-old Baileys Harbor man appealed to the District 4 Court of Appeals.
http://www.floridablade.com/thelatest/thelatest.cfm?blog_id=24931
-NYC officials want gay marriages in census count
Census Bureau says DOMA bars agency from recognizing same-sex marriages New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Council Speaker Christine Quinn are urging census officials to include same-sex marriages in the 2010 count.
http://www.floridablade.com/thelatest/thelatest.cfm?blog_id=24924
-Nationally, gay marriage ruling puts Iowa in whole new light
By MIKE KILEN
Elsie Vega is 80 and a lesbian. "If I had a partner, I would propose to her immediately and get married," she said. Vega has endured decades of societal change regarding same-sex relationships, punctuated last week by the Iowa Supreme Court's ruling legalizing marriage. It astounds her.
http://www.desmoinesregister.com/article/20090410/NEWS/904100376/1001/
-Victories in IA, VT, DC
Gay marriage in?America: the writing is on the barn wall
By WAYNE BESEN
Only ten years ago, it looked like gay people would not be able to marry until the cows came home. With an Iowa Supreme Court victory and the state legislature approving marriage in Vermont, gay couples will soon be coming home to their cows - with marriage licenses in hand. The farm teams have brought us major league victories and reinvigorated the GLBT marriage movement.
http://www.floridablade.com/2009/4-9/view/editorial/5719.cfm
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
Friday, April 10, 2009
NATIONAL & WORLD DIGEST - April 10, 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:
-Medically Assisted Torture
There was a great deal to be troubled by in a report by the International Committee of the Red Cross documenting the kinds of torture and abuse inflicted on terrorism suspects by the Central Intelligence Agency. One disturbing footnote is that medical personnel were deeply involved in facilitating the abuses, which were intended to coerce suspects into providing intelligence. The report, prepared in 2007 but kept secret until it was published by The New York Review of Books, was based on Red Cross interviews in late 2006 with 14 "high-value detainees," who include some of the most dangerous terrorists in custody. The prisoners' complaints gain credibility because they described similar abuses and had been kept in isolation at different locations, with no chance to concoct a common story.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/09/opinion/09thu3.html?ref=opinion
-Humanity Even for Nonhumans
By NICHOLAS D. KRISTOF
One of the historical election landmarks last year had nothing to do with race or the presidency. Rather, it had to do with pigs and chickens - and with overarching ideas about the limits of human dominion over other species.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/09/opinion/09kristof.html?ref=opinion
-Israel Cries Wolf
By ROGER COHEN
ISTANBUL - "Iran is the center of terrorism, fundamentalism and subversion and is in my view more dangerous than Nazism, because Hitler did not possess a nuclear bomb, whereas the Iranians are trying to perfect a nuclear option."
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/09/opinion/09iht-edcohen.html?ref=opinion
-Columbine Plus 10
It is impossible to view last week's killing of 13 people in Binghamton, N.Y., in isolation. It will soon be the 10th anniversary of the massacre at Columbine High School and the second anniversary of the mass shootings at Virginia Tech. In the last month, multiple shootings have claimed the lives of more than 50 Americans.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/09/opinion/09thu1.html?ref=opinion
-C.I.A. to Close Secret Prisons for Terror Suspects
By SCOTT SHANE
The Central Intelligence Agency said Thursday that it would decommission the secret overseas prisons where it subjected Al Qaeda prisoners to brutal interrogation methods, bringing to a symbolic close the most controversial counterterrorism program of the Bush administration.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/10/world/10detain.html?hp
-As Stocks Surge, Fears Linger About the Economy
By JACK HEALY and ERIC DASH
As one of the most dizzying bear market rallies in Wall Street history enters its second month, a nagging question faces investors: Is the stock market making real progress, or glossing over deeper problems in the economy that will start a new wave of losses?
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/10/business/10markets.html?hpw
-Mr. Medvedev's Silence
After a year in office, it is time for the president of Russia to make a stand for rule of law that was blunted under Vladimir Putin.
http://www.nytimes.com/pages/opinion/index.html
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Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-The Real Pelosi
By E.J. Dionne Jr.
"I give Republicans credit for this: They vote the way they believe. . . . I think that they vote with more integrity than they get credit for." That review of Republican motivations and commitments comes not courtesy of a partisan blog but from Nancy Pelosi, the Democratic speaker of the House.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/08/AR2009040803235.html
-Who Pays Taxes
The super-rich can't plug the budget gap on their own. THE CONGRESSIONAL Budget Office recently released some details of U.S. tax liabilities that should dispel myths on both sides of the budget debate. The numbers will be particularly useful in informing the discussion when tax increases for households other than the super-rich are finally on the table -- and like it or not, once the economy has recovered, they will be.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/09/AR2009040903915.html
-Keeping Africa's Turnaround on Track
By Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf
For more than a decade, much of Africa has been moving forward. Economic growth is rising, poverty is falling and democratic governance is spreading. But the global financial crisis threatens to undo this progress by reducing investment, exports and aid just as they should be expanding to build on these successes.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/08/AR2009040803599.html
-Democrats for Rich Heirs?
By Michael Kinsley
Members of Congress across the political spectrum have had fun the past few weeks playing umbrage leapfrog regarding the bonuses to executives at AIG and other companies. Who can express more indignation over the spectacle of greedheads taking billions in government bailout money and then carting millions of it home in wheelbarrows?
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/09/AR2009040903447.html
-Crimes That Deserve Punishment
By Eugene Robinson
It's no longer possible to mince words, or pretend we didn't know. The International Committee of the Red Cross concluded in a secret report that the Bush administration's so-called "enhanced" interrogation methods, used on "high-value" terrorism suspects, plainly constituted torture.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/09/AR2009040903523.html
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Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/public/us
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Emanuel Now a Backer of Immigration Action
By LAURA MECKLER
As the White House gears up to push an immigration overhaul, advocates are finding they have an unexpected ally in White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel. Mr. Emanuel has long been a voice of caution on easing rules for immigrants, fearing such a position could hurt Democrats at the polls. That stance has antagonized Hispanic lawmakers and activists, who favor a clearer, easier path to citizenship for certain illegal immigrants.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123931821992806781.html
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Pew Research center
http://pewresearch.org/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Public Says Partisan Bickering is Back
But Obama Retains Strong Support on Economy
The president continues to inspire confidence on economic matters, as majorities believe his policies will both improve economic conditions (66%) and reduce the budget deficit over time (54%). There has been no improvement in the GOP's image. Read more
-Gotta Light?
Smokers Can't Blow Off Stress
Many smokers say they light up to relieve stress. But it doesn't seem to work. A new survey finds smokers are more likely than former smokers or non-smokers to say they often experience stress in their daily lives. Read more
-Race and Law
Many Hispanics Skeptical of U.S. Criminal Justice System
Latinos are interacting more than ever with police, courts and prisons, but their confidence in the system is closer to the low levels expressed by blacks than to the high levels expressed by whites. Read more
-Study Abroad
Media Follow Obama, Economy to Europe
The president's trip abroad gives an international flavor to a now familiar story. Read more
-Obama's Trip Closely Followed
Obama's trip to the G-20 summit got a good deal more attention than Bush's first international summit travel in 2001. Read more
-Christian, Yes -- God, No
Not All God Deniers Reject Religion
Only a quarter of the 5% of Americans who do not believe in God consider themselves atheists. In fact 14% self-identify as Christians. Read more
-Daily Number
28% - Republicans: Fewer, More Conservative
Slightly more than a quarter of registered voters call themselves Republicans, a low in 16 years of polling by the Pew Research Center; most GOPers now think their party should move further to the right. 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 hosts friends, aides at Seder dinner
President Barack Obama hosted close friends and staff at a private White House meal Thursday evening to mark Passover. It's part of the new president's effort to reach out to Jewish voters.
http://www.boston.com/news/nation/washington/articles/2009/04/09/obama_invites_friends_aides_to_seder_dinner/?rss_id=Boston.com+--+Latest+news
-The End of Christian America
By Jon Meacham
The percentage of self-identified Christians has fallen 10 points in the past two decades. How that statistic explains who we are now-and what, as a nation, we are about to become.
http://www.newsweek.com/id/192583
-Stevens file paperwork with FEC for 2014 race, but aide says move is only procedural
MARK THIESSEN
Former U.S. Sen. Ted Stevens of Alaska has filed a statement of candidacy for the 2014 election, but an aide cautions against reading too much into the move. Campaign treasurer Tim McKeever says the filing does not mean Stevens has decided to seek re-election. He says it simply was done to accept donations that came into the campaign after the November election.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/sns-ap-stevens-2014,0,7534553.story
=
[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:
-Medically Assisted Torture
There was a great deal to be troubled by in a report by the International Committee of the Red Cross documenting the kinds of torture and abuse inflicted on terrorism suspects by the Central Intelligence Agency. One disturbing footnote is that medical personnel were deeply involved in facilitating the abuses, which were intended to coerce suspects into providing intelligence. The report, prepared in 2007 but kept secret until it was published by The New York Review of Books, was based on Red Cross interviews in late 2006 with 14 "high-value detainees," who include some of the most dangerous terrorists in custody. The prisoners' complaints gain credibility because they described similar abuses and had been kept in isolation at different locations, with no chance to concoct a common story.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/09/opinion/09thu3.html?ref=opinion
-Humanity Even for Nonhumans
By NICHOLAS D. KRISTOF
One of the historical election landmarks last year had nothing to do with race or the presidency. Rather, it had to do with pigs and chickens - and with overarching ideas about the limits of human dominion over other species.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/09/opinion/09kristof.html?ref=opinion
-Israel Cries Wolf
By ROGER COHEN
ISTANBUL - "Iran is the center of terrorism, fundamentalism and subversion and is in my view more dangerous than Nazism, because Hitler did not possess a nuclear bomb, whereas the Iranians are trying to perfect a nuclear option."
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/09/opinion/09iht-edcohen.html?ref=opinion
-Columbine Plus 10
It is impossible to view last week's killing of 13 people in Binghamton, N.Y., in isolation. It will soon be the 10th anniversary of the massacre at Columbine High School and the second anniversary of the mass shootings at Virginia Tech. In the last month, multiple shootings have claimed the lives of more than 50 Americans.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/09/opinion/09thu1.html?ref=opinion
-C.I.A. to Close Secret Prisons for Terror Suspects
By SCOTT SHANE
The Central Intelligence Agency said Thursday that it would decommission the secret overseas prisons where it subjected Al Qaeda prisoners to brutal interrogation methods, bringing to a symbolic close the most controversial counterterrorism program of the Bush administration.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/10/world/10detain.html?hp
-As Stocks Surge, Fears Linger About the Economy
By JACK HEALY and ERIC DASH
As one of the most dizzying bear market rallies in Wall Street history enters its second month, a nagging question faces investors: Is the stock market making real progress, or glossing over deeper problems in the economy that will start a new wave of losses?
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/10/business/10markets.html?hpw
-Mr. Medvedev's Silence
After a year in office, it is time for the president of Russia to make a stand for rule of law that was blunted under Vladimir Putin.
http://www.nytimes.com/pages/opinion/index.html
=
Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-The Real Pelosi
By E.J. Dionne Jr.
"I give Republicans credit for this: They vote the way they believe. . . . I think that they vote with more integrity than they get credit for." That review of Republican motivations and commitments comes not courtesy of a partisan blog but from Nancy Pelosi, the Democratic speaker of the House.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/08/AR2009040803235.html
-Who Pays Taxes
The super-rich can't plug the budget gap on their own. THE CONGRESSIONAL Budget Office recently released some details of U.S. tax liabilities that should dispel myths on both sides of the budget debate. The numbers will be particularly useful in informing the discussion when tax increases for households other than the super-rich are finally on the table -- and like it or not, once the economy has recovered, they will be.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/09/AR2009040903915.html
-Keeping Africa's Turnaround on Track
By Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf
For more than a decade, much of Africa has been moving forward. Economic growth is rising, poverty is falling and democratic governance is spreading. But the global financial crisis threatens to undo this progress by reducing investment, exports and aid just as they should be expanding to build on these successes.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/08/AR2009040803599.html
-Democrats for Rich Heirs?
By Michael Kinsley
Members of Congress across the political spectrum have had fun the past few weeks playing umbrage leapfrog regarding the bonuses to executives at AIG and other companies. Who can express more indignation over the spectacle of greedheads taking billions in government bailout money and then carting millions of it home in wheelbarrows?
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/09/AR2009040903447.html
-Crimes That Deserve Punishment
By Eugene Robinson
It's no longer possible to mince words, or pretend we didn't know. The International Committee of the Red Cross concluded in a secret report that the Bush administration's so-called "enhanced" interrogation methods, used on "high-value" terrorism suspects, plainly constituted torture.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/09/AR2009040903523.html
=
Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/public/us
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Emanuel Now a Backer of Immigration Action
By LAURA MECKLER
As the White House gears up to push an immigration overhaul, advocates are finding they have an unexpected ally in White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel. Mr. Emanuel has long been a voice of caution on easing rules for immigrants, fearing such a position could hurt Democrats at the polls. That stance has antagonized Hispanic lawmakers and activists, who favor a clearer, easier path to citizenship for certain illegal immigrants.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123931821992806781.html
=
Pew Research center
http://pewresearch.org/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Public Says Partisan Bickering is Back
But Obama Retains Strong Support on Economy
The president continues to inspire confidence on economic matters, as majorities believe his policies will both improve economic conditions (66%) and reduce the budget deficit over time (54%). There has been no improvement in the GOP's image. Read more
-Gotta Light?
Smokers Can't Blow Off Stress
Many smokers say they light up to relieve stress. But it doesn't seem to work. A new survey finds smokers are more likely than former smokers or non-smokers to say they often experience stress in their daily lives. Read more
-Race and Law
Many Hispanics Skeptical of U.S. Criminal Justice System
Latinos are interacting more than ever with police, courts and prisons, but their confidence in the system is closer to the low levels expressed by blacks than to the high levels expressed by whites. Read more
-Study Abroad
Media Follow Obama, Economy to Europe
The president's trip abroad gives an international flavor to a now familiar story. Read more
-Obama's Trip Closely Followed
Obama's trip to the G-20 summit got a good deal more attention than Bush's first international summit travel in 2001. Read more
-Christian, Yes -- God, No
Not All God Deniers Reject Religion
Only a quarter of the 5% of Americans who do not believe in God consider themselves atheists. In fact 14% self-identify as Christians. Read more
-Daily Number
28% - Republicans: Fewer, More Conservative
Slightly more than a quarter of registered voters call themselves Republicans, a low in 16 years of polling by the Pew Research Center; most GOPers now think their party should move further to the right. 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 hosts friends, aides at Seder dinner
President Barack Obama hosted close friends and staff at a private White House meal Thursday evening to mark Passover. It's part of the new president's effort to reach out to Jewish voters.
http://www.boston.com/news/nation/washington/articles/2009/04/09/obama_invites_friends_aides_to_seder_dinner/?rss_id=Boston.com+--+Latest+news
-The End of Christian America
By Jon Meacham
The percentage of self-identified Christians has fallen 10 points in the past two decades. How that statistic explains who we are now-and what, as a nation, we are about to become.
http://www.newsweek.com/id/192583
-Stevens file paperwork with FEC for 2014 race, but aide says move is only procedural
MARK THIESSEN
Former U.S. Sen. Ted Stevens of Alaska has filed a statement of candidacy for the 2014 election, but an aide cautions against reading too much into the move. Campaign treasurer Tim McKeever says the filing does not mean Stevens has decided to seek re-election. He says it simply was done to accept donations that came into the campaign after the November election.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/sns-ap-stevens-2014,0,7534553.story
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
FLORIDA DIGEST - January 10, 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~~
Sol Theatre Project, Inc.
The Vagina Monologues by Eve Ensler
Make plans for this Saturday or Sunday...
April 11 to April 26 - Thursdays & Saturdays at 8PM, or Sundays at 7PM
The Vagina Monologues - could be described at this point as an international phenomenon. Since first performed in 1997 in the basement of a café in New York's Greenwich Village, over 800 productions have been staged in over 30 countries.
http://www.SolTheatre.com
=
Palm Beach County Human Rights Council
-RECORD NUMBER SPONSOR FLORIDA GAY RIGHTS LEGISLATION
(Tallahassee) Forty Florida legislators are working to enact a statewide law to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression in employment, housing and public accommodations. At the request of the Palm Beach County Human Rights Council, state senator Ted Deutch (D-Boca Raton) and state representative Kelly Skidmore (D-Boca Raton) have introduced legislation (SB 2012/HB 397) to expand the protected classes in both the Florida Civil Rights Act and Florida's Fair Housing Act. The Council is a non-profit organization that has been in the forefront of Florida's gay rights movement since 1988.
www.pbchrc.org
=
Thank you for being involved in Dining Out For Life. This week we have an exciting festival to introduce to you and a special offer from one of our participating restaurants. Please visit www.diningoutforlife.com/miami/participating to see the current list of restaurants. If you visit one of our participating restaurants prior to April 30th, be sure to thank them for supporting the fight against HIV/AIDS.
