**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:
Ex-Archbishop Speaks About Catholic Church and Homosexuality
By LAURIE GOODSTEIN
In spring 2002, as the scandal over sexual abuse by Roman Catholic priests was escalating, the long career of Archbishop Rembert G. Weakland of Milwaukee, one of the church’s most venerable voices for change, went up in flames one May morning.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/15/us/15weakland.html?scp=18&sq=gay&st=cse
AIDS WALK NEW YORK Sunday, a 6.2-mile walk in Central Park, beginning at 10 a.m. in the Sheep Meadow, south of 72nd Street. Signup begins at 8:30 a.m. at the Fifth Avenue and 59th Street entrance. Sponsored by the Gay Men’s Health Crisis.(212) 807-9255, aidswalk.net.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/15/arts/15spare.html?scp=10&sq=gay&st=cse
A ‘Marine’ for Catholics Sees a Time of Battle
By PAUL VITELLO
William A. Donohue, the perennially indignant president of the Catholic League for Civil and Religious Rights, had no sooner finished a conference call with reporters Wednesday, in which he demanded the firing of a new White House aide, when CNN called.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/15/nyregion/15donohue.html?scp=9&sq=gay&st=cse
GPS and Privacy Rights
The police generally need a search warrant to enter a person’s home or to listen to phone calls. But courts have been divided on whether the police must obtain a warrant before placing a GPS device on a car. New York State’s highest court ruled this week that they do, an important victory for privacy rights.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/15/opinion/15fri3.html?scp=7&sq=gay&st=cse
Man Beaten in Village; Police Suspect Bias Attack
By CHRISTINE HAUSER
A 50-year-old man visiting from Buffalo was assaulted by a group of young men early on Thursday in the West Village, and the police said they were investigating the attack as a possible gay bias crime.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/15/nyregion/15beat.html?scp=5&sq=gay&st=cse
New Hampshire Pact Near on Same-Sex Marriage
By ABBY GOODNOUGH
Gov. John Lynch of New Hampshire said Thursday that he would sign the state’s same-sex marriage bill if it was amended to further shield opponents from having to take part in ceremonies celebrating such unions.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/15/us/15marriage.html?scp=2&sq=gay&st=cse
=
Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
Showy, fearless Lambert inspires passion in fans
By JOCELYN NOVECK
The other night, after her 3-year-old son was in bed, confirmed Adam Lambert fanatic Sue Murrell was glued to her DVR, watching "American Idol."
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/14/AR2009051403081.html
Moscow braces for European musical song contest
By PETER LEONARD
MOSCOW -- Amid a frenzied light show, pyrotechnics and questionable wardrobe decisions, performers from across Europe will seek melodic supremacy Saturday night at the annual Eurovision song contest.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/15/AR2009051500853.html
The Rhetoric of the Rant
By Michael Gerson
The first response to the performer on a public stage wishing the death of a stranger for political reasons was discomfort. Wanda Sykes had "crossed a line" at the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner in accusing Rush Limbaugh of terrorism and treason, mocking his past drug addiction and wishing his kidneys would fail. But a counterreaction soon developed: Humor often is transgressive, and if you can't take it, don't dish it, and let's everyone lighten up a bit, and can't anyone take a joke anymore?
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/14/AR2009051403601.html
N.H. Governor Wants Gay-Marriage Bill to Shield Churches: New Hampshire Gov. John Lynch (D) said he will sign a bill to make his state the sixth to legalize same-sex marriage, but only if it strengthens protections for churches opposed to the practice. The bill, which the legislature has passed, would allow churches to decide whether they will conduct weddings for gay couples.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/14/AR2009051404048.html
Scotus prospect draws criticism from gay groups
By GREG BLUESTEIN
Georgia Chief Justice Leah Ward Sears, considered a potential nominee for the U.S. Supreme Court, has drawn criticism from gay rights groups after announcing plans to join a think tank whose founder is an outspoken opponent of gay marriage.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/15/AR2009051500418.html
=
Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/public/us
Go to the links for the following articles:
Pretty on the Inside?
By BARI WEISS
In Riyadh this week, 200 young Muslim women began a 10-week quest to be crowned Saudi Arabia's official beauty queen. To most Americans, "Miss Beautiful Morals," as the contest is called, wouldn't even qualify as a beauty pageant: Gone is the bikini competition -- these beauties will wear black abayas. They will compete instead to show their "commitment to Islamic morals," like respect for their parents. Pageant founder Khadra al-Mubarak was happy to distinguish her contest from similar events in the West: "It's an alternative to the calls for decadence in the other beauty contests that only take into account a woman's body and looks," she told the Associated Press.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124234821253621995.html
=
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
Review: Kirby Dick's powerful, disturbing 'Outrage'
By Kenneth Turan
Outrage is a title that demands to be broken into two parts: "out" and "rage." A powerful and disturbing documentary by Kirby Dick, it examines one of the most unexpected dynamics in contemporary American politics: the existence of right-wing, family-values conservative Republicans who are alleged to be closeted gays themselves.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/entertainment/movies/sfl-outrage-movie-review-g051509pbmay15,0,7582725.story
=
Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
Anti-gay church to protest here
A radical Kansas-based church plans to hold a series of anti-gay protests in South Florida this weekend.
BY JAWEED KALEEM
A small, radical Midwestern church that has made headlines for picketing Iraq War veterans' funerals plans to protest an America it believes has gone pro-gay and anti-God with demonstrations in South Florida beginning this weekend. Its targets are Calvary Chapel in Fort Lauderdale; St. Thomas Episcopal, University Baptist and Church of the Little Flower in Coral Gables; Temple Israel in Miami; the University of Miami Law School graduation, and the consulates of Japan, Israel, Argentina, Brazil and Chile, according to the website of Westboro Baptist Church of Topeka, Kan.
http://www.miamiherald.com/living/religion-values/story/1049306.html
=
The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
Eminem Turns to Elton During Rehab
By Rhiza Dizon
In Vibe magazine’s June/July issue, cover star Eminem opens up about turning to Elton John during his early days of rehab.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid84152.asp
Lawrence King's Parents Score Legal Victory
By Neal Broverman
A judge ruled this week that the parents and brother of Lawrence King -- the gay 15-year-old California boy who was slain by a classmate in February 2008 -- can sue the foster home where he lived at the time of his death.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid84181.asp
Uruguay May Repeal Gay Military Ban
Andrew Harmon
While the Obama administration grapples with its stated intent to repeal the U.S. military’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy, Uruguay has moved one step ahead.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid84183.asp
=
Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:
Baltic Pride to go ahead after court lifts council ban
Baltic Pride has been saved after Riga's Administrative Court lifted a ban imposed by the city council on tomorrow's Pride march.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12454.html
=
Daily Queer News
http://www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:
Anchorage Assembly Considering Gay Rights Ordinance
Megan Holland | The Anchorage Daily News | Miami Herald
A proposed ordinance to ban discrimination against gays and lesbians in hiring, housing and education will be considered by the Anchorage Assembly next month. It would also ban discrimination against military veterans. The ordinance brings to the forefront a gay rights issue that has bitterly divided Anchorage in the past, and at least one local religious leader said Tuesday he plans to battle it again. Assemblyman Patrick Flynn, a supporter of the ordinance, said it’s time Anchorage stands up for all its residents. “People are simply people,” he said. “It is wrong to discriminate against them just because the person they happen to love and make a family with is the same gender.” A public hearing on the measure is set for June 9. Read more
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7064/
NC Senate Set to Debate Sex Ed, Anti-Bullying Laws
Teacher Magazine
The North Carolina Senate could expand how students receive sex education in public schools. The Senate on Monday has scheduled the first of two votes for a bill that would require schools to offer children in grades seven though nine one curriculum focused on abstinence until marriage and another with more about contraception. Parents would choose either one for their child or none at all. The measure passed the House last month, and if there are no changes by the Senate, it would go on to Gov. Beverly Perdue for her signature. The Senate also considers Monday whether schools must adopt detailed anti-bullying policies. The legislation is opposed by conservative Christians who said it would advance special protections for gay people. Read more
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7060/
Obama Seeks to Turn Around 5,000 Schools
Associated Press | Teachers Magazine
President Barack Obama intends to use $5 billion to prod local officials to close failing schools and reopen them with new teachers and principals. The goal is to turn around 5,000 failing schools in the next five years, Education Secretary Arne Duncan said Monday, by beefing up funding for the federal school turnaround program created by the No Child Left Behind law. Obama doesn’t have authority to close and reopen schools himself. That power rests with local school districts and states. But he has an incentive in the economic stimulus law, which requires states to help failing schools improve. Read more
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7059/
Forget Tech for a Second: How Will the Arts Help the Obama Administration?
Sarah Ingersoll, Meaningful Media | AlterNet
The Obama campaign mobilized an unprecedented amount of activity from the creative community. Musicians, actors, comedians, filmmakers, graphic designers, painters, sculptors, and others applied their talents to registering, educating, and engaging voters. Shepard Fairey, the Obama Girl, Oprah, and Will.i.am were critical to branding an unfamiliar candidate and making us feel connected to him. While there has been a tremendous amount of discussion about the role of technology and new media in winning the election, and its role going forward in the new Administration, there has been little talk about the role of culture. Until now. Yesterday, more than 60 artists and creative organizers engaged in civic participation, community development, education, social justice, activism, and philanthropy came together at the White House for a briefing on arts and social change.
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7058/
Court Rules Florida Must Honor Gay Second-Parent Adoptions
365Gay.com
Today, the Florida Court of Appeals unanimously reversed a lower court ruling and held that Florida must give full faith and credit to adoptions granted to same-sex couples by other states, holding that Lara Embry, the plaintiff in the case, “must be given the same rights as any other adoptive parent in Florida.” The court based its decision on the Full Faith and Credit Clause of the federal constitution and a Florida statute requiring Florida to honor adoption decrees from other states. Noting that “there are no public policy exceptions to the full faith and credit which is due to judgments entered in another state,” the court concluded that “regardless of whether the trial court believed that the Washington adoption violated a clearly established public policy in Florida, it was improper for the trial court to refuse to give the Washington judgment full faith and credit.” A concurring opinion further noted that Embry’s “same-sex relationship with [the other parent] is irrelevant for the purpose of enforcing her rights and obligations as an adoptive parent.” Read more
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7055/
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
Friday, May 15, 2009
Thursday, May 14, 2009
GLBT DIGEST - May 14, 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.
THIS IS A TEST OF A NEW FORMAT:
FOLLOWING IS AN INDEX TO THE ARTICLES BELOW
PLEASE SEND US YOUR COMMENTS ABOUT THIS FORMAT VS THE OLD
Obama considering 6 for high court
Pageant official quits over Miss. Calif. decision
White House Accelerates Effort to Fill Justice Slot
Man up, Obama, and shoot down this idea!
Women and Hispanics dominate Obama's list of possible high-court nominees
Former Catholic bishop of Milwaukee says he's gay
Sarah Palin Defends Miss Calif.
Sources: Obama considering 6 for high court
Tenn. nixes marriage of transgender woman, man
Besen: The Conservative implosion
Jonathan Ross 'mortified' over accusations of homophobia
Adoption agency labelled 'Nazis' after calling gay adoption critics 'retarded homophobes'
Row in Canterbury as gay group accuses council of 'ignoring' gay issues
Riga bans Baltic Pride
Exclusive: Jonathan Ross accused of homophobia
Peru bans gays from joining the police
Tennessee trans woman has marriage declared invalid
Apprentice candidates rebrand seaside town of Margate as a gay holiday spot
Gay visitors to Moscow told to expect violence
LGBT asylum seekers 'facing high levels of homelessness and discrimination'
RAY'S LIST ARTICLES CONTINUE BELOW
**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.
AP sources: Obama considering 6 for high court
By BEN FELLER
Focusing on specific candidates for the nation's highest court, President Barack Obama is considering a diverse list dominated by women and Hispanics. The six names confirmed as being under review by Obama include three judges, two members of his administration and one governor.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/14/AR2009051400483_pf.html
Pageant official quits over Miss. Calif. decision
By JOHN ROGERS
Former Miss USA Shanna Moakler resigned as co-executive director of the Miss California USA pageant on Wednesday, saying she no longer believes in the organization because of pageant owner Donald Trump's decision to let the state's controversial title holder keep her crown.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/14/AR2009051400872.html
White House Accelerates Effort to Fill Justice Slot
By JONATHAN WEISMAN
President Barack Obama sped up his search for a Supreme Court nominee Wednesday, meeting with key Senate leaders and beginning outreach to the liberal interest groups seeking to do battle on the president's behalf. White House officials said the list of potential nominees is longer than the six to eight names circulating in public. An office has been set up in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, next to the White House, with White House Counsel Greg Craig taking the lead and Cynthia Hogan, Vice President Joe Biden's counsel, heading the vetting process.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124222274838815257.html
Man up, Obama, and shoot down this idea!
By Gary Stein
It is time for Barack Obama to man up. Enough of the wuss stuff. It is time for him to make a strong statement after the Senate decided this week it would be fine and dandy if gun lovers took their beloved loaded weapons into national parks.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/opinion/todaysbuzz/thursday/sfl-obama-guns-national-parks-buzz-stein-m051409,0,18717.htmlstory
Women and Hispanics dominate Obama's list of possible high-court nominees
BEN FELLER
Focusing on specific candidates for the nation's highest court, President Barack Obama is considering a diverse list dominated by women and Hispanics. The six names confirmed as being under review by Obama include three judges, two members of his administration and one governor. Officials familiar with Obama's deliberations say other people are also being discussed, including names that have not triggered public speculation.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/nationworld/politics/wire/sns-ap-us-obama-supreme-court,0,4741985.story
Former Catholic bishop of Milwaukee says he's gay
Speaks of struggles in upcoming memoir
A Roman Catholic archbishop who resigned in 2002 over a sex and financial scandal involving a man describes his struggles with being gay in an upcoming memoir about his decades serving the church. Archbishop Rembert Weakland, former head of the Milwaukee archdiocese, said in an interview Monday that he wrote about his sexual orientation because he wanted to be candid about "how this came to life in my own self, how I suppressed it, how it resurrected again."
http://www.floridablade.com/thelatest/thelatest.cfm?blog_id=25433
Sarah Palin Defends Miss Calif.
By Julie Bolcer
Alaska Governor Sarah Palin issued a statement in defense of Miss California on Wednesday, saying that she could relate to the “liberal onslaught of malicious attacks against Carrie Prejean” and framing the controversy as a matter of free speech. “Carrie and I spoke soon after the attacks started; I can relate as a liberal target myself,” said Palin, also a beauty queen before she entered the spotlight as the Republican vice presidential nominee last year.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid84048.asp
Tenn. nixes marriage of transgender woman, man
By The Associated Press
Tennessee authorities have invalidated the 18-month marriage of a transgender woman and a man, saying the state considers them both men.
http://www.365gay.com/news/tenn-nixes-marriage-of-transgender-woman-man/
The Conservative implosion
By Wayne Besen
It was unusually satisfying to watch beauty contestant turned Bible-thumper Carrie Prejean crash and burn. In the bat of an eyelash, she went from Christian role model to wannabe underwear model after racy pictures of her surfaced. “They were quite inappropriate and certainly not photos befitting a beauty queen,” Alicia Jacobs, a Miss USA judge, told NBC’s Today Show.
http://www.365gay.com/opinion/besen-the-conservative-implosion/
Jonathan Ross 'mortified' over accusations of homophobia
Jonathan Ross has spoken out over claims he was homophobic on his BBC Radio 2 show on Saturday. The star had suggested children who appeared to be gay should be adopted before they bring their "partner" home, an exclusive report in PinkNews.co.uk revealed yesterday.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12436.html
Adoption agency labelled 'Nazis' after calling gay adoption critics 'retarded homophobes'
The British Association for Adoption and Fostering has come under fire for describing people who object to gay couples adopting as "retarded homophobes".
