Thursday, January 14, 2010

GLBT DIGEST - January 14, 2010

**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:

AP Exclusive: Lawyers Advise Wait to Lift Gay Ban
By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Lawyers for the nation's top military officer are recommending holding off on an internal Pentagon effort that could lead to the repeal of the ban on openly gay military service. The delay could push a decision by Congress to the middle of the next presidential election. Other advisers at the Pentagon, however, argue that lifting the ban would not cause unmanageable problems or divisions among the uniformed military, according to two U.S. officials. They discussed internal conversations about the ban on condition of anonymity.
http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2010/01/14/us/politics/AP-US-Gays-in-Military.html?_r=1&scp=5&sq=gay&st=cse/

Prop. 8 Backer Questioned About Child Sex Comment
By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Animosity against gays was so prevalent in the campaign to ban same-sex marriage in California that voters were told legalizing sex with children was next if gay couples were given the right to wed, according to attorneys trying to overturn the measure. San Francisco resident Hak-Shing William Tam, a defendant in the case, wrote in a letter to Chinese-Americans church groups during the 2008 campaign that legalizing same-sex marriage was part of a broader gay agenda.
http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2010/01/14/us/AP-US-Gay-Marriage-Trial.html?scp=3&sq=gay&st=cse/

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Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

Supreme Court bars broadcast of Prop 8 trial in California
By Robert Barnes
The Supreme Court split along ideological lines Wednesday as it barred a federal judge in San Francisco from broadcasting a high-profile trial involving same-sex marriage.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/01/13/AR2010011304348.html/

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Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

Same-Sex Marriage Complicates Trust Terms
By Max Alexander
Emotions run high on both sides of the same-gender marriage debate, with proponents and opponents often characterizing their arguments as a fight over the future of society. But, political and cultural clashes aside, the issue has financial implications that go beyond the realm of theory for some families. Just ask Myra Salzer, founder of the Wealth Conservancy, a Boulder, Colo., firm that specializes in helping its clients manage inherited estates.
http://blogs.wsj.com/financial-adviser/2010/01/14/same-sex-marriage-complicates-trust-terms/

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Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
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AP Exclusive: Pentagon lawyers urge further delay in repeal of ban on openly gay troops
By ANNE GEARAN
Lawyers for the nation's top military officer are recommending holding off on an internal Pentagon effort that could lead to the repeal of the ban on openly gay military service. The delay could push a decision by Congress to the middle of the next presidential election.
Other advisers at the Pentagon, however, argue that lifting the ban would not cause unmanageable problems or divisions among the uniformed military, according to two U.S. officials. They discussed internal conversations about the ban on condition of anonymity.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/nationworld/sns-ap-us-gays-in-military,0,2611588.story/

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Steve Rothaus
www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:

SunServe monthly mixer 6:30 p.m. Monday at Gallery 101 at U.S. 1 and Oakland Park Boulevard
From SunServe in Fort Lauderdale: Click here to RSVP
SunServe is your premiere non-profit social service agency designed to meet the diverse needs of South Florida's Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Community.
To find out more, visit us at www.SunServe.org
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2010/01/sunserve-monthly-mixer-630-pm-monday-at-gallery-101-at-us-1-and-oakland-park-boulevard.html/

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Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

BSO lieutenant fired over explicit computer images
The Broward Sheriff's Office fired a lieutenant after learning he had used his computer to view sexually explicit images.
BY AMY SHERMAN
Broward Sheriff's Lt. James Murray was fired this week for using his computer to access sexually explicit content, among other policy violations. Murray is also at the center of a federal sex-discrimination suit filed by a female Broward Sheriff's Office lieutenant. But Murray's firing was unrelated to that lawsuit, BSO spokesman Jim Leljedal said.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/southflorida/story/1423978.html/

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The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:

McGreevey's Ex Opposed to Gay Marriage
By Julie Bolcer
Dina Matos, the ex-wife of openly gay former New Jersey governor James McGreevey, said Wednesday that the state senate was right to reject the marriage equality bill last week.
http://www.advocate.com/News/Daily_News/2010/01/14/McGreevey_Ex_Wife_Opposed_to_Gay_Marriage/

Signorile Reconsidered
COMMENTARY: Michaelangelo Signorile says gay media watchdog GLAAD is muzzled by the entertainment companies it’s supposed to police, a claim GLAAD president Jarrett Barrios (pictured) says is unfounded.
By Jarrett Barrios
In his commentary, “GLAAD Reconsidered,” Michaelangelo Signorile offers a mixture of criticism and claims about the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation that are not supported by the facts. And while criticism is certainly welcome, as it would be from all who we serve in our media advocacy work, the central thesis of Signorile’s piece is incorrect.
http://www.advocate.com/Arts_and_Entertainment/Commentary/Signorile_Revisited/

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Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:

Homophobic attack victim condemns Iris Robinson
A man who was beaten in a homophobic attack shortly before Iris Robinson made her now infamous anti-gay remarks has said her husband should divorce her. Robinson had criticised the attack on Stephen Scott but added that gay people couldbe "cured".
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/01/14/homophobic-attack-victim-condemns-iris-robinson/

Scottish HIV charity could lose funding after review
HIV Scotland has been criticised in an external review for not being active enough, being too close to the government and "neglecting" the needs of some at-risk groups
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/01/14/scottish-hiv-charity-could-lose-funding-after-review/


MPs sign motion to condemn Uganda's gay execution bill

Twenty MPs have signed an early day motion to attack Uganda's plans to introduce the death penalty for gays. The motion was tabled by Labour MP Harry Cohen and calls for the British government and European Union to press Uganda not to proceed with the law.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/01/14/mps-sign-motion-to-condemn-ugandas-gay-execution-bill/

Homophobic Iris Robinson resigns from parliament
Northern Ireland MP Iris Robinson resigned from Westminster yesterday after it was revealed last week that she had solicited loans for her 19-year-old lover.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/01/14/homophobic-iris-robinson-resigns-from-parliament/

Lesbian UKIP MEP leaves European group
A lesbian MEP for the UK Independence Party has left the group her party joined in the European Parliament. Nikki Sinclaire announced this week that she was leaving the Europe of Freedom and Democracy group.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/01/14/lesbian-ukip-mep-leaves-european-group/


Suspect in Puerto Rico gay murder will stand trial

The man accused of murdering a gay Puerto Rico teenager has been found fit to stand trial. Juan A Martinez Matos, 26, is accused of killing Jorge Steven Lopez Mercado in November in the city of Cayey.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/01/14/suspect-in-puerto-rico-gay-murder-will-stand-trial/

Ugandan president Museveni distances himself from anti-gay bill
Uganda's president Yoweri Museveni said yesterday that the country must take into consideration its foreign policy interests when debating an anti-homosexuality bill.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/01/13/ugandan-president-museveni-distances-himself-from-anti-gay-bill/

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Daily Queer News
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

Gates, Mullen to testify on “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”
by Chris Johnson
Both the top uniformed leader and top civilian leader at the Pentagon will testify at the end of this month before Congress on “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” according to the Senate Armed Services Committee. Bryan Thomas, a committee spokesperson, said Chairman Carl Levin (D-Mich.) has made arrangements for Defense Secretary Robert Gates and Chairman of Joint of Chiefs of Staff Adm. Michael Mullen to testify on the issue, although an exact day for the hearing hasn’t been scheduled.
http://dcagenda.com/2010/01/gates-mullen-to-testify-on-%E2%80%9Cdont-ask-dont-tell%E2%80%9D/