=
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Gay marriage laws should have no affect on Fla.
By Alva James-Johnson
We're not all going to agree on how a marriage should be defined. That's OK. We live in a country that honors differences of opinion, and the democratic process. That's why the Iowa legislature's decision to recognize gay marriage should have no impact on Florida. Florida voters had the opportunity to weigh in on the issue in November. They approved a constitutional amendment to define marriage as a union between one man and one woman. Unless that is changed, gay marriage should not be recognized in the Sunshine State. As a resident of Florida, there are laws that the legislature has passed that I disagree with. Does that mean I don't follow them? No. What it means is that I must obey the laws while I'm in the boundaries of Florida. And I have two options: I could go through the proper channels to have the laws changed. Or I could move to a state that better reflects my values. Plain and simple. Now that Iowa and other states have embraced gay marriage, it may very well be a sign that Florida is soon to follow. And you can bet the pro-gay marriage crowd will continue to push the state in that direction. But it will require approval of 60 percent of the voters to ammend the constitution. And untiil then, we should all live within the law.
-Karnival Beach Club joins Fort Lauderdale gay, lesbian scene
Carnival-themed, three-story bar joins gay scene in Fort Lauderdale.
By Courtney Hambright
Fort Lauderdale Is your Fort Lauderdale restaurant clean? - Click Here. boasts more lesbian and gay bars than just about any other town in the universe, but how many of them are actually on the beach? Karnival Beach Club fills that gap in the gay party scene. The three-story nightclub is in the little strip of bars and tattoo shops behind Primanti Brothers at the corner of State Road A1A and Sunrise Boulevard. The bar brings together the
city's casual beach culture with weekly themed parties such as Freaky Friday, Saturday T-Dance and Swimsuit Sunday.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/community/news/fort_lauderdale/sfl-karnival-beach-club-g041009pbapr10,0,1985365.story
=
Steve Rothaus
www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Longtime activist Cindy Brown is organizing Miami Beach's first Gay Pride parade and festival
By STEVE ROTHAUS, srothaus@MiamiHerald.com
Cindy Brown's close friends and family have known her sexual orientation since she was 18. But back in the '70s during the Anita Bryant era, being a lesbian wasn't something she wanted to broadcast. In 1992, Brown joined dozens of others in successfully lobbying Miami Beach commissioners for a citywide gay-rights ordinance. After she spoke at City Hall, a news broadcast identified her as a ``lesbian gay-rights activist.'' ''I consider myself one, but at that point in my life, I wasn't ready to have it on the TV,'' Brown recalled. ``Now, I'm ready to wear it on a T-shirt.'' More .
=
South Florida Blade
http://www.floridablade.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Chatting with the mayor-to-be of Oakland Parl
Anthony Niedwiecki talks marriage, Naugle, and activism
By BISHOP S.F. MAKALANI-MAHEE
Anthony Niedwiecki is a familiar face to South Florida residents: the longtime GLBT activist and Nova Southeastern University law professor was recently elected to the Oakland Park City Commission. Niedwiecki won with a 65% majority, which places him in line to become Vice Mayor Oakland Park in 2010 and Mayor in 2011.
http://www.floridablade.com/2009/4-9/news/localnews/5716.cfm
-Gay men attacked, severely beaten
Victim found on Oakland Park Blvd.
By DAN RENZI
The Broward Sheriff Department is searching for a group of men suspected in the beatings of two gay men in Broward County earlier this week. David Villanova, 27, and Craig Cohen, 47, were beaten in the early morning hours of Monday, April 6 by the same group of men, according to BSO. The victims were attacked separately, within hours of each other’s incidents.
http://www.floridablade.com/2009/4-9/news/localnews/5709.cfm
-Susan Stanton hired as Lake Worth city manager
Beat out three other candidates
By J.W. ARNOLD
Susan Stanton was chosen from four candidates to become the new City Manager for Lake Worth, Florida. Of the five city commissioners for Lake Worth, three voted for Stanton as their first pick; mayor Jeff Clemens initially supported another candidate, but voluntarily changed his vote to also support Stanton.
http://www.floridablade.com/2009/4-9/news/localnews/5712.cfm
-Pridelines Youth ‘10 in Ten Days’ fundraisier drive
Groups aims to raise $10,000
By JAMES MICHAELS
Pridelines Youth Services in Miami has launched their “10 in 10 Days” fundraiser where they plan to reach a goal of receiving $10,000 in 10 days of fundraising. The fundraiser runs now through Friday, April 17th. Pridelines Youth Services is dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing environment for South Florida’s LGBTQ youth and their allies. You can help them out by making a contribution by visiting their website, www.pridelines.org or calling 305-571-9601.
http://www.floridablade.com/2009/4-9/news/localnews/5715.cfm
-Gavin Newsom swings by SoFla
Speaks on battle for marriage equality
By DAN RENZI
Gavin Newsom swept through South Florida during the weekend of April 4 and 5, on a fundraising trip to "explore" a possible run for the California governor's office. Newsom's visit to South Florida was intended to tap the deep pockets of political donors in the area, including those in the GLBT community. He attended $500-per-person private receptions in Miami and Aventura, meetings with Miami Dade elected officials to learn about their best practices, a fundraiser at Halo Lounge in Miami Beach, and a visit to the Compass Community Center in Lake Worth, Fla.
http://www.floridablade.com/2009/4-9/news/localnews/5718.cfm
-Care Resource Center expands in Broward
Funding from Federal Stimulus Bill
By ALEX ALVAREZ
South Florida’s oldest and largest non-profit HIV/AIDS community healthcare provider, Care Resource, is expanding its scope of services to the Gay, Lesbian, Bi-Sexual and Transgender (GLBT) community in Broward County. Care Resource was recently designated a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) thanks to new stimulus funds made available under President Barack Obama. The federal dollars -- $650,000 per year for the first two years – allow Care Resource to expand medical care services to those who are predominately low income and in need of healthcare services.
http://www.floridablade.com/2009/4-9/news/localnews/5710.cfm
-Drag superstar Nikki Adams joins Broward House
Adams now Community Liaison/Event Coordinator
By JAMES MICHAELS
Local entertainer Nikki Adams has joined Broward House as their new Community Liaison/Event Coordinator. Adams has been entertaining the local community for over thirty years and is a former Miss Florida F.I. “Her creativity will be a significant part of any event Broward House now puts on and her knowledge of the South Florida community will help keep Broward House headed in the right direction,” said Terry DeCarlo, Director of Public Relations for Broward House. Nikki’s first big task is to assist in the Broward House “Hope’s Heroes” and gala awards banquet to be held on April 30th.
http://www.floridablade.com/2009/4-9/news/localnews/5713.cfm
=
~~FLORIDA GENERAL NEWS~~
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Hastings, Klein and Wexler want Obama to protect panthers
The Associated Press
Three South Florida congressmen are asking President Obama to protect the Florida panther. "It's an important issue, since so few of them are left," Lale Mamaux, a spokeswoman for Rep. Alcee Hastings, D-Miami, told the St. Petersburg Times.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/local/breakingnews/sfl-florida-panthers-bn041009,0,2812481.story
-Orchid society hosts Wine & Jazz in the Gardens
Fundraiser will feature a silent auction, food and musicians from the Gold Coast Society
Help the garden grow while soaking in jazz and sipping wine at the American Orchid Society. The final Wine & Jazz in the Gardens will be April 16 from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. at the society's botanical gardens, 16700 AOS Lane, Delray Beach.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/entertainment/news/thingstodo/sfl-wine-jazz-gardens-orchid-041009,0,7687158.story
=
Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Investigation ordered into conduct of Broward judge, prosecutor
BY DIANA MOSKOVITZ
Accusations of misconduct by a Broward judge and prosecutor are under scrutiny in a death penalty case. The state's highest court has ordered a hearing to determine the veracity of allegations that a Broward judge and prosecutor had improper conversations about a death penalty case outside the courtroom.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/broward/story/993213.html
=
From Ron Mills
-Broward Tea Bagging
Despite these attempts to make the “movement” appear organic, the principle organizers of the local events are actually the lobbyist-run think tanks Americans for Prosperity and Freedom Works. The two groups are heavily staffed and well funded, and are providing all the logistical and public relations work necessary for planning coast-to-coast protests:
– Freedom Works staffers coordinate conference calls among protesters, contacting conservative activists to give them “sign ideas, sample press releases, and a map of events around the country.”
– Freedom Works staffers apparently moved to “take over” the planning of local events in Florida.
– Freedom Works provides how-to guides for delivering a “clear message” to the public and media.
To read about the phoney Broward Tea bagging go to: http://budurl.com/rcwl
-Newly minted activist organizes Broward's version of 'tax day tea party' protest
Anthony ManLauren O'Brien sat on her couch a few weeks ago to relax with a little FOX News. Midway through a show hosted by one of her favorite media talkers, Glenn Beck, O'Brien began her transformation from mom, wife and full-time college student to activist. She heard about "tea parties," a series of anti-tax protests planned for April 15 - the federal income tax deadline day – searched the Internet, and discovered none for Broward County. Before Beck's program was off the air, she was the coordinator of the Broward Tax Day Tea Party. On the Wednesday’s protest agenda, O'Brien said: opposition to taxes, the federal economic stimulus package, and bailouts of corporations and people who can’t pay their mortgages. "I just am very disenheartened with the things that have been going on lately with the government," said the Sunrise resident, who's never before done anything political. "I got inspired." O'Brien, 24, said she was inspired by concern for her two children, ages 3 and nine months. "I see the direction that we're going and it has me scared for the future."
http://weblogs.sun-sentinel.com/news/politics/broward/blog/2009/04/newly_minted_activist_organize.html
=
Fort Report
http://www.fortreport.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-GOP govs get dose of stimulus reality
By BEN SMITH
The list of governors threatening to decline federal stimulus money last month read like a list of Republicans considering running for president in 2012: Govs. Mark Sanford, Bobby Jindal and Sarah Palin led the anti-stimulus charge. But what began with a bang is ending with something closer to a whimper. All three of those governors have been forced to scale back their expectations, to varying degrees, as the push of conservative philosophy gave way to the pull of political reality.
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0409/21086.html
-EDITORIAL: Votes disappear in the mail
Palm Beach Post Editorial
Palm Beach County Circuit Judge David Crow has provided another reason to avoid casting an absentee ballot. Even if you mail your ballot on time, it may not count. In the Palm Beach mayoral election decided in favor of incumbent Jack McDonald by one vote, Judge Crow rejected nine absentee ballots delivered to the supervisor of elections post office box the morning after the election. At issue: Were they in the post office box at 7 p.m. on Election Day?
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/opinion/content/opinion/epaper/2009/04/09/a14a_leadedit_election_0410.html
-If Florida Gov. Crist runs for Senate, expect run on his job
BY BILL COTTERELL
The whole Florida Cabinet is considering a run for governor next year. Agriculture Commissioner Charles Bronson said today he is considering a bid for the top job, if Gov. Charlie Crist runs for the U.S. Senate. Crist has insisted he won't make his decision until after the legislative session.
http://www.news-press.com/article/20090408/NEWS01/90408041/1002/NEWS01
-Miami-Dade hotel taxes plunge 24 percent in February
BY DOUGLAS HANKS
Tourism continues to worsen in Miami-Dade, with hotel taxes dropping faster in February than they did in January. Taxes charged on hotel guests plunged 24 percent in February, compared to a 17 percent drop in January. The continued deterioration comes as hotels slash rates to fill beds and businesses pull back on travel.
http://www.miamiherald.com/101/story/990639.html
-Anti-abortion fight, round 3
By Gary Fineout
For the third time in two years, a controversial state-funded program meant to steer women away from abortion has become a flashpoint in the state budget. The Florida Senate’s version wipes out the $2 million set aside for the “crisis counseling” program, while the House’s keeps the funding intact.
http://www.floridahealthnews.org/index.cfm/go/public.stories/article/11565
-Gov. Charlie Crist appoints Broward lawyer to bench
Sunrise lawyer Ed Merrigan will be the newest edition to Broward County Court. On Tuesday, Gov. Charlie Crist announced Merrigan's appointment to the judgeship previously held by Robert Zack.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/southflorida/story/991531.html
-Florida to get first solar-powered city
By Ayesha Rascoe
A Florida utility and a real estate developer are aiming to bring the country's first solar-powered city to the Sunshine State. FPL Group Inc's utility Florida Power & Light is working with the realty group Kitson & Partners to construct what the utility says will be the world's largest photovoltaic solar plant in a planned, environmentally friendly city near Fort Myers in southwestern Florida.
http://www.reuters.com/article/environmentNews/idUSTRE5386XG20090409
-$533 million Everglades land deal gets initial go-ahead
Andy Reid
South Florida water managers today gave the initial go-ahead to Gov. Charlie Crist's scaled-down, $533 million land deal for Everglades restoration. The South Florida Water Management District now must negotiate the final details with U.S. Sugar Corp. for the purchase of 72,500 acres that would be used to help restore water flows from Lake Okeechobee to the Everglades.
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/breakingnews/orl-everglades-deal-approved,0,868636.story
-Downsized U.S. Sugar deal still too costly, water managers complain
By PAUL QUINLAN
Gov. Charlie Crist's revamped land deal with U.S. Sugar Corp. may be $800 million cheaper, but it's not much better, water managers said today. Several leaders of the South Florida Water Management District, the state agency charged with paying for Crist's high-stakes Everglades restoration initiative, gave the latest negotiated terms of the deal harsh reviews, calling the now-$533 million price too high. They also called the terms too generous, saying they would likely leave half the caneland in the company's control for the next two decades.
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/localnews/content/local_news/epaper/2009/04/09/0409sugar.html
-State can't afford an about-face on higher education
By T.K. WETHERELL and ROBERT BRADLEY
Florida's legislators are wrestling with an unprecedented decline in general revenues. While some talk about embracing Indian gaming as part of a solution, there's a much higher-stakes game in play -- a game that risks the future of Florida by dismantling badly needed state programs, including public higher education.
http://www.news-journalonline.com/NewsJournalOnline/Opinion/Editorials/opnOPN65040909.htm
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
~~FLORIDA GLBT NEWS~~
Sol Theatre Project, Inc.
The Vagina Monologues by Eve Ensler
Make plans for this Saturday or Sunday...
April 11 to April 26 - Thursdays & Saturdays at 8PM, or Sundays at 7PM
The Vagina Monologues - could be described at this point as an international phenomenon. Since first performed in 1997 in the basement of a café in New York's Greenwich Village, over 800 productions have been staged in over 30 countries.
http://www.SolTheatre.com
=
Palm Beach County Human Rights Council
-RECORD NUMBER SPONSOR FLORIDA GAY RIGHTS LEGISLATION
(Tallahassee) Forty Florida legislators are working to enact a statewide law to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression in employment, housing and public accommodations. At the request of the Palm Beach County Human Rights Council, state senator Ted Deutch (D-Boca Raton) and state representative Kelly Skidmore (D-Boca Raton) have introduced legislation (SB 2012/HB 397) to expand the protected classes in both the Florida Civil Rights Act and Florida's Fair Housing Act. The Council is a non-profit organization that has been in the forefront of Florida's gay rights movement since 1988.
www.pbchrc.org
=
Thank you for being involved in Dining Out For Life. This week we have an exciting festival to introduce to you and a special offer from one of our participating restaurants. Please visit www.diningoutforlife.com/miami/participating to see the current list of restaurants. If you visit one of our participating restaurants prior to April 30th, be sure to thank them for supporting the fight against HIV/AIDS.
=
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Gay marriage laws should have no affect on Fla.
By Alva James-Johnson
We're not all going to agree on how a marriage should be defined. That's OK. We live in a country that honors differences of opinion, and the democratic process. That's why the Iowa legislature's decision to recognize gay marriage should have no impact on Florida. Florida voters had the opportunity to weigh in on the issue in November. They approved a constitutional amendment to define marriage as a union between one man and one woman. Unless that is changed, gay marriage should not be recognized in the Sunshine State. As a resident of Florida, there are laws that the legislature has passed that I disagree with. Does that mean I don't follow them? No. What it means is that I must obey the laws while I'm in the boundaries of Florida. And I have two options: I could go through the proper channels to have the laws changed. Or I could move to a state that better reflects my values. Plain and simple. Now that Iowa and other states have embraced gay marriage, it may very well be a sign that Florida is soon to follow. And you can bet the pro-gay marriage crowd will continue to push the state in that direction. But it will require approval of 60 percent of the voters to ammend the constitution. And untiil then, we should all live within the law.
-Karnival Beach Club joins Fort Lauderdale gay, lesbian scene
Carnival-themed, three-story bar joins gay scene in Fort Lauderdale.