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12420.html
Row in Canterbury as gay group accuses council of 'ignoring' gay issues
A gay group called Pride in Canterbury has accused the city council of ignoring gay issues and failing to respond to their complaints.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12405.html
Riga bans Baltic Pride
The planned Baltic Pride march due to take place on Saturday in Riga, Latvia, has been banned by city officials.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12435.html
Exclusive: Jonathan Ross accused of homophobia
Ofcom have received a number of complaints over Jonathan Ross's BBC Radio 2 show on Saturday over alleged homophobia. The presenter suggested that children who appeared to be gay should be adopted.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12406.html
Peru bans gays from joining the police
Peru is planning to ban gays from joining the police, in an attempt to improve the reputation of the institution. Interior Minister Mercedes Cabanillas has proposed a raft of new measures to raise public confidence in the police.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12434.html
Tennessee trans woman has marriage declared invalid
A trans woman in Tennessee has had her marriage declared invalid after the state refused to recognise her female status.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12413.html
Apprentice candidates rebrand seaside town of Margate as a gay holiday spot
Last night's episode of The Apprentice saw candidates attempting to rebrand the seaside town of Margate as a gay holiday destination.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12411.html
LGBT asylum seekers 'facing high levels of homelessness and discrimination'
Gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans asylum seekers are suffering from high levels of discrimination, homelessness and exploitation, a report has claimed.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12403.html
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
THIS IS A TEST OF A NEW FORMAT:
FOLLOWING IS AN INDEX TO THE ARTICLES BELOW
PLEASE SEND US YOUR COMMENTS ABOUT THIS FORMAT VS THE OLD
Obama considering 6 for high court
Pageant official quits over Miss. Calif. decision
White House Accelerates Effort to Fill Justice Slot
Man up, Obama, and shoot down this idea!
Women and Hispanics dominate Obama's list of possible high-court nominees
Former Catholic bishop of Milwaukee says he's gay
Sarah Palin Defends Miss Calif.
Sources: Obama considering 6 for high court
Tenn. nixes marriage of transgender woman, man
Besen: The Conservative implosion
Jonathan Ross 'mortified' over accusations of homophobia
Adoption agency labelled 'Nazis' after calling gay adoption critics 'retarded homophobes'
Row in Canterbury as gay group accuses council of 'ignoring' gay issues
Riga bans Baltic Pride
Exclusive: Jonathan Ross accused of homophobia
Peru bans gays from joining the police
Tennessee trans woman has marriage declared invalid
Apprentice candidates rebrand seaside town of Margate as a gay holiday spot
Gay visitors to Moscow told to expect violence
LGBT asylum seekers 'facing high levels of homelessness and discrimination'
RAY'S LIST ARTICLES CONTINUE BELOW
**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.
AP sources: Obama considering 6 for high court
By BEN FELLER
Focusing on specific candidates for the nation's highest court, President Barack Obama is considering a diverse list dominated by women and Hispanics. The six names confirmed as being under review by Obama include three judges, two members of his administration and one governor.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/14/AR2009051400483_pf.html
Pageant official quits over Miss. Calif. decision
By JOHN ROGERS
Former Miss USA Shanna Moakler resigned as co-executive director of the Miss California USA pageant on Wednesday, saying she no longer believes in the organization because of pageant owner Donald Trump's decision to let the state's controversial title holder keep her crown.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/14/AR2009051400872.html
White House Accelerates Effort to Fill Justice Slot
By JONATHAN WEISMAN
President Barack Obama sped up his search for a Supreme Court nominee Wednesday, meeting with key Senate leaders and beginning outreach to the liberal interest groups seeking to do battle on the president's behalf. White House officials said the list of potential nominees is longer than the six to eight names circulating in public. An office has been set up in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, next to the White House, with White House Counsel Greg Craig taking the lead and Cynthia Hogan, Vice President Joe Biden's counsel, heading the vetting process.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124222274838815257.html
Man up, Obama, and shoot down this idea!
By Gary Stein
It is time for Barack Obama to man up. Enough of the wuss stuff. It is time for him to make a strong statement after the Senate decided this week it would be fine and dandy if gun lovers took their beloved loaded weapons into national parks.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/opinion/todaysbuzz/thursday/sfl-obama-guns-national-parks-buzz-stein-m051409,0,18717.htmlstory
Women and Hispanics dominate Obama's list of possible high-court nominees
BEN FELLER
Focusing on specific candidates for the nation's highest court, President Barack Obama is considering a diverse list dominated by women and Hispanics. The six names confirmed as being under review by Obama include three judges, two members of his administration and one governor. Officials familiar with Obama's deliberations say other people are also being discussed, including names that have not triggered public speculation.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/nationworld/politics/wire/sns-ap-us-obama-supreme-court,0,4741985.story
Former Catholic bishop of Milwaukee says he's gay
Speaks of struggles in upcoming memoir
A Roman Catholic archbishop who resigned in 2002 over a sex and financial scandal involving a man describes his struggles with being gay in an upcoming memoir about his decades serving the church. Archbishop Rembert Weakland, former head of the Milwaukee archdiocese, said in an interview Monday that he wrote about his sexual orientation because he wanted to be candid about "how this came to life in my own self, how I suppressed it, how it resurrected again."
http://www.floridablade.com/thelatest/thelatest.cfm?blog_id=25433
Sarah Palin Defends Miss Calif.
By Julie Bolcer
Alaska Governor Sarah Palin issued a statement in defense of Miss California on Wednesday, saying that she could relate to the “liberal onslaught of malicious attacks against Carrie Prejean” and framing the controversy as a matter of free speech. “Carrie and I spoke soon after the attacks started; I can relate as a liberal target myself,” said Palin, also a beauty queen before she entered the spotlight as the Republican vice presidential nominee last year.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid84048.asp
Tenn. nixes marriage of transgender woman, man
By The Associated Press
Tennessee authorities have invalidated the 18-month marriage of a transgender woman and a man, saying the state considers them both men.
http://www.365gay.com/news/tenn-nixes-marriage-of-transgender-woman-man/
The Conservative implosion
By Wayne Besen
It was unusually satisfying to watch beauty contestant turned Bible-thumper Carrie Prejean crash and burn. In the bat of an eyelash, she went from Christian role model to wannabe underwear model after racy pictures of her surfaced. “They were quite inappropriate and certainly not photos befitting a beauty queen,” Alicia Jacobs, a Miss USA judge, told NBC’s Today Show.
http://www.365gay.com/opinion/besen-the-conservative-implosion/
Jonathan Ross 'mortified' over accusations of homophobia
Jonathan Ross has spoken out over claims he was homophobic on his BBC Radio 2 show on Saturday. The star had suggested children who appeared to be gay should be adopted before they bring their "partner" home, an exclusive report in PinkNews.co.uk revealed yesterday.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12436.html
Adoption agency labelled 'Nazis' after calling gay adoption critics 'retarded homophobes'
The British Association for Adoption and Fostering has come under fire for describing people who object to gay couples adopting as "retarded homophobes".
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12420.html
Row in Canterbury as gay group accuses council of 'ignoring' gay issues
A gay group called Pride in Canterbury has accused the city council of ignoring gay issues and failing to respond to their complaints.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12405.html
Riga bans Baltic Pride
The planned Baltic Pride march due to take place on Saturday in Riga, Latvia, has been banned by city officials.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12435.html
Exclusive: Jonathan Ross accused of homophobia
Ofcom have received a number of complaints over Jonathan Ross's BBC Radio 2 show on Saturday over alleged homophobia. The presenter suggested that children who appeared to be gay should be adopted.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12406.html
Peru bans gays from joining the police
Peru is planning to ban gays from joining the police, in an attempt to improve the reputation of the institution. Interior Minister Mercedes Cabanillas has proposed a raft of new measures to raise public confidence in the police.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12434.html
Tennessee trans woman has marriage declared invalid
A trans woman in Tennessee has had her marriage declared invalid after the state refused to recognise her female status.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12413.html
Apprentice candidates rebrand seaside town of Margate as a gay holiday spot
Last night's episode of The Apprentice saw candidates attempting to rebrand the seaside town of Margate as a gay holiday destination.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12411.html
LGBT asylum seekers 'facing high levels of homelessness and discrimination'
Gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans asylum seekers are suffering from high levels of discrimination, homelessness and exploitation, a report has claimed.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12403.html
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
GLBT DIGEST - May 13, 2009
THIS IS AN INDEX TO THE ARTICLES BELOW
THE TITLES IN THIS INDEX ARE LINKED TO THE WEBSITES
PLEASE SEND US YOUR COMMENTS ABOUT THIS FORMAT VS THE OLD
G.O.P. Rivals in New Jersey Tussle in First TV Debate
In Moscow, an Attempt to Wed Pushes Gay Rights
N.Y. Assembly Passes Gay Marriage Bill
White House Says Law Only Answer for Gays in Military:
Miss California USA can keep crown, Trump decides
McDonnell Addresses College Affordability
An Environmentalist's Thesaurus
She didn't win Miss USA, but she's defended free speech rights just beautifully
Rebackoff: 100 Days? Obama couldn't master job in 100 years
Beauty pageants are no place for honest answers
Miss California USA can keep crown despite semi-nude photos, pro-marriage group association
FDA says Cheerios' claims about lowering cholesterol inappropriate
Gay, lesbian contestants from South Florida sought for Amazing Race-like Travel Channel reality show
Task Force Action Fund applauds New York Assembly passage of marriage equality bill
Gay activist arrested on healthcare theft charge
Anchorage Assembly considering gay rights ordinance
Gay Issues Get Day in White House
Tyra Tackles "Gay Is the New Black"
Bradley Cooper Plays Gay Again
White House: Legislation key for gays in military
RachelWatch: The Defense Does Not Rest
Study to examine HIV among bi men
Healthcare industry lags in LGBT health issues
Gay MPs rush to pay back expenses
LGBT asylum seekers 'facing high levels of homelessness and discrimination'
Miss California allowed to keep crown
Equality Bill passes second reading in House of Commons
Transexual woman calls off week long hunger strike
Megan Fox talks about being bisexual
New York moves closer to gay marriage
Scottish minister compares supporters of gay clergy to Nazis
Gay MP Alan Duncan promises to pay back expenses
Gay Tory MP Nick Herbert defends expenses claims
Angels, Demons & Blowhards: It’s Only A Movie, Bill, Only A Movie…
Code 1, Code 2, Code 3 at Bagram Airfield
IL: Equality Illinois: The Addams Family
John Stewart Slams Pundits for OKing Torture, Attacking Wanda Sykes
Cheerios Are a Drug? FDA’s Suprising Letter to General Mills
As Attitudes Warm, Marriage Blossoms
For Gay Couples Obstacles to Health Insurance
RAY'S LIST ARTICLES CONTINUE BELOW
**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:
G.O.P. Rivals in New Jersey Tussle in First TV Debate
With an unpopular liberal Democratic incumbent awaiting one of them in November, the Republican candidates for governor of New Jersey met in a lively first televised debate on Tuesday night, warning that the state is on the brink of financial collapse and needs a true conservative to take charge.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/13/nyregion/13debate.html?scp=6&sq=gay&st=cse
In Moscow, an Attempt to Wed Pushes Gay Rights
By MICHAEL SCHWIRTZ
MOSCOW — They knew they had no chance. But there they were anyway at a marriage registration office in Moscow on Tuesday. Two young women, wearing tuxedos and clutching bouquets, trying to become the first same-sex couple in Russia to legally wed.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/13/world/europe/13moscow.html
N.Y. Assembly Passes Gay Marriage Bill
By JEREMY W. PETERS
The State Assembly approved legislation on Tuesday night that would make New York the sixth state to allow same-sex marriage — a pivotal vote that shifts the debate to the State Senate, where gay rights advocates and conservative groups alike are redoubling their efforts.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/13/nyregion/13marriage.html?scp=2&sq=gay&st=cse
=
Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
White House Says Law Only Answer for Gays in Military:
Press Secretary Robert Gibbs says the president wants to do away with the "don't ask, don't tell" policy through legislation, according to the AP.
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/federal-eye/2009/05/eye_opener_federal_spending_sa.html
Miss California USA can keep crown, Trump decides
By MARCUS FRANKLIN
Miss California USA lost some goodwill with controversies over semi-nude photographs and her association with a conservative advocacy group for marriage, but she gets to keep her crown.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/13/AR2009051300351.html
=
Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/public/us
-An Environmentalist's Thesaurus
'Global warming' is so passé. Some experts think the environmentalist movement has an image problem. According to them, greens are losing the battle against primeval despoilers of Nature's awesome bounty because they continue to use antiquated, in-your-face terms like "global warming," "cap and trade," and yes even "the environment." So says a new report by ecoAmerica, a cutting-edge, Washington-based nonprofit that specializes in environmental marketing and messaging, as reported in the New York Times (henceforth known as the Green Lady).
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124217566996913283.html
=
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
She didn't win Miss USA, but she's defended free speech rights just beautifully
Miss California Carrie Prejean is a better role model than Perez Hilton
By Antonio Fins
No one's done a better job of building public support for embattled Miss California than Perez Hilton. In last month's Miss USA pageant, Carrie Prejean, Miss California, was asked her view on gay marriage. The customary, politically correct answer would have been: "I think gay marriage can bring about world peace.' Yes, because all beauty pageant answers must end in a call for world peace.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/opinion/todaysbuzz/wednesday/sfl-miss-usa-beauty-pageant-buzz-fins-m051309,0,4218850.htmlstory
Rebackoff: 100 Days? Obama couldn't master job in 100 years
Zach Rebackoff
I don't consider myself a political journalist; I'm closer perhaps to a political greenhorn. There's not one piece of political insight that I could offer to Obama that he or his advisors have not thought of already. Yet when I was asked to clear my throat about Obama's first 100 days, I rubbed my hands like a spaghetti western villain. I suspected I would need a crash course in political science and would perhaps need to surf the Internet for accuracy, because assessing President Obama's first 100 days is not my strong suit. It's simply my prerogative. Truth be told, and I've said it before, no one person can effectively preside over the United States. Even our forward-thinking constitutional delegates – Madison, Washington, Franklin and the like – could not have predicted the depth of our evolution.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/community/news/wellington/forum/sfl-flwfrebackoff0513rpfmay13,0,3427647.story
Beauty pageants are no place for honest answers
Controversy is not beautiful, and it does not win votes, and it does not capture that bejeweled crown.