Last Word: Who's saying what about gay and lesbian issues
Here's the Pitch: A conservative lawyer uses Hollywood money to battle in court for gay marriage rights! [video]
Posted by duy on January 14, 2010 9:12 AM | Permalink
''Ted Olson joining our team and deciding to spearhead the legal effort has given us an opportunity to basically say, ''This is not a partisan issue. This is not Republican. This is not Democrat. This is not conservative or liberal -- this is about equal justice and equal rights for everybody in this country. And the Constitution provides for that.''
http://www.metroweekly.com/news/last_word/2010/01/heres-the-pitch-a-conservative.html/

In the thick of it: when fatphobia plays out in politics
by: Pam Spaulding
In the New York Times, Adam Nagourney has a long profile on under-siege Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, covering his "light-skinned/Negro dialect" dustup, his behind-the-scenes political maneuvers, and his personal life. I'm reading along and then this jumped out at me: By reputation and appearance, Reid, who is 70, is one of the blander elected officials in Washington. Upon closer inspection, he is deeply and deceptively interesting. He is a senator from Nevada who hates gambling ("The only people who make money from gambling are the joints and government"); a backroom deal-maker who does not drink alcohol or coffee; a Washington celebrity who sniffs at the dinner-and-party circuit. "Senator Daschle went to dinner almost every night with someone," he told me. "I go to dinner never, with anyone, during the week." He does find time, at least twice a week, to slip on a pair of black Lycra stretch pants to do yoga with Landra at their apartment in the Ritz-Carlton. He has intolerance for fat people, manifested in asides to aides who seem to be getting portly and an office staff that is suspiciously slim.
http://www.pamshouseblend.com/diary/14819/in-the-thick-of-it-when-fatphobia-plays-out-in-politics/

Shannon Minter: Perry v. Schwarzenegger Proceedings, Day 3
by: Autumn Sandeen
BLEND EXCLUSIVE: Trial analysis by the National Center For Lesbian Rights' (NCLR's) Shannon Minter.
**Update from Daimeon: Click below the fold to see a video blog from Kate Kendell.
As other bloggers and news outlets have reported, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a final order today preventing the trial from being broadcast. The 5-4 opinion was unsigned, meaning that its authorship was not attributed to any one justice. The court largely ducked the substantive issue of whether federal trials should be more accessible to a broader public, holding that the San Francisco district court judges had not followed the proper procedures when they amended the local court rules to allow the broadcast. Justices Roberts, Scalia, Kennedy, Thomas, and Alito were in the majority.
http://www.pamshouseblend.com/diary/14828/shannon-minter-perry-v-schwarzenegger-proceedings-day-3/

Live Twitter feed of Prop 8 trial: Day 4
Filed by: Bil Browning
Our live Twitter feed of the Prop 8 trial has been really popular this week, so I'm bumping it back up to the top to make it handy for Projectors to find. Unfortunately, Davina isn't able to attend the trial today so our inside source is out of commission until tomorrow. With the Supreme Court ruling that cameras will not be allowed at all now, Twitter is your best source for as-it-happens updates. The feed shows all the tweets from people covering the trial live from inside the courthouse. Right now the currently featured tweeters are:
• @ellemenohpe
• @Chris_Stoll
• @NCLRights
• @AmerEqualRights
• @CourageCampaign
• @ACLU_NorCal
• @FedcourtJunkie
• @TheAdvocateMag
The feed will show you anything the eight of them send out - not just Prop 8 trial tweets. This keeps them a little more human and less "reporter-ish." You might see off-topic tweets occasionally, but think of it as an extra bonus feature! Live stream after the jump. It'll keep going as long as they do.
http://www.bilerico.com/2010/01/live_twitter_feed_of_prop_8_trial_day_4.php?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+BilericoProject+%28The+Bilerico+Project%29/

National Institute Of Health To Conduct Unprecedented Study Of LGBT Health
posted by Joe
The National Institute of Health is inviting public comment on an unprecedented planned study of LGBT health issues. An insider writes us on how to help:
The Institute of Medicine (IOM), part of the National Academy of Sciences (NAS), has been asked by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to conduct a report on LGBT health. Nothing like this has been done in the past, although IOM did do a report on lesbian health at the end of the Clinton administration. There is a period of public comment between now and Feb 1. People should be encouraged to take advantage of this. Vague comments ("We need more services for gay men") won't have much impact. Data-based comments will help, but commonplace, vivid examples of health disparities affecting LGBT folks may get noticed.There will be face-to-face meetings with opportunities for public participation, but they are likely to be DC-based and the dates have not been announced. The report will be used by NIH for planning purposes. It's likely that other federal agencies (CDC, HRSA, SAMHSA) will take notice of its findings and Congress usually is interested in the outcome of these reports.
http://joemygod.blogspot.com/2010/01/national-institute-of-health-to-conduct.html/

Male-On-Male Sexual Harassment Rises
posted by Joe
According to a Newsweek report, reported incidences of workplace male-on-male sexual harassment are on the rise. The story notes that most of the cases don't arise from flirting gone too far, but from actions meant to sexually humiliate the victim.
The EEOC tracks the number of men and women who file claims with the agency, but doesn't always keep track of the gender of the harasser. However, Grinberg confirms that the EEOC has recognized a growing trend in the number of men alleging same-sex sexual harassment. "The classic image of sexual harassment is Clarence Thomas and Anita Hill; it's not two men or even two women," says Dr. Liza H. Gold, a clinical professor of psychiatry at Georgetown University who serves as an expert in sexual-harassment suits. And yet the experience of men harassed by men may help to illustrate the realities of all such cases. When women are the victims, they may face assumptions that the abuse is the result of an affair gone wrong, hurt feelings, or mixed signals. In truth, sexual harassment of both genders has more to do with issues of control and abuses of power for the purpose of humiliation than with sexual attraction. By exposing the men to taunts about their genitalia, sexually suggestive simulations, and lewd comments, the men perpetrating the harassment are seeking to embarrass and target the male victims—not sexually stimulate or "flirt" with them.
http://joemygod.blogspot.com/2010/01/male-on-male-sexual-harassment-rises.html/

Military Lawyers: Wait On DADT Repeal
posted by Joe
Pentagon lawyers are recommending at least a year's delay before beginning work on the repeal of DADT. That could push a vote by Congress back until the middle of the 2012 elections, a time when many would be hesitant to support the repeal.
"Now is not the time," the in-house legal counsel for Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, wrote recently in a memorandum obtained by The Associated Press. "The importance of winning the wars we are in, along with the stress on the force, our body of knowledge and the number of unknowns, demand that we act with deliberation." Mullen received the conflicting advice this month about whether to move quickly to lift the 1993 ban, and it is not clear what he will recommend to President Barack Obama. Although allowing gays to serve openly in the military was one of Obama's campaign promises, the issue was put on a back burner during his first year in office. Some liberal supporters and several congressional Democrats are pushing for action.
http://joemygod.blogspot.com/2010/01/miltary-lawyers-wait-on-dadt-repeal.html/

Gay Left Smears GOP Senate Hopeful
Posted by LibertyDC
Below is my op ed published today by the DC Agenda on the smearing of US Senate candidate Scott Brown (R-MA) by the gay left. Next Tuesday, voters in Massachusetts will go to the polls for a special election to replace U.S. Senator Ted Kennedy (D). Recent polling shows Republican State Senator Scott Brown in a virtual tie with Democrat Martha Coakley. As the polls get closer and closer, Democrats and their allies on the left get more and more desperate. Democrats are unable to defend their record on taxes, spending, the economy, job creation, healthcare or the global war on terror, so instead they predictably turn to smears, distortions and name-calling. The gay left, always willing to do the bidding of the DNC, is attempting to characterize Scott Brown as ‘anti-gay’. This paper ran a headline that blared “Could an anti-gay Republican win Kennedy’s Seat?” The Edge, a New England gay paper, had a similar headline in December, “Anti-gay Mass. Pol Seeks to Succeed Kennedy.”
http://www.gaypatriot.net/2010/01/14/gay-left-smears-gop-senate-hopeful/