By Courtney Hambright
Fort Lauderdale Is your Fort Lauderdale restaurant clean? - Click Here. boasts more lesbian and gay bars than just about any other town in the universe, but how many of them are actually on the beach? Karnival Beach Club fills that gap in the gay party scene. The three-story nightclub is in the little strip of bars and tattoo shops behind Primanti Brothers at the corner of State Road A1A and Sunrise Boulevard. The bar brings together the
city's casual beach culture with weekly themed parties such as Freaky Friday, Saturday T-Dance and Swimsuit Sunday.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/community/news/fort_lauderdale/sfl-karnival-beach-club-g041009pbapr10,0,1985365.story
=
Steve Rothaus
www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Longtime activist Cindy Brown is organizing Miami Beach's first Gay Pride parade and festival
By STEVE ROTHAUS, srothaus@MiamiHerald.com
Cindy Brown's close friends and family have known her sexual orientation since she was 18. But back in the '70s during the Anita Bryant era, being a lesbian wasn't something she wanted to broadcast. In 1992, Brown joined dozens of others in successfully lobbying Miami Beach commissioners for a citywide gay-rights ordinance. After she spoke at City Hall, a news broadcast identified her as a ``lesbian gay-rights activist.'' ''I consider myself one, but at that point in my life, I wasn't ready to have it on the TV,'' Brown recalled. ``Now, I'm ready to wear it on a T-shirt.'' More .
=
South Florida Blade
http://www.floridablade.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Chatting with the mayor-to-be of Oakland Parl
Anthony Niedwiecki talks marriage, Naugle, and activism
By BISHOP S.F. MAKALANI-MAHEE
Anthony Niedwiecki is a familiar face to South Florida residents: the longtime GLBT activist and Nova Southeastern University law professor was recently elected to the Oakland Park City Commission. Niedwiecki won with a 65% majority, which places him in line to become Vice Mayor Oakland Park in 2010 and Mayor in 2011.
http://www.floridablade.com/2009/4-9/news/localnews/5716.cfm
-Gay men attacked, severely beaten
Victim found on Oakland Park Blvd.
By DAN RENZI
The Broward Sheriff Department is searching for a group of men suspected in the beatings of two gay men in Broward County earlier this week. David Villanova, 27, and Craig Cohen, 47, were beaten in the early morning hours of Monday, April 6 by the same group of men, according to BSO. The victims were attacked separately, within hours of each other’s incidents.
http://www.floridablade.com/2009/4-9/news/localnews/5709.cfm
-Susan Stanton hired as Lake Worth city manager
Beat out three other candidates
By J.W. ARNOLD
Susan Stanton was chosen from four candidates to become the new City Manager for Lake Worth, Florida. Of the five city commissioners for Lake Worth, three voted for Stanton as their first pick; mayor Jeff Clemens initially supported another candidate, but voluntarily changed his vote to also support Stanton.
http://www.floridablade.com/2009/4-9/news/localnews/5712.cfm
-Pridelines Youth ‘10 in Ten Days’ fundraisier drive
Groups aims to raise $10,000
By JAMES MICHAELS
Pridelines Youth Services in Miami has launched their “10 in 10 Days” fundraiser where they plan to reach a goal of receiving $10,000 in 10 days of fundraising. The fundraiser runs now through Friday, April 17th. Pridelines Youth Services is dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing environment for South Florida’s LGBTQ youth and their allies. You can help them out by making a contribution by visiting their website, www.pridelines.org or calling 305-571-9601.
http://www.floridablade.com/2009/4-9/news/localnews/5715.cfm
-Gavin Newsom swings by SoFla
Speaks on battle for marriage equality
By DAN RENZI
Gavin Newsom swept through South Florida during the weekend of April 4 and 5, on a fundraising trip to "explore" a possible run for the California governor's office. Newsom's visit to South Florida was intended to tap the deep pockets of political donors in the area, including those in the GLBT community. He attended $500-per-person private receptions in Miami and Aventura, meetings with Miami Dade elected officials to learn about their best practices, a fundraiser at Halo Lounge in Miami Beach, and a visit to the Compass Community Center in Lake Worth, Fla.
http://www.floridablade.com/2009/4-9/news/localnews/5718.cfm
-Care Resource Center expands in Broward
Funding from Federal Stimulus Bill
By ALEX ALVAREZ
South Florida’s oldest and largest non-profit HIV/AIDS community healthcare provider, Care Resource, is expanding its scope of services to the Gay, Lesbian, Bi-Sexual and Transgender (GLBT) community in Broward County. Care Resource was recently designated a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) thanks to new stimulus funds made available under President Barack Obama. The federal dollars -- $650,000 per year for the first two years – allow Care Resource to expand medical care services to those who are predominately low income and in need of healthcare services.
http://www.floridablade.com/2009/4-9/news/localnews/5710.cfm
-Drag superstar Nikki Adams joins Broward House
Adams now Community Liaison/Event Coordinator
By JAMES MICHAELS
Local entertainer Nikki Adams has joined Broward House as their new Community Liaison/Event Coordinator. Adams has been entertaining the local community for over thirty years and is a former Miss Florida F.I. “Her creativity will be a significant part of any event Broward House now puts on and her knowledge of the South Florida community will help keep Broward House headed in the right direction,” said Terry DeCarlo, Director of Public Relations for Broward House. Nikki’s first big task is to assist in the Broward House “Hope’s Heroes” and gala awards banquet to be held on April 30th.
http://www.floridablade.com/2009/4-9/news/localnews/5713.cfm
=
~~FLORIDA GENERAL NEWS~~
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Hastings, Klein and Wexler want Obama to protect panthers
The Associated Press
Three South Florida congressmen are asking President Obama to protect the Florida panther. "It's an important issue, since so few of them are left," Lale Mamaux, a spokeswoman for Rep. Alcee Hastings, D-Miami, told the St. Petersburg Times.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/local/breakingnews/sfl-florida-panthers-bn041009,0,2812481.story
-Orchid society hosts Wine & Jazz in the Gardens
Fundraiser will feature a silent auction, food and musicians from the Gold Coast Society
Help the garden grow while soaking in jazz and sipping wine at the American Orchid Society. The final Wine & Jazz in the Gardens will be April 16 from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. at the society's botanical gardens, 16700 AOS Lane, Delray Beach.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/entertainment/news/thingstodo/sfl-wine-jazz-gardens-orchid-041009,0,7687158.story
=
Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Investigation ordered into conduct of Broward judge, prosecutor
BY DIANA MOSKOVITZ
Accusations of misconduct by a Broward judge and prosecutor are under scrutiny in a death penalty case. The state's highest court has ordered a hearing to determine the veracity of allegations that a Broward judge and prosecutor had improper conversations about a death penalty case outside the courtroom.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/broward/story/993213.html
=
From Ron Mills
-Broward Tea Bagging
Despite these attempts to make the “movement” appear organic, the principle organizers of the local events are actually the lobbyist-run think tanks Americans for Prosperity and Freedom Works. The two groups are heavily staffed and well funded, and are providing all the logistical and public relations work necessary for planning coast-to-coast protests:
– Freedom Works staffers coordinate conference calls among protesters, contacting conservative activists to give them “sign ideas, sample press releases, and a map of events around the country.”
– Freedom Works staffers apparently moved to “take over” the planning of local events in Florida.
– Freedom Works provides how-to guides for delivering a “clear message” to the public and media.
To read about the phoney Broward Tea bagging go to: http://budurl.com/rcwl
-Newly minted activist organizes Broward's version of 'tax day tea party' protest
Anthony ManLauren O'Brien sat on her couch a few weeks ago to relax with a little FOX News. Midway through a show hosted by one of her favorite media talkers, Glenn Beck, O'Brien began her transformation from mom, wife and full-time college student to activist. She heard about "tea parties," a series of anti-tax protests planned for April 15 - the federal income tax deadline day – searched the Internet, and discovered none for Broward County. Before Beck's program was off the air, she was the coordinator of the Broward Tax Day Tea Party. On the Wednesday’s protest agenda, O'Brien said: opposition to taxes, the federal economic stimulus package, and bailouts of corporations and people who can’t pay their mortgages. "I just am very disenheartened with the things that have been going on lately with the government," said the Sunrise resident, who's never before done anything political. "I got inspired." O'Brien, 24, said she was inspired by concern for her two children, ages 3 and nine months. "I see the direction that we're going and it has me scared for the future."
http://weblogs.sun-sentinel.com/news/politics/broward/blog/2009/04/newly_minted_activist_organize.html
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Fort Report
http://www.fortreport.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-GOP govs get dose of stimulus reality
By BEN SMITH
The list of governors threatening to decline federal stimulus money last month read like a list of Republicans considering running for president in 2012: Govs. Mark Sanford, Bobby Jindal and Sarah Palin led the anti-stimulus charge. But what began with a bang is ending with something closer to a whimper. All three of those governors have been forced to scale back their expectations, to varying degrees, as the push of conservative philosophy gave way to the pull of political reality.
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0409/21086.html
-EDITORIAL: Votes disappear in the mail
Palm Beach Post Editorial
Palm Beach County Circuit Judge David Crow has provided another reason to avoid casting an absentee ballot. Even if you mail your ballot on time, it may not count. In the Palm Beach mayoral election decided in favor of incumbent Jack McDonald by one vote, Judge Crow rejected nine absentee ballots delivered to the supervisor of elections post office box the morning after the election. At issue: Were they in the post office box at 7 p.m. on Election Day?
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/opinion/content/opinion/epaper/2009/04/09/a14a_leadedit_election_0410.html
-If Florida Gov. Crist runs for Senate, expect run on his job
BY BILL COTTERELL
The whole Florida Cabinet is considering a run for governor next year. Agriculture Commissioner Charles Bronson said today he is considering a bid for the top job, if Gov. Charlie Crist runs for the U.S. Senate. Crist has insisted he won't make his decision until after the legislative session.
http://www.news-press.com/article/20090408/NEWS01/90408041/1002/NEWS01
-Miami-Dade hotel taxes plunge 24 percent in February
BY DOUGLAS HANKS
Tourism continues to worsen in Miami-Dade, with hotel taxes dropping faster in February than they did in January. Taxes charged on hotel guests plunged 24 percent in February, compared to a 17 percent drop in January. The continued deterioration comes as hotels slash rates to fill beds and businesses pull back on travel.
http://www.miamiherald.com/101/story/990639.html
-Anti-abortion fight, round 3
By Gary Fineout
For the third time in two years, a controversial state-funded program meant to steer women away from abortion has become a flashpoint in the state budget. The Florida Senate’s version wipes out the $2 million set aside for the “crisis counseling” program, while the House’s keeps the funding intact.
http://www.floridahealthnews.org/index.cfm/go/public.stories/article/11565
-Gov. Charlie Crist appoints Broward lawyer to bench
Sunrise lawyer Ed Merrigan will be the newest edition to Broward County Court. On Tuesday, Gov. Charlie Crist announced Merrigan's appointment to the judgeship previously held by Robert Zack.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/southflorida/story/991531.html
-Florida to get first solar-powered city
By Ayesha Rascoe
A Florida utility and a real estate developer are aiming to bring the country's first solar-powered city to the Sunshine State. FPL Group Inc's utility Florida Power & Light is working with the realty group Kitson & Partners to construct what the utility says will be the world's largest photovoltaic solar plant in a planned, environmentally friendly city near Fort Myers in southwestern Florida.
http://www.reuters.com/article/environmentNews/idUSTRE5386XG20090409
-$533 million Everglades land deal gets initial go-ahead
Andy Reid
South Florida water managers today gave the initial go-ahead to Gov. Charlie Crist's scaled-down, $533 million land deal for Everglades restoration. The South Florida Water Management District now must negotiate the final details with U.S. Sugar Corp. for the purchase of 72,500 acres that would be used to help restore water flows from Lake Okeechobee to the Everglades.
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/breakingnews/orl-everglades-deal-approved,0,868636.story
-Downsized U.S. Sugar deal still too costly, water managers complain
By PAUL QUINLAN
Gov. Charlie Crist's revamped land deal with U.S. Sugar Corp. may be $800 million cheaper, but it's not much better, water managers said today. Several leaders of the South Florida Water Management District, the state agency charged with paying for Crist's high-stakes Everglades restoration initiative, gave the latest negotiated terms of the deal harsh reviews, calling the now-$533 million price too high. They also called the terms too generous, saying they would likely leave half the caneland in the company's control for the next two decades.
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/localnews/content/local_news/epaper/2009/04/09/0409sugar.html
-State can't afford an about-face on higher education
By T.K. WETHERELL and ROBERT BRADLEY
Florida's legislators are wrestling with an unprecedented decline in general revenues. While some talk about embracing Indian gaming as part of a solution, there's a much higher-stakes game in play -- a game that risks the future of Florida by dismantling badly needed state programs, including public higher education.
http://www.news-journalonline.com/NewsJournalOnline/Opinion/Editorials/opnOPN65040909.htm
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[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
Thursday, April 09, 2009
GLBT DIGEST - April 09, 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:
-Humanity Even for Nonhumans
By NICHOLAS D. KRISTOF
One of the historical election landmarks last year had nothing to do with race or the presidency. Rather, it had to do with pigs and chickens - and with overarching ideas about the limits of human dominion over other species.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/09/opinion/09kristof.html?scp=6&sq=gay&st=cse
-Iowa's Family Values
By STEVEN W. THRASHER
IF it weren't for Iowa, my family may never have existed, and this gay, biracial New Yorker might never have been born.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/09/opinion/09thrasher.html?scp=4&sq=gay&st=cse
-Advocates on Both Sides Seek Momentum on Same-Sex Marriage
By JEREMY W. PETERS
A marriage license is just a Metro-North ride to Connecticut away for same-sex couples in New York City. For those who live in the Hudson Valley, it is a short drive over the state line into Massachusetts.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/09/nyregion/09marriage.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:
-For Cryin' Out Loud
By Howard Kurtz
Stephen Colbert had a fine time the other day making fun of Glenn Beck's blubbery-yet-apocalyptic brand of commentary. But Beck -- a big ratings draw for Fox News who was profiled last week on the New York Times front page -- is hardly the only guy emoting for the cameras. He just does it with more tantrums and tears than your average cable guy. And I don't see many programs showing footage of marching Nazis while the host is talking about Obama.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/09/AR2009040901321.html
-Advancing Marriage Equality
I am looking forward to the day when I can tell my children stories about how in the past gay couples were not allowed to marry and watch them laugh or gasp at the ludicrousness of denying a basic right to U.S. citizens for no good reason. My own marriage, which I treasure as an endless source of love and strength, seems somehow diminished when other loving couples are told they are unworthy of the institution. Marriage equality is, quite simply, a civil rights battle, and I suspect that one day oppositionists will feel great shame for having stood in the reception hall door. Kudos to Vermont and the District for being the latest to move equal rights forward
CARRIE D. WOLINETZ
Silver Spring
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/08/AR2009040803807.html
-Iowa, Vermont gay marriages spark debate in Calif.