By Nicole Brochu
Personally, I stand up and applaud Miss California for her honest answer on gay marriage, even though I totally disagree with her. Because, let's face it, the unadulterated truth does not make a frequent showing on any Miss USA stage. It's about as foreign a concept as, well, standing up for what you truly believe in.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/opinion/todaysbuzz/wednesday/sfl-miss-usa-beauty-pageant-buzz-brochu-m051309,0,3135695.htmlstory
FDA says Cheerios' claims about lowering cholesterol inappropriate
Cereal's maker says health claims backed by science
The Associated Press
Federal regulators are scolding the maker of Cheerios, saying it made inappropriate claims about the popular cereal's ability to lower cholesterol and treat heart disease. The Food and Drug Administration says in a warning letter to General Mills that language on the Cheerios box suggests the cereal is designed to prevent or treat heart disease. Regulators say that only FDA-approved drugs are allowed to make such claims.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/business/sfl-cheerios-fda-copy-051309,0,2764154.story
=
Steve Rothaus
www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:
Gay, lesbian contestants from South Florida sought for Amazing Race-like Travel Channel reality show
An email I received from TV casting associate Jonathan Tanzman:
Hello! I am coming to Miami in two weeks to cast a new show for the Travel Channel. It is a mini "Amazing Race"that is going to take place all around Miami. I was hoping to get the word out to your readers and patrons who might want to audition for the competition. We really want to get the Miami gay community involved in this show have at least two gay and lesbian teams on the show. http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/gay-lesbian-contestants-from-south-florida-sought-for-amazing-race-like-travel-channel-reality-show.html
Task Force Action Fund applauds New York Assembly passage of marriage equality bill
News release from the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force:
Urges Senate to pass critical legislation
The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund applauds the New York Assembly’s passage today of legislation extending the freedom to marry to same-sex couples. The measure passed by a vote of 89 to 52; the Assembly first passed a marriage equality bill in 2007 by a vote of 85 to 61. Consideration of the legislation now shifts to the Senate.
Statement by Rea Carey, Executive Director
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/task-force-action-fund-applauds-new-york-assembly-passage-of-marriage-equality-bill.html
=
Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
Gay activist arrested on healthcare theft charge
Saul 'Ron' Brenesky is accused of taking a $58,000 payment for a home healthcare agency that wasn't on the market.
BY STEVE ROTHAUS
Saul ''Ron'' Brenesky -- a well-known South Florida gay activist, businessman and political operative -- has been charged with grand theft for allegedly taking $58,000 in payment for a home healthcare agency that he didn't own and that wasn't for sale.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/miami-dade/story/1045331.html
Anchorage Assembly considering gay rights ordinance
By Megan Holland
The Anchorage Daily News
A proposed ordinance to ban discrimination against homosexuals in hiring, housing and education will be considered by the Anchorage Assembly next month. It would also ban discrimination against military veterans.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/politics/AP/story/1045802.html
=
The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
Gay Issues Get Day in White House
By Kerry Eleveld
Gay Issues Get Day in White House
White House press secretary Robert Gibbs took three separate questions about LGBT issues during Tuesday's press briefing -- one on civil unions and two about the military's ban on allowing gays and lesbians to serve openly in the Armed Forces.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid83800.asp
Tyra Tackles "Gay Is the New Black"
Tyra Banks took to the airwaves last week to discuss a topic The Advocate tackled on its cover in the weeks following the passing of Prop. 8 -- Is gay the new black? Tyra held up the magazine’s cover and offered up speakers on both sides of the debate. Check out the video from four parts of the episode.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid83785.asp
Bradley Cooper Plays Gay Again
By Corey Scholibo
Bradley Cooper, whose new film The Hangover opens this summer, has been cast in his second gay role, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The publication reports that New Line Cinema has cast Cooper as a gay character in the upcoming feature film Valentine's Day.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid83766.asp
=
365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
White House: Legislation key for gays in military
By The Associated Press
The White House says it won’t stop gays and lesbians from being dismissed from the military while the Obama administration works to repeal a decade-old policy banning openly gay people from serving in uniform.
http://www.365gay.com/news/white-house-legislation-key-for-gays-in-military/
RachelWatch: The Defense Does Not Rest
By Ali Davis, Contributing writer
Best When Used by 1/20/09
You’ll never guess who’s been surfing the airwaves again. Cheney, you say? Oh, I guess you will. Rachel led us through a brief history of Cheney’s best sound bites, including my personal favorite, the assertion that because of torture “we successfully defended the nation against a follow-up attack for seven and a half years.”
http://www.365gay.com/living/rachelwatch-the-defense-does-not-rest/
Study to examine HIV among bi men
By 365gay Newscenter Staff
The Center for Sexual Health Promotion in Indiana University’s School of Health, Physical Education and Recreation has received a $425,000 grant from the National Institutes of Health for a study of HIV among bisexual men.
http://www.365gay.com/news/study-to-examine-hiv-among-bi-men/
Healthcare industry lags in LGBT health issues
By 365gay Newscenter Staff
The healthcare industry is failing LGBT patients, according to a report released Tuesday by the Human Rights Campaign and the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association.
http://www.365gay.com/news/healthcare-industry-lags-in-lgbt-health-issues/
=
Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:
LGBT asylum seekers 'facing high levels of homelessness and discrimination'
Gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans asylum seekers are suffering from high levels of discrimination, homelessness and exploitation, a report has claimed.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12391.html
Equality Bill passes second reading in House of Commons
The Equality Bill passed its second reading in parliament yesterday despite concerns it may burden businesses at a time of financial pressure. Leader of the House of Commons and Minister for Equality, Harriet Harman said public bodies must "lead the way" in abolishing discrimination, adding the Bill would make Britain "fairer and more prosperous".
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12386.html
Transexual woman calls off week long hunger strike
A transsexual woman from Nottingham has ended her week long huger strike after NHS officials agreed to reconsider whether they can fund gender reassignment treatment.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12388.html
Megan Fox talks about being bisexual
Transformers actress Megan Fox is the latest Hollywood star to discuss her bisexuality However, the actress said she would only date lesbians, rather than bisexual women.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12396.html
New York moves closer to gay marriage
The New York Assembly passed a bill last night to legalise gay marriage. After four hours of debate, the bill passed 89-52 and will now go to the Senate for a vote.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12389.html
Scottish minister compares supporters of gay clergy to Nazis
Anti-gay Scottish minister Rev Ian Watson has compared the supporters of an openly gay minister to the Nazis.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12395.html
=
Daily Queer News
www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:
Angels, Demons & Blowhards: It’s Only A Movie, Bill, Only A Movie…
Rob Boston | Talk 2 Action
On Friday morning, I trekked to the Fox News Channel studio in Washington to debate Bill Donohue of the Catholic League for Religious and Civil Rights about President Barack Obama’s upcoming speaking engagement at Notre Dame. I’d prefer to have a civil discussion over these matters, but Donohue has two settings: “Obnoxious” and “Even More Obnoxious,” so things got heated right away. Actually, I was surprised Donohue had time to talk about this issue. He’s been awfully busy lately getting all worked up over the new Tom Hanks movie “Angels & Demons.” The League’s Web site is studded with press releases expressing outrage over this film, which opens on Friday. In a May 4 media missive, Donohue demanded that the movie be issued with some type of disclaimer explaining that’s it a work of fiction. Good heavens. Talk about an overreaction. Read more
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7035/
Code 1, Code 2, Code 3 at Bagram Airfield
Chris Rodda | Talk 2 Action
The preferred response from the military when U.S. troops are caught red-handed committing moral and ethical atrocities or violating military regulations or the law is that it didn’t happen. But, when such irrefutable evidence of an incident is uncovered that a complete denial, known as “Code 1,” becomes impossible, they resort to “Code 2″ — this was an “isolated incident” — or “Code 3″ — it was taken out of context. The video released last week by Al Jazeera of U.S. military members at Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan discussing the distribution of Dari and Pashtu language Bibles to the local Afghans, a blatant violation of CENTCOM’s General Order 1-A, was one of those incidents where the military couldn’t use “Code 1.” The video showed stacks of these Bibles on the floor, so they were undeniably there. So, this one had to be handled with “Code 2″ and “Code 3″ responses. For those who haven’t seen the Al Jazeera video yet, here it is: Read more
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7034/
IL: Equality Illinois: The Addams Family
Here’s news about an exciting advance opportunity for Equality Illinois members:
The Addams Family starring two-time Tony Award® winners Nathan Lane and Bebe Neuwirth is opening in Chicago this Fall. The weird and wonderful family created by New Yorker cartoonist Charles Addams comes to devilishly delightful life in a Broadway musical—and you can see it first. Don’t miss out on a potential blockbuster premiere before the show leaves for Broadway! Individual tickets are not yet available to the public, but you can get tickets from Equality Illinois for our special benefit performance! Watch your email in the next 48 hours for a special link that will allow you to buy tickets online for The Addams Family direct from Equality Illinois. Your ticket purchases using the Equality Illinois link will support our crucial work to secure, protect and defend equal rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in our State.
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7033/
John Stewart Slams Pundits for OKing Torture, Attacking Wanda Sykes
Isaac Fitzgerald, AlterNet
Jon Stewart had some fun last night pointing out the ridiculousness of those pundits who think torture is OK, but that Wanda Sykes’ Limbaugh joke went too far. Obviously “bad jokes and gay marriage are destroying this country, but torture can save it.” Read and Watch Video
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7027/
As Attitudes Warm, Marriage Blossoms
Deb Price | Creators.com
Last summer, I could almost smell the glorious fragrance of my favorite flowers, sweet peas, as I planted them in the warm, sunny, well-drained soil that the seed packet promised they would thrive in. They spouted quickly, but never became more than seedlings. Actually, “seedlings” sounds way more robust than they looked. “Threads” is more like it. Early this spring, my sweet peas shocked me by returning — with stems as thick as my thumb. Looking like they spent the winter working out in a gym, my sweet peas are bound to blossom, if not this year, then next. When gay marriage suddenly burst into full bloom across much of New England and in Iowa this spring, I immediately thought of my sweet peas: When conditions are right, some seeds produce very quickly. Others take a bit of time. Read more
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7025/
For Gay Couples Obstacles to Health Insurance
WALECIA KONRAD | New York Times
“IT’S not easy being gay,” said Mary Jo Hudson, director of the Ohio Department of Insurance. She wasn’t referring to political opposition and other obstacles, but the plight of same-sex couples who are trying to get and keep health insurance. “You’ve got to go through a lot of hoops,” said Ms. Hudson, who is gay and has lived with her partner for eight years. Same-sex couples have been making headlines; Maine followed the lead of Iowa and Vermont this week in legalizing same-sex marriage, and several other state legislatures are now considering it. But Ms. Hudson says that fairer and more comprehensive health care coverage for partners — whether they are legally married or not — is not necessarily part of the package. “For the vast majority of gay couples,” she said, “getting health insurance for a omestic partner is still a challenge.” Read more
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7023/
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
THE TITLES IN THIS INDEX ARE LINKED TO THE WEBSITES
PLEASE SEND US YOUR COMMENTS ABOUT THIS FORMAT VS THE OLD
G.O.P. Rivals in New Jersey Tussle in First TV Debate
In Moscow, an Attempt to Wed Pushes Gay Rights
N.Y. Assembly Passes Gay Marriage Bill
White House Says Law Only Answer for Gays in Military:
Miss California USA can keep crown, Trump decides
McDonnell Addresses College Affordability
An Environmentalist's Thesaurus
She didn't win Miss USA, but she's defended free speech rights just beautifully
Rebackoff: 100 Days? Obama couldn't master job in 100 years
Beauty pageants are no place for honest answers
Miss California USA can keep crown despite semi-nude photos, pro-marriage group association
FDA says Cheerios' claims about lowering cholesterol inappropriate
Gay, lesbian contestants from South Florida sought for Amazing Race-like Travel Channel reality show
Task Force Action Fund applauds New York Assembly passage of marriage equality bill
Gay activist arrested on healthcare theft charge
Anchorage Assembly considering gay rights ordinance
Gay Issues Get Day in White House
Tyra Tackles "Gay Is the New Black"
Bradley Cooper Plays Gay Again
White House: Legislation key for gays in military
RachelWatch: The Defense Does Not Rest
Study to examine HIV among bi men
Healthcare industry lags in LGBT health issues
Gay MPs rush to pay back expenses
LGBT asylum seekers 'facing high levels of homelessness and discrimination'
Miss California allowed to keep crown
Equality Bill passes second reading in House of Commons
Transexual woman calls off week long hunger strike
Megan Fox talks about being bisexual
New York moves closer to gay marriage
Scottish minister compares supporters of gay clergy to Nazis
Gay MP Alan Duncan promises to pay back expenses
Gay Tory MP Nick Herbert defends expenses claims
Angels, Demons & Blowhards: It’s Only A Movie, Bill, Only A Movie…
Code 1, Code 2, Code 3 at Bagram Airfield
IL: Equality Illinois: The Addams Family
John Stewart Slams Pundits for OKing Torture, Attacking Wanda Sykes
Cheerios Are a Drug? FDA’s Suprising Letter to General Mills
As Attitudes Warm, Marriage Blossoms
For Gay Couples Obstacles to Health Insurance
RAY'S LIST ARTICLES CONTINUE BELOW
**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:
G.O.P. Rivals in New Jersey Tussle in First TV Debate
With an unpopular liberal Democratic incumbent awaiting one of them in November, the Republican candidates for governor of New Jersey met in a lively first televised debate on Tuesday night, warning that the state is on the brink of financial collapse and needs a true conservative to take charge.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/13/nyregion/13debate.html?scp=6&sq=gay&st=cse
In Moscow, an Attempt to Wed Pushes Gay Rights
By MICHAEL SCHWIRTZ
MOSCOW — They knew they had no chance. But there they were anyway at a marriage registration office in Moscow on Tuesday. Two young women, wearing tuxedos and clutching bouquets, trying to become the first same-sex couple in Russia to legally wed.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/13/world/europe/13moscow.html
N.Y. Assembly Passes Gay Marriage Bill
By JEREMY W. PETERS
The State Assembly approved legislation on Tuesday night that would make New York the sixth state to allow same-sex marriage — a pivotal vote that shifts the debate to the State Senate, where gay rights advocates and conservative groups alike are redoubling their efforts.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/13/nyregion/13marriage.html?scp=2&sq=gay&st=cse
=
Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
White House Says Law Only Answer for Gays in Military:
Press Secretary Robert Gibbs says the president wants to do away with the "don't ask, don't tell" policy through legislation, according to the AP.
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/federal-eye/2009/05/eye_opener_federal_spending_sa.html
Miss California USA can keep crown, Trump decides
By MARCUS FRANKLIN
Miss California USA lost some goodwill with controversies over semi-nude photographs and her association with a conservative advocacy group for marriage, but she gets to keep her crown.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/13/AR2009051300351.html
=
Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/public/us
-An Environmentalist's Thesaurus
'Global warming' is so passé. Some experts think the environmentalist movement has an image problem. According to them, greens are losing the battle against primeval despoilers of Nature's awesome bounty because they continue to use antiquated, in-your-face terms like "global warming," "cap and trade," and yes even "the environment." So says a new report by ecoAmerica, a cutting-edge, Washington-based nonprofit that specializes in environmental marketing and messaging, as reported in the New York Times (henceforth known as the Green Lady).
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124217566996913283.html
=
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
She didn't win Miss USA, but she's defended free speech rights just beautifully
Miss California Carrie Prejean is a better role model than Perez Hilton
By Antonio Fins
No one's done a better job of building public support for embattled Miss California than Perez Hilton. In last month's Miss USA pageant, Carrie Prejean, Miss California, was asked her view on gay marriage. The customary, politically correct answer would have been: "I think gay marriage can bring about world peace.' Yes, because all beauty pageant answers must end in a call for world peace.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/opinion/todaysbuzz/wednesday/sfl-miss-usa-beauty-pageant-buzz-fins-m051309,0,4218850.htmlstory
Rebackoff: 100 Days? Obama couldn't master job in 100 years
Zach Rebackoff
I don't consider myself a political journalist; I'm closer perhaps to a political greenhorn. There's not one piece of political insight that I could offer to Obama that he or his advisors have not thought of already. Yet when I was asked to clear my throat about Obama's first 100 days, I rubbed my hands like a spaghetti western villain. I suspected I would need a crash course in political science and would perhaps need to surf the Internet for accuracy, because assessing President Obama's first 100 days is not my strong suit. It's simply my prerogative. Truth be told, and I've said it before, no one person can effectively preside over the United States. Even our forward-thinking constitutional delegates – Madison, Washington, Franklin and the like – could not have predicted the depth of our evolution.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/community/news/wellington/forum/sfl-flwfrebackoff0513rpfmay13,0,3427647.story
Beauty pageants are no place for honest answers
Controversy is not beautiful, and it does not win votes, and it does not capture that bejeweled crown.