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GLBT DIGEST - January 13, 2010

**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:

Same-Sex Marriage Case, Day 3: the Defense Pushes Back
By GERRY SHIH
For nearly two hours on Tuesday afternoon, Professor George Chauncey, a Yale historian, gave the San Francisco courtroom presided over by Judge Vaughn Walker an overview of the history of discrimination against gay and lesbian Americans in the 20th century.
http://bayarea.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/01/13/same-sex-marriage-case-day-3-the-defense-pushes-back/?scp=7&sq=gay&st=cse/

Gay Marriage Trial Revives Camera Controversy
By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
While the issue of same-sex marriage is widely expected to work its way to the U.S. Supreme Court over the next few years, another thorny legal question raised in the case has already landed before the high court: cameras in federal courtrooms.
http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2010/01/13/us/AP-US-Gay-Marriage-Trial-Cameras.html?_r=1&scp=6&sq=gay&st=cse/

Historian Back on Stand in Gay Marriage Trial
By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
A Yale historian testifying in a case challenging California's same-sex marriage ban is being cross-examined about public attitudes about gay Americans. George Chauncey returned to the witness stand for a second day Wednesday.
http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2010/01/13/us/AP-US-Gay-Marriage-Trial.html?scp=4&sq=gay&st=cse/


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Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

Maine man convicted in fatal sex dungeon shooting
By DAVID SHARP
A Maine man charged in the shooting death of a friend during a night of sex play in a "dungeon" has been convicted of manslaughter. Defense lawyer Tom Hallett told jurors Wednesday that three men had been using guns as part of their sexual play and that the victim might have put a bullet in a revolver to increase the thrill.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/01/13/AR2010011300529.html/


Va. church votes to split from Lutheran parent

Members of a Roanoke church have voted to leave the country's largest Lutheran denomination over its policy to allow gay clergy. St. John Lutheran Pastor Mark Graham said church members voted 350-104 in favor of the split from the national Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Church rules required a two-thirds majority for reaffiliation.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/01/13/AR2010011301488.html/


$25 million initiative aimed at attacking D.C. AIDS epidemic

The District government and the National Institutes of Health announced Monday the launch of a $26.4 million initiative to attack the city's HIV/AIDS epidemic with expanded testing and treatment to reduce the level of the virus in its victims and hopefully decrease their chances of spreading the disease.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/01/12/AR2010011203692.html/

'Glee,' 'Modern Family' among GLAAD nominees
The Associated Press
For the fourth year running, the ABC television network leads nominees for media awards from the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation. The network earned eight nominations Wednesday for the 21st annual GLAAD Media Awards, with "Brothers & Sisters," "Grey's Anatomy," "Private Practice" and newcomer "Modern Family" among its contenders.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/01/13/AR2010011301358.html/

Historian: Prop 8 played on anti-gay stereotypes
By LISA LEFF
A Yale professor testifying in a case challenging California's same-sex marriage ban said Tuesday that the 2008 campaign to pass Proposition 8 played on stereotypes historically used to portray "homosexuals as perverts who prey on young children, out to entice straight people into sick behavior."
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/01/12/AR2010011200331.html/


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Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

Quirky Judge Presides in Gay-Marriage Case
Walker, Known for Novel Sentences and Unpredictable Decisions, Riles Some in California Trial by Allowing Wide Range of Evidence
By JUSTIN SCHECK and GEOFFREY A. FOWLER
The judge presiding over the first serious challenge in federal court of a state gay-marriage ban has defined his career with an unconventional approach. Two days into the trial over the constitutionality of California's Proposition 8 gay-marriage ban, Judge Vaughn Walker has upset some opponents of gay marriage by allowing gay couples to testify on the meaning of marriage.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB126334233397826947.html?mod=WSJ_hpp_MIDDLTopStories/

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Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
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Jewish Film Festival embraces diversity
Themes of aging, anti-Semitism, parental angst, homophobia and Holocaust stories in spotlight
By Dan Hudak
It's appropriate that identity issues are on Ellen Wedner's mind. It's her seventh year as director of the Miami Jewish Film Festival, and there's one aspect of being in charge that often frustrates her: The public perception that Jewish film festivals only show Holocaust movies. "There was a time when festival programmers did focus on Holocaust stories, but there are more things to consider now," Wedner said. The themes of aging, anti-Semitism, parental angst and homophobia, as well as Holocaust stories, are prominent in this year's festival, which runs Jan. 16-24 at locations throughout Miami. "It's just so easy in this day and age to label very quickly, but patrons would be surprised by what else we offer," she added.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/entertainment/movies/fl-jewish-film-festival-20100113,0,908370.story/


Religion News in Brief

The Associated Press
TEHRAN, Iran (AP) — Seven members of Iran's Baha'i minority are on trial on charges of spying and acting against the country's national security, state media reported. According to state TV Web site, the charges against them also include cooperating with archenemy Israel, gathering classified documents and "corruption on earth" — an Islamic term for crimes punishable with the death sentence in Iran.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/nationworld/sns-ap-us-rel-religion-briefs,0,1068637.story/

ABC leads GLAAD awards nominees, including 'Grey's Anatomy' and 'Modern Family'
By Associated Press
For the fourth year running, the ABC television network leads nominees for media awards from the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation. The network earned eight nominations Wednesday for the 21st annual GLAAD Media Awards, with "Brothers & Sisters," ''Grey's Anatomy," ''Private Practice" and newcomer "Modern Family" among its contenders.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/business/sns-ap-us-glaad-media-awards,0,6045817.story/

Maine man convicted of manslaughter in shooting that ended night of drugs, sex, in dungeon
By DAVID SHARP
A Maine man charged in the shooting death of a friend during a night of sex play in a "dungeon" has been convicted of manslaughter. Defense lawyer Tom Hallett told jurors Wednesday that three men had been using guns as part of their sexual play and that the victim might have put a bullet in a revolver to increase the thrill.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/nationworld/sns-ap-us-sex-game-slaying,0,383343.story/

Backer of gay marriage ban warned that activists would try to legalize sex with children
By Lisa Leff
Lawyers in a case seeking to overturn California's gay marriage ban are presenting statements by a proponent of the measure saying gay rights activists would try to legalize sex with children if same-sex marriages were legal. The taped statements by Hak-Shing William Tam were presented Wednesday during the civil case being heard in federal court.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/nationworld/sns-ap-us-gay-marriage-trial,0,4299426.story/

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Steve Rothaus
http://www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:

CBS News video | ‘All in the Family’ star Rob Reiner challenges California’s gay marriage ban
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2010/01/cbs-news-video-all-in-the-family-star-rob-reiner-challenges-californias-gay-marriage-ban.html/


Cynthia Nixon, Lady Gaga, Leonard Pitts Jr. among 2010 GLAAD Media Award winners and nominees (with video)

GLAAD, the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation, has announced its 21st annual Media Awards nominees and some special award winners. Among them: Sex and the City star Cynthia Nixon (Vito Russo Award), and nominees Lady Gaga and Miami Herald columnist Leonard Pitts Jr. Below is a GLAAD video about the awards featuring President Jarrett Barrios, followed by the GLAAD news release and the full list of English- and Spanish-language nominees:
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2010/01/cynthia-nixon-lady-gaga-leonard-pitts-jr-among-2010-glaad-media-award-winners-and-nominees-with-video.html/

Dustin Lance Black and Neil Patrick Harris elected to The Trevor Project board Of directors
News release from The Trevor Project:
New members to serve leadership roles at LGBTQ youth-focused non-profit
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 13 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Trevor Project, the leading national organization focused on crisis and suicide prevention efforts among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth, today announced that writer, producer and director Dustin Lance Black and actor, producer and director Neil Patrick Harris have been elected to its Board of Directors.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2010/01/dustin-lance-black-and-neil-patrick-harris-elected-to-the-trevor-project-board-of-directors.html/