By EVELYN NIEVES
Both sides of the gay marriage ban approved by California voters are debating how Iowa and Vermont's recent moves to allow same-sex unions will affect their state's running legal battle
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/09/AR2009040900611.html
-Timing Is Seen As Key in D.C., Vt. Votes on Gay Marriage
By Nikita Stewart and Tim Craig
D.C. Council member David A. Catania and Peter Shumlin, president pro tempore of the Vermont Senate, met at Sarducci's restaurant in Montpelier two weeks ago and discussed gay marriage legislation in their jurisdictions.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/08/AR2009040804166.html
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Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Time for bigoted Florida to recognize gay marriage
By Gary Stein
There might be a chance for Florida to undo some of the bigoted, mean-spiritedness it showed last November when it constitutionally banned same-sex marriage. Florida is still a Neanderthal area, but four states now
allow gay marriage -- the latest being Vermont, where the legislature itself legalized it this week. Connecticut and Massachusetts allow it.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/opinion/todaysbuzz/thursday/sfl-gay-marriage-stein-buzz-m040909,0,2740880.htmlstory
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The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-N.Y. Gov. to Renew Same-sex Marriage Push
By Julie Bolcer
New York Governor David Paterson said on Wednesday that he would re-introduce legislation to legalize same-sex marriage. According to reports, the legislation will mirror a program bill for same-sex marriage introduced in 2007 by former Governor Eliot Spitzer. Paterson will introduce the legislation before an annual gay rights lobby day scheduled for April 28 in Albany, the state capital.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid78306.asp
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365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Gay, HIV groups call for end of Bush health care rules
By 365gay Newscenter Staff
A coalition of 38 LGBT and HIV advocacy groups is calling for the removal of an eleventh-hour Bush Administration expansion of federal rules prohibiting discrimination against health care workers on the basis of religion. The groups, which include Lambda Legal and the National Coalition for LGBT Health, call the rules "unnecessary and confusing" and say they endanger public health.
http://www.365gay.com/news/gay-hiv-groups-call-for-end-of-bush-health-care-rules/
-Obama Administration Launches Campaign To Refocus Attention On HIV/AIDS
By 365gay Newscenter Staff
The Obama White House, the Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have announced today a new five-year national communication campaign to combat complacency about the HIV/AIDS crisis in the United States.
http://www.365gay.com/news/obama-administration-launches-campaign-to-refocus-attention-on-hivaids/
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Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Confusion grows over reports of gay executions in Iraq
Human rights organisations are working to establish whether a number of men have been executed in Iraq for being gay. Homosexuality is not illegal in Iraq but is seen as a taboo. Last week, six gay men were shot and killed in the Baghdad Shiite slum of Sadr City. Click here for full article
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11959.html
-Samoa bans film on Harvey Milk's life
The Samoa Censor Board has banned Milk, a film depicting the life of gay rights activist Harvey Milk. The decision was made by principal censor Leiataua Niuapu Faaui, who rejected an application for the film to be rented and sold in Samoan outlets. Click here for full article
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11958.html
-Bishop of Manchester calls on faith schools to tackle homophobic bullying The Bishop of Manchester, the Rt Reverend Nigel McCulloch has voiced his support for an initiative that tackles homophobic bullying in Manchester's secondary schools. Click here for full article
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11957.html
-New Hampshire House reverses trans discrimination decision
The New Hampshire House has opted to pass a bill extending discrimination protections to trans individuals. The bill will allow the words "gender identity" or "gender expression" to be added to current laws protecting from discrimination on the basis of sex, age, race, creed, colour, sexual orientation or religion. Click here for full article
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11956.html
-Rupert Everett: 'Gay men who have children are egocentric and vain'
Actor Rupert Everett has launched an attack on gay men who father children and get married, calling them "egocentric and vain". Click here for full article
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11954.html
-New Zealand comedian let off over joke about prime minister being a communist lesbian
A comedian who made comments about former New Zealand prime minister Helen Clark being a lesbian and a "bloody communist" has escaped censure after a broadcasting watchdog ruled he had not breached regulations. Click here for full article
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11947.html
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Daily Queer News
www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Gay Marriage Ruling has Iowans Weighing Their Values
Mark Guarino | Correspondent of The Christian Science Monitor
DAVENPORT, IOWA - In the two days since the highest court in her state ruled to allow same-sex marriages starting in late April, Sheila Engel of Davenport, Iowa, found herself rethinking an issue about which she had assumed she'd made up her mind. "One part me says it's against my Christian beliefs. Another part of me says they should have equal rights," Ms. Engel said Sunday while paused in a grocery aisle of her local Wal-Mart. "There has to be a middle road here." Her rumination is being shared by many Iowans who are coming to terms with a controversial issue that, until last week, was safely confined to America's distant coasts. With Friday's ruling by the Iowa Supreme Court, the state became the third behind Connecticut and Massachusetts to permit gay marriages. Read more
-HI: Civil Union Bill Revision is Proposed
Derrick DePledge | Advertiser Government Writer | Honolulu Advertiser
Gay rights advocates have suggested a new draft of a civil-unions bill that would give both same-sex and heterosexual couples the option of entering into civil unions. The draft also explicitly says the intent of the bill is not to revise the definition of marriage under state law, which is reserved between a man and a woman. The draft removes references to marriage and instead refers to the marriage chapter in state law. The draft would still give same-sex couples who enter into civil unions the same rights, benefits and responsibilities as married couples under state law, but gay rights advocates hope that by offering civil unions to heterosexual couples, and softening the connection to marriage, the bill will be more palatable to skittish senators. Read more
-Celebrating the Secular: Obama Says US Is Not a Christian Nation
Rob Boston | Talk 2 Action
The United States was not founded as a Christian nation. Nothing in the Constitution grants Christianity favored status. In fact, Article VI bans religious tests for federal office, and the First Amendment bars laws "respecting an establishment of religion" while protecting "the free exercise thereof" - for all faiths. It's good to hear political leaders remind us of this fact from time to time, as President Barack Obama did yesterday during a press conference in Turkey. "I've said before that one of the great strengths of the United States is - although as I mentioned we have a very large Christian population - we do not consider ourselves a Christian nation, or a Jewish nation or a Muslim nation," Obama said. "We consider ourselves a nation of citizens who are bound by ideals and a set of values." Read more
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Forwarded from Gays Without Borders
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article
-Congressman: State Dept Action Needed on Gay Iraqis;
HRC, NGLTF Silence Grows Louder
I'd like a round of bravos for gay US Representative Jared Polis for having concerns about and bringing media attention to the plight of gay Iraqis. This Denver Post story, appearing in today's paper, provides a good overview of his action on behalf of Iraq's gay population, and how he's pushing the State Department to take action. While Polis is taking the lead on the gay Iraqi situation, and trying to move levers of US power to investigate the deaths of gays in Baghdad, the usual lame gay political groups, Human Rights Campaign and the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, steadfastly remain silent about the abuses of our brothers and sisters in Iraq.
http://mpetrelis.blogspot.com/2009/04/congressman-state-dept-action-needed-on.html
-Ryazan court finds gay activists guilty of popularizing homosexuality
Ryazan, April 6, Interfax - A court in Ryazan has found the organizers of two public events protesting homophobia guilty of popularizing homosexuality and ruled they be fined 1,500 rubles each (34 Eur). Nikolay Bayev and Irina Fet were found guilty of popularizing homosexuality among minors and the court ruled to fine them 1,500 rubles each, an organizer of the Moscow gay parade Nikolay Alexeyev told Interfax. On March 30, the gay activists staged public event demonstrating posters reading, "Homosexuality is normal" and "I am proud of my homosexuality." The judge ordered the posters be destroyed.
http://www.interfax-religion.com/?act=news&div=5890
-Iraqi Murder Campaign of Gays Spurs Vigil, Rally In NY
Gay and Human Rights Groups To Demand Immediate Investigation and Diplomatic Intervention from Pres. Obama, Sec. Clinton., Other Officials On 'Sexual Cleansing'
(NYC) LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) and human rights groups, increasingly alarmed about reports by the Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters on the continuing harassment and murder=2 0of gay men, including 6 last week, and of the fate of an estimated 128 men on death row (many convicted for the 'crime' of homosexuality), will hold a protest and vigil outside the Iraq Mission, 14 E. 79th Street in Manhattan, Friday, April 10, 2009 at 12 Noon.
-Iraq's Gay Killings Condemned in San Francisco;
Fox, CBS Locals Send Crews
San Francisco's newly formed Gays Without Borders chapter, which is affiliated with the Gays Without Borders group on Yahoo, earlier this evening gathered 15 concerned gay and straight Americans to consecrate the base of the rainbow flag pole at Harvey Milk Plaza as the symbolic Tomb of the Unknown Gay. We took this action because of wire reports from Baghdad about the murder of at least six gay men in the last two weeks, killed because of their homosexuality and repugnant religious hatred stirred up by Muslim clerics. The names of the dead have not been reported in any news accounts, hence, the designating of the area for unknown and unnamed gays.
http://mpetrelis.blogspot.com/2009/04/iraqs-gay-killings-condemned-in-san.html
-URGENT - Iraq: Letter From a Member of Iraqi LGBT who Pleads for Help
"Before It's Too Late"
Member of Iraqi Gay Group Pleads for Help "Before It's Too Late", ukgaynews.org.uk
Is there anyone to help me before it's too late? That is the question asked by a member of Iraqi-LGBT in Baghdad, who says he is to be executed, in a letter released at the weekend by Iraqi-LGBT in London. The handwritten letter in Arabic was received by the group in London last week, the writer claiming that he has received the death sentence for belonging to Iraqi-LGBT - a banned organisation in the country.
http://gayswithoutborders.wordpress.com/2009/04/07/iraq-letter-from-a-member-of-iraqi-lgbt-who-pleads-for-help/
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Forwarded from Euro-Queer
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article:
-Tony Blair has challenged the "entrenched" attitudes of the Pope on homosexuality, and argued that it is time for him to "rethink" his views. Speaking to the gay magazine Attitude, the former Prime Minister, himself now a Roman Catholic, said that he wanted to urge religious figures everywhere to reinterpret their religious texts to see them as metaphorical, not literal, and suggested that in time this would make all religious groups accept gay people as equals. Asked about the Pope's stance, Mr Blair blamed generational differences and said: "We need an attitude of mind where rethinking and the concept of evolving attitudes becomes part of the discipline with which you approach your religious faith." The Pope, who is 82, remains firmly opposed to any relaxation of the Church's traditional stance on homosexuality, contraception or any other area of human sexuality. He has described homosexuality as a "tendency" towards an "intrinsic moral evil".
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/faith/article6055696.ece
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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
-Republican State Legislators Making History!
In six northeastern states, Republican legislators are making the difference for marriage equality. In the past three weeks, America has witnessed:
* On March 23, the Vermont Senate passed marriage with the support of a majority of the Republican Conference.
* On March 26, twelve Republicans provided the margin of victory for marriage equality in the New Hampshire House.
* On March 30, three Republicans on the Connecticut legislature's Joint Committee on Judiciary voted to codify the state's marriage equality ruling.
* On April 3, six Republicans joined their colleagues in the Vermont House to send marriage equality to the Governor.
* On April 3, the Iowa Supreme Court recognzied the right to marry in an opinion written by Republican-appointed Associate Justice Mark Cady.
* And on April 7, the Vermont House and Senate successfully overrode a governor's veto to make Vermont the first state to enact marriage equality without the order of a court - and six courageous House Republicans provided the margin of victory. Whether in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York or Vermont, every day our party is becoming more and more accepting of marriage equality. And as the polling and recent legislative victories demonstrate, the fight for full equal rights is quickly gaining ground across the Northeast.
http://www.logcabin.org>
-Los Angeles - Today the Williams Institute at UCLA School of Law released a new research study predicting that same-sex marriage in the District of Columbia would have a positive impact on the local economy, generating $52.2 million in new spending over the next three years. This new spending will generate 700 new jobs.
www.law.ucla.edu/williamsinstitute
-Study sheds new light on young-adult and religious attitudes toward same-sex marriage
A recent analysis of public opinion data by the organization Public Religion Research (http://www.publicreligion.org/research/?id=163) reveals some interesting findings about Americans' attitudes toward same-sex marriage:
* Younger Americans are much more supportive of marriage equality. Almost half (46%) of young adults (age 18-34) support same-sex marriage, compared to less than a third (29%) of all Americans.
* Attitudes on same-sex marriage are shifting significantly among young people. In 2006, the American Values Survey found that 37% of young adults (18-34) supported same-sex marriage. Two years later, almost half (46%) of young adults now support same-sex marriage, an increase of 9 points.
* Support for same-sex marriage is significant among some young religious Americans. Among young (18-34) white mainline Protestants and Catholics, close to half (48% and 44% respectively) support same-sex marriage. Among young evangelicals (18-34), a majority favor either same-sex marriage (24%) or civil unions (28%), compared to a majority (58%) of evangelicals overall who favor no legal recognition of gay couples' relationships.
* Having close friends and family members who are gay or lesbian increases support for same-sex marriage. Among Americans who are gay or lesbian or have a close friend or family member who is gay or lesbian, nearly half (48%) say they support same-sex marriage. Among those who have more distant relationships with gay or lesbian people (i.e. acquaintance, coworker), support drops to just 30%. And among those with no relationship with a gay or lesbian person support for same-sex marriage is only 14%.
* Addressing religious liberty concerns significantly increases support for same-sex marriage. When asked whether they would support allowing gay couples to marry "if the law guaranteed that no church or congregation would be required to perform marriages for gay couples," support for legalized same-sex marriage climbed 14 points, from 29% to 43%.
* Religious groups that are more likely to hear negative messages about homosexuality are far more likely to oppose same-sex marriage. White evangelicals, for example, hear much more negative messages about homosexuality than white Mainline Protestants. The difference between these two groups on support for marriage equality is stark. Nearly 6-in-10 (58%) white evangelicals say there should be no legal recognition for gay and lesbian couples, compared to only 26% of white mainline Protestants.
http://lawprofessors.typepad.com/lgbtlaw/2009/04/study-sheds-new-light-on-youngadult-and-religious-attitudes-toward-samesex-marriage.html
-At U-Md., XXX-Rated Show Goes On
Despite Funding Threats, Students Host Panel Discussion and Porn Viewing A portion of a pornographic film was screened last night on the University of Maryland campus despite a new threat from a state legislator to deny the school construction funds unless it develops an "acceptable" policy on pornography on campus. About 200 students turned out for sexually explicit excerpts of "Pirates II: Stagnetti's Revenge" and a discussion of free speech and pornography in a lecture hall at the College Park campus. The event was sponsored by a coalition of student leaders. At times it felt more like a rally than a panel discussion, with loud applause for lawyers and professors as they spoke before a thicket of TV news cameras about the importance of free speech.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/06/AR2009040603581.html?hpid=artslot
-Soulforce
Texas: Waxahachie arrestsThis past fall many of you supported the third annual
Soulforce Q Equality Ride as it visited fifteen schools throughout the South. And much like previous years, some places were receptive and hospitable while others shut their doors. Sadly, Southwestern Assemblies of God University in Waxahachie, Texas falls into the latter category. In addition to policing gender expression, Southwestern explicitly states that "homosexuality and lesbianism may incur a fine from $50 up to $250 and could result in an appearance before the Student Conduct Committee and possible termination from the university." (These regulations can be found under the Residential
http://www.soulforce.org/sendstudio/link.php?M=35882&N=676&L=2027&F=H
-The Global Politics of LGBT Rights: Contemporary Politics special issue
I want, in a somewhat self-interested spirit, to draw attention to a great new special issue of the journal Contemporary Politics, on "The Global Politics of LGBT Human Rights," edited by Matthew Waites and Kelly Kollman. I say self-interested because the issue contains an article by me, on "how Western activists (mis)recognize sexuality in Iran": a detailed and reality-based critique, as they say in Washington these days, of the claims and rhetoric about Iran by non-Iranian activists in recent years, as well as of their unfortunate consequences.
http://www.informaworld.com/smpp/title~content=g909308885~db=all
-The Lambda Literary Foundation has named Leslie Feinberg,
Andrew Holleran, Felice Picano, and Edmund White as this year's recipients of its Pioneer Award, to be presented at the Lambda Literary Awards Ceremony on May 28, 2009 in New York City.
http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102543495018&s=2154&e=001TP7Q38x7kY0q9lXTVhuv0-5jpn61Vt_qdmHMOL_Asfc0WN4QSAlqe-qPqURX_kSkm18fSwTO5MubB5zpfxOGg6vJ_jCn3cAkdC8LtfLYnhAZwDvMwP41CHTd1IGfLOzkbwLnbw88yS4xJ-yfdJxgQpW8BWJGyeBo
-MELBOURNE'S Catholic Church has embraced a Vatican suggestion to test potential priests for sexual orientation. Those who "appear" gay will be banned.
The head of the Vatican committee that made the recommendations has made it clear celibate gays should also be banned because homosexuality is ''a type of deviation''. Archdiocese of Melbourne spokesman James O'Farrell confirmed Carlton's Corpus Christi Catholic seminary had started adhering to the guidelines, but refused to comment further.
http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/story/0,23739,25250874-952,00.html
-You might be interested in the following story from OneNewsNow.com:
Obama appoints open homosexual to faith-based office
The head of a conservative activist group says President Obama's appointment of a leading homosexual activist to his faith-based council is an ominous sign that he may enforce a "pro-homosexuality orthodoxy" on religious groups receiving federal funds, which is itself a form of bigotry.
-News in Iowa continues to be good except that calls to the Govenor are still running 2 to 1 against. If you can, email the Governor being sure to honest about being out of state.
Email Governor Culver at the website:
http://www.governor.iowa.gov/administration/contact/
-Judge: State can't force dispensing 'morning-after' pill
SPRINGFIELD -- A central Illinois judge has ruled that the state can't force two pharmacists with religious objections to abortion to dispense emergency contraception. Sangamon County Circuit Judge John Belz issued a temporary restraining order Friday until he can hear arguments against the rule from druggists who object on religious grounds.
http://www.pantagraph.com/articles/2009/04/07/news/doc49da83661c20a649168411.txt
-Focus on the Family Staffer Caught in Teenage Sex Sting
A Colorado man who works for Evangelical group Focus on the Family has been arrested after he solicited sex online from an investigator posing as a teenage girl, police have said.