By Nicole Brochu
Personally, I stand up and applaud Miss California for her honest answer on gay marriage, even though I totally disagree with her. Because, let's face it, the unadulterated truth does not make a frequent showing on any Miss USA stage. It's about as foreign a concept as, well, standing up for what you truly believe in.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/opinion/todaysbuzz/wednesday/sfl-miss-usa-beauty-pageant-buzz-brochu-m051309,0,3135695.htmlstory
FDA says Cheerios' claims about lowering cholesterol inappropriate
Cereal's maker says health claims backed by science
The Associated Press
Federal regulators are scolding the maker of Cheerios, saying it made inappropriate claims about the popular cereal's ability to lower cholesterol and treat heart disease. The Food and Drug Administration says in a warning letter to General Mills that language on the Cheerios box suggests the cereal is designed to prevent or treat heart disease. Regulators say that only FDA-approved drugs are allowed to make such claims.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/business/sfl-cheerios-fda-copy-051309,0,2764154.story
=
Steve Rothaus
www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:
Gay, lesbian contestants from South Florida sought for Amazing Race-like Travel Channel reality show
An email I received from TV casting associate Jonathan Tanzman:
Hello! I am coming to Miami in two weeks to cast a new show for the Travel Channel. It is a mini "Amazing Race"that is going to take place all around Miami. I was hoping to get the word out to your readers and patrons who might want to audition for the competition. We really want to get the Miami gay community involved in this show have at least two gay and lesbian teams on the show. http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/gay-lesbian-contestants-from-south-florida-sought-for-amazing-race-like-travel-channel-reality-show.html
Task Force Action Fund applauds New York Assembly passage of marriage equality bill
News release from the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force:
Urges Senate to pass critical legislation
The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund applauds the New York Assembly’s passage today of legislation extending the freedom to marry to same-sex couples. The measure passed by a vote of 89 to 52; the Assembly first passed a marriage equality bill in 2007 by a vote of 85 to 61. Consideration of the legislation now shifts to the Senate.
Statement by Rea Carey, Executive Director
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/task-force-action-fund-applauds-new-york-assembly-passage-of-marriage-equality-bill.html
=
Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
Gay activist arrested on healthcare theft charge
Saul 'Ron' Brenesky is accused of taking a $58,000 payment for a home healthcare agency that wasn't on the market.
BY STEVE ROTHAUS
Saul ''Ron'' Brenesky -- a well-known South Florida gay activist, businessman and political operative -- has been charged with grand theft for allegedly taking $58,000 in payment for a home healthcare agency that he didn't own and that wasn't for sale.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/miami-dade/story/1045331.html
Anchorage Assembly considering gay rights ordinance
By Megan Holland
The Anchorage Daily News
A proposed ordinance to ban discrimination against homosexuals in hiring, housing and education will be considered by the Anchorage Assembly next month. It would also ban discrimination against military veterans.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/politics/AP/story/1045802.html
=
The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
Gay Issues Get Day in White House
By Kerry Eleveld
Gay Issues Get Day in White House
White House press secretary Robert Gibbs took three separate questions about LGBT issues during Tuesday's press briefing -- one on civil unions and two about the military's ban on allowing gays and lesbians to serve openly in the Armed Forces.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid83800.asp
Tyra Tackles "Gay Is the New Black"
Tyra Banks took to the airwaves last week to discuss a topic The Advocate tackled on its cover in the weeks following the passing of Prop. 8 -- Is gay the new black? Tyra held up the magazine’s cover and offered up speakers on both sides of the debate. Check out the video from four parts of the episode.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid83785.asp
Bradley Cooper Plays Gay Again
By Corey Scholibo
Bradley Cooper, whose new film The Hangover opens this summer, has been cast in his second gay role, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The publication reports that New Line Cinema has cast Cooper as a gay character in the upcoming feature film Valentine's Day.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid83766.asp
=
365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
White House: Legislation key for gays in military
By The Associated Press
The White House says it won’t stop gays and lesbians from being dismissed from the military while the Obama administration works to repeal a decade-old policy banning openly gay people from serving in uniform.
http://www.365gay.com/news/white-house-legislation-key-for-gays-in-military/
RachelWatch: The Defense Does Not Rest
By Ali Davis, Contributing writer
Best When Used by 1/20/09
You’ll never guess who’s been surfing the airwaves again. Cheney, you say? Oh, I guess you will. Rachel led us through a brief history of Cheney’s best sound bites, including my personal favorite, the assertion that because of torture “we successfully defended the nation against a follow-up attack for seven and a half years.”
http://www.365gay.com/living/rachelwatch-the-defense-does-not-rest/
Study to examine HIV among bi men
By 365gay Newscenter Staff
The Center for Sexual Health Promotion in Indiana University’s School of Health, Physical Education and Recreation has received a $425,000 grant from the National Institutes of Health for a study of HIV among bisexual men.
http://www.365gay.com/news/study-to-examine-hiv-among-bi-men/
Healthcare industry lags in LGBT health issues
By 365gay Newscenter Staff
The healthcare industry is failing LGBT patients, according to a report released Tuesday by the Human Rights Campaign and the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association.
http://www.365gay.com/news/healthcare-industry-lags-in-lgbt-health-issues/
=
Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:
LGBT asylum seekers 'facing high levels of homelessness and discrimination'
Gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans asylum seekers are suffering from high levels of discrimination, homelessness and exploitation, a report has claimed.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12391.html
Equality Bill passes second reading in House of Commons
The Equality Bill passed its second reading in parliament yesterday despite concerns it may burden businesses at a time of financial pressure. Leader of the House of Commons and Minister for Equality, Harriet Harman said public bodies must "lead the way" in abolishing discrimination, adding the Bill would make Britain "fairer and more prosperous".
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12386.html
Transexual woman calls off week long hunger strike
A transsexual woman from Nottingham has ended her week long huger strike after NHS officials agreed to reconsider whether they can fund gender reassignment treatment.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12388.html
Megan Fox talks about being bisexual
Transformers actress Megan Fox is the latest Hollywood star to discuss her bisexuality However, the actress said she would only date lesbians, rather than bisexual women.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12396.html
New York moves closer to gay marriage
The New York Assembly passed a bill last night to legalise gay marriage. After four hours of debate, the bill passed 89-52 and will now go to the Senate for a vote.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12389.html
Scottish minister compares supporters of gay clergy to Nazis
Anti-gay Scottish minister Rev Ian Watson has compared the supporters of an openly gay minister to the Nazis.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12395.html
=
Daily Queer News
www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:
Angels, Demons & Blowhards: It’s Only A Movie, Bill, Only A Movie…
Rob Boston | Talk 2 Action
On Friday morning, I trekked to the Fox News Channel studio in Washington to debate Bill Donohue of the Catholic League for Religious and Civil Rights about President Barack Obama’s upcoming speaking engagement at Notre Dame. I’d prefer to have a civil discussion over these matters, but Donohue has two settings: “Obnoxious” and “Even More Obnoxious,” so things got heated right away. Actually, I was surprised Donohue had time to talk about this issue. He’s been awfully busy lately getting all worked up over the new Tom Hanks movie “Angels & Demons.” The League’s Web site is studded with press releases expressing outrage over this film, which opens on Friday. In a May 4 media missive, Donohue demanded that the movie be issued with some type of disclaimer explaining that’s it a work of fiction. Good heavens. Talk about an overreaction. Read more
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7035/
Code 1, Code 2, Code 3 at Bagram Airfield
Chris Rodda | Talk 2 Action
The preferred response from the military when U.S. troops are caught red-handed committing moral and ethical atrocities or violating military regulations or the law is that it didn’t happen. But, when such irrefutable evidence of an incident is uncovered that a complete denial, known as “Code 1,” becomes impossible, they resort to “Code 2″ — this was an “isolated incident” — or “Code 3″ — it was taken out of context. The video released last week by Al Jazeera of U.S. military members at Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan discussing the distribution of Dari and Pashtu language Bibles to the local Afghans, a blatant violation of CENTCOM’s General Order 1-A, was one of those incidents where the military couldn’t use “Code 1.” The video showed stacks of these Bibles on the floor, so they were undeniably there. So, this one had to be handled with “Code 2″ and “Code 3″ responses. For those who haven’t seen the Al Jazeera video yet, here it is: Read more
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7034/
IL: Equality Illinois: The Addams Family
Here’s news about an exciting advance opportunity for Equality Illinois members:
The Addams Family starring two-time Tony Award® winners Nathan Lane and Bebe Neuwirth is opening in Chicago this Fall. The weird and wonderful family created by New Yorker cartoonist Charles Addams comes to devilishly delightful life in a Broadway musical—and you can see it first. Don’t miss out on a potential blockbuster premiere before the show leaves for Broadway! Individual tickets are not yet available to the public, but you can get tickets from Equality Illinois for our special benefit performance! Watch your email in the next 48 hours for a special link that will allow you to buy tickets online for The Addams Family direct from Equality Illinois. Your ticket purchases using the Equality Illinois link will support our crucial work to secure, protect and defend equal rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in our State.
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7033/
John Stewart Slams Pundits for OKing Torture, Attacking Wanda Sykes
Isaac Fitzgerald, AlterNet
Jon Stewart had some fun last night pointing out the ridiculousness of those pundits who think torture is OK, but that Wanda Sykes’ Limbaugh joke went too far. Obviously “bad jokes and gay marriage are destroying this country, but torture can save it.” Read and Watch Video
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7027/
As Attitudes Warm, Marriage Blossoms
Deb Price | Creators.com
Last summer, I could almost smell the glorious fragrance of my favorite flowers, sweet peas, as I planted them in the warm, sunny, well-drained soil that the seed packet promised they would thrive in. They spouted quickly, but never became more than seedlings. Actually, “seedlings” sounds way more robust than they looked. “Threads” is more like it. Early this spring, my sweet peas shocked me by returning — with stems as thick as my thumb. Looking like they spent the winter working out in a gym, my sweet peas are bound to blossom, if not this year, then next. When gay marriage suddenly burst into full bloom across much of New England and in Iowa this spring, I immediately thought of my sweet peas: When conditions are right, some seeds produce very quickly. Others take a bit of time. Read more
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7025/
For Gay Couples Obstacles to Health Insurance
WALECIA KONRAD | New York Times
“IT’S not easy being gay,” said Mary Jo Hudson, director of the Ohio Department of Insurance. She wasn’t referring to political opposition and other obstacles, but the plight of same-sex couples who are trying to get and keep health insurance. “You’ve got to go through a lot of hoops,” said Ms. Hudson, who is gay and has lived with her partner for eight years. Same-sex couples have been making headlines; Maine followed the lead of Iowa and Vermont this week in legalizing same-sex marriage, and several other state legislatures are now considering it. But Ms. Hudson says that fairer and more comprehensive health care coverage for partners — whether they are legally married or not — is not necessarily part of the package. “For the vast majority of gay couples,” she said, “getting health insurance for a omestic partner is still a challenge.” Read more
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7023/
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
GLBT DIGEST - May 12, 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:
-They Had It Made
By DAVID BROOKS
In the late 1930s, a group of 268 promising young men, including John F. Kennedy and Ben Bradlee, entered Harvard College. By any normal measure, they had it made. They tended to be bright, polished, affluent and ambitious. They had the benefit of the world's most prestigious university. They had been selected even from among Harvard students as the most well adjusted.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/12/opinion/12brooks.html?_r=1&scp=8&sq=gay&st=cse
-Faking Left
By ROSS DOUTHAT
Among their many aspirations for his presidency, Barack Obama's admirers nurse a persistent hope that he might be able to end the culture wars. And by end, they generally mean win. The real hope is a final victory for cultural liberalism, and social conservatism's permanent eclipse. These hopes are overstated, but not necessarily irrational. Four months in, the Obama administration does seem to have a plausible strategy for turning the "social issues" to liberalism's advantage. The outline is simple: Engage on abortion, and punt on gay rights.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/12/opinion/12douthat.html?scp=6&sq=gay&st=cse
-Trouble With -Ing
By Philip B. Corbett
Some supporters of same-sex marriage, most notably Mr. Paterson, are pushing for a similar approach now. By forcing a vote without knowing its result, the logic goes, dubious senators might feel pressured to support the bill for fear of appearing hostile to gay rights. "Forcing" is actually a gerund, but this is a similar dangler problem. The construction suggests that the "dubious senators" are doing the "forcing," which isn't right.
http://topics.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/05/12/trouble-with-ing/?scp=5&sq=gay&st=cse
-Is My Marriage Gay?
By JENNIFER FINNEY BOYLAN
Belgrade Lakes, Me.
AS many Americans know, last week Gov. John Baldacci of Maine signed a law that made this state the fifth in the nation to legalize gay marriage. It's worth pointing out, however, that there were some legal same-sex marriages in Maine already, just as there probably are in all 50 states. These are marriages in which at least one member of the couple has changed genders since the wedding.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/12/opinion/12boylan.html?scp=4&sq=gay&st=cse
-Donald Trump, Carrie Prejean and the Tiara
By Katharine Q. Seelye
Pull up a seat with us here at the Trump Tower while we await the big news of the day - whether Donald Trump will snatch back the tiara from Carrie Prejean, the Miss California USA who does not believe in same-sex marriage. Mr. Trump is to announce his decision at 11 a.m. Eastern time; check back with us then to learn her fate.