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365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:

Day 2: Is Prop 8 like the Anita Bryant crusade?
By Lisa Keen
Attorneys challenging the California ballot measure that banned same-sex marriage painted the “Yes on 8” campaign as a modern day copycat of Anita Bryant’s late 1970s campaign to “Save the Children.” Through testimony by gay history scholar George Chauncey of Yale University, the plaintiffs’ legal team discussed, in U.S. district court, the creation of unsubstantiated stereotyping of gay men as child molesters by police and news media around the country between the 1930s and 1950s.
http://www.365gay.com/news/day-2-is-prop-8-like-the-anita-bryant-crusade/

RachelWatch: The Conservative Argument for Gay Marriage
By Ali Davis
Breaking News
Rachel started off with news of the massive earthquake near Port-Au-Prince, Haiti. Though it has been difficult to get news from the area, Rachel and David Applegate of the U.S. Geological Survey tried to get a handle on the devastation. Rachel closed the show with an update on the quake and its aftershocks and then dedicated her second broadcast to giving it full coverage.
http://www.365gay.com/living/rachelwatch-the-conservative-argument-for-gay-marriage/

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The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:

Gayest Cities in America
Intrepid amateur sociologist Mike Albo searches for America’s 15 gayest burgs—based on a finely tuned (if totally arbitrary) calculus.
By Mike Albo
Long ago, gay people settled in our nation’s largest cities. There they spruced up all the property, created every art and fashion movement, and taught entire populations how to dance. They created gayborhoods like WeHo, Chelsea, South Beach—and pretty much queered all of San Francisco until even Laundromats had rainbow flag decals in their windows. About 10 years ago everyone else moved back into these nicely gentrified metropolises, and the lavender diaspora began. Now a slew of secondary cities are becoming gay epicenters.
http://www.advocate.com/Print_Issue/Travel/Gayest_Cities_in_America/

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Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:

Japanese trans man told that son is illegitimate
A trans man in Japan who had a child with his wife has been informed by officials that the child is now classed as illegitimate.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/01/12/japanese-trans-man-told-that-son-is-illegitimate/

Scottish parliament apologises to trans woman searched by male guard
The Scottish parliament has sent a letter of apology to a trans woman who was searched by a male guard on a visit. Female security guards refused to search her, believing she was a man.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/01/12/scottish-parliament-apologises-to-trans-woman-searched-by-male-guard/

Model claims he had two-year relationship with Stephen Gately
Georgi Dochev, the Bulgarian student and model who was at the Majorca apartment where gay Boyzone singer Stephen Gately died, has claimed he had known Gately and his civil partner for two years.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/01/12/model-claims-he-had-two-year-relationship-with-stephen-gately/

Lawyers for Malawi gay couple to challenge homosexuality ban
The lawyers representing two gay men who had a wedding ceremony in Malawi have asked for a review of the country's homosexuality ban.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/01/12/lawyers-for-malawi-gay-couple-to-challenge-homosexuality-ban/

Entry ban on anti-gay US 'shock jock' to stay in place
A ban on a US radio presenter entering the UK will be upheld, the government has said. Michael Savage, known for his strong views on homosexuality, Islam and abortion, was barred from entering the country in May last year.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/01/12/entry-ban-on-anti-gay-us-shock-jock-to-stay-in-place/

Nick Clegg calls for faith schools to focus on homophobic bullying
Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg has said that faith schools must focus on homophobic bullying. He said his party would make it a requirement for faith schools to teach that homosexuality is normal.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/01/13/nick-clegg-calls-for-faith-schools-to-focus-on-homophobic-bullying/

Lady Gaga, Lambert and Glee up for GLAAD awards
Nominees for the most gay-friendly films, television programmes and performers have been announced by the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/01/13/lady-gaga-glambert-and-glee-up-for-glaad-awards/

Man convicted for homophobic attack on gay teenagers
A 19-year-old man was found guilty yesterday of a homophobic attack on two gay teenagers. Michael Lee Hannan shouted that he hated gays before punching and headbutting the pair, aged 17 and 18, Blackburn magistrates' court heard.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/01/13/man-convicted-for-homophobic-attack-on-gay-teenagers/

IBM rated most gay-friendly employer for the second time
IT company IBM has been rated the most gay-friendly company to work for by gay rights organisation Stonewall. The firm was rated best employer in the charity's annual Top 100 Employers List.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/01/13/ibm-rated-most-gay-friendly-employer-for-the-second-time/


Gay man avoids jail for trying to poison lesbian couple

A gay man who tried to poison his neighbours in a row over a cat avoided jail yesterday. Gareth Stewart, of Denton, Manchester, gave Marie Walton and Beverley Sales a curry laced with slug pellets after a feud which started years ago.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/01/13/gay-man-avoids-jail-for-trying-to-poison-lesbian-couple/

Gay rugby star Gareth Thomas reveals he's looking for love
Gareth Thomas, the Welsh rugby star who came out at the end of last year, has said he hopes to find a boyfriend. The player also suggested that the Daily Mail had been trying to combat negative publicity when it published his coming out interview.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/01/13/gay-rugby-star-gareth-thomas-reveals-hes-looking-for-love/

Scottish MPs condemn arrest of gay Malawian men
More than 20 members of the Scottish parliament condemned the arrest of two gay men in Malawi who held a wedding ceremony. The motion was signed by members of all main parties and called for parliament to condemn the "illegal and homophobic arrests" of Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/01/13/scottish-mps-condemn-arrest-of-gay-malawian-men/

Ugandan president Museveni distances himself from anti-gay bill
Uganda's president Yoweri Museveni said yesterday that the country must take into consideration its foreign policy interests when debating an anti-homosexuality bill.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/01/13/ugandan-president-museveni-distances-himself-from-anti-gay-bill/

China's state press covers gay wedding
A state-run Chinese newspaper gave its front page to a gay wedding today. China Daily, an English-language newspaper, featured the wedding of Zeng Anquan and Pan Wenjie, which took place on January 3rd.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/01/13/chinas-state-press-covers-gay-wedding/

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Daily Queer News
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

Rachel Maddow interviews Prop 8 attorneys
By Joshua Lynsen
We’ve already seen Proposition 8 plaintiff attorneys David Boies and Ted Olson make a splash this week in court as the long awaited trail got underway. In the video above, the dynamic duo take their case to “The Rachel Maddow Show.” There’s some great background in this piece, but if you want to skip to the interview with Boies and Olson, jump to the 2:41 mark.
http://dcagenda.com/2010/01/rachel-maddow-interviews-prop-8-attorneys/

Gay Marriage At Epicenter Of Iowa Politics
By On Top Magazine Staff
Gay marriage opponents rallied Tuesday at Iowa's Statehouse as the 2010 legislative session opened Tuesday and vowed to alter the political landscape in their favor. The event was organized by the Iowa Family Policy Center's (IFPC) political action committee, which used the opportunity to formally endorse Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats, the Iowa Independent reported.
http://www.ontopmag.com/article.aspx?id=5121&MediaType=1&Category=26/

Harold Ford Jr. Sells Some Snake Oil on Marriage Equality
The New York Times published an extensive interview with potential New York Senate candidate Harold Ford Jr. which includes discussion of his anti-gay votes on marriage, and his recent sudden announcement that he changed his mind and is a supporter:
Q. Let’s talk about gay marriage. You know your record very well, but to quickly remind you, you voted to ban same sex marriage, with the Federal Marriage Amendment, twice.
http://www.towleroad.com/2010/01/harold-ford-jr-sells-some-snake-oil-on-marriage-equality.html/