"Juan Alberto Ovalle, 42, thought he was corresponding with a girl under the age of 15, but instead it was undercover officers with the Jefferson County district attorney's office, according to court documents," reported the Denver Post.
http://www.denverpost.com/breakingnews/ci_12083195
-No campus-provided condoms, university presidents tell bishop
The area's four Catholic universities do not provide condoms or oral contraceptives at their campus health centers, their presidents announced Monday in a letter to Bishop Joseph F. Martino. The letter came as a response to a request made from the bishop last week to King's College, Misericordia University, Marywood University and the University of Scranton for information on whether their health centers provide or encourage use of contraceptives, which is against the doctrine of the Catholic Church.
http://thetimes-tribune.com/articles/2009/04/06/news/doc49da773a581ba311688370.txt
-Rick Warren lies about his homobigotry on Larry King Live
http://www.pamshouseblend.com/diary/10284/rick-warren-lies-about-his-homobigotry-on-larry-king-live
-First Documentary on gay youth's murder to be screened in Fort Lauderdale
Lateisha Green's Murder Classified as Hate Crime
http://campaign.constantcontact.com/render?v=001kFNqKSJGEd-V_lT9YBXUwbL1Ic2b5_95H5jgdgAGze4pFeP3I37raN7f-jwUj9Vv98QiKSlIZynv8o3hwJVpConCivJR89hjjqN0O8sq_Ok%3D
-Sweden OKs gay marriage
Sweden on Wednesday became the seventh country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage. Following a five-hour debate in Parliament, the legislation was overwhelmingly passed on a 261 to 22 vote, with 16 abstentions. The new law will go into effect May 1, replacing a 1995 law that allowed civil partnerships.
http://www.365gay.com/news/sweden-oks-gay-marriage/
-Federal Judge Strikes Down Maryland Ban on Exotic Dancers
A federal judge in Maryland yesterday struck down a state statute meant to ban strip clubs, finding it would place unconstitutional limits on free speech while violating the 14th Amendment's guarantee of equal protection.
http://legaltimes.typepad.com/blt/2009/04/federal-judge-strikes-down-maryland-ban-on-exotic-dancers.html
-Elder and Disabled Porn Targeted By Massachusetts Lawmaker - Proposal Goes Too Far
Massachusetts State Rep, Kathi-Anne Reinstein (D) is targeting adult entertainment involving models over the age of 60 as well as private sexual communications between the elderly (if you can call 60 "elderly" anymore) and private sexual communications among the disabled. See State Puts Porn Pervs in Sights, Boston Herald. The measure misses the mark and as it is an affront to the dignity of the elderly and the disabled alike with a heaping helping of unconstitutionality to round out the bad legislation buffet.
http://im.live.com/Messenger/IM/Home/?source=EML_WLHM_GreaterGood
-How tepid is this? (via The Advocate):
"The President respects the decision of the Iowa Supreme Court, and continues to believe that states should make their own decisions when it comes to the issue of marriage. Although President Obama supports civil unions rather than same-sex marriage, he believes that committed gay and lesbian couples should receive protection under the law." So, let's see...it should be left to the states so that as gay couples travel across state lines, they are married, not married, civil unioned, domestic partnered...yeah that sounds like equal protection under the law. Oh wait -- the press release didn't use the word EQUAL, did it?
www.pamshouseblend.com/diary/10230/breaking-white-house-response-to-iowa-ruling
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From Transgender Equality
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article
-Florida: Transgender candidate picked as new Lake Worth city manager
LAKE WORTH - Susan Stanton, who served 16.5 years as city manager in Largo, will be the next city manager in Lake Worth. Commissioners interviewed four finalists and today picked Stanton, the former Steve Stanton who was fired from his Largo job in 2007 after announcing plans to change his gender. Stanton also served 3.5 years as city manager in Berea, K.Y.
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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:
-Humanity Even for Nonhumans
By NICHOLAS D. KRISTOF
One of the historical election landmarks last year had nothing to do with race or the presidency. Rather, it had to do with pigs and chickens - and with overarching ideas about the limits of human dominion over other species.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/09/opinion/09kristof.html?scp=6&sq=gay&st=cse
-Iowa's Family Values
By STEVEN W. THRASHER
IF it weren't for Iowa, my family may never have existed, and this gay, biracial New Yorker might never have been born.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/09/opinion/09thrasher.html?scp=4&sq=gay&st=cse
-Advocates on Both Sides Seek Momentum on Same-Sex Marriage
By JEREMY W. PETERS
A marriage license is just a Metro-North ride to Connecticut away for same-sex couples in New York City. For those who live in the Hudson Valley, it is a short drive over the state line into Massachusetts.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/09/nyregion/09marriage.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:
-For Cryin' Out Loud
By Howard Kurtz
Stephen Colbert had a fine time the other day making fun of Glenn Beck's blubbery-yet-apocalyptic brand of commentary. But Beck -- a big ratings draw for Fox News who was profiled last week on the New York Times front page -- is hardly the only guy emoting for the cameras. He just does it with more tantrums and tears than your average cable guy. And I don't see many programs showing footage of marching Nazis while the host is talking about Obama.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/09/AR2009040901321.html
-Advancing Marriage Equality
I am looking forward to the day when I can tell my children stories about how in the past gay couples were not allowed to marry and watch them laugh or gasp at the ludicrousness of denying a basic right to U.S. citizens for no good reason. My own marriage, which I treasure as an endless source of love and strength, seems somehow diminished when other loving couples are told they are unworthy of the institution. Marriage equality is, quite simply, a civil rights battle, and I suspect that one day oppositionists will feel great shame for having stood in the reception hall door. Kudos to Vermont and the District for being the latest to move equal rights forward
CARRIE D. WOLINETZ
Silver Spring
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/08/AR2009040803807.html
-Iowa, Vermont gay marriages spark debate in Calif.
By EVELYN NIEVES
Both sides of the gay marriage ban approved by California voters are debating how Iowa and Vermont's recent moves to allow same-sex unions will affect their state's running legal battle
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/09/AR2009040900611.html
-Timing Is Seen As Key in D.C., Vt. Votes on Gay Marriage
By Nikita Stewart and Tim Craig
D.C. Council member David A. Catania and Peter Shumlin, president pro tempore of the Vermont Senate, met at Sarducci's restaurant in Montpelier two weeks ago and discussed gay marriage legislation in their jurisdictions.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/08/AR2009040804166.html
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Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Time for bigoted Florida to recognize gay marriage
By Gary Stein
There might be a chance for Florida to undo some of the bigoted, mean-spiritedness it showed last November when it constitutionally banned same-sex marriage. Florida is still a Neanderthal area, but four states now
allow gay marriage -- the latest being Vermont, where the legislature itself legalized it this week. Connecticut and Massachusetts allow it.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/opinion/todaysbuzz/thursday/sfl-gay-marriage-stein-buzz-m040909,0,2740880.htmlstory
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The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-N.Y. Gov. to Renew Same-sex Marriage Push
By Julie Bolcer
New York Governor David Paterson said on Wednesday that he would re-introduce legislation to legalize same-sex marriage. According to reports, the legislation will mirror a program bill for same-sex marriage introduced in 2007 by former Governor Eliot Spitzer. Paterson will introduce the legislation before an annual gay rights lobby day scheduled for April 28 in Albany, the state capital.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid78306.asp
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365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Gay, HIV groups call for end of Bush health care rules
By 365gay Newscenter Staff
A coalition of 38 LGBT and HIV advocacy groups is calling for the removal of an eleventh-hour Bush Administration expansion of federal rules prohibiting discrimination against health care workers on the basis of religion. The groups, which include Lambda Legal and the National Coalition for LGBT Health, call the rules "unnecessary and confusing" and say they endanger public health.
http://www.365gay.com/news/gay-hiv-groups-call-for-end-of-bush-health-care-rules/
-Obama Administration Launches Campaign To Refocus Attention On HIV/AIDS
By 365gay Newscenter Staff
The Obama White House, the Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have announced today a new five-year national communication campaign to combat complacency about the HIV/AIDS crisis in the United States.
http://www.365gay.com/news/obama-administration-launches-campaign-to-refocus-attention-on-hivaids/
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Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Confusion grows over reports of gay executions in Iraq
Human rights organisations are working to establish whether a number of men have been executed in Iraq for being gay. Homosexuality is not illegal in Iraq but is seen as a taboo. Last week, six gay men were shot and killed in the Baghdad Shiite slum of Sadr City. Click here for full article
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11959.html
-Samoa bans film on Harvey Milk's life
The Samoa Censor Board has banned Milk, a film depicting the life of gay rights activist Harvey Milk. The decision was made by principal censor Leiataua Niuapu Faaui, who rejected an application for the film to be rented and sold in Samoan outlets. Click here for full article
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11958.html
-Bishop of Manchester calls on faith schools to tackle homophobic bullying The Bishop of Manchester, the Rt Reverend Nigel McCulloch has voiced his support for an initiative that tackles homophobic bullying in Manchester's secondary schools. Click here for full article
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11957.html
-New Hampshire House reverses trans discrimination decision
The New Hampshire House has opted to pass a bill extending discrimination protections to trans individuals. The bill will allow the words "gender identity" or "gender expression" to be added to current laws protecting from discrimination on the basis of sex, age, race, creed, colour, sexual orientation or religion. Click here for full article
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11956.html
-Rupert Everett: 'Gay men who have children are egocentric and vain'
Actor Rupert Everett has launched an attack on gay men who father children and get married, calling them "egocentric and vain". Click here for full article
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11954.html
-New Zealand comedian let off over joke about prime minister being a communist lesbian
A comedian who made comments about former New Zealand prime minister Helen Clark being a lesbian and a "bloody communist" has escaped censure after a broadcasting watchdog ruled he had not breached regulations. Click here for full article
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11947.html
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Daily Queer News
www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Gay Marriage Ruling has Iowans Weighing Their Values
Mark Guarino | Correspondent of The Christian Science Monitor
DAVENPORT, IOWA - In the two days since the highest court in her state ruled to allow same-sex marriages starting in late April, Sheila Engel of Davenport, Iowa, found herself rethinking an issue about which she had assumed she'd made up her mind. "One part me says it's against my Christian beliefs. Another part of me says they should have equal rights," Ms. Engel said Sunday while paused in a grocery aisle of her local Wal-Mart. "There has to be a middle road here." Her rumination is being shared by many Iowans who are coming to terms with a controversial issue that, until last week, was safely confined to America's distant coasts. With Friday's ruling by the Iowa Supreme Court, the state became the third behind Connecticut and Massachusetts to permit gay marriages. Read more
-HI: Civil Union Bill Revision is Proposed
Derrick DePledge | Advertiser Government Writer | Honolulu Advertiser
Gay rights advocates have suggested a new draft of a civil-unions bill that would give both same-sex and heterosexual couples the option of entering into civil unions. The draft also explicitly says the intent of the bill is not to revise the definition of marriage under state law, which is reserved between a man and a woman. The draft removes references to marriage and instead refers to the marriage chapter in state law. The draft would still give same-sex couples who enter into civil unions the same rights, benefits and responsibilities as married couples under state law, but gay rights advocates hope that by offering civil unions to heterosexual couples, and softening the connection to marriage, the bill will be more palatable to skittish senators. Read more
-Celebrating the Secular: Obama Says US Is Not a Christian Nation
Rob Boston | Talk 2 Action
The United States was not founded as a Christian nation. Nothing in the Constitution grants Christianity favored status. In fact, Article VI bans religious tests for federal office, and the First Amendment bars laws "respecting an establishment of religion" while protecting "the free exercise thereof" - for all faiths. It's good to hear political leaders remind us of this fact from time to time, as President Barack Obama did yesterday during a press conference in Turkey. "I've said before that one of the great strengths of the United States is - although as I mentioned we have a very large Christian population - we do not consider ourselves a Christian nation, or a Jewish nation or a Muslim nation," Obama said. "We consider ourselves a nation of citizens who are bound by ideals and a set of values." Read more
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Forwarded from Gays Without Borders
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article
-Congressman: State Dept Action Needed on Gay Iraqis;
HRC, NGLTF Silence Grows Louder
I'd like a round of bravos for gay US Representative Jared Polis for having concerns about and bringing media attention to the plight of gay Iraqis. This Denver Post story, appearing in today's paper, provides a good overview of his action on behalf of Iraq's gay population, and how he's pushing the State Department to take action. While Polis is taking the lead on the gay Iraqi situation, and trying to move levers of US power to investigate the deaths of gays in Baghdad, the usual lame gay political groups, Human Rights Campaign and the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, steadfastly remain silent about the abuses of our brothers and sisters in Iraq.
http://mpetrelis.blogspot.com/2009/04/congressman-state-dept-action-needed-on.html
-Ryazan court finds gay activists guilty of popularizing homosexuality
Ryazan, April 6, Interfax - A court in Ryazan has found the organizers of two public events protesting homophobia guilty of popularizing homosexuality and ruled they be fined 1,500 rubles each (34 Eur). Nikolay Bayev and Irina Fet were found guilty of popularizing homosexuality among minors and the court ruled to fine them 1,500 rubles each, an organizer of the Moscow gay parade Nikolay Alexeyev told Interfax. On March 30, the gay activists staged public event demonstrating posters reading, "Homosexuality is normal" and "I am proud of my homosexuality." The judge ordered the posters be destroyed.
http://www.interfax-religion.com/?act=news&div=5890
-Iraqi Murder Campaign of Gays Spurs Vigil, Rally In NY
Gay and Human Rights Groups To Demand Immediate Investigation and Diplomatic Intervention from Pres. Obama, Sec. Clinton., Other Officials On 'Sexual Cleansing'
(NYC) LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) and human rights groups, increasingly alarmed about reports by the Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters on the continuing harassment and murder=2 0of gay men, including 6 last week, and of the fate of an estimated 128 men on death row (many convicted for the 'crime' of homosexuality), will hold a protest and vigil outside the Iraq Mission, 14 E. 79th Street in Manhattan, Friday, April 10, 2009 at 12 Noon.
-Iraq's Gay Killings Condemned in San Francisco;
Fox, CBS Locals Send Crews
San Francisco's newly formed Gays Without Borders chapter, which is affiliated with the Gays Without Borders group on Yahoo, earlier this evening gathered 15 concerned gay and straight Americans to consecrate the base of the rainbow flag pole at Harvey Milk Plaza as the symbolic Tomb of the Unknown Gay. We took this action because of wire reports from Baghdad about the murder of at least six gay men in the last two weeks, killed because of their homosexuality and repugnant religious hatred stirred up by Muslim clerics. The names of the dead have not been reported in any news accounts, hence, the designating of the area for unknown and unnamed gays.
http://mpetrelis.blogspot.com/2009/04/iraqs-gay-killings-condemned-in-san.html
-URGENT - Iraq: Letter From a Member of Iraqi LGBT who Pleads for Help
"Before It's Too Late"
Member of Iraqi Gay Group Pleads for Help "Before It's Too Late", ukgaynews.org.uk
Is there anyone to help me before it's too late? That is the question asked by a member of Iraqi-LGBT in Baghdad, who says he is to be executed, in a letter released at the weekend by Iraqi-LGBT in London. The handwritten letter in Arabic was received by the group in London last week, the writer claiming that he has received the death sentence for belonging to Iraqi-LGBT - a banned organisation in the country.
http://gayswithoutborders.wordpress.com/2009/04/07/iraq-letter-from-a-member-of-iraqi-lgbt-who-pleads-for-help/
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Forwarded from Euro-Queer
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article:
-Tony Blair has challenged the "entrenched" attitudes of the Pope on homosexuality, and argued that it is time for him to "rethink" his views. Speaking to the gay magazine Attitude, the former Prime Minister, himself now a Roman Catholic, said that he wanted to urge religious figures everywhere to reinterpret their religious texts to see them as metaphorical, not literal, and suggested that in time this would make all religious groups accept gay people as equals. Asked about the Pope's stance, Mr Blair blamed generational differences and said: "We need an attitude of mind where rethinking and the concept of evolving attitudes becomes part of the discipline with which you approach your religious faith." The Pope, who is 82, remains firmly opposed to any relaxation of the Church's traditional stance on homosexuality, contraception or any other area of human sexuality. He has described homosexuality as a "tendency" towards an "intrinsic moral evil".
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/faith/article6055696.ece
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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
-Republican State Legislators Making History!
In six northeastern states, Republican legislators are making the difference for marriage equality. In the past three weeks, America has witnessed:
* On March 23, the Vermont Senate passed marriage with the support of a majority of the Republican Conference.
* On March 26, twelve Republicans provided the margin of victory for marriage equality in the New Hampshire House.
* On March 30, three Republicans on the Connecticut legislature's Joint Committee on Judiciary voted to codify the state's marriage equality ruling.
* On April 3, six Republicans joined their colleagues in the Vermont House to send marriage equality to the Governor.
* On April 3, the Iowa Supreme Court recognzied the right to marry in an opinion written by Republican-appointed Associate Justice Mark Cady.
* And on April 7, the Vermont House and Senate successfully overrode a governor's veto to make Vermont the first state to enact marriage equality without the order of a court - and six courageous House Republicans provided the margin of victory. Whether in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York or Vermont, every day our party is becoming more and more accepting of marriage equality. And as the polling and recent legislative victories demonstrate, the fight for full equal rights is quickly gaining ground across the Northeast.
http://www.logcabin.org>
-Los Angeles - Today the Williams Institute at UCLA School of Law released a new research study predicting that same-sex marriage in the District of Columbia would have a positive impact on the local economy, generating $52.2 million in new spending over the next three years. This new spending will generate 700 new jobs.
www.law.ucla.edu/williamsinstitute
-Study sheds new light on young-adult and religious attitudes toward same-sex marriage
A recent analysis of public opinion data by the organization Public Religion Research (http://www.publicreligion.org/research/?id=163) reveals some interesting findings about Americans' attitudes toward same-sex marriage:
* Younger Americans are much more supportive of marriage equality. Almost half (46%) of young adults (age 18-34) support same-sex marriage, compared to less than a third (29%) of all Americans.