http://thelede.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/05/12/the-donald-carrie-prejean-and-the-tiara/?scp=3&sq=gay&st=cse
-Assemblyman Makes Gay Marriage Bill Personal
By JEREMY W. PETERS
Assemblyman Daniel O'Donnell wants desperately to persuade his colleagues to legalize gay marriage. Here is how he has pursued Republican Assemblyman Greg Ball's vote:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/12/nyregion/12odonnell.html?scp=2&sq=gay&st=cse
=
Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Gaudy and glitzy, Moscow hosts Eurovision contest
By James Kilner
MOSCOW (Reuters) - Popular culture and kitsch will merge this week as the Russian capital opens the 54th Eurovision Song Contest, where issues such as gay rights and spats with neighbor countries have risen to the surface. When pop star Dima Bilan won in Belgrade last year, Russia earned the right to host the annual Eurovision competition, one of Europe's most watched annual shows with a TV audience of at least 100 million viewers.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/12/AR2009051201196.html
-Russian lesbian couple denied marriage license
By MANSUR MIROVALEV
The Associated Press
MOSCOW -- A Russian lesbian couple was denied a marriage license by an embarassed-looking government official Tuesday, just days ahead of a banned gay pride parade in Moscow.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/12/AR2009051201137.html
-Mr. Barry and Same-Sex Marriages
D.C. Council member Marion Barry (D-Ward 8) certainly does not speak for the entire black community regarding gay marriage in the District ["Uproar in D.C. as Same-Sex Marriage Gains," front page, May 6]. I am straight, I have been married for 18 years, and I have a child. I think I'm a pretty average member of the black community, and I support same-sex marriage. I don't believe it is a threat to my family, community or faith.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/11/AR2009051103130.html
-Two Practical Politicians, Obama and Barry, Draw the Line at Same-Sex
Marriage
By Marc Fisher
When the history of this country's journey toward acceptance of same-sex marriage is written, much will be made of the startling swiftness with which one state after another embraced gay marriage in 2008 and 2009. A huge shift in popular attitudes toward homosexuality has happened in what history will eventually see as a blink of an eye.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/11/AR2009051103253.html
-Former Catholic bishop of Milwaukee says he's gay
By RACHEL ZOLL
A Roman Catholic archbishop who resigned in 2002 over a sex and financial scandal involving a man describes his struggles with being gay in an upcoming memoir about his decades serving the church.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/12/AR2009051200852.html
=
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Miss California keeps title -- for now
By John Rogers
Officials of the Miss California USA pageant strongly criticized some of the actions of titleholder Carrie Prejean on Monday but said it's not their decision whether she should be stripped of her crown. Co-executive directors Keith Lewis and Shanna Moakler told a press conference that only Miss USA pageant owner Donald Trump can make that decision.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/entertainment/sfl-miss-california-controversy-051209,0,4210640.story
-Roman Catholic archbishop who stepped down in disgrace reveals in memoir that he's gay
RACHEL ZOLL
A Roman Catholic archbishop who resigned in 2002 over a sex and financial scandal involving a man describes his struggles with being gay in an upcoming memoir about his decades serving the church.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/nationworld/world/wire/sns-ap-us-rel-gay-archbishop,0,317742.story
=
Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Russian lesbian couple denied marriage license
By MANSUR MIROVALEV
MOSCOW -- A Russian lesbian couple was denied a marriage license by an embarassed-looking government official Tuesday, just days ahead of a banned gay pride parade in Moscow.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/world/AP/story/1044180.html
-Former Catholic bishop of Milwaukee says he's gay
By RACHEL ZOLL
A Roman Catholic archbishop who resigned in 2002 over a sex and financial scandal involving a man describes his struggles with being gay in an upcoming memoir about his decades serving the church.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/nation/AP/story/1044010.html
=
South Florida Blade
http://www.floridablade.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-One Mighty Weekend says goodbye to Disney
Chisholm event moved out of park; Gay Days to continue
By DMITRY RASHNITSOV
More than 150,000 people from all over the world are expected to converge on
Mickey's turf during the 19th year of Gay Days at Disney World in Orlando, held this year from June 2-9, according to GayDays.com Vice President Chris Alexander-Manley. The event is billed as the largest GLBT event in Florida. Because of the large influx of GLBT visitors to the area, many outside promoters lure partiers by producing their own events, most notably "circuit party"-style nightclub gatherings featuring big name DJs and performers. The largest and longest running of these events is "One Mighty Weekend," produced by Johnny Chisholm, which have traditionally occurred inside the park as well.
http://www.floridablade.com/2009/5-7/news/localnews/5814.cfm
=
The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Trasngender Air Marshal Files Lawsuit
By Julie Bolcer
A transgender federal air marshal has filed a lawsuit charging the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Air Marshal Service and individuals within the agency with discrimination and violation of civil rights, the Transgender Community of Police and Sheriffs International announced on Monday.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid83638.asp
-N.Y. Senate Still Lacks Marriage Votes
By Julie Bolcer
As the New York state assembly prepared to vote on marriage equality legislation on Tuesday, the leader of the New York state senate reiterated on Monday that the votes needed to pass marriage equality legislation in his chamber are still lacking. Senate Majority Leader Malcolm Smith vowed not to bring the legislation to the floor for a vote until its passage can be guaranteed with the requisite 32 votes.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid83635.asp
=
365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Support grows for federal DOMA repeal
By 365gay Newscenter Staff
Support is slowly growing in Congress for repeal of the federal Defense of Marriage Act, but a bill has yet to be filed in either the House or the Senate. The Defense of Marriage Act, or DOMA, was passed in 1998 and bars the federal government from recognizing same-sex relationships. The latest to support repealing it is Sen. Tom Harkin (D-Iowa) one of the original supporters of the measure.
http://www.365gay.com/news/support-grows-for-federal-doma-repeal/
-RachelWatch: Alexander the Great
By Ali Davis,
Obama's Lucky Break
Obama came out swinging for the big fight over healthcare. Because there is widespread acknowledgement that we need reform and it's a massive, complex issue that could use input from all sides, Republicans have announced their intention to contribute to a truly bipartisan effort for the good of everyone.
http://www.365gay.com/living/rachelwatch-alexander-the-great/
=
Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Foreign Office revises guidance for gay travellers in Moscow
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has released new guidance for gay travellers in Russia, advising that visitors to Moscow should be aware of possible violence at a planned gay pride march this weekend.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12375.html
-Anti-gay Miss California may be stripped of her title later today
Miss Calfornia, Carrie Prejean could be stripped of her title later today. The decision follows the allegedly homophobic comments made by Miss Prejean about gay marriage.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12378.html
-Trans woman on hunger strike after treatment refused
A trans woman from Nottingham has been on hunger strike for a week, saying she will die if the NHS does not fund her gender reassignment treatment.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12377.html
-Liverpool to fly the rainbow flag for international day against homophobia
Liverpool, the city in which gay teenager Michael Causer was beaten to death last year, is to fly the rainbow flag from its town hall on Sunday to mark International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12374.html
-Obama 'can end military gay ban with a single order'
Military law experts have said that President Barack Obama can end the dismissal of openly gay soldiers with just a single order.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12379.html
-Man convicted of murder of trans woman jailed for another 60 years
A Colorado man who beat a woman to death when he discovered her trans status has had another 60 years added to his sentence.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12373.html
-Comment: Peter Tatchell on why he'll still march at Moscow Pride
Despite threats to bash and arrest the marchers, human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell explains why he will still be attending this Saturday's Moscow Gay Pride parade. Authorities have said the parade is banned and threatened "tough measures" to those who try to march. In 2007, Mr Tatchell was arrested and assaulted during the parade.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12370.html
-Gay Minister Ben Bradshaw tells PinkNews.co.uk that Daily Telegraph's expenses expose was 'homophobic'
In an interview with PinkNews.co.uk, Ben Bradshaw, the openly gay Health Minister has accused the Daily Telegraph of homophobia in the way it published his expenses claims.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12367.html
-Boy George released from prison early
Singer Boy George was released from prison today after serving only four months of his 15-month sentence for falsely imprisoning a male prostitute.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12366.html
-Gay Tory MP Alan Duncan apologises over expense claims
The most senior gay Conservative MP, Alan Duncan, has apologised for charging the taxpayer for more than £4,000 of gardening and more than £1,400 in mortgage interest payments for a home he originally purchased outright.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12365.html
=
Daily Queer News
www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Dutch Singer Vows to Boycott Eurovision if Moscow Uses Violence Against Gay Activists
Pink News
Dutch singer Gordon has said he will boycott the Eurovision Song Contest if Moscow police use violence against gay rights activists. Gordon, whose real name is Cor Gordon Heuckeroth, fronts the band The Toppers along with Jeroen van der Boom and René Froger. They will be in the May 16th final if they make it through the selection rounds. He told NOS radio: "If people of my kind are being discriminated against in such a way, I have nothing to expect from this Russia, and I will be on the first plane home." Read more
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7008/
=
[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:
-They Had It Made
By DAVID BROOKS
In the late 1930s, a group of 268 promising young men, including John F. Kennedy and Ben Bradlee, entered Harvard College. By any normal measure, they had it made. They tended to be bright, polished, affluent and ambitious. They had the benefit of the world's most prestigious university. They had been selected even from among Harvard students as the most well adjusted.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/12/opinion/12brooks.html?_r=1&scp=8&sq=gay&st=cse
-Faking Left
By ROSS DOUTHAT
Among their many aspirations for his presidency, Barack Obama's admirers nurse a persistent hope that he might be able to end the culture wars. And by end, they generally mean win. The real hope is a final victory for cultural liberalism, and social conservatism's permanent eclipse. These hopes are overstated, but not necessarily irrational. Four months in, the Obama administration does seem to have a plausible strategy for turning the "social issues" to liberalism's advantage. The outline is simple: Engage on abortion, and punt on gay rights.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/12/opinion/12douthat.html?scp=6&sq=gay&st=cse
-Trouble With -Ing
By Philip B. Corbett
Some supporters of same-sex marriage, most notably Mr. Paterson, are pushing for a similar approach now. By forcing a vote without knowing its result, the logic goes, dubious senators might feel pressured to support the bill for fear of appearing hostile to gay rights. "Forcing" is actually a gerund, but this is a similar dangler problem. The construction suggests that the "dubious senators" are doing the "forcing," which isn't right.
http://topics.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/05/12/trouble-with-ing/?scp=5&sq=gay&st=cse
-Is My Marriage Gay?
By JENNIFER FINNEY BOYLAN
Belgrade Lakes, Me.
AS many Americans know, last week Gov. John Baldacci of Maine signed a law that made this state the fifth in the nation to legalize gay marriage. It's worth pointing out, however, that there were some legal same-sex marriages in Maine already, just as there probably are in all 50 states. These are marriages in which at least one member of the couple has changed genders since the wedding.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/12/opinion/12boylan.html?scp=4&sq=gay&st=cse
-Donald Trump, Carrie Prejean and the Tiara
By Katharine Q. Seelye
Pull up a seat with us here at the Trump Tower while we await the big news of the day - whether Donald Trump will snatch back the tiara from Carrie Prejean, the Miss California USA who does not believe in same-sex marriage. Mr. Trump is to announce his decision at 11 a.m. Eastern time; check back with us then to learn her fate.
http://thelede.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/05/12/the-donald-carrie-prejean-and-the-tiara/?scp=3&sq=gay&st=cse
-Assemblyman Makes Gay Marriage Bill Personal
By JEREMY W. PETERS
Assemblyman Daniel O'Donnell wants desperately to persuade his colleagues to legalize gay marriage. Here is how he has pursued Republican Assemblyman Greg Ball's vote:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/12/nyregion/12odonnell.html?scp=2&sq=gay&st=cse
=
Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Gaudy and glitzy, Moscow hosts Eurovision contest
By James Kilner
MOSCOW (Reuters) - Popular culture and kitsch will merge this week as the Russian capital opens the 54th Eurovision Song Contest, where issues such as gay rights and spats with neighbor countries have risen to the surface. When pop star Dima Bilan won in Belgrade last year, Russia earned the right to host the annual Eurovision competition, one of Europe's most watched annual shows with a TV audience of at least 100 million viewers.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/12/AR2009051201196.html
-Russian lesbian couple denied marriage license
By MANSUR MIROVALEV
The Associated Press
MOSCOW -- A Russian lesbian couple was denied a marriage license by an embarassed-looking government official Tuesday, just days ahead of a banned gay pride parade in Moscow.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/12/AR2009051201137.html
-Mr. Barry and Same-Sex Marriages
D.C. Council member Marion Barry (D-Ward 8) certainly does not speak for the entire black community regarding gay marriage in the District ["Uproar in D.C. as Same-Sex Marriage Gains," front page, May 6]. I am straight, I have been married for 18 years, and I have a child. I think I'm a pretty average member of the black community, and I support same-sex marriage. I don't believe it is a threat to my family, community or faith.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/11/AR2009051103130.html
-Two Practical Politicians, Obama and Barry, Draw the Line at Same-Sex
Marriage
By Marc Fisher
When the history of this country's journey toward acceptance of same-sex marriage is written, much will be made of the startling swiftness with which one state after another embraced gay marriage in 2008 and 2009. A huge shift in popular attitudes toward homosexuality has happened in what history will eventually see as a blink of an eye.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/11/AR2009051103253.html
-Former Catholic bishop of Milwaukee says he's gay
By RACHEL ZOLL
A Roman Catholic archbishop who resigned in 2002 over a sex and financial scandal involving a man describes his struggles with being gay in an upcoming memoir about his decades serving the church.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/12/AR2009051200852.html
=
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Miss California keeps title -- for now
By John Rogers
Officials of the Miss California USA pageant strongly criticized some of the actions of titleholder Carrie Prejean on Monday but said it's not their decision whether she should be stripped of her crown. Co-executive directors Keith Lewis and Shanna Moakler told a press conference that only Miss USA pageant owner Donald Trump can make that decision.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/entertainment/sfl-miss-california-controversy-051209,0,4210640.story
-Roman Catholic archbishop who stepped down in disgrace reveals in memoir that he's gay
RACHEL ZOLL
A Roman Catholic archbishop who resigned in 2002 over a sex and financial scandal involving a man describes his struggles with being gay in an upcoming memoir about his decades serving the church.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/nationworld/world/wire/sns-ap-us-rel-gay-archbishop,0,317742.story
=
Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Russian lesbian couple denied marriage license
By MANSUR MIROVALEV
MOSCOW -- A Russian lesbian couple was denied a marriage license by an embarassed-looking government official Tuesday, just days ahead of a banned gay pride parade in Moscow.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/world/AP/story/1044180.html
-Former Catholic bishop of Milwaukee says he's gay
By RACHEL ZOLL
A Roman Catholic archbishop who resigned in 2002 over a sex and financial scandal involving a man describes his struggles with being gay in an upcoming memoir about his decades serving the church.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/nation/AP/story/1044010.html
=
South Florida Blade
http://www.floridablade.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-One Mighty Weekend says goodbye to Disney
Chisholm event moved out of park; Gay Days to continue
By DMITRY RASHNITSOV
More than 150,000 people from all over the world are expected to converge on
Mickey's turf during the 19th year of Gay Days at Disney World in Orlando, held this year from June 2-9, according to GayDays.com Vice President Chris Alexander-Manley. The event is billed as the largest GLBT event in Florida. Because of the large influx of GLBT visitors to the area, many outside promoters lure partiers by producing their own events, most notably "circuit party"-style nightclub gatherings featuring big name DJs and performers. The largest and longest running of these events is "One Mighty Weekend," produced by Johnny Chisholm, which have traditionally occurred inside the park as well.
http://www.floridablade.com/2009/5-7/news/localnews/5814.cfm
=
The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Trasngender Air Marshal Files Lawsuit
By Julie Bolcer
A transgender federal air marshal has filed a lawsuit charging the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Air Marshal Service and individuals within the agency with discrimination and violation of civil rights, the Transgender Community of Police and Sheriffs International announced on Monday.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid83638.asp
-N.Y. Senate Still Lacks Marriage Votes
By Julie Bolcer
As the New York state assembly prepared to vote on marriage equality legislation on Tuesday, the leader of the New York state senate reiterated on Monday that the votes needed to pass marriage equality legislation in his chamber are still lacking. Senate Majority Leader Malcolm Smith vowed not to bring the legislation to the floor for a vote until its passage can be guaranteed with the requisite 32 votes.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid83635.asp
=
365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Support grows for federal DOMA repeal
By 365gay Newscenter Staff
Support is slowly growing in Congress for repeal of the federal Defense of Marriage Act, but a bill has yet to be filed in either the House or the Senate. The Defense of Marriage Act, or DOMA, was passed in 1998 and bars the federal government from recognizing same-sex relationships. The latest to support repealing it is Sen. Tom Harkin (D-Iowa) one of the original supporters of the measure.
http://www.365gay.com/news/support-grows-for-federal-doma-repeal/
-RachelWatch: Alexander the Great
By Ali Davis,
Obama's Lucky Break
Obama came out swinging for the big fight over healthcare. Because there is widespread acknowledgement that we need reform and it's a massive, complex issue that could use input from all sides, Republicans have announced their intention to contribute to a truly bipartisan effort for the good of everyone.