Nearly 600 quit parish of transgender vicar
By Juhani Saarinen
The Lutheran parish which has been rocked by the vicar’s decision to change genders has been hit by something of an exodus of members. Last year 581 people left the parish where Marja-Sisko Aalto returned to work after undergoing gender reassignment surgery.
http://www.hs.fi/english/article/Nearly+600+quit+parish+of+transgender+vicar/1135252089098/

Who Should Get Kennedy's Senate Seat? AG Dem Martha Coakley or Cosmo Pin-Up Scott Brown?
by: Louise
The special election for the late Teddy Kennedy's Senate seat is coming up and with it, news that the battle between Martha Coakley and Scott Brown is heating up. We're talking about some seriously steamy stuff- WHEW!!! First, some background on the two.
http://www.pamshouseblend.com/diary/14806/who-should-get-kennedys-senate-seat-ag-dem-martha-coakley-or-cosmo-pinup-scott-brown/

Pat Robertson: Haiti 'asked for it' by making a pact with the Devil
by: Pam Spaulding
How can a "man of God" be so evil. There's no other word for it. We can laugh at his multiple blathering of batsh*ttery, but when he steps into the role of God's Executioner, I cannot think of anything more Satanic than Pat Robertson. (via Political Carnival):
http://www.pamshouseblend.com/diary/14824/pat-robertson-haiti-asked-for-it-by-making-a-pact-with-the-devil/

Uganda President Museveni says foreign leaders talk to him about "gays"
by: Lurleen
Russell, an organizer of the Respect Humanity: Uganda March and Rally, a high school student-led event to be held in Beaverton, OR on January 23rd, tipped me off to the blog GayUganda. Being Ugandan, the blogger certainly offers valuable insight into the local situation.
http://www.pamshouseblend.com/diary/14823/uganda-president-museveni-says-foreign-leaders-talk-to-him-about-gays/

Olson and Boies Talk Prop 8 on Maddow
Filed by: Waymon Hudson
Last night on the Rachel Maddow Show, Ted Olson and David Boies came on to talk about the Prop 8 trial. This is just the latest stop in what has been a full-on media blitz from the pro-equality side. It's an interesting contrast from the Prop 8 supporters, who are afraid to even have their testimony videotaped and shown during the trial. I think having these two out on the news and morning shows is definitely moving the discussion on marriage equality forward. I also think the American people will notice the crickets chirping from the Prop 8 supporters- like Maddow says, "Where's the anti-gay pride?"
http://www.bilerico.com/2010/01/olson_and_boies_talk_prop_8_on_maddow.php?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+BilericoProject+%28The+Bilerico+Project%29/

Oprah's website names gay men one of the top self-esteem boosters for women
Filed by: Alex Blaze
There's an article up over on Oprah's website: 11 Ways to Feel Beautiful. In between a few fairly obvious suggestions - like "Don't base your body image off fashion mags!" and "Wear clothes that are appropriate for your size!" - is this:
http://www.bilerico.com/2010/01/oprahs_website_names_gays_one_of_the_top_self-este.php?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+BilericoProject+%28The+Bilerico+Project%29/

Tucker Carlson's New Site Kicks Off With Homophobic Smear Against Rachel Maddow
Posted by Jamison Foser
Tucker Carlson's new web site, The Daily Caller, launched today, featuring a column by The Weekly Standard's Matt Labash: For those unfamiliar with me from my day job at The Weekly Standard, I'll give you a capsule bio by way of introduction: I have the gift of wisdom. Does that sound arrogant? I'm sorry, that wasn't my intention. I didn't choose wisdom. It chose me. If I had my druthers, I'd have chosen another gift, perhaps the untold riches of Lil' Wayne, whose teeth are made of actual diamonds, or to be the sexiest man alive, like Rachel Maddow. But wisdom is what they gave me, so wisdom is all I have to give back to you.
http://www.alternet.org/blogs/media/145089/tucker_carlsen%27s_new_site_kicks_off_with_homophobic_smear_against_rachel_maddow/

Learn To Speak Tea Bag
posted by Joe
The residents of Wingnuttia are screaming at NPR for hosting the below Mark Fiore cartoon on their site. Fiore casually reports receiving death threats over the issue:
Before you could say, “due to a pre-existing condition, your health coverage has been denied,” there was a full-fledged viral campaign by right-wing media outlets and blogs to jump, scream and shout about this animation. Which, to me, is just great! I say that not because I get some thrill out of receiving emails that are in all capital letters or have more exclamation points than letters in the alphabet, I say that because one of the most important functions of a political cartoon, or political animation, is to foster a discussion. With thousands of comments posted, loads of emails and tweets, discussion was definitely fostered, and then some. It’s the “then some” that worries me. Of course discussion on the web is not known for its civility, but it finally dawned on me the strangeness of receiving death threats at the same time a crazed Somali extremist tried to kill cartoonist Kurt Westergaard. Muslim extremist, meet Tea Party extremist. Tea Party extremist, meet Muslim extremist.
http://joemygod.blogspot.com/2010/01/learn-to-speak-tea-bag.html/


The Bush Era: A Golden One for Gay Americans

Posted by B. Daniel Blatt
As I’ve been preparing for my presentation tonight to LA’s Westside Republicans, I’ve been reviewing statistics on corporate policies toward gay employees and have been impressed to discover how quickly these private enterprises have responded to the increasing acceptance of homosexuality in American society. And the pace at which they offered benefits to same-sex domestic partners of employees did not slacken during the supposed dark days of the George W. Bush Era.
http://www.gaypatriot.net/2010/01/13/the-bush-era-a-golden-one-for-gay-americans/

HomoQuotable - Michelangelo Signorile
posted by Joe
"At the heart of the controversy is a simple fact: GLAAD solicits money from networks and entertainment companies and then hands them awards for what the organization deems positive media representation of the LGBT community. (In 2009, ABC actually led rival networks with its number of nominees.) Media companies receiving the awards—many of which often engage in or perpetuate the very bias and defamation that GLAAD crusades against—sponsor the celebrity-strewn benefits and underwrite the performances in return for branding opportunities and choice tables.
http://joemygod.blogspot.com/2010/01/homoquotable-michelangelo-signorile.html/

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Wednesday, January 13, 2010

GLBT DIGEST - January 12, 2010

**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:

Couples Testify in California Gay Marriage Trial
By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Testimony in a groundbreaking legal challenge to California's same-sex marriage ban resumes Tuesday with testimony from two Ivy League historians who will discuss the nation's experience with matrimony and anti-gay discrimination. The trial, which began Monday, is the first in a federal court to decide the constitutionality of state bans on gay marriage. Regardless of the outcome, the case is likely to be appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court, where it could lead to laws that restrict marriage to a man and a woman being upheld or abolished nationwide.
http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2010/01/12/us/AP-US-Gay-Marriage-Trial.html?_r=1&scp=4&sq=gay&st=cse/


Personal Focus as Same-Sex-Marriage Trial Opens in California

By JESSE McKINLEY
It was not the type of question that one usually hears from lawyers in federal court. “What does it mean,” Theodore B. Olson asked his client, Kristin M. Perry, “to be a lesbian?” Mr. Olson’s question came during one of several attention-grabbing moments on the first day of the trial here on the constitutionality of Proposition 8, California’s voter-approved ban on same-sex marriage. It is a case that is expected to feature three weeks of evidence, experts and — if Monday was an indication — emotionally charged testimony on everything from the nature of gay sexuality to the nature of a romantic same-sex marriage proposal.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/12/us/12prop8.html?scp=2&sq=gay&st=cse/

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Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:


Supreme Court blocks YouTube broadcast of gay-marriage trial

Webcast blocked in gay-marriage trial
The Supreme Court on Monday morning temporarily blocked a federal judge in San Francisco from posting to YouTube proceedings from a trial that will determine whether a ban on same-sex marriage is unconstitutional. The stay, sought by opponents of gay marriage, will expire Wednesday. The court said it will permit justices "further consideration." The trial began Monday with opening arguments from both sides and testimony from one of the men suing to overturn the ban. Justice Stephen G. Breyer was the only justice to object to the stay. He said the court's standards for issuing a stay were not met because there is not a likelihood of "irreparable harm" if the proceedings were available on the Internet. Two San Francisco area couples are asking Chief U.S. District Judge Vaughn R. Walker to rule that same-sex marriage is a right under the Constitution and that it was violated last year when California voters passed Proposition 8, a ballot measure restricting matrimony to two members of the opposite sex.
-- Robert Barnes
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/01/11/AR2010011103425.html/

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Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

Pope Speaks on Creation
A WSJ NEWS ROUNDUP
VATICAN CITY -- Pope Benedict linked the Catholic Church's opposition to gay marriage to concern about the environment, suggesting that laws undermining "the differences between the sexes" were threats to creation. He issued the admonition in a speech to ambassadors accredited to the Vatican, an annual appointment during which the pontiff reflects on issues the Vatican wants to highlight to the diplomatic corps. The main theme of the address was the environment and the protection of creation.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB126324799904725207.html/

Prop 8. Trial Opens With Emotional but Uncontroversial Testimony
By Ashby Jones
On Monday, one of the more controversial and high-profile trials to hit the federal courts in some time opened with the presentation of some uncontroversial evidence, testimony meant to show that gay people, yes, exist, and feel discriminated against. The testimony of two lesbians and one gay man took up most of the opening day of a bench trial before San Francisco federal judge Vaughn Walker. The trial is the first in any federal court over same-sex marriage, and is the first step in a case that could reach the U.S. Supreme Court. Click here for the WSJ story; here for the NYT story; here for the SF Chron story. Click here, also, for previous LB coverage.
http://blogs.wsj.com/law/2010/01/12/prop-8-trial-opens-with-emotional-but-uncontroversial-testimony/

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Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

In Calif, couples testify about emotional ordeal of state's gay marriage ban
By LISA LEFF, PAUL ELIAS
Testimony in a groundbreaking legal challenge to California's same-sex marriage ban resumes Tuesday with testimony from two Ivy League historians who will discuss the nation's experience with matrimony and anti-gay discrimination.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/nationworld/sns-ap-us-gay-marriage-trial,0,4299426.story/


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Steve Rothaus
http://www.MiamiHerald.com/gay/
Go to this link for the following articles:

Cameras roll in California’s Prop 8 trial, but tapes' release blocked until final Supreme Court decision
By Susan Ferris, Sacramento Bee
A federal trial on California's Proposition 8 began Monday after the chief judge explained that the U.S. Supreme Court had blocked the delayed release of tapes of the trial until a definitive decision Wednesday afternoon from the high court.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2010/01/cameras-roll-in-californias-prop-8-trial-but-tapes-release-blocked-until-final-supreme-court-decision.html/

Obituary: Nightlife legend Gilbert L. Stafford brought style, class to the doors that mattered
BY ELINOR J. BRECHER, ebrecher@MiamiHerald.com
Gilbert L. Stafford, gentleman guardian of the velvet rope at the hottest clubs on both coasts, held the power of social-death-by-denial over aspiring partyers. He wielded it mercifully, dismissing the unworthy with constructive criticism such as: ``Honey, you are not getting in with those shoes.''
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2010/01/obituary-nightlife-legend-gilbert-l-stafford-brought-style-class-to-the-doors-that-mattered.html/

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365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:

Day One: Prop 8 trial saw some humor, lots of heart
By Lisa Keen
The trial to challenge Proposition 8 in federal court got underway Monday in San Francisco, but the opening acts were upstaged in Washington, D.C. just minutes before the proceeding began.
http://www.365gay.com/news/day-one-prop-8-trial-saw-some-humor-lots-of-heart/

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The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:

Bloody Bar Killing Remains a Mystery
By Neal Broverman
The murder of a 39-year-old gay man remains unsolved two weeks after he was found stabbed to death at the southern Louisiana bar where he worked. The local gay community has been rocked by the Christmas killing of Robert LeCompte, reports HoumaToday.com. LeCompte was a bartender at the Drama Club bar, a popular gay spot in Houma, 60 miles southwest of New Orleans.
http://www.advocate.com//News/Daily_News/2010/01/11/Bloody_Bar_Killing_Remains_a_Mystery/

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Daily Queer News
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

Gay Muslims made homeless by family violence
By Poonam Taneja
A UK charity is dealing with an increasing number of young gay Muslims becoming homeless after fleeing forced marriages and so-called honour violence. During a weekly drop-in group held by the Albert Kennedy Trust in London, Suni, a 20-year-old London student, helps himself to a warm mince pie and a steaming cup of coffee.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/8446458.stm/

Medical marijuana on verge of becoming legal in N.J.
By MICHAEL SYMONS
A plan to allow marijuana to be prescribed in New Jersey for medicinal purposes is on the verge of becoming law, following votes in both houses of the Legislature on the last day of its two-year session Monday. The Assembly voted 48-14 in favor of the bill — meaning that 14 lawmakers who attended the session skipped the vote. The Senate voted for the bill 25-13, meaning the proposal gained three votes since an initial version was approved last February.
http://www.app.com/article/20100111/NEWS0301/1120315/-1/nletter01?source=nletter-news/


Does Harold Ford Think The LGBT Community Is Stupid?
By Harold Ford
Well, we knew it would only take a couple of days before Harold Ford shouted to the skies "Praise Jesus, I am for gay marriage." After all, he is running in New York for United States Senate and not Tennessee. His proclamation on the Today Show that he now supports marriage equality was the least shocking news of the week. Now with that one sweeping statement, the LGBT community is expected to run to him, embrace him and put down the welcome mat.
http://www.davidmixner.com/2010/01/does-harold-ford-think-the-lgbt-community-is-stupid.html#more/

Cliff Kincaid, Brit Hume, and the descent of Christianity
by: Alvin McEwen
Cliff Kincaid and AIM (Accuracy in Media) continues its descent into abject lunacy. Last week, Kincaid claimed that the outrage over Uganda's anti gay bill is really a conspiracy to protect the position of Obama appointee Kevin Jennings. This week, he goes beyond the pale by actually defending the bill in a bizarre paranoid rant:
http://www.pamshouseblend.com/diary/14799/cliff-kincaid-britt-hume-and-the-descent-of-christianity/

Ted Olson, four plaintiffs in Fed Prop 8 case to appear on Today, 7AM ET/PT
by: Pam Spaulding
The Blend has confirmed that Ted Olsen and the four plaintiffs (Kris Perry & Sandy Stier and Paul Katami and Jeff Zarrillo) will be on in the first half hour (7:00AM ET/PT- 7:30AM ET/PT) of the The Today Show. After the appearance, the video will be available on the American Foundation for Equal Rights website. http://www.equalrightsfoundation.org/media/videos/

http://www.pamshouseblend.com/diary/14798/ted-olson-four-plaintiffs-in-fed-prop-8-case-to-appear-on-today-7am-et/


The gays endanger the human race
Filed by: Alex Blaze
"To carry our reflection further, we must remember that the problem of the environment is complex; one might compare it to a multifaceted prism.
http://www.bilerico.com/2010/01/the_gays_endanger_the_human_race.php?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+BilericoProject+%28The+Bilerico+Project%29/

Here's to you, Iris Robinson
Filed by: Alex Blaze
If a romance novelist put together a story about a middle-aged woman who has an affair with a 19-year-old and named the protagonist "Iris Robinson," they'd be told that the name is just over-the-top. Same with Beau Breedlove last year. But reality is (allowed to be) stranger than fiction. And this joke writes itself.
http://www.bilerico.com/2010/01/heres_to_you_iris_robinson.php?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+BilericoProject+%28The+Bilerico+Project%29/