* Attitudes on same-sex marriage are shifting significantly among young people. In 2006, the American Values Survey found that 37% of young adults (18-34) supported same-sex marriage. Two years later, almost half (46%) of young adults now support same-sex marriage, an increase of 9 points.
* Support for same-sex marriage is significant among some young religious Americans. Among young (18-34) white mainline Protestants and Catholics, close to half (48% and 44% respectively) support same-sex marriage. Among young evangelicals (18-34), a majority favor either same-sex marriage (24%) or civil unions (28%), compared to a majority (58%) of evangelicals overall who favor no legal recognition of gay couples' relationships.
* Having close friends and family members who are gay or lesbian increases support for same-sex marriage. Among Americans who are gay or lesbian or have a close friend or family member who is gay or lesbian, nearly half (48%) say they support same-sex marriage. Among those who have more distant relationships with gay or lesbian people (i.e. acquaintance, coworker), support drops to just 30%. And among those with no relationship with a gay or lesbian person support for same-sex marriage is only 14%.
* Addressing religious liberty concerns significantly increases support for same-sex marriage. When asked whether they would support allowing gay couples to marry "if the law guaranteed that no church or congregation would be required to perform marriages for gay couples," support for legalized same-sex marriage climbed 14 points, from 29% to 43%.
* Religious groups that are more likely to hear negative messages about homosexuality are far more likely to oppose same-sex marriage. White evangelicals, for example, hear much more negative messages about homosexuality than white Mainline Protestants. The difference between these two groups on support for marriage equality is stark. Nearly 6-in-10 (58%) white evangelicals say there should be no legal recognition for gay and lesbian couples, compared to only 26% of white mainline Protestants.
http://lawprofessors.typepad.com/lgbtlaw/2009/04/study-sheds-new-light-on-youngadult-and-religious-attitudes-toward-samesex-marriage.html
-At U-Md., XXX-Rated Show Goes On
Despite Funding Threats, Students Host Panel Discussion and Porn Viewing A portion of a pornographic film was screened last night on the University of Maryland campus despite a new threat from a state legislator to deny the school construction funds unless it develops an "acceptable" policy on pornography on campus. About 200 students turned out for sexually explicit excerpts of "Pirates II: Stagnetti's Revenge" and a discussion of free speech and pornography in a lecture hall at the College Park campus. The event was sponsored by a coalition of student leaders. At times it felt more like a rally than a panel discussion, with loud applause for lawyers and professors as they spoke before a thicket of TV news cameras about the importance of free speech.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/06/AR2009040603581.html?hpid=artslot
-Soulforce
Texas: Waxahachie arrestsThis past fall many of you supported the third annual
Soulforce Q Equality Ride as it visited fifteen schools throughout the South. And much like previous years, some places were receptive and hospitable while others shut their doors. Sadly, Southwestern Assemblies of God University in Waxahachie, Texas falls into the latter category. In addition to policing gender expression, Southwestern explicitly states that "homosexuality and lesbianism may incur a fine from $50 up to $250 and could result in an appearance before the Student Conduct Committee and possible termination from the university." (These regulations can be found under the Residential
http://www.soulforce.org/sendstudio/link.php?M=35882&N=676&L=2027&F=H
-The Global Politics of LGBT Rights: Contemporary Politics special issue
I want, in a somewhat self-interested spirit, to draw attention to a great new special issue of the journal Contemporary Politics, on "The Global Politics of LGBT Human Rights," edited by Matthew Waites and Kelly Kollman. I say self-interested because the issue contains an article by me, on "how Western activists (mis)recognize sexuality in Iran": a detailed and reality-based critique, as they say in Washington these days, of the claims and rhetoric about Iran by non-Iranian activists in recent years, as well as of their unfortunate consequences.
http://www.informaworld.com/smpp/title~content=g909308885~db=all
-The Lambda Literary Foundation has named Leslie Feinberg,
Andrew Holleran, Felice Picano, and Edmund White as this year's recipients of its Pioneer Award, to be presented at the Lambda Literary Awards Ceremony on May 28, 2009 in New York City.
http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102543495018&s=2154&e=001TP7Q38x7kY0q9lXTVhuv0-5jpn61Vt_qdmHMOL_Asfc0WN4QSAlqe-qPqURX_kSkm18fSwTO5MubB5zpfxOGg6vJ_jCn3cAkdC8LtfLYnhAZwDvMwP41CHTd1IGfLOzkbwLnbw88yS4xJ-yfdJxgQpW8BWJGyeBo
-MELBOURNE'S Catholic Church has embraced a Vatican suggestion to test potential priests for sexual orientation. Those who "appear" gay will be banned.
The head of the Vatican committee that made the recommendations has made it clear celibate gays should also be banned because homosexuality is ''a type of deviation''. Archdiocese of Melbourne spokesman James O'Farrell confirmed Carlton's Corpus Christi Catholic seminary had started adhering to the guidelines, but refused to comment further.
http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/story/0,23739,25250874-952,00.html
-You might be interested in the following story from OneNewsNow.com:
Obama appoints open homosexual to faith-based office
The head of a conservative activist group says President Obama's appointment of a leading homosexual activist to his faith-based council is an ominous sign that he may enforce a "pro-homosexuality orthodoxy" on religious groups receiving federal funds, which is itself a form of bigotry.
-News in Iowa continues to be good except that calls to the Govenor are still running 2 to 1 against. If you can, email the Governor being sure to honest about being out of state.
Email Governor Culver at the website:
http://www.governor.iowa.gov/administration/contact/
-Judge: State can't force dispensing 'morning-after' pill
SPRINGFIELD -- A central Illinois judge has ruled that the state can't force two pharmacists with religious objections to abortion to dispense emergency contraception. Sangamon County Circuit Judge John Belz issued a temporary restraining order Friday until he can hear arguments against the rule from druggists who object on religious grounds.
http://www.pantagraph.com/articles/2009/04/07/news/doc49da83661c20a649168411.txt
-Focus on the Family Staffer Caught in Teenage Sex Sting
A Colorado man who works for Evangelical group Focus on the Family has been arrested after he solicited sex online from an investigator posing as a teenage girl, police have said.
"Juan Alberto Ovalle, 42, thought he was corresponding with a girl under the age of 15, but instead it was undercover officers with the Jefferson County district attorney's office, according to court documents," reported the Denver Post.
http://www.denverpost.com/breakingnews/ci_12083195
-No campus-provided condoms, university presidents tell bishop
The area's four Catholic universities do not provide condoms or oral contraceptives at their campus health centers, their presidents announced Monday in a letter to Bishop Joseph F. Martino. The letter came as a response to a request made from the bishop last week to King's College, Misericordia University, Marywood University and the University of Scranton for information on whether their health centers provide or encourage use of contraceptives, which is against the doctrine of the Catholic Church.
http://thetimes-tribune.com/articles/2009/04/06/news/doc49da773a581ba311688370.txt
-Rick Warren lies about his homobigotry on Larry King Live
http://www.pamshouseblend.com/diary/10284/rick-warren-lies-about-his-homobigotry-on-larry-king-live
-First Documentary on gay youth's murder to be screened in Fort Lauderdale
Lateisha Green's Murder Classified as Hate Crime
http://campaign.constantcontact.com/render?v=001kFNqKSJGEd-V_lT9YBXUwbL1Ic2b5_95H5jgdgAGze4pFeP3I37raN7f-jwUj9Vv98QiKSlIZynv8o3hwJVpConCivJR89hjjqN0O8sq_Ok%3D
-Sweden OKs gay marriage
Sweden on Wednesday became the seventh country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage. Following a five-hour debate in Parliament, the legislation was overwhelmingly passed on a 261 to 22 vote, with 16 abstentions. The new law will go into effect May 1, replacing a 1995 law that allowed civil partnerships.
http://www.365gay.com/news/sweden-oks-gay-marriage/
-Federal Judge Strikes Down Maryland Ban on Exotic Dancers
A federal judge in Maryland yesterday struck down a state statute meant to ban strip clubs, finding it would place unconstitutional limits on free speech while violating the 14th Amendment's guarantee of equal protection.
http://legaltimes.typepad.com/blt/2009/04/federal-judge-strikes-down-maryland-ban-on-exotic-dancers.html
-Elder and Disabled Porn Targeted By Massachusetts Lawmaker - Proposal Goes Too Far
Massachusetts State Rep, Kathi-Anne Reinstein (D) is targeting adult entertainment involving models over the age of 60 as well as private sexual communications between the elderly (if you can call 60 "elderly" anymore) and private sexual communications among the disabled. See State Puts Porn Pervs in Sights, Boston Herald. The measure misses the mark and as it is an affront to the dignity of the elderly and the disabled alike with a heaping helping of unconstitutionality to round out the bad legislation buffet.
http://im.live.com/Messenger/IM/Home/?source=EML_WLHM_GreaterGood
-How tepid is this? (via The Advocate):
"The President respects the decision of the Iowa Supreme Court, and continues to believe that states should make their own decisions when it comes to the issue of marriage. Although President Obama supports civil unions rather than same-sex marriage, he believes that committed gay and lesbian couples should receive protection under the law." So, let's see...it should be left to the states so that as gay couples travel across state lines, they are married, not married, civil unioned, domestic partnered...yeah that sounds like equal protection under the law. Oh wait -- the press release didn't use the word EQUAL, did it?
www.pamshouseblend.com/diary/10230/breaking-white-house-response-to-iowa-ruling
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From Transgender Equality
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article
-Florida: Transgender candidate picked as new Lake Worth city manager
LAKE WORTH - Susan Stanton, who served 16.5 years as city manager in Largo, will be the next city manager in Lake Worth. Commissioners interviewed four finalists and today picked Stanton, the former Steve Stanton who was fired from his Largo job in 2007 after announcing plans to change his gender. Stanton also served 3.5 years as city manager in Berea, K.Y.
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
FLORIDA DIGEST - April 09, 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:
-Robbers beat two gay men in Broward County
Police are hunting for robbers who attacked two gay men separately in the Oakland Park area Monday, leaving one in a coma and the other with a serious head injury. With one victim unconscious and another suffering from a serious head wound, Broward Sheriff's Office detectives continued Wednesday to hunt for the attackers who brutally beat and robbed two gay men in east Broward County.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/broward/story/991512.html
=
Steve Rothaus
www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:
-SAVE Dade to recognize Miami-Dade Commission, former exec Heddy Peña and UM student group on May 20
SAVE Dade has announced that the Miami-Dade Commission, former executive director Heddy Peña and UM For Equality (a University of Miami student group) will be given 2009 Champion of Equality Awards on May 20 at Karu & Y in Miami. Here are details from SAVE Dade: Don't miss the Miami Latin Gay Film Festival Apr 16-19
http://campaign.constantcontact.com/render?v=001kFNqKSJGEd-V_lT9YBXUwbL1Ic2b5_95QtvbfgqhNDsFc6mVMfgH9e7P6Qw9sLBPaZFyZJEJt_8bnaeQJqmKll1X-MhsPM0GaztmA5quRZU%3D
-First Documentary on gay youth's murder to be screened in Fort Lauderdale Lateisha Green's Murder Classified as Hate Crime
http://campaign.constantcontact.com/render?v=001kFNqKSJGEd-V_lT9YBXUwbL1Ic2b5_95H5jgdgAGze4pFeP3I37raN7f-jwUj9Vv98QiKSlIZynv8o3hwJVpConCivJR89hjjqN0O8sq_Ok%3D
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LOCAL FILM PRODUCER, BRUCE PRESLEY, LAUNCHES WORLD-WIDE PREMIERE OF FIRST DOCUMENTARY AT MIAMI & FT. LAUDERDALE GAY & LESBIAN FILM FESTIVAL
On Saturday, May 2, at 4 p.m., local film producer, Bruce Presley's first full-length documentary, Amancio... Two Faces on a Tombstone, will be screened at the Gateway Cinema in Fort Lauderdale as an entry in the 2009 Miami & Ft. Lauderdale Gay & Lesbian Film Festival. Co-sponsored by Presley's Downtown Loft Studio and Compass, Inc., the Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Palm Beach County, Amancio... Two Faces on a Tombstone, is the first of many gay-themed documentaries Presley hopes to produce in the coming years. Shot in Yuma Arizona, Amancio... Two Faces on a Tombstone is the story of one man's journey to seek justice for the murder of a young gay man. "We had originally intended to document the stories of five or six young gay people whose lives had been ended by bigotry and homophobia," said Presley who retained award-winning documentarist Tom Murray (Fish Can't Fly (2005) and Farm Family: In Search of Gay Life in Rural America (2006)) to direct the film. "But when Tom met the people in Yuma he convinced us to focus on just this story."
"When I arrived in Yuma and saw the two faces on the tombstone and interviewed Michael [Baughman] and met the Corrales family I just felt we could create a different, more powerful film if we focused on just this story," said Murray in agreement. "There are several issues we have been able to explore in depth and we feel we have created something unique." Amancio Corrales, the child of Mexican immigrants, had a dream of becoming a famous female impersonator in nightclubs in Las Vegas. His family, who realized he was gay from a very early age, supported his efforts to be himself but had urged him to return home to Yuma because they feared for his life in nightclubs in northern Mexico and southwestern United States where he had plied his trades as cosmetologist and drag performer for the previous three years. Days after his return to Yuma, Amancio's slashed and battered body was found floating in the Colorado River. He was 23. His parents buried him on Mother's Day, 2005. On his headstone they engraved two photos of their son - one as Amancio, and one as Delilah, his female stage persona. Yuma resident Michael Baughman, a retired local businessman and long-time gay rights activist, heard about the Corrales family's loss and, moved by the young man's death and his family's need for justice, brought together Yuma ctivists and began a three-year long quest to find Amancio's murderer. Confronted by an indifferent police department only through Michael's persistence was Amancio's murderer discovered, arrested, tried and convicted Actual courtroom scenes are interspersed with interviews giving the viewer a sense of immediacy that otherwise would not have been possible. The film raises the question was justice served in the Yuma courts? Amancio...Two faces on a Tombstone is a remarkable cinematic work and we're delighted to host its world premiere" said Kareem Tabsch, Program Director of the film festival. "We are excited to see this caliber of work being produced locally and are impressed by Downtown Loft Studio's commitment to documenting the various aspects of the LGBT community, like the heartbreaking story of Amancio Corrales." "It's an honor to hold our world premiere of Amancio at the Gateway under the auspices of the Miami & Fort Lauderdale Gay & Lesbian Film Festival," said Presley who is negotiating with a number of other national and international film festivals as well as several television networks. "This is an important venue and a launch pad for gay films. We look forward to a future festival screening in Miami this summer. We are also planning a Palm Beach County program with Compass in the fall." The Gateway Cinema is located at 1820 East Sunrise Blvd in Fort Lauderdale. Tickets are available through the box office or online at the film festival website -- http://mglff.com/2009. More information on the film can be found at www.amancio-themovie.com. Producer Bruce Presley, director Tom Murray, film protagonist Michael Baughman and representatives from Downtown Loft Studio and Compass, Inc. will be present at the screening to answer audience questions.
~~FLORIDA GENERAL NEWS~~
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Water levels dropping, fueling Lake Okeechobee and U.S. Sugar land deal debates
Key water supplies already are in worse shape than during the past two years of drought, heightening concerns about how to use Lake Okeechobee to help meet South Florida's needs. Water levels in the Everglades water conservation areas, relied on to supplement drinking water supplies, are below normal and lower than in 2008 and 2007 at this time of year, the South Florida Water Management District reported Wednesday.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/services/newspaper/printedition/local/sfl-water-drought-p040909pnapr09,0,6191230.story
=
[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:
-Robbers beat two gay men in Broward County
Police are hunting for robbers who attacked two gay men separately in the Oakland Park area Monday, leaving one in a coma and the other with a serious head injury. With one victim unconscious and another suffering from a serious head wound, Broward Sheriff's Office detectives continued Wednesday to hunt for the attackers who brutally beat and robbed two gay men in east Broward County.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/broward/story/991512.html
=
Steve Rothaus
www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:
-SAVE Dade to recognize Miami-Dade Commission, former exec Heddy Peña and UM student group on May 20
SAVE Dade has announced that the Miami-Dade Commission, former executive director Heddy Peña and UM For Equality (a University of Miami student group) will be given 2009 Champion of Equality Awards on May 20 at Karu & Y in Miami. Here are details from SAVE Dade: Don't miss the Miami Latin Gay Film Festival Apr 16-19
http://campaign.constantcontact.com/render?v=001kFNqKSJGEd-V_lT9YBXUwbL1Ic2b5_95QtvbfgqhNDsFc6mVMfgH9e7P6Qw9sLBPaZFyZJEJt_8bnaeQJqmKll1X-MhsPM0GaztmA5quRZU%3D
-First Documentary on gay youth's murder to be screened in Fort Lauderdale Lateisha Green's Murder Classified as Hate Crime
http://campaign.constantcontact.com/render?v=001kFNqKSJGEd-V_lT9YBXUwbL1Ic2b5_95H5jgdgAGze4pFeP3I37raN7f-jwUj9Vv98QiKSlIZynv8o3hwJVpConCivJR89hjjqN0O8sq_Ok%3D
=
LOCAL FILM PRODUCER, BRUCE PRESLEY, LAUNCHES WORLD-WIDE PREMIERE OF FIRST DOCUMENTARY AT MIAMI & FT. LAUDERDALE GAY & LESBIAN FILM FESTIVAL
On Saturday, May 2, at 4 p.m., local film producer, Bruce Presley's first full-length documentary, Amancio... Two Faces on a Tombstone, will be screened at the Gateway Cinema in Fort Lauderdale as an entry in the 2009 Miami & Ft. Lauderdale Gay & Lesbian Film Festival. Co-sponsored by Presley's Downtown Loft Studio and Compass, Inc., the Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Palm Beach County, Amancio... Two Faces on a Tombstone, is the first of many gay-themed documentaries Presley hopes to produce in the coming years. Shot in Yuma Arizona, Amancio... Two Faces on a Tombstone is the story of one man's journey to seek justice for the murder of a young gay man. "We had originally intended to document the stories of five or six young gay people whose lives had been ended by bigotry and homophobia," said Presley who retained award-winning documentarist Tom Murray (Fish Can't Fly (2005) and Farm Family: In Search of Gay Life in Rural America (2006)) to direct the film. "But when Tom met the people in Yuma he convinced us to focus on just this story."