http://www.365gay.com/living/rachelwatch-alexander-the-great/
=
Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Foreign Office revises guidance for gay travellers in Moscow
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has released new guidance for gay travellers in Russia, advising that visitors to Moscow should be aware of possible violence at a planned gay pride march this weekend.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12375.html
-Anti-gay Miss California may be stripped of her title later today
Miss Calfornia, Carrie Prejean could be stripped of her title later today. The decision follows the allegedly homophobic comments made by Miss Prejean about gay marriage.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12378.html
-Trans woman on hunger strike after treatment refused
A trans woman from Nottingham has been on hunger strike for a week, saying she will die if the NHS does not fund her gender reassignment treatment.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12377.html
-Liverpool to fly the rainbow flag for international day against homophobia
Liverpool, the city in which gay teenager Michael Causer was beaten to death last year, is to fly the rainbow flag from its town hall on Sunday to mark International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12374.html
-Obama 'can end military gay ban with a single order'
Military law experts have said that President Barack Obama can end the dismissal of openly gay soldiers with just a single order.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12379.html
-Man convicted of murder of trans woman jailed for another 60 years
A Colorado man who beat a woman to death when he discovered her trans status has had another 60 years added to his sentence.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12373.html
-Comment: Peter Tatchell on why he'll still march at Moscow Pride
Despite threats to bash and arrest the marchers, human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell explains why he will still be attending this Saturday's Moscow Gay Pride parade. Authorities have said the parade is banned and threatened "tough measures" to those who try to march. In 2007, Mr Tatchell was arrested and assaulted during the parade.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12370.html
-Gay Minister Ben Bradshaw tells PinkNews.co.uk that Daily Telegraph's expenses expose was 'homophobic'
In an interview with PinkNews.co.uk, Ben Bradshaw, the openly gay Health Minister has accused the Daily Telegraph of homophobia in the way it published his expenses claims.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12367.html
-Boy George released from prison early
Singer Boy George was released from prison today after serving only four months of his 15-month sentence for falsely imprisoning a male prostitute.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12366.html
-Gay Tory MP Alan Duncan apologises over expense claims
The most senior gay Conservative MP, Alan Duncan, has apologised for charging the taxpayer for more than £4,000 of gardening and more than £1,400 in mortgage interest payments for a home he originally purchased outright.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12365.html
=
Daily Queer News
www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Dutch Singer Vows to Boycott Eurovision if Moscow Uses Violence Against Gay Activists
Pink News
Dutch singer Gordon has said he will boycott the Eurovision Song Contest if Moscow police use violence against gay rights activists. Gordon, whose real name is Cor Gordon Heuckeroth, fronts the band The Toppers along with Jeroen van der Boom and René Froger. They will be in the May 16th final if they make it through the selection rounds. He told NOS radio: "If people of my kind are being discriminated against in such a way, I have nothing to expect from this Russia, and I will be on the first plane home." Read more
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7008/
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
FLORIDA DIGEST - May 12, 2009
**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net and we'll be happy to send the full article.
~~FLORIDA GLBT NEWS~~
Steve Rothaus
www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Video | A South Florida family: Two moms, two sons
Two young Miami brothers talk about growing up with two mothers. 'I don't have a dad, OK?' the younger son tells inquisitive friends. A video by Bill Gerdts & Zach Woodward:
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/video-a-south-florida-family-two-moms-two-sons.html
-Sizzle Miami to bring Off-Broadway play to Miami
From Charlotte M. Logan:
Sizzle Miami is bringing the Laurinda D. Brown production, Walk Like A Man - The Play to Miami as part of the Sizzle Miami 2009 festivities.Tickets for the play, which opens Off-Broadway on Aug.12, are on sale now at www.sizzleshopping.com. Prices are $25 advance, $30 at the door. Limited VIP seating: $50.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/sizzle-miami-to-bring-off-broadway-play-to-miami.html
-'Drag It OUT' to benefit Safe Schools South Florida, Animal Aid and GLCC of South Florida
From Safe Schools South Florida:
Mark you calendars! Drag It OUT is back with an all new cast! This popular benefit raises needed funds for local non-profits including Safe Schools South Florida. So save the date and prepare for an evening of entertainment and fun.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/drag-it-out-to-benefit-safe-schools-south-florida-animal-aid-and-glcc-of-south-florida.html
-Florida Gov. Charlie Crist announces bid for U.S. Senate
BY BETH REINHARD
In a news release from the Republican Party of Florida e-mailed at 9:12 a.m., Gov. Charlie Crist confirmed the worst-kept secret in Florida politics: He'll run for the seat to be vacated by the retiring U.S. Sen. Mel Martinez. ''Here in Florida, we've shown that when we put people first and work together. much can be accomplished, and I intend to bring that same approach to Washington,'' Crist said. ``That is why, after thoughtful consideration with my wife Carole, I have decided to run for the U.S. Senate.''
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/florida-gov-charlie-crist-announces-bid-for-us-senate.html
=
Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Fight divorce
If marriage is a sacrament designed by God in which gays should not participate because they would destroy its foundation, how come laws sanction divorce, which really destroys religious marriage? Those opposed to fighting gay marriage should take aim at banning divorce rather than wasting time and effort fighting gay unions. ''Till Death Do Us Part,'' remember? In 10 years, the the ban on gay marriage will follow the old bans against interracial and interreligious couples, sodomy, slavery, segregation and other plagues we have suffered. By the way, why are convicted murderers, child molesters, drug pushers, addicts pimps, prostitutes and corrupt politicians free to marry?
GERARDO C. SMITH, Miami
http://www.miamiherald.com/opinion/letters/story/1043590.html
=
From Transgender Equality
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article
-Ft. Lauderdale: WSVN -- High school is tough for kids and became worse for Martavian Johnson when both his parents passed away. Martavian Johnson: "My dad died like a year and half ago, and my mom died like a month and half ago. I like to see myself as a strong individual, I've coped with it." Copes by living with his older brother. That makes him different, and this makes him stand out as well. Martavian Johnson: "I'm gay." Gay, happy and excited about the Homestead High School prom. Martavian Johnson: "Prom is what everyone talks about." And if he gets his way, his classmates will be talking about Martavian at the prom because he wants to dress ... in a dress. Martavian Johnson: "I want to dress as a female for prom ... and male. I plan on doing both. I was going to switch. You walk in as a female, with your clothes on, and then you change at the party at the prom."
http://www4.wsvn.com/features/articles/helpmehoward/MI119895/
=
Coral Gables PFLAG Support Groups
Parents, Families, Friends of Lesbians and Gays
YOU ARE NOT ALONE!
PLACE: Coral Gables Congregational Church
WHEN: Second Wednesday of Each Month
TIME: 6:00 - 8:00 P.M. (the church offers a community supper at 5:30 for $5.00 and all are welcome!
=
ArtServe -Ft. Lauderdale
Artists working in all media are encouraged to let their imaginations go WILD! for an upcoming summer exhibition as ArtServe introduces the first ever animal exhibit to be held in the JM Family Enterprises Gallery. Wild! Feathers, Fins, and Fur, will be presented May 28, 2009 through July 10, 2009. This show was rated as one of the most requested shows in the 2008 ArtServe member survey.
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
~~FLORIDA GLBT NEWS~~
Steve Rothaus
www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Video | A South Florida family: Two moms, two sons
Two young Miami brothers talk about growing up with two mothers. 'I don't have a dad, OK?' the younger son tells inquisitive friends. A video by Bill Gerdts & Zach Woodward:
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/video-a-south-florida-family-two-moms-two-sons.html
-Sizzle Miami to bring Off-Broadway play to Miami
From Charlotte M. Logan:
Sizzle Miami is bringing the Laurinda D. Brown production, Walk Like A Man - The Play to Miami as part of the Sizzle Miami 2009 festivities.Tickets for the play, which opens Off-Broadway on Aug.12, are on sale now at www.sizzleshopping.com. Prices are $25 advance, $30 at the door. Limited VIP seating: $50.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/sizzle-miami-to-bring-off-broadway-play-to-miami.html
-'Drag It OUT' to benefit Safe Schools South Florida, Animal Aid and GLCC of South Florida
From Safe Schools South Florida:
Mark you calendars! Drag It OUT is back with an all new cast! This popular benefit raises needed funds for local non-profits including Safe Schools South Florida. So save the date and prepare for an evening of entertainment and fun.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/drag-it-out-to-benefit-safe-schools-south-florida-animal-aid-and-glcc-of-south-florida.html
-Florida Gov. Charlie Crist announces bid for U.S. Senate
BY BETH REINHARD
In a news release from the Republican Party of Florida e-mailed at 9:12 a.m., Gov. Charlie Crist confirmed the worst-kept secret in Florida politics: He'll run for the seat to be vacated by the retiring U.S. Sen. Mel Martinez. ''Here in Florida, we've shown that when we put people first and work together. much can be accomplished, and I intend to bring that same approach to Washington,'' Crist said. ``That is why, after thoughtful consideration with my wife Carole, I have decided to run for the U.S. Senate.''
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/florida-gov-charlie-crist-announces-bid-for-us-senate.html
=
Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Fight divorce
If marriage is a sacrament designed by God in which gays should not participate because they would destroy its foundation, how come laws sanction divorce, which really destroys religious marriage? Those opposed to fighting gay marriage should take aim at banning divorce rather than wasting time and effort fighting gay unions. ''Till Death Do Us Part,'' remember? In 10 years, the the ban on gay marriage will follow the old bans against interracial and interreligious couples, sodomy, slavery, segregation and other plagues we have suffered. By the way, why are convicted murderers, child molesters, drug pushers, addicts pimps, prostitutes and corrupt politicians free to marry?
GERARDO C. SMITH, Miami
http://www.miamiherald.com/opinion/letters/story/1043590.html
=
From Transgender Equality
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article
-Ft. Lauderdale: WSVN -- High school is tough for kids and became worse for Martavian Johnson when both his parents passed away. Martavian Johnson: "My dad died like a year and half ago, and my mom died like a month and half ago. I like to see myself as a strong individual, I've coped with it." Copes by living with his older brother. That makes him different, and this makes him stand out as well. Martavian Johnson: "I'm gay." Gay, happy and excited about the Homestead High School prom. Martavian Johnson: "Prom is what everyone talks about." And if he gets his way, his classmates will be talking about Martavian at the prom because he wants to dress ... in a dress. Martavian Johnson: "I want to dress as a female for prom ... and male. I plan on doing both. I was going to switch. You walk in as a female, with your clothes on, and then you change at the party at the prom."
http://www4.wsvn.com/features/articles/helpmehoward/MI119895/
=
Coral Gables PFLAG Support Groups
Parents, Families, Friends of Lesbians and Gays
YOU ARE NOT ALONE!
PLACE: Coral Gables Congregational Church
WHEN: Second Wednesday of Each Month
TIME: 6:00 - 8:00 P.M. (the church offers a community supper at 5:30 for $5.00 and all are welcome!
=
ArtServe -Ft. Lauderdale
Artists working in all media are encouraged to let their imaginations go WILD! for an upcoming summer exhibition as ArtServe introduces the first ever animal exhibit to be held in the JM Family Enterprises Gallery. Wild! Feathers, Fins, and Fur, will be presented May 28, 2009 through July 10, 2009. This show was rated as one of the most requested shows in the 2008 ArtServe member survey.
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
Monday, May 11, 2009
GLBT DIGEST - May 11, 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.
=
Steve Rothaus
www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Pitts: Blacks must confront their homophobia
By LEONARD PITTS JR
''The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.'' -- Martin Luther King, Jr.
That's for Marion Barry, who seems to need the reminder. The former mayor and current city councilman of Washington, D.C. is a longtime supporter of gay rights. So observers were stunned last week when a bill committing the city to recognize same-sex marriages performed elsewhere passed the council on a vote of 12-1. The ''one'' was Barry.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/pitts-blacks-must-confront-their-homophobia.html
-SLDN: Obama caving to senior military leadership, religious right on 'Don't
Ask, Don't Tell'
News release from Servicemembers Legal Defense Network:
When asked this morning on This Week with George Stephanopoulos if "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" will be overturned, the president's national security advisor, General Jones, responded, "I don't know." " 'I don't know?' The answer should have been a one-word answer 'Yes,' said Aubrey Sarvis, executive director of Servicemembers Legal Defense Network.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/sldn-obama-caving-to-senior-military-leadership-religious-right-on-dont-ask-dont-tell.html
=
Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Fort Lauderdale gay activists ask Obama to do more
By Amy Sherman
The national Democratic Party chairman asked gay activists gathered in Fort Lauderdale on Friday to keep working for President Barack Obama. But the crowd wanted something in return.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/politics/AP/story/1042462.html
=
Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-US-POLITICS Summary
"Preliminary" talks held on U.S. military gay policy
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Obama administration is holding "preliminary discussions" about changing the military's prohibition against openly gay service members, White House National Security Advisor James Jones said on Sunday. President Barack Obama pledged during the presidential campaign to change the policy. But the issue has been on the back-burner as the White House tackles other issues such as the economy and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/11/AR2009051100744.html
-Having a Gay Time
The new ranking Republican on the Senate Judiciary Committee has already stirred controversy, as Jonathan Chait points out in the New Republic:
"I'm trying to figure out what exactly Jeff Sessions meant when he said he could support a Supreme Court justice who had 'gay tendencies.' Clearly he is making a concession of sorts. But precisely what he is conceding is not clear. Here is Sessions' exact formulation: 'I don't think a person who acknowledges that they have gay tendencies is disqualified per se for the job.'
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/11/AR2009051100782_pf.html
-Marion Barry, Obama & The Winding Road To Gay Marriage
By Marc Fisher
When the history of this country's journey toward acceptance of same-sex marriage is written, much will be made of the startling swiftness with which one state after another embraced gay marriage in a matter of a few months in 2008 and 2009. A huge shift in popular attitudes toward homosexuality has happened in what history will eventually see as a blink of an eye.
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/rawfisher/2009/05/barry_obama_the_winding_road_t.html
=
Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/public/us
-Proudly Pro-Choice on Education
By MARY ANASTASIA O'GRADY
New York's archbishop on schools and the challenges facing the Catholic Church. The child is not a mere creature of the state. Parents have the primary responsibility to see how and where their children are educated."
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124182806355902575.html
=
The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Wanda Sykes Rips into Rush Limbaugh
By Julie Bolcer
Out comedian Wanda Sykes tore into Rush Limbaugh at the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner on Saturday night, suggesting that the conservative commentator's anti-Obama agenda makes him akin to a terrorist, specifically, one of the 9/11 hijackers.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid83463.asp
=
365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-RachelWatch: She Thinks She Can! She Thinks She Can!