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#####

Monday, January 11, 2010

GLBT DIGEST - January 11, 2010

**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:

Lawyers For Gay Malawi Couple Seek Change to Law
By REUTERS
BLANTYRE (Reuters) - Lawyers for two men arrested after becoming Malawi's first gay couple to wed publicly filed court papers Monday requesting a review of the law banning homosexuality. Steven Monjeza, 26, and Tiwonge Chimbalanga, 20, married in a symbolic traditional ceremony on December 26 but were arrested a day later and charged with gross public indecency.
http://www.nytimes.com/reuters/2010/01/11/world/international-uk-malawi-gays.html?_r=1&scp=14&sq=gay&st=cse/

Gay Marriage Ban Goes on Trial In California
By REUTERS
California's ban on gay marriage goes to trial on Monday in a federal case that plaintiffs hope to take all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court and overturn bans throughout the nation. Victory for gay rights groups in the Supreme Court, which might not choose to take the case if it is appealed that far, would make marriage a fundamental constitutional right without exception and overturn laws and state amendments limiting marriage to a man and a woman in 40 states.
http://www.nytimes.com/reuters/2010/01/11/world/international-uk-gaymarriage-california.html?scp=12&sq=gay&st=cse/

Two Ideological Foes Unite to Overturn Proposition 8
By JESSE McKINLEY
The last time David Boies and Theodore B. Olson battled in a courtroom, the presidency hung in the balance as they represented opposite sides arguing the fate of the 2000 election.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/11/us/11prop8.html?n=Top/News/U.S./U.S.%20States,%20Territories%20and%20Possessions/California&scp=10&sq=gay&st=cse/

Stacking the Deck Against Proposition 8
By EDWIN MEESE III
THE much-anticipated trial to determine the constitutionality of California’s Proposition 8 is scheduled to begin this morning in the case of Perry v. Schwarzenegger. What’s at stake in this case, filed in federal district court in San Francisco on behalf of two gay couples, is not just the right of California voters to reaffirm the definition of marriage as only between a man and a woman, but also whether marriage may be otherwise defined in any state.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/11/opinion/11meese.html?scp=8&sq=gay&st=cse/

Urban ‘Creative Class’ Dismissed
Today’s idea: Perhaps nurturing a “creative class” isn’t the key to reviving industrial cities after all. An urban guru has second thoughts about his once-hopeful prescription, and now some civic leaders who bought into it aren’t happy. Cities | In The American Prospect, Alec MacGillis writes of the urban theorist Richard Florida, who has reaped a bonanza in lecture and consulting fees on the heels of his 2002 book “The Rise of the Creative Class.” It argued that crumbling smokestack cities could revive themselves by wooing the innovators who drive economic growth — Web designers, architects, biomedical researchers, and the like.
http://ideas.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/01/11/creative-class-dismissed/?scp=7&sq=gay&st=cse/

Groundbreaking Gay Marriage Trial Starts in California
The Associated Press
The first federal trial to determine if the U.S. Constitution prohibits states from outlawing same-sex marriage gets under way Monday, and the two gay couples on whose behalf the case was brought will be among the first witnesses. The proceedings, which are expected to last two to three weeks, involve a challenge to Proposition 8, the gay marriage ban approved by California voters in November 2008.
http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2010/01/11/us/AP-US-Gay-Marriage-Federal.html?scp=6&sq=gay&st=cse/

Gay marriage ban goes on trial in California
By Reuters
California's ban on gay marriage goes to trial on Monday in a federal case that plaintiffs hope to take all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court and overturn bans throughout the nation. Victory for gay rights groups in the Supreme Court, which might not choose to take the case if it is appealed that far, would make marriage a fundamental constitutional right without exception and overturn laws and state amendments limiting marriage to a man and a woman in 40 states.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/01/10/AR2010011000681.html/

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Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

Welcome back to medieval times
By John Shelby Spong
The recently passed law in Ireland against blasphemy, which threatens $35,000 fines for any person who "publishes or utters matter that is grossly abusive or insulting in relation to matters held sacred by any religion thereby causing outrage among a substantial number of the adherents of that religion," is a weird throwback to the medieval mentality. It also reflects a period of Irish history in which the tie-in between church and state was so intertwined as to be synonymous. To be Irish was to be Roman Catholic. To be Roman Catholic was to be Irish. If this law is not overturned Ireland can no longer claim to be a participant in the modern world.
http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/onfaith/panelists/john_shelby_spong/2010/01/welcome_back_to_medieval_times.html/

Hurray for the First Amendment
By Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie
Q: Atheists are others are protesting a new law in Ireland, under which a person can be found guilty of blasphemy if "he or she publishes or utters matter that is grossly abusive or insulting in relation to matters held sacred by any religion, thereby causing outrage among a substantial number of the adherents of that religion." The penalty is a fine of up to about $35,000. Should Ireland or any nation have a law against blasphemy? Is this new law a sign of religious arrogance, religious intolerance or a legal attempt to control and silence criticism? Is this a salvo in rising tensions between religious factions in Ireland?

http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/onfaith/panelists/vashti_murphy_mckenzie/2010/01/yea_for_the_first_amendment.html/


Same-sex marriage set for big day in federal court
By Karl Vick
After a run of setbacks at the state level, gay rights advocates will take the campaign for same-sex marriage into a federal courtroom on Monday, starting down a treacherous avenue that ends at a U.S. Supreme Court dominated by conservatives.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/01/10/AR2010011002606.html/


Groundbreaking gay marriage trial starts in California
By LISA LEFF
The first federal trial to determine if the U.S. Constitution prohibits states from outlawing same-sex marriage gets under way Monday, and the two gay couples on whose behalf the case was brought will be among the first witnesses.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/01/11/AR2010011100377.html/

Court blocks taping of gay marriage trial
By Robert Barnes
The Supreme Court on Monday morning temporarily blocked a federal judge in San Francisco from showing on YouTube proceedings from a trial that will determine whether a ban on same-sex marriage is unconstitutional.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/01/11/AR2010011101606.html/

Protest outside federal gay marriage trial in SF
The Associated Press
About 100 people are demonstrating outside the federal courthouse in San Francisco as the trial for California's gay marriage ban begins. Most of the demonstrators are gay marriage supporters, who took turns Monday addressing the crowd with a microphone. They support the overturning of Proposition 8, a voter-approved law that limits marriage to one man and one woman.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/01/11/AR2010011101942.html/


Pope says gay marriage threat to creation
By Philip Pullella
VATICAN CITY (Reuters) - Pope Benedict on Tuesday linked the Church's opposition to gay marriage to concern about the environment, suggesting that laws undermining "the differences between the sexes" were threats to creation.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/01/11/AR2010011101477.html/

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Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

Court Blocks Taping of Gay-Marriage Trial
By JESS BRAVIN
The Supreme Court temporarily blocked the Internet broadcast of a trial beginning Monday in federal court to challenge the constitutionality of Proposition 8, the 2008 California voter initiative banning gay marriage.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB126322139190924629.html/

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Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

Prop. 8 trial to include unprecedented testimony
Challengers of the same-sex marriage ban plan to call to the stand homosexual couples, experts on the history of sexual discrimination and marriage, and the architects of the ballot measure.
U.S. District Court Judge Vaughn Walker presides over the Proposition 8 trial in San Francisco today.
By Maura Dolan
Scholars, gay and lesbian partners and opponents of same-sex marriage are expected to testify about the nature of marriage and homosexuality during an unprecedented federal trial today to determine whether gays and lesbians may marry. The case, Perry vs. Schwarzenegger, is expected to become a landmark that eventually will be decided by the U.S. Supreme Court. Both sides have hired leading legal advocates with lots of experience before the high court.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/nationworld/la-me-prop8-trial11-2010jan11,0,892313.story/