"When I arrived in Yuma and saw the two faces on the tombstone and interviewed Michael [Baughman] and met the Corrales family I just felt we could create a different, more powerful film if we focused on just this story," said Murray in agreement. "There are several issues we have been able to explore in depth and we feel we have created something unique." Amancio Corrales, the child of Mexican immigrants, had a dream of becoming a famous female impersonator in nightclubs in Las Vegas. His family, who realized he was gay from a very early age, supported his efforts to be himself but had urged him to return home to Yuma because they feared for his life in nightclubs in northern Mexico and southwestern United States where he had plied his trades as cosmetologist and drag performer for the previous three years. Days after his return to Yuma, Amancio's slashed and battered body was found floating in the Colorado River. He was 23. His parents buried him on Mother's Day, 2005. On his headstone they engraved two photos of their son - one as Amancio, and one as Delilah, his female stage persona. Yuma resident Michael Baughman, a retired local businessman and long-time gay rights activist, heard about the Corrales family's loss and, moved by the young man's death and his family's need for justice, brought together Yuma ctivists and began a three-year long quest to find Amancio's murderer. Confronted by an indifferent police department only through Michael's persistence was Amancio's murderer discovered, arrested, tried and convicted Actual courtroom scenes are interspersed with interviews giving the viewer a sense of immediacy that otherwise would not have been possible. The film raises the question was justice served in the Yuma courts? Amancio...Two faces on a Tombstone is a remarkable cinematic work and we're delighted to host its world premiere" said Kareem Tabsch, Program Director of the film festival. "We are excited to see this caliber of work being produced locally and are impressed by Downtown Loft Studio's commitment to documenting the various aspects of the LGBT community, like the heartbreaking story of Amancio Corrales." "It's an honor to hold our world premiere of Amancio at the Gateway under the auspices of the Miami & Fort Lauderdale Gay & Lesbian Film Festival," said Presley who is negotiating with a number of other national and international film festivals as well as several television networks. "This is an important venue and a launch pad for gay films. We look forward to a future festival screening in Miami this summer. We are also planning a Palm Beach County program with Compass in the fall." The Gateway Cinema is located at 1820 East Sunrise Blvd in Fort Lauderdale. Tickets are available through the box office or online at the film festival website -- http://mglff.com/2009. More information on the film can be found at www.amancio-themovie.com. Producer Bruce Presley, director Tom Murray, film protagonist Michael Baughman and representatives from Downtown Loft Studio and Compass, Inc. will be present at the screening to answer audience questions.
~~FLORIDA GENERAL NEWS~~
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Water levels dropping, fueling Lake Okeechobee and U.S. Sugar land deal debates
Key water supplies already are in worse shape than during the past two years of drought, heightening concerns about how to use Lake Okeechobee to help meet South Florida's needs. Water levels in the Everglades water conservation areas, relied on to supplement drinking water supplies, are below normal and lower than in 2008 and 2007 at this time of year, the South Florida Water Management District reported Wednesday.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/services/newspaper/printedition/local/sfl-water-drought-p040909pnapr09,0,6191230.story
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
Wednesday, April 08, 2009
GLBT DIGEST - April 08, 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:
-Gay Rights Groups Celebrate Victories in Marriage Push
By ABBY GOODNOUGH
Gay-rights groups say that momentum from back-to-back victories on same-sex marriage in Vermont and Iowa could spill into other states, particularly since at least nine other legislatures are considering measures this year to allow marriage between gay couples.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/08/us/08vermont.html?hp
-Iraq's Newly Open Gays Face Scorn and Murder
By TIMOTHY WILLIAMS and TAREQ MAHER
BAGHDAD - The relative freedom of a newly democratic Iraq and the recent improvement in security have allowed a gay subculture to flourish here. The response has been swift and deadly. In the past two months, the bodies of as many as 25 boys and men suspected of being gay have turned up in the huge Shiite enclave of Sadr City, the police and friends of the dead say. Most have been shot, some multiple times. Several have been found with the word "pervert" in Arabic on notes attached to their bodies, the police said.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/08/world/middleeast/08gay.html?hp
-Stonewall Anniversary as Gay Tourism Event
By Sewell Chan
The Stonewall riots of 1969, in which protesters clashed with the authorities after a violent police raid on a Greenwich Village bar, are a defining moment in the history of the gay rights movement. Now New York City officials hope to capitalize on the 40th anniversary of the uprising, this June, by promoting the city as a gay tourist destination.
http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/04/07/from-stonewall-riots-to-rainbow-pilgrimage/?scp=2&sq=gay&st=cse
-Being Bullied Can Make Kids Stronger
By Lisa Belkin
A reader left a note in the comments last week, asking for help. Calling herself "Worried Mom from the Midwest" she wrote:
I was wondering if you can talk about bullying and get suggestions on how to deal with it. My bright and unfortunately sensitive 7-year-old has always been on the receiving end of jabs (verbal and sometimes physical). He easily gets riled up and last night came down in the middle of night crying about this bully who has been tormenting him intermittently for 3 years.
http://parenting.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/04/07/being-bullied-can-make-kids-stronger/?scp=7&sq=gay&st=cse
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Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Triumph for Equality
Common decency wins out in votes on gay marriage. THROUGH VERY different means and under very different circumstances, lawmakers in Vermont and the District yesterday came to the same conclusion: Common decency and the protections guaranteed to all citizens by the rule of law demand that the relationships of gay men and lesbians be respected and recognized.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/07/AR2009040703434.html
-White House invites gay families to Easter event
By GILLIAN GAYNAIR
The White House is allocating tickets for the upcoming Easter Egg Roll to gay and lesbian parents as part of the Obama administration's outreach to diverse communities.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/07/AR2009040702971.html
-NYC promoters woo gay, lesbian tourists
By MARCUS FRANKLIN
New York City officials are turning to gays and lesbians to help reduce a projected $4 billion budget deficit. The nation's largest city unveiled a marketing campaign Tuesday to attract more gay and lesbian tourists from around the country and the world as other U.S. cities compete to strip New York of its title of No. 1 vacation destination for gays and lesbians. The Rainbow Pilgrimage campaign comes as state and city officials grapple with diminishing revenue resulting from the global economic meltdown, which is forcing many people to forgo leisure travel plans or take so-called staycations near home. The campaign kickoff also comes months in advance of the June 40th anniversary of the Stonewall riots in Manhattan, considered the start of the modern gay liberation movement.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/07/AR2009040703283.html
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Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Historic vote in Vermont House brings tears of joy to eyes of gay marriage
supporters
LISA RATHKE
A sign planted outside the Vermont capitol read, "Let Love Win." For gays and lesbians seeking the right to marry, it did. The state House on Tuesday narrowly achieved the votes necessary to override Gov. Jim Douglas' veto of a bill that allowing gays and lesbians to marry beginning Sept. 1.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/nationworld/nation/wire/sns-ap-gay-marriage-vermont,0,4423562.story
-Md. prisons to offer choice of daily kosher meals beyond Passover period
SCRANTON, Pa. (AP) - Seeking to reassure their region's outspoken bishop, the presidents of four Roman Catholic institutions of higher learning in northeastern Pennsylvania say their schools do not provide condoms or other contraceptives in conflict with church teaching. The presidents of Marywood University, the University of Scranton, Misericordia University and King's College jointly wrote to Scranton Bishop Joseph Martino to address his concerns.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/nationworld/world/wire/sns-ap-rel-religion-briefs,0,5763014.story
-Nine years ago, Vermont became the first state to legally recognize civil unions. Yesterday, the state House and Senate voted to override the governor's veto of a same-sex marriage bill that was passed last week. With its 100-49 vote in the House -- exactly the number of votes needed to nullify the veto -- Vermont again set a precedent by becoming the first state to legally recognize gay marriage through a legislative act rather than a court order. Conservatives often criticize judges for legislating from the bench; last week's unanimous decision by the Iowa Supreme Court to strike down a ban on gay marriage came under fire for this very reason. But even conservatives who disagree passionately with the results in Vermont should be able to respect the right of the duly elected peoples' representatives to take such action. ...
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/nationworld/nation/wire/sns-ap-ap-editorial-rdp,0,7978662.story?page=2
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Steve Rothaus
www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Videos | HRC 'exposes National Organization for Marriage's fake ad for fake problems'
News release from Human Rights Campaign:
WASHINGTON -The Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, released a statement and a factual rebuttal today on a television spot produced by the National Organization for Marriage and set to run on CNN, the Fox News Channel, and MSNBC in the coming days. In the ad, actors make disproven claims about marriage for lesbian and gay couples.
-Video | Anti-gay marriage 'Gathering Storm'
Following the decisions in Iowa and Vermont to allow same-sex marriages, a conservative group, NationForMarriage.org ("Protecting Marriage and the Faith Communities that Sustain It"), has released a video titled Gathering Storm:
-NYC promoters woo gay, lesbian tourists
By MARCUS FRANKLIN, Associated Press
New York City officials are turning to gays and lesbians to help reduce a projected $4 billion budget deficit. The nation's largest city unveiled a marketing campaign Tuesday to attract more gay and lesbian tourists from around the country and the world as other U.S. cities compete to strip New York of its title of No. 1 vacation destination for gays and lesbians. The Rainbow Pilgrimage campaign comes as state and city officials grapple with diminishing revenue resulting from the global economic meltdown, which is forcing many people to forgo leisure travel plans or take so-called staycations near home. The campaign kickoff also comes months in advance of the June 40th anniversary of the Stonewall riots in Manhattan, considered the start of the modern gay liberation movement. To read the entire article, click here.
-Transgender: Susan Stanton hired as city manager in Palm Beach County's
Lake Worth
From The Palm Beach Post:
Susan Stanton, the former Largo city manager who drew national media attention after being fired for announcing plans for a gender change, was selected as Lake Worth's city manager today by a 4-1 vote. To read the entire article, click here.
-AP File/St. Petersburg Times, Douglas R Clifford
Video | Bjorn Borg - 'Love for All' TV commercial To read the entire article, click here.
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Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Tony Blair criticizes Vatican attitude toward gays
The Associated Press
LONDON -- Roman Catholic leaders are out of step with ordinary believers in their attitude toward homosexuals, former Prime Minister Tony Blair said in an interview published Wednesday. Blair, who formally converted to Catholicism in 2007, said he believes there is a big generational difference on the issue, and that ordinary Catholics are more liberal-minded than their leaders.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/world/AP/story/989913.html
-Jack Wrangler, gay porn idol, dead at 62
By JENNIFER PELTZ
The 1970s gay porn idol Jack Wrangler has died at age 62. Lewis Tice, director of publicity and marketing for TLA Releasing, a distributor of gay-themed independent films, says Wrangler died in New York City of complications of lung disease.
http://www.miamiherald.com/entertainment/AP/story/990500.html
-Details sketchy in beatings of gay men in Broward
BY DAVID SMILEY
The Broward Sheriff's Office continues to investigate the brutal beatings of two gay men in Oakland Park earlier this week.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/breaking-news/story/990538.html
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South Florida Blade
http://www.floridablade.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Gov. joins anti-gay marriage campaign
Says decision should be left up to voters
by Nancy Krause and Danielle North
A group against gay marriage has a very prominent politician in its corner. Gov. Donald Carcieri and his wife, Sue, joined the Rhode Island Chapter of the National Organization for Marriage Wednesday morning at the State House as it launched its new media campaign.
http://www.wpri.com/dpp/news/local_news/local_wpri_gov_carcieri_joins_anti_gay_marriage_campaign_20090408
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The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-White House Responds To Iowa
By Kerry Eleveld
UPDATE: A White House spokesperson sent the following corrected statement in response to the Iowa court decision:
"The President respects the decision of the Iowa Supreme Court, and continues to believe that states should make their own decisions when it comes to the issue of marriage. Although President Obama supports civil unions rather than same-sex marriage, he believes that committed gay and lesbian couples should receive equal rights under the law."
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid77464.asp
-Oprah, Lesbianism, and a Colonoscopy
Gays steaming it up at a Jersey sports bar, Oprah trendsetting with an episode on sudden lesbianism, and a bit too much info from Tyra Banks re: her colonoscopy
By Dave White
The gays are bringing the heartwarmth to the airwaves lately. Don't ask me why. Maybe it's sweeps.
http://www.advocate.com/exclusive_detail_ektid77441.asp
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365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Man denies torching ex-lover
By 365gay Newscenter Staff
(London) A man accused of murdering his former lover by pouring gasoline over his head and then setting him on fire has told a jury he is innocent.
http://www.365gay.com/news/man-denies-torching-ex-lover/
-Lesbian mom wins deportation delay
By 365gay Newscenter Staff
Shirley Tan has won a temporary delay so that she can appeal the deportation order that would have torn her from her life partner and their 12-year-old twin sons.
http://www.365gay.com/news/lesbian-mom-wins-deportation-delay/
-Hate crimes bill reintroduced in Congress
By 365gay Newscenter Staff
Legislation to add sexual orientation to the list of categories covered under federal hate crime law has been reintroduced in Congress.
http://www.365gay.com/news/hate-crimes-bill-reintroduced-in-congress/
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Daily Queer News
www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Polish Gay Movement Gains Momentum
Lyndon Barnett | Star Observer
After losing his job because of discrimination, Warsaw-born Szymon Niemiec, 31, was inspired to become a gay activist. He became an organiser of Poland's first Pride parade after watching Sydney's 2001 Mardi Gras on television. "While at a gay bar with friends watching Sydney's parade we asked ourselves, 'Why not?' From this moment Equality Parade was born," Szymon said. "Our group, ILGCN Poland, had always one goal: to build acceptance in Poland for LGBT people by culture, help and support. From the beginning we used art and culture to make Polish gays visible and proud of their achievements." Read more
-NY: Stonewall Anniversary as Gay Tourism Event
Sewell Chan
Rainbow Pilgrimage announcementPhotos: Julienne Schaer/NYC & Company Announcing a new marketing campaign aimed at gay tourists were George A. Fertitta, chief executive of NYC & Company, Christine C. Quinn, the City Council speaker, and Rosie Mendez, a Manhattan councilwoman. The Stonewall riots of 1969, in which protesters clashed with the authorities after a violent police raid on a Greenwich Village bar, are a defining moment in the history of the gay rights movement. Now New York City officials hope to capitalize on the 40th anniversary of the uprising, this June, by promoting the city as a gay tourist destination. Announcing a new marketing campaign under the slogan "Rainbow Pilgrimage," tourism officials said on Tuesday that the new marketing campaign would seek to portray a visit to New York "as a 'rite of passage' for the gay and lesbian traveler." City officials found little remarkable in using an event associated with violence and resistance as the centerpiece of a marketing campaign. Read more
-IL: Pro-Gay Quigley Replaces Emanuel in Chicago
On Top Magazine
A pro-gay Democrat handily won a special election held Tuesday to fill the seat that Rahm Emanuel gave up to be President Barack Obama's chief of staff, reports ABC 7, a Chicago television station. Cook County Commissioner Mike Quigley won nearly 70 percent of the vote with 98 percent of precincts reporting. Quigley clobbered Republican rival Rosanna Pulido and Green Party candidate Matt Reichel to claim Illinois' fifth Congressional District seat. The district stretches from Chicago's wealthy lakefront neighborhoods to outlying suburbs and includes much of Chicago's largest gay neighborhood that straddles along North Halsted street. Read more
-Iowa OKs Gay Marriage, WWCD? (What Will California Do?)