By Ali Davis, Contributing writer
Darth Protest Too Much? Dick Cheney is continuing his 2009 I Have Always Loved the Press and Anyone Who Doesn't Believe That is Making Us Vulnerable To Terrorists tour. He has moved on to radio, presumably because that way he doesn't need to have travel with his squadron of aides who, with the help of an intricate network of hooks, wires, and levers, pull back his mouth and eyebrows when he gives the hand signal for "friendly."
http://www.365gay.com/living/rachelwatch-she-thinks-she-can-she-thinks-she-can/
=
Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Tatchell condemns Irish civil partnerships as 'sexual apartheid'
Gay rights campaigner Peter Tatchell has attacked plans by the Irish government to introduce civil partnerships, saying the country should offer gay couples full marriage rights.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12352.html
=
Daily Queer News
www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:
-AZ: 2nd Priest Excommunicated from Diocese
Michael Clancy | The Arizona Republic | AZCentral.com
The Rev. Chris Carpenter, a Catholic priest who has been on leave from the Phoenix Diocese for three years, has been excommunicated. He is the second Catholic priest to be excommunicated in six months and the third since Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted came to the diocese in late 2003. The decree of excommunication, one of the Catholic Church's harshest penalties, was issued last month but made public on Monday. Olmsted said Carpenter has joined an offshoot church, resulting in the decision. Read more
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/6987/
=
Forwarded from Kenneth Sherrill - Ken's List
kenslist@groups.queernet.org
Go to the links for the following articles:
Contact rays.list@comcast.net if you can't access the article
-New York Times Features Log Cabin's Lobbying on Marriage
Today's New York Times includes an article on the fight for marriage equality that prominently features Log Cabin's critical lobbying work in Albany. In particular, it notes that Republican votes are crucial to marriage equality passing and the significance of Senate Minority Leader Dean Skelos's (R-Long Island) commitment to allow a "conscience" vote on the issue. "Republican legislators will be free to vote their conscience on this issue, without pressure," said Jeff Cook, Log Cabin's Legislative Adviser. "And we know if people vote their hearts on this issue, we will win."
http://www.logcabin.org/ct/DdBmeI11GRsA/
-Noncommittal votes are bringing uncertainty to the fate of Gov. David A.
Paterson's bill to legalize same-sex marriage.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/10/nyregion/10gays.html?emc=eta1
=
Forwarded from Gays Without Borders
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article
-On May 16, in celebration of diversity and LGBT equality, the Pink Dot Campaign is calling for Singaporeans to gather in the Hong Lim park at 4:30pm to form a pink dot that will be photographed from the air. The organizers remind attendees that the gathering is not a march or a protest - it's just a simple call for fair-minded people to show their support for a more inclusive future.
http://www.pinkdot.sg
-Tatchell at Moscow Gay Pride
Undeterred by threat of arrests and bashings
Despite threats to bash and arrest the marchers, British gay human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell will attend this Saturday's Moscow Gay Pride parade - this year renamed Slavic Gay Pride to support the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) equality struggles in all Slavic countries, Russian and non-Russian. The parade is scheduled to take place at lunchtime on Saturday 16 May, and coincides with the final of the Eurovision song contest which is being held later that night, also in Moscow.
http://twitter.com/PeterTatchell
-I've just learned that American anti-gay "researcher" Paul Cameron is on a tour of Poland, speaking at several universities on the so-called "dangers" of homosexuality. He has spoken already May 7 near the Cardinal Stefan Wyszynsk University in Warsaw (The university itself canceled his appearance) and is slated to speak at the University of Opole (at the invitation of Solidarity?) and at Lublin. I am uncertain of his schedule; he may already have spoken at these two locations.
-Rampant Anti-Gay Violence in Iraq
May 17th is commemorated around the world as International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO), a day on which LGBT people and our allies focus attention on the problems of anti-gay hate, discrimination and violence. This year in Chicago, the Gay Liberation Network (GLN) is organizing the city's IDAHO event as a protest against the Obama administration's continuing silence about rampant anti-gay violence in U.S.-occupied Iraq. The protest will take place at 2 PM, Sunday, May 17th outside of the Obamas' Chicago residence at the corner of Hyde Park Boulevard (5100 S.) and Greenwood (1100 E.).
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
=
Steve Rothaus
www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Pitts: Blacks must confront their homophobia
By LEONARD PITTS JR
''The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.'' -- Martin Luther King, Jr.
That's for Marion Barry, who seems to need the reminder. The former mayor and current city councilman of Washington, D.C. is a longtime supporter of gay rights. So observers were stunned last week when a bill committing the city to recognize same-sex marriages performed elsewhere passed the council on a vote of 12-1. The ''one'' was Barry.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/pitts-blacks-must-confront-their-homophobia.html
-SLDN: Obama caving to senior military leadership, religious right on 'Don't
Ask, Don't Tell'
News release from Servicemembers Legal Defense Network:
When asked this morning on This Week with George Stephanopoulos if "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" will be overturned, the president's national security advisor, General Jones, responded, "I don't know." " 'I don't know?' The answer should have been a one-word answer 'Yes,' said Aubrey Sarvis, executive director of Servicemembers Legal Defense Network.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/sldn-obama-caving-to-senior-military-leadership-religious-right-on-dont-ask-dont-tell.html
=
Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Fort Lauderdale gay activists ask Obama to do more
By Amy Sherman
The national Democratic Party chairman asked gay activists gathered in Fort Lauderdale on Friday to keep working for President Barack Obama. But the crowd wanted something in return.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/politics/AP/story/1042462.html
=
Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-US-POLITICS Summary
"Preliminary" talks held on U.S. military gay policy
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Obama administration is holding "preliminary discussions" about changing the military's prohibition against openly gay service members, White House National Security Advisor James Jones said on Sunday. President Barack Obama pledged during the presidential campaign to change the policy. But the issue has been on the back-burner as the White House tackles other issues such as the economy and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/11/AR2009051100744.html
-Having a Gay Time
The new ranking Republican on the Senate Judiciary Committee has already stirred controversy, as Jonathan Chait points out in the New Republic:
"I'm trying to figure out what exactly Jeff Sessions meant when he said he could support a Supreme Court justice who had 'gay tendencies.' Clearly he is making a concession of sorts. But precisely what he is conceding is not clear. Here is Sessions' exact formulation: 'I don't think a person who acknowledges that they have gay tendencies is disqualified per se for the job.'
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/11/AR2009051100782_pf.html
-Marion Barry, Obama & The Winding Road To Gay Marriage
By Marc Fisher
When the history of this country's journey toward acceptance of same-sex marriage is written, much will be made of the startling swiftness with which one state after another embraced gay marriage in a matter of a few months in 2008 and 2009. A huge shift in popular attitudes toward homosexuality has happened in what history will eventually see as a blink of an eye.
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/rawfisher/2009/05/barry_obama_the_winding_road_t.html
=
Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/public/us
-Proudly Pro-Choice on Education
By MARY ANASTASIA O'GRADY
New York's archbishop on schools and the challenges facing the Catholic Church. The child is not a mere creature of the state. Parents have the primary responsibility to see how and where their children are educated."
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124182806355902575.html
=
The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Wanda Sykes Rips into Rush Limbaugh
By Julie Bolcer
Out comedian Wanda Sykes tore into Rush Limbaugh at the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner on Saturday night, suggesting that the conservative commentator's anti-Obama agenda makes him akin to a terrorist, specifically, one of the 9/11 hijackers.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid83463.asp
=
365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-RachelWatch: She Thinks She Can! She Thinks She Can!
By Ali Davis, Contributing writer
Darth Protest Too Much? Dick Cheney is continuing his 2009 I Have Always Loved the Press and Anyone Who Doesn't Believe That is Making Us Vulnerable To Terrorists tour. He has moved on to radio, presumably because that way he doesn't need to have travel with his squadron of aides who, with the help of an intricate network of hooks, wires, and levers, pull back his mouth and eyebrows when he gives the hand signal for "friendly."
http://www.365gay.com/living/rachelwatch-she-thinks-she-can-she-thinks-she-can/
=
Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Tatchell condemns Irish civil partnerships as 'sexual apartheid'
Gay rights campaigner Peter Tatchell has attacked plans by the Irish government to introduce civil partnerships, saying the country should offer gay couples full marriage rights.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12352.html
=
Daily Queer News
www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:
-AZ: 2nd Priest Excommunicated from Diocese
Michael Clancy | The Arizona Republic | AZCentral.com
The Rev. Chris Carpenter, a Catholic priest who has been on leave from the Phoenix Diocese for three years, has been excommunicated. He is the second Catholic priest to be excommunicated in six months and the third since Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted came to the diocese in late 2003. The decree of excommunication, one of the Catholic Church's harshest penalties, was issued last month but made public on Monday. Olmsted said Carpenter has joined an offshoot church, resulting in the decision. Read more
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/6987/
=
Forwarded from Kenneth Sherrill - Ken's List
kenslist@groups.queernet.org
Go to the links for the following articles:
Contact rays.list@comcast.net if you can't access the article
-New York Times Features Log Cabin's Lobbying on Marriage
Today's New York Times includes an article on the fight for marriage equality that prominently features Log Cabin's critical lobbying work in Albany. In particular, it notes that Republican votes are crucial to marriage equality passing and the significance of Senate Minority Leader Dean Skelos's (R-Long Island) commitment to allow a "conscience" vote on the issue. "Republican legislators will be free to vote their conscience on this issue, without pressure," said Jeff Cook, Log Cabin's Legislative Adviser. "And we know if people vote their hearts on this issue, we will win."
http://www.logcabin.org/ct/DdBmeI11GRsA/
-Noncommittal votes are bringing uncertainty to the fate of Gov. David A.
Paterson's bill to legalize same-sex marriage.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/10/nyregion/10gays.html?emc=eta1
=
Forwarded from Gays Without Borders
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article
-On May 16, in celebration of diversity and LGBT equality, the Pink Dot Campaign is calling for Singaporeans to gather in the Hong Lim park at 4:30pm to form a pink dot that will be photographed from the air. The organizers remind attendees that the gathering is not a march or a protest - it's just a simple call for fair-minded people to show their support for a more inclusive future.
http://www.pinkdot.sg
-Tatchell at Moscow Gay Pride
Undeterred by threat of arrests and bashings
Despite threats to bash and arrest the marchers, British gay human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell will attend this Saturday's Moscow Gay Pride parade - this year renamed Slavic Gay Pride to support the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) equality struggles in all Slavic countries, Russian and non-Russian. The parade is scheduled to take place at lunchtime on Saturday 16 May, and coincides with the final of the Eurovision song contest which is being held later that night, also in Moscow.
http://twitter.com/PeterTatchell
-I've just learned that American anti-gay "researcher" Paul Cameron is on a tour of Poland, speaking at several universities on the so-called "dangers" of homosexuality. He has spoken already May 7 near the Cardinal Stefan Wyszynsk University in Warsaw (The university itself canceled his appearance) and is slated to speak at the University of Opole (at the invitation of Solidarity?) and at Lublin. I am uncertain of his schedule; he may already have spoken at these two locations.
-Rampant Anti-Gay Violence in Iraq
May 17th is commemorated around the world as International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO), a day on which LGBT people and our allies focus attention on the problems of anti-gay hate, discrimination and violence. This year in Chicago, the Gay Liberation Network (GLN) is organizing the city's IDAHO event as a protest against the Obama administration's continuing silence about rampant anti-gay violence in U.S.-occupied Iraq. The protest will take place at 2 PM, Sunday, May 17th outside of the Obamas' Chicago residence at the corner of Hyde Park Boulevard (5100 S.) and Greenwood (1100 E.).
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
FLORIDA DIGEST - May 11, 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~~
=
Dolphin Democrats - Ft. Lauderdale
Guest Speaker: For the first time in 24 years, the mayor of the city of Ft. Lauderdale, the Honorable Jack Seiler, will address the Dolphin Democrats. Of course Jack has addressed the club recently; however it is the office of the Mayor of Ft Lauderdale that has not addressed the club in the past 24 years. Join us as we celebrate this historic occasion! Wednesday May 13, 2009 at 7:30 pm
Michael Albetta - President
Linda Jain - Vice-President
www.dolphindems.org
=
You are Invited!
ArtsUnited 10th Birthday Party
Friday, May 29 - 7-9pm
Hagan Park -
2020 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors
Tickets - $35
www.artsunitedonline.org
~~FLORIDA GENERAL NEWS~~
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Broward traffic stays jammed as signal upgrades lag far off schedule
New system of cameras and cables to adjust signals as conditions change is 4 years behind schedule
By Scott Wyman
Wonder why you're stuck in traffic all the time? Blame county government. By the end of last year, Broward County Click here for restaurant inspection reports was supposed to upgrade traffic signals at 1,300 intersections so they would constantly adjust to driving conditions. The work is more than four years behind schedule, and the high-tech traffic system is not fully operational anywhere in the county.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/local/broward/sfl-lights-audit-b051109sbmay11,0,1820266.story
-Broward College going to four-day week with Friday closings
Several Broward College buildings will be closed on Fridays, as Broward College today begins trying out a four-day work week. The buildings will close to help save money and energy, but child-care centers and libraries will remain open.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/local/broward/sfl-broward_8bdig-b0406093sbapr06,0,4673907.story
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
~~FLORIDA GLBT NEWS~~
=
Dolphin Democrats - Ft. Lauderdale
Guest Speaker: For the first time in 24 years, the mayor of the city of Ft. Lauderdale, the Honorable Jack Seiler, will address the Dolphin Democrats. Of course Jack has addressed the club recently; however it is the office of the Mayor of Ft Lauderdale that has not addressed the club in the past 24 years. Join us as we celebrate this historic occasion! Wednesday May 13, 2009 at 7:30 pm
Michael Albetta - President
Linda Jain - Vice-President
www.dolphindems.org
=
You are Invited!
ArtsUnited 10th Birthday Party
Friday, May 29 - 7-9pm
Hagan Park -
2020 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors
Tickets - $35
www.artsunitedonline.org
~~FLORIDA GENERAL NEWS~~
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Broward traffic stays jammed as signal upgrades lag far off schedule
New system of cameras and cables to adjust signals as conditions change is 4 years behind schedule
By Scott Wyman
Wonder why you're stuck in traffic all the time? Blame county government. By the end of last year, Broward County Click here for restaurant inspection reports was supposed to upgrade traffic signals at 1,300 intersections so they would constantly adjust to driving conditions. The work is more than four years behind schedule, and the high-tech traffic system is not fully operational anywhere in the county.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/local/broward/sfl-lights-audit-b051109sbmay11,0,1820266.story
-Broward College going to four-day week with Friday closings
Several Broward College buildings will be closed on Fridays, as Broward College today begins trying out a four-day work week. The buildings will close to help save money and energy, but child-care centers and libraries will remain open.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/local/broward/sfl-broward_8bdig-b0406093sbapr06,0,4673907.story
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
Sunday, May 10, 2009
GLBT DIGEST - May 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:
-Taking Offense
To the Editor:
Regarding Ms. Dargis's memo urging straight filmmakers to avoid making fun of gay people: I am curious as to whether she has ever heard of a small, independent flick called "Borat," which contains more than a fair share of what she might call "vicious digs" at the expense of the Jews. There are also a decent number of movies that have been pumped out by the Wayans brothers, including "White Chicks," that appear to poke fun at everyone under the sun. Though I wouldn't blame Ms. Dargis if she avoided movies by these filmmakers.
Stephen Suhovsky
Brooklyn
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/10/arts/10alsmail-TAKINGOFFENS_LETTERS.html?scp=9&sq=gay&st=cse
-A World of Least-Wanted Lists
By GRAHAM BOWLEY
Last week, the British government published a list of 16 people barred from the country. Eight Muslim clerics, writers and political advocates were among them. And then there was a right-wing radio host from San Francisco, an anti-gay pastor and his like-minded daughter from Kansas, and a former grand wizard of the Ku Klux Klan from Florida.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/10/weekinreview/10bowley.html?scp=7&sq=gay&st=cse
-New York Senators Hedge on Gay Marriage
By JEREMY W. PETERS
Pose the question "Would you vote to make same-sex marriage legal?" within the gilded State Senate chamber, and you'll hear a lot of hedging. Senator Vincent L. Leibell, a Republican who represents parts of Westchester, Putnam and Dutchess Counties, prefers civil unions to marriage. Still, he acknowledged that "society changes over time," and said that he might not make up his mind until the last minute.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/10/nyregion/10gays.html?scp=2&sq=gay&st=cse
=
Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-VH1, Logo among winners at GLAAD Media Awards
The Associated Press
Laverne Cox isn't on the road with Sean Combs, but the outspoken transgender person has picked up an outstanding reality show trophy at the 20th annual GLAAD Media Awards. Cox was a contestant on VH1's "I Want to Work for Diddy," which tied with the Logo transgender dating series "Transamerican Love Story" for the award presented by the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/10/AR2009051000044.html?sub=AR
-Supreme Court Prospect Has Unlikely Ally
Friendship With Thomas May Complicate Chances for Left-Leaning Georgia Judge
By Krissah Thompson
One day in the early 1990s, Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas telephoned Leah Ward Sears to introduce himself. She was a rising star in Georgia's legal community, a relatively liberal black woman on the state's conservative Supreme Court. Thomas had read about political attacks against Sears and called to say he didn't like it.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/09/AR2009050902519.html
-One Man, One Woman -- Only
By HARRY R. JACKSON JR.
When the D.C. Council passed a measure last week to recognize same-sex marriages performed elsewhere, the council members acted surreptitiously and violated the sacred trust of their office. This decision, in which little attention was paid to the concerns of many D.C. constituents, marked a new low in irresponsible leadership.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/09/AR2009050902323.html
-Marion Barry Doesn't Get It
By MICHAEL STANEK
There were nights in high school and college when I'd cry myself to sleep over the confusion and frustration I felt over my sexuality. As with every other moment at that time, I'd force my tears to roll silently down my face so as to hide my anguish from the normalcy around me. At 25, with the help of wonderful friends and family, I have survived those wounds of alienation and fear that cut deep into the core of so many young gay men and lesbians.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/09/AR2009050902316.html
=
Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/public/us
-Gay Rights in Lebanon Gain Traction
Associated Press
BEIRUT -- In the Arab world, where several nations have seen killings of gay men in recent months, it can be startling to see a rainbow flag unfurled in public. But the region's only overt gay rights organization, based in Lebanon, says it is slowly making progress in preventing discrimination and violence.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124192484673204149.html
=
Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Blacks must confront their homophobia
By LEONARD PITTS JR.
''The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.'' -- Martin Luther King, Jr.
That's for Marion Barry, who seems to need the reminder. The former mayor and current city councilman of Washington, D.C. is a longtime supporter of gay rights. So observers were stunned last week when a bill committing the city to recognize same-sex marriages performed elsewhere passed the council on a vote of 12-1.
http://www.miamiherald.com/living/columnists/leonard-pitts/story/1039247.html
=
From Transgender Equality
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article
-Ft. Lauderdale: WSVN -- High school is tough for kids and became worse for Martavian Johnson when both his parents passed away. Martavian Johnson: "My dad died like a year and half ago, and my mom died like a month and half ago. I like to see myself as a strong individual, I've coped with it." Copes by living with his older brother. That makes him different, and this makes him stand out as well. Martavian Johnson: "I'm gay." Gay, happy and excited about the Homestead High School prom. Martavian Johnson: "Prom is what everyone talks about." And if he gets his way, his classmates will be talking about Martavian at the prom because he wants to dress ... in a dress. Martavian Johnson: "I want to dress as a female for prom ... and male. I plan on doing both. I was going to switch. You walk in as a female, with your clothes on, and then you change at the party at the prom."
http://www4.wsvn.com/features/articles/helpmehoward/MI119895/
=
Daily Queer News
www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Fox News: US Gov't Funds Gays! Sex! Beer! In-gulp-Argentina!
Blabbeando
Yesterday, Rex alerted me to a rather bizarre story from FOX News ("U.S. Government Funds $400,000 Study on Gay Sex in Argentina Bars").
An excerpt:
The National Institutes of Health are paying researchers to cruise six bars in Buenos Aires to find out why gay men engage in risky sexual behavior while drunk - and just what can be done about it.
Doctors and specialists from the New York Psychiatric Institute are using the generous grant from NIH's National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism to help tailor HIV prevention programs to work at bars and clubs.
Though public health officials say that HIV/AIDS rates are higher in Washington, D.C., than in some parts of West Africa, U.S. government funds are going to help curb dangerous liaisons in Argentina's capital.
The study began in September 2008, according to an online abstract, and has already cost taxpayers $198,776, NIH documents show. OK. Let's get a few things out of the way: Read more
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/6967/
-UN: 'Favorable Consideration' Needed for Gay Iraqi Asylum Claims
Michael Petrelis | Petrelis Files
[As the brutality against LGBT persons in Iraq continues, I wish to make a short announcement before getting into the meat of this post. The Gays Without Borders chapter in San Francisco on May 17 will hold a rally and fundraiser for the Iraqi LGBT organization from noon till 4:00 PM at Harvey Milk Plaza. We are lining up support from non-profits, politicians and social justice activists, for an afternoon of solidarity, and money-raising, for our brothers and sisters in Iraq. Please join us next weekend.] This is just a small ray of hope for LGBT Iraqis with the resources and wherewithal to leave their chaotic and deadly country, and should receive widespread attention from gay blogs, advocacy organizations worldwide, and the mainstream press. The spokesman for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Ron Redmond, on May 5 in Geneva made on the record comments regarding persons seeking asylum outside of Iraq, and revisions in the agency's guidelines. Redmond said homosexuals were a category needing 'favourable consideration' by nations offering to take in Iraqi refugees:
However, UNHCR advises that people belonging to specific groups from these governorates which have been identified as at risk should receive favourable consideration. These groups include, among others, members of religious and ethnic minorities; public officials; Iraqis perceived as opposing armed groups or political factions; Iraqis affiliated with the multinational forces or foreign companies; certain professionals; media workers; UN and NGO workers; human rights activists; and homosexuals. At the end of of the briefing note is a link to the actual guidelines. I went over the document and culled the citation referencing persons with HIV/AIDS, and the section about LGBT citizens and their plight. Read more
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/6965/
-Federal Government to Regulate the Internet & Social Networking
NWV News writer Jim Kouri | NewsWithViews.com
Recently NewsWithViews.com dispatched a reporter to attend a press conference regarding new legislation proposed that will be used to regulate free speech and expression on the Internet.Congress will soon debate a bill that could lead to regulating the Internet in the name of protecting the children. Representative Linda Sanchez (D-CA) and 12 other lawmakers have signed onto a bill being considered by the House of Representatives' Judiciary Committee Congress which may seriously threaten the First Amendment rights of every American who uses the Internet, blogs online, uses Twitter, Facebook and other social media. The bill (HR 1966) proposes up to two years in prison for those whose electronic speech is meant to "coerce, intimidate, harass, or cause substantial emotional distress to a person." Regardless of where you stand on the political spectrum the potential harm of this bill on our freedom of speech will be massive. "What this bill is really designed to do is to go after and prosecute Bible believing Christians and those who speak out against homosexuality, gay marriage, and pro abortion advocates" said a NWV reader. Read more
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/6964/
=
[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:
-Taking Offense
To the Editor:
Regarding Ms. Dargis's memo urging straight filmmakers to avoid making fun of gay people: I am curious as to whether she has ever heard of a small, independent flick called "Borat," which contains more than a fair share of what she might call "vicious digs" at the expense of the Jews. There are also a decent number of movies that have been pumped out by the Wayans brothers, including "White Chicks," that appear to poke fun at everyone under the sun. Though I wouldn't blame Ms. Dargis if she avoided movies by these filmmakers.
Stephen Suhovsky
Brooklyn
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/10/arts/10alsmail-TAKINGOFFENS_LETTERS.html?scp=9&sq=gay&st=cse
-A World of Least-Wanted Lists
By GRAHAM BOWLEY
Last week, the British government published a list of 16 people barred from the country. Eight Muslim clerics, writers and political advocates were among them. And then there was a right-wing radio host from San Francisco, an anti-gay pastor and his like-minded daughter from Kansas, and a former grand wizard of the Ku Klux Klan from Florida.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/10/weekinreview/10bowley.html?scp=7&sq=gay&st=cse
-New York Senators Hedge on Gay Marriage
By JEREMY W. PETERS
Pose the question "Would you vote to make same-sex marriage legal?" within the gilded State Senate chamber, and you'll hear a lot of hedging. Senator Vincent L. Leibell, a Republican who represents parts of Westchester, Putnam and Dutchess Counties, prefers civil unions to marriage. Still, he acknowledged that "society changes over time," and said that he might not make up his mind until the last minute.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/10/nyregion/10gays.html?scp=2&sq=gay&st=cse
=
Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-VH1, Logo among winners at GLAAD Media Awards
The Associated Press
Laverne Cox isn't on the road with Sean Combs, but the outspoken transgender person has picked up an outstanding reality show trophy at the 20th annual GLAAD Media Awards. Cox was a contestant on VH1's "I Want to Work for Diddy," which tied with the Logo transgender dating series "Transamerican Love Story" for the award presented by the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/10/AR2009051000044.html?sub=AR
-Supreme Court Prospect Has Unlikely Ally
Friendship With Thomas May Complicate Chances for Left-Leaning Georgia Judge
By Krissah Thompson
One day in the early 1990s, Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas telephoned Leah Ward Sears to introduce himself. She was a rising star in Georgia's legal community, a relatively liberal black woman on the state's conservative Supreme Court. Thomas had read about political attacks against Sears and called to say he didn't like it.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/09/AR2009050902519.html
-One Man, One Woman -- Only
By HARRY R. JACKSON JR.
When the D.C. Council passed a measure last week to recognize same-sex marriages performed elsewhere, the council members acted surreptitiously and violated the sacred trust of their office. This decision, in which little attention was paid to the concerns of many D.C. constituents, marked a new low in irresponsible leadership.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/09/AR2009050902323.html
-Marion Barry Doesn't Get It
By MICHAEL STANEK
There were nights in high school and college when I'd cry myself to sleep over the confusion and frustration I felt over my sexuality. As with every other moment at that time, I'd force my tears to roll silently down my face so as to hide my anguish from the normalcy around me. At 25, with the help of wonderful friends and family, I have survived those wounds of alienation and fear that cut deep into the core of so many young gay men and lesbians.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/09/AR2009050902316.html
=
Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/public/us
-Gay Rights in Lebanon Gain Traction
Associated Press
BEIRUT -- In the Arab world, where several nations have seen killings of gay men in recent months, it can be startling to see a rainbow flag unfurled in public. But the region's only overt gay rights organization, based in Lebanon, says it is slowly making progress in preventing discrimination and violence.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124192484673204149.html
=
Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Blacks must confront their homophobia
By LEONARD PITTS JR.
''The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.'' -- Martin Luther King, Jr.
That's for Marion Barry, who seems to need the reminder. The former mayor and current city councilman of Washington, D.C. is a longtime supporter of gay rights. So observers were stunned last week when a bill committing the city to recognize same-sex marriages performed elsewhere passed the council on a vote of 12-1.
http://www.miamiherald.com/living/columnists/leonard-pitts/story/1039247.html
=
From Transgender Equality
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article
-Ft. Lauderdale: WSVN -- High school is tough for kids and became worse for Martavian Johnson when both his parents passed away. Martavian Johnson: "My dad died like a year and half ago, and my mom died like a month and half ago. I like to see myself as a strong individual, I've coped with it." Copes by living with his older brother. That makes him different, and this makes him stand out as well. Martavian Johnson: "I'm gay." Gay, happy and excited about the Homestead High School prom. Martavian Johnson: "Prom is what everyone talks about." And if he gets his way, his classmates will be talking about Martavian at the prom because he wants to dress ... in a dress. Martavian Johnson: "I want to dress as a female for prom ... and male. I plan on doing both. I was going to switch. You walk in as a female, with your clothes on, and then you change at the party at the prom."
http://www4.wsvn.com/features/articles/helpmehoward/MI119895/
=
Daily Queer News
www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Fox News: US Gov't Funds Gays! Sex! Beer! In-gulp-Argentina!
Blabbeando
Yesterday, Rex alerted me to a rather bizarre story from FOX News ("U.S. Government Funds $400,000 Study on Gay Sex in Argentina Bars").
An excerpt:
The National Institutes of Health are paying researchers to cruise six bars in Buenos Aires to find out why gay men engage in risky sexual behavior while drunk - and just what can be done about it.
Doctors and specialists from the New York Psychiatric Institute are using the generous grant from NIH's National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism to help tailor HIV prevention programs to work at bars and clubs.
Though public health officials say that HIV/AIDS rates are higher in Washington, D.C., than in some parts of West Africa, U.S. government funds are going to help curb dangerous liaisons in Argentina's capital.
The study began in September 2008, according to an online abstract, and has already cost taxpayers $198,776, NIH documents show. OK. Let's get a few things out of the way: Read more
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/6967/
-UN: 'Favorable Consideration' Needed for Gay Iraqi Asylum Claims
Michael Petrelis | Petrelis Files
[As the brutality against LGBT persons in Iraq continues, I wish to make a short announcement before getting into the meat of this post. The Gays Without Borders chapter in San Francisco on May 17 will hold a rally and fundraiser for the Iraqi LGBT organization from noon till 4:00 PM at Harvey Milk Plaza. We are lining up support from non-profits, politicians and social justice activists, for an afternoon of solidarity, and money-raising, for our brothers and sisters in Iraq. Please join us next weekend.] This is just a small ray of hope for LGBT Iraqis with the resources and wherewithal to leave their chaotic and deadly country, and should receive widespread attention from gay blogs, advocacy organizations worldwide, and the mainstream press. The spokesman for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Ron Redmond, on May 5 in Geneva made on the record comments regarding persons seeking asylum outside of Iraq, and revisions in the agency's guidelines. Redmond said homosexuals were a category needing 'favourable consideration' by nations offering to take in Iraqi refugees:
However, UNHCR advises that people belonging to specific groups from these governorates which have been identified as at risk should receive favourable consideration. These groups include, among others, members of religious and ethnic minorities; public officials; Iraqis perceived as opposing armed groups or political factions; Iraqis affiliated with the multinational forces or foreign companies; certain professionals; media workers; UN and NGO workers; human rights activists; and homosexuals. At the end of of the briefing note is a link to the actual guidelines. I went over the document and culled the citation referencing persons with HIV/AIDS, and the section about LGBT citizens and their plight. Read more
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/6965/
-Federal Government to Regulate the Internet & Social Networking
NWV News writer Jim Kouri | NewsWithViews.com
Recently NewsWithViews.com dispatched a reporter to attend a press conference regarding new legislation proposed that will be used to regulate free speech and expression on the Internet.Congress will soon debate a bill that could lead to regulating the Internet in the name of protecting the children. Representative Linda Sanchez (D-CA) and 12 other lawmakers have signed onto a bill being considered by the House of Representatives' Judiciary Committee Congress which may seriously threaten the First Amendment rights of every American who uses the Internet, blogs online, uses Twitter, Facebook and other social media. The bill (HR 1966) proposes up to two years in prison for those whose electronic speech is meant to "coerce, intimidate, harass, or cause substantial emotional distress to a person." Regardless of where you stand on the political spectrum the potential harm of this bill on our freedom of speech will be massive. "What this bill is really designed to do is to go after and prosecute Bible believing Christians and those who speak out against homosexuality, gay marriage, and pro abortion advocates" said a NWV reader. Read more
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/6964/
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