Bill Berkowitz | Religion Dispatches
The unanimous decision last week by the Iowa Supreme Court allowing same-sex marriage appears to have surprised many same-sex marriage advocates around the country, and no doubt shocked and shook up many Religious Right leaders. A post-ruling joint statement issued by Iowa's Senate Majority Leader Mike Gronstal and House Speaker Pat Murphy pointed out that the court's decision is in keeping with that state's "long history of justice." "Iowa has always been a leader in the area of civil rights, read Gronstal and Murphy's statement:
.. In 1839, the Iowa Supreme Court rejected slavery in a decision that
found that a slave named Ralph became free when he stepped on Iowa soil, 26
years before the end of the Civil War decided the issue. In 1868, the Iowa Supreme Court ruled that racially segregated "separate but equal" schools had no place in Iowa, 85 years before the U.S. Supreme Court reached the same decision. In 1873, the Iowa Supreme Court ruled against racial discrimination in public accommodations, 91 years before the U.S. Supreme Court reached the same decision. In 1869, Iowa became the first state in the union to admit women to the practice of law. In the case of recognizing loving relationships between two adults, the Iowa Supreme Court is once again taking a leadership position on civil rights.. Jim Burroway, the editor of Box Turtle Bulletin, an invaluable source of information on anti-gay movements and activities, compiled a collection of comments from a handful of Religious Right leaders: Read more
-Senegal: Nine Men Contest Gay Prison Sentences
Jessica Geen | Pink News
Nine Senegalese men who were sentenced to eight years in prison for "indecent conduct and unnatural acts" are appealing against the decision. The men, most of whom belong to a group set up to combat HIV/AIDS, appeared at the Dakar Court of Appeal yesterday with their attorneys. The men's counsel argued that there was no material proof for the accusations, no specific complainant had filed charges against the men and that the time of their arrests (after 10pm) was illegal. Read more
-TX: Christian University Offers Separate Accommodations for Gay Students
Sophie Wilkinson | Pink News
Texas Christian University is to provide LGBT students and their straight "allies" with special accommodation as part of a new scheme designed to allow like-minded students to live together. Shelly Newkirk, a TCU sophomore who is gay, helped create the community inclusion scheme in the Fort Worth campus. It is available as part of the US university's Learning Living Community programme. The Star Telegram reports that Newkirk helped lead the effort for the DiversCity Q housing area. Read more
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New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Gay Rights Groups Celebrate Victories in Marriage Push
By ABBY GOODNOUGH
Gay-rights groups say that momentum from back-to-back victories on same-sex marriage in Vermont and Iowa could spill into other states, particularly since at least nine other legislatures are considering measures this year to allow marriage between gay couples.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/08/us/08vermont.html?hp
-Iraq's Newly Open Gays Face Scorn and Murder
By TIMOTHY WILLIAMS and TAREQ MAHER
BAGHDAD - The relative freedom of a newly democratic Iraq and the recent improvement in security have allowed a gay subculture to flourish here. The response has been swift and deadly. In the past two months, the bodies of as many as 25 boys and men suspected of being gay have turned up in the huge Shiite enclave of Sadr City, the police and friends of the dead say. Most have been shot, some multiple times. Several have been found with the word "pervert" in Arabic on notes attached to their bodies, the police said.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/08/world/middleeast/08gay.html?hp
-Stonewall Anniversary as Gay Tourism Event
By Sewell Chan
The Stonewall riots of 1969, in which protesters clashed with the authorities after a violent police raid on a Greenwich Village bar, are a defining moment in the history of the gay rights movement. Now New York City officials hope to capitalize on the 40th anniversary of the uprising, this June, by promoting the city as a gay tourist destination.
http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/04/07/from-stonewall-riots-to-rainbow-pilgrimage/?scp=2&sq=gay&st=cse
-Being Bullied Can Make Kids Stronger
By Lisa Belkin
A reader left a note in the comments last week, asking for help. Calling herself "Worried Mom from the Midwest" she wrote:
I was wondering if you can talk about bullying and get suggestions on how to deal with it. My bright and unfortunately sensitive 7-year-old has always been on the receiving end of jabs (verbal and sometimes physical). He easily gets riled up and last night came down in the middle of night crying about this bully who has been tormenting him intermittently for 3 years.
http://parenting.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/04/07/being-bullied-can-make-kids-stronger/?scp=7&sq=gay&st=cse
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Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Triumph for Equality
Common decency wins out in votes on gay marriage. THROUGH VERY different means and under very different circumstances, lawmakers in Vermont and the District yesterday came to the same conclusion: Common decency and the protections guaranteed to all citizens by the rule of law demand that the relationships of gay men and lesbians be respected and recognized.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/07/AR2009040703434.html
-White House invites gay families to Easter event
By GILLIAN GAYNAIR
The White House is allocating tickets for the upcoming Easter Egg Roll to gay and lesbian parents as part of the Obama administration's outreach to diverse communities.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/07/AR2009040702971.html
-NYC promoters woo gay, lesbian tourists
By MARCUS FRANKLIN
New York City officials are turning to gays and lesbians to help reduce a projected $4 billion budget deficit. The nation's largest city unveiled a marketing campaign Tuesday to attract more gay and lesbian tourists from around the country and the world as other U.S. cities compete to strip New York of its title of No. 1 vacation destination for gays and lesbians. The Rainbow Pilgrimage campaign comes as state and city officials grapple with diminishing revenue resulting from the global economic meltdown, which is forcing many people to forgo leisure travel plans or take so-called staycations near home. The campaign kickoff also comes months in advance of the June 40th anniversary of the Stonewall riots in Manhattan, considered the start of the modern gay liberation movement.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/07/AR2009040703283.html
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Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Historic vote in Vermont House brings tears of joy to eyes of gay marriage
supporters
LISA RATHKE
A sign planted outside the Vermont capitol read, "Let Love Win." For gays and lesbians seeking the right to marry, it did. The state House on Tuesday narrowly achieved the votes necessary to override Gov. Jim Douglas' veto of a bill that allowing gays and lesbians to marry beginning Sept. 1.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/nationworld/nation/wire/sns-ap-gay-marriage-vermont,0,4423562.story
-Md. prisons to offer choice of daily kosher meals beyond Passover period
SCRANTON, Pa. (AP) - Seeking to reassure their region's outspoken bishop, the presidents of four Roman Catholic institutions of higher learning in northeastern Pennsylvania say their schools do not provide condoms or other contraceptives in conflict with church teaching. The presidents of Marywood University, the University of Scranton, Misericordia University and King's College jointly wrote to Scranton Bishop Joseph Martino to address his concerns.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/nationworld/world/wire/sns-ap-rel-religion-briefs,0,5763014.story
-Nine years ago, Vermont became the first state to legally recognize civil unions. Yesterday, the state House and Senate voted to override the governor's veto of a same-sex marriage bill that was passed last week. With its 100-49 vote in the House -- exactly the number of votes needed to nullify the veto -- Vermont again set a precedent by becoming the first state to legally recognize gay marriage through a legislative act rather than a court order. Conservatives often criticize judges for legislating from the bench; last week's unanimous decision by the Iowa Supreme Court to strike down a ban on gay marriage came under fire for this very reason. But even conservatives who disagree passionately with the results in Vermont should be able to respect the right of the duly elected peoples' representatives to take such action. ...
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/nationworld/nation/wire/sns-ap-ap-editorial-rdp,0,7978662.story?page=2
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Steve Rothaus
www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Videos | HRC 'exposes National Organization for Marriage's fake ad for fake problems'
News release from Human Rights Campaign:
WASHINGTON -The Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, released a statement and a factual rebuttal today on a television spot produced by the National Organization for Marriage and set to run on CNN, the Fox News Channel, and MSNBC in the coming days. In the ad, actors make disproven claims about marriage for lesbian and gay couples.
-Video | Anti-gay marriage 'Gathering Storm'
Following the decisions in Iowa and Vermont to allow same-sex marriages, a conservative group, NationForMarriage.org ("Protecting Marriage and the Faith Communities that Sustain It"), has released a video titled Gathering Storm:
-NYC promoters woo gay, lesbian tourists
By MARCUS FRANKLIN, Associated Press
New York City officials are turning to gays and lesbians to help reduce a projected $4 billion budget deficit. The nation's largest city unveiled a marketing campaign Tuesday to attract more gay and lesbian tourists from around the country and the world as other U.S. cities compete to strip New York of its title of No. 1 vacation destination for gays and lesbians. The Rainbow Pilgrimage campaign comes as state and city officials grapple with diminishing revenue resulting from the global economic meltdown, which is forcing many people to forgo leisure travel plans or take so-called staycations near home. The campaign kickoff also comes months in advance of the June 40th anniversary of the Stonewall riots in Manhattan, considered the start of the modern gay liberation movement. To read the entire article, click here.
-Transgender: Susan Stanton hired as city manager in Palm Beach County's
Lake Worth
From The Palm Beach Post:
Susan Stanton, the former Largo city manager who drew national media attention after being fired for announcing plans for a gender change, was selected as Lake Worth's city manager today by a 4-1 vote. To read the entire article, click here.
-AP File/St. Petersburg Times, Douglas R Clifford
Video | Bjorn Borg - 'Love for All' TV commercial To read the entire article, click here.
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Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Tony Blair criticizes Vatican attitude toward gays
The Associated Press
LONDON -- Roman Catholic leaders are out of step with ordinary believers in their attitude toward homosexuals, former Prime Minister Tony Blair said in an interview published Wednesday. Blair, who formally converted to Catholicism in 2007, said he believes there is a big generational difference on the issue, and that ordinary Catholics are more liberal-minded than their leaders.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/world/AP/story/989913.html
-Jack Wrangler, gay porn idol, dead at 62
By JENNIFER PELTZ
The 1970s gay porn idol Jack Wrangler has died at age 62. Lewis Tice, director of publicity and marketing for TLA Releasing, a distributor of gay-themed independent films, says Wrangler died in New York City of complications of lung disease.
http://www.miamiherald.com/entertainment/AP/story/990500.html
-Details sketchy in beatings of gay men in Broward
BY DAVID SMILEY
The Broward Sheriff's Office continues to investigate the brutal beatings of two gay men in Oakland Park earlier this week.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/breaking-news/story/990538.html
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South Florida Blade
http://www.floridablade.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Gov. joins anti-gay marriage campaign
Says decision should be left up to voters
by Nancy Krause and Danielle North
A group against gay marriage has a very prominent politician in its corner. Gov. Donald Carcieri and his wife, Sue, joined the Rhode Island Chapter of the National Organization for Marriage Wednesday morning at the State House as it launched its new media campaign.
http://www.wpri.com/dpp/news/local_news/local_wpri_gov_carcieri_joins_anti_gay_marriage_campaign_20090408
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The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-White House Responds To Iowa
By Kerry Eleveld
UPDATE: A White House spokesperson sent the following corrected statement in response to the Iowa court decision:
"The President respects the decision of the Iowa Supreme Court, and continues to believe that states should make their own decisions when it comes to the issue of marriage. Although President Obama supports civil unions rather than same-sex marriage, he believes that committed gay and lesbian couples should receive equal rights under the law."
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid77464.asp
-Oprah, Lesbianism, and a Colonoscopy
Gays steaming it up at a Jersey sports bar, Oprah trendsetting with an episode on sudden lesbianism, and a bit too much info from Tyra Banks re: her colonoscopy
By Dave White
The gays are bringing the heartwarmth to the airwaves lately. Don't ask me why. Maybe it's sweeps.
http://www.advocate.com/exclusive_detail_ektid77441.asp
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365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Man denies torching ex-lover
By 365gay Newscenter Staff
(London) A man accused of murdering his former lover by pouring gasoline over his head and then setting him on fire has told a jury he is innocent.
http://www.365gay.com/news/man-denies-torching-ex-lover/
-Lesbian mom wins deportation delay
By 365gay Newscenter Staff
Shirley Tan has won a temporary delay so that she can appeal the deportation order that would have torn her from her life partner and their 12-year-old twin sons.
http://www.365gay.com/news/lesbian-mom-wins-deportation-delay/
-Hate crimes bill reintroduced in Congress
By 365gay Newscenter Staff
Legislation to add sexual orientation to the list of categories covered under federal hate crime law has been reintroduced in Congress.
http://www.365gay.com/news/hate-crimes-bill-reintroduced-in-congress/
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Daily Queer News
www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Polish Gay Movement Gains Momentum
Lyndon Barnett | Star Observer
After losing his job because of discrimination, Warsaw-born Szymon Niemiec, 31, was inspired to become a gay activist. He became an organiser of Poland's first Pride parade after watching Sydney's 2001 Mardi Gras on television. "While at a gay bar with friends watching Sydney's parade we asked ourselves, 'Why not?' From this moment Equality Parade was born," Szymon said. "Our group, ILGCN Poland, had always one goal: to build acceptance in Poland for LGBT people by culture, help and support. From the beginning we used art and culture to make Polish gays visible and proud of their achievements." Read more
-NY: Stonewall Anniversary as Gay Tourism Event
Sewell Chan
Rainbow Pilgrimage announcementPhotos: Julienne Schaer/NYC & Company Announcing a new marketing campaign aimed at gay tourists were George A. Fertitta, chief executive of NYC & Company, Christine C. Quinn, the City Council speaker, and Rosie Mendez, a Manhattan councilwoman. The Stonewall riots of 1969, in which protesters clashed with the authorities after a violent police raid on a Greenwich Village bar, are a defining moment in the history of the gay rights movement. Now New York City officials hope to capitalize on the 40th anniversary of the uprising, this June, by promoting the city as a gay tourist destination. Announcing a new marketing campaign under the slogan "Rainbow Pilgrimage," tourism officials said on Tuesday that the new marketing campaign would seek to portray a visit to New York "as a 'rite of passage' for the gay and lesbian traveler." City officials found little remarkable in using an event associated with violence and resistance as the centerpiece of a marketing campaign. Read more
-IL: Pro-Gay Quigley Replaces Emanuel in Chicago
On Top Magazine
A pro-gay Democrat handily won a special election held Tuesday to fill the seat that Rahm Emanuel gave up to be President Barack Obama's chief of staff, reports ABC 7, a Chicago television station. Cook County Commissioner Mike Quigley won nearly 70 percent of the vote with 98 percent of precincts reporting. Quigley clobbered Republican rival Rosanna Pulido and Green Party candidate Matt Reichel to claim Illinois' fifth Congressional District seat. The district stretches from Chicago's wealthy lakefront neighborhoods to outlying suburbs and includes much of Chicago's largest gay neighborhood that straddles along North Halsted street. Read more
-Iowa OKs Gay Marriage, WWCD? (What Will California Do?)
Bill Berkowitz | Religion Dispatches
The unanimous decision last week by the Iowa Supreme Court allowing same-sex marriage appears to have surprised many same-sex marriage advocates around the country, and no doubt shocked and shook up many Religious Right leaders. A post-ruling joint statement issued by Iowa's Senate Majority Leader Mike Gronstal and House Speaker Pat Murphy pointed out that the court's decision is in keeping with that state's "long history of justice." "Iowa has always been a leader in the area of civil rights, read Gronstal and Murphy's statement:
.. In 1839, the Iowa Supreme Court rejected slavery in a decision that
found that a slave named Ralph became free when he stepped on Iowa soil, 26
years before the end of the Civil War decided the issue. In 1868, the Iowa Supreme Court ruled that racially segregated "separate but equal" schools had no place in Iowa, 85 years before the U.S. Supreme Court reached the same decision. In 1873, the Iowa Supreme Court ruled against racial discrimination in public accommodations, 91 years before the U.S. Supreme Court reached the same decision. In 1869, Iowa became the first state in the union to admit women to the practice of law. In the case of recognizing loving relationships between two adults, the Iowa Supreme Court is once again taking a leadership position on civil rights.. Jim Burroway, the editor of Box Turtle Bulletin, an invaluable source of information on anti-gay movements and activities, compiled a collection of comments from a handful of Religious Right leaders: Read more
-Senegal: Nine Men Contest Gay Prison Sentences
Jessica Geen | Pink News
Nine Senegalese men who were sentenced to eight years in prison for "indecent conduct and unnatural acts" are appealing against the decision. The men, most of whom belong to a group set up to combat HIV/AIDS, appeared at the Dakar Court of Appeal yesterday with their attorneys. The men's counsel argued that there was no material proof for the accusations, no specific complainant had filed charges against the men and that the time of their arrests (after 10pm) was illegal. Read more
-TX: Christian University Offers Separate Accommodations for Gay Students
Sophie Wilkinson | Pink News
Texas Christian University is to provide LGBT students and their straight "allies" with special accommodation as part of a new scheme designed to allow like-minded students to live together. Shelly Newkirk, a TCU sophomore who is gay, helped create the community inclusion scheme in the Fort Worth campus. It is available as part of the US university's Learning Living Community programme. The Star Telegram reports that Newkirk helped lead the effort for the DiversCity Q housing area. Read more
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