Supreme Court Blocks TV Coverage of Gay Marriage Trial
By David G. Savage
The U.S. Supreme Court, acting on an appeal from conservative defenders of California's ban on same-sex marriage, overruled a federal judge in San Francisco today and blocked video coverage of the trial on YouTube.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/nationworld/sns-dc-court-prop8,0,1017950.story/

HIV/AIDS group going after Florida adult filmmakers for not using condoms
By Bob LaMendola
Complaints to be filed with county health departments
A California HIV/AIDS organization took on South Florida's pornography industry Monday, saying it will be filing complaints with county health departments about films in which sex actors do not use condoms. AIDS Healthcare Foundation, which offers services and a health plan in South Florida, said it had identified 10 DVDs shot at least partly in Miami with no condom use. Three Miami-based companies were involved, said group President Michael Weinstein, indicating an adult film business here. Film officials in Broward and Miami-Dade counties said they knew little about the extent of adult film-making here. For more information about HIV/AIDS prevention, see cdc.gov/hiv.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/broward/fl-condomless-porn-20100111,0,3096436.story/

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Steve Rothaus
http://www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:

Lesbian lawmaker in Utah carries baby for gay men
Associated Press
Rep. Christine Johnson will serve an additional role when the Utah Legislature convenes this month. The lesbian lawmaker announced she's a surrogate mother, carrying a baby for two gay men. Johnson, D-Salt Lake City, said she decided to become artificially impregnated with sperm from one of the men after the two close friends expressed frustration over the difficulty of adopting a child.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2010/01/lesbian-lawmaker-in-utah-carries-baby-for-gay-men.html/

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Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

South Florida holds first gay wedding expo
Gay marriage may not be legal in Florida, but an expo catering to same-sex couples found a receptive clientele Sunday in Fort Lauderdale.
BY MIKE CLARY
After seven years together, Lorri Armband and her partner Joni Malwitz plan to get married this spring, and what they have in mind is a ceremony on the beach for about 50 guests.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/southflorida/story/1418678.html/

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The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:

Sarah Palin Joins Fox News
By Advocate.com Editors
The New York Timesis reporting that Sarah Palin has signed on to be a contributor to the Fox News Channel.

http://www.advocate.com/News/Daily_News/2010/01/11/Sarah_Palin_Joins_Fox_News_as_Contributor/


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Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:

Cameron sets out commitment on tax breaks for civil partners
Tory leader David Cameron has said he will give gay couples in civil partnerships the same tax benefits his party will give to married couples.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/01/11/cameron-sets-out-commitment-on-tax-breaks-for-civil-partners/

Religious civil partnerships amendment tabled in Lords
An amendment to the Equality Bill which would allow civil partnerships to be held in church was tabled in the House of Lords today.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/01/11/religious-civil-partnerships-amendment-tabled-in-lords/

Temporary block on broadcasting Prop 8 trial
The Supreme Court has temporarily blocked recording of the Proposition 8 trial in California, which begins today. Gay marriage opponents, who conducted a vocal public campaign, said they could be harassed if the trial was broadcast.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/01/11/temporary-block-on-broadcasting-prop-8-trial/

Iris Robinson's husband asks colleague to step in as first minister
Peter Robinson, the husband of homophobic Northern Ireland MP Iris Robinson, has asked a colleague to take over as first minister while he stands down for six weeks.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/01/11/iris-robinsons-husband-asks-colleague-to-step-in-as-first-minister/

Iris Robinson receiving psychiatric treatment after accusations of two more affairs
Homophobic MP Iris Robinson is said to be receiving "acute psychiatric treatment" as allegations of affairs with two other men emerge.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/01/11/iris-robinson-receiving-psychiatric-treatment-after-accusations-of-two-more-affairs/

Exclusive: Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg to answer gay questions
Do you have a question for Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg? With four months until an expected general election, he has agreed to answer questions from PinkNews.co.uk readers.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/01/08/exclusive-liberal-democrat-leader-nick-clegg-to-answer-gay-questions/

George Michael rules out Wham! reunion
George Michael has said that he and former Wham! partner Andrew Ridgeley will not reform the band. Unlike other ageing musical stars, he said the band was about being "young and exuberant".
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/01/08/george-michael-rules-out-wham-reunion/

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Daily Queer News
www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:

Ford On Gay Marriage: Then And Now
By Elizabeth Benjamin
Here's a TV ad from ex-Rep. Harold Ford Jr.'s (extremely well-documented) 2006 Senate campaign in which he responds to RNC ads that he said "attacked my faith." "They said I'm for gay marriage when I voted against it, for giving school girls abortion pills. All of a lie. Here's what I believe: In God, in you and a new direction. That's why I approve this message."
http://www.nydailynews.com/blogs/dailypolitics/2010/01/ford-on-gay-marriage-then-and.html/


BREAKING NEWS: SCOTUS Blocks YouTube Broadcast for 48 Hours; Prop 8 Open Thread

by: Louise
UPDATE 2 (1:03 pm EDT) - I just got home from the Nakamura Federal building in Seattle, where a live feed was set up. None of the guards knew anything about it, as it appears to not have been on their daily schedule. But sure enough the screen was set up in the courtroom we'd been told about online. I got there at 8:10 and the feed had already gone live. It was a large flat screen split into 4 windows, one for the judge, one for counsel, one for the witness box and one showing the courtroom where I was sitting. At about 8:20 it stopped. The court librarian came in close to 8:30 and after discovering the situation, went online and found the AP story about Justice Kennedy's decision. Interesting to note: I was the ONLY person who showed up to watch the live feed. I suppose people monitoring the web en route may have turned back early, but it seems likely that few (or only me) were interested enough in viewing the opening remarks live to get there on time. Big shout out to the librarian. Don't know if he reads PHB, but if so, thank you for your kind assistance! --Lurleen
http://www.pamshouseblend.com/diary/14783/prop-8-open-thread/

OR: Plans solidifying for Southridge High School student clubs' "Respect Humanity" rally
by: Lurleen
Note: please tweet, fb, and recommend the DailyKos version of this diary. Thx! So much has happened in the scant two weeks since my initial post about the upcoming "Respect Humanity: Uganda March and Rally" that I thought an update post was needed.
http://www.pamshouseblend.com/diary/14780/or-plans-blossoming-for-southridge-high-school-student-clubs-respect-humanity-rally/

PHB Podcast: Interview With EQCA Executive Director Geoff Kors On Prop 8 Case
by: Autumn Sandeen
Today, a Federal District Court in California is going to hearing the case Perry v. Schwarzenegger, which the ACLU describes as a:
Federal legal challenge to Proposition 8, filed by prominent attorneys Ted Olson and David Boies on behalf of two California couples. The Executive Director of Equality California, Geoffrey Kors, did a Pam's House Blend telephone interview with me on Sunday morning (January 10, 2010), which is below in an audio podcast format.
http://www.pamshouseblend.com/diary/14781/phb-podcast-interview-with-eqca-executive-director-geoff-kors-on-prop-8-case/

Maine's Senate President Libby Mitchell Running for Governor
by: Louise
I have made no secret here on the Blend of various Maine politicians that I like and support; today's post about Elizabeth "Libby" Mitchell is certainly no exception. To say she is extraordinarily qualified to be Maine's first woman governor is an understatement.
http://www.pamshouseblend.com/diary/14768/maines-senate-president-libby-mitchell-running-for-governor/

Father Tony Talks To Cynthia Nixon About Florida's Ban On Gay Adoption
posted by Joe
Bilerico's Father Tony spoke to Cynthia Nixon about the ACLU's launch of a campaign to overturn Florida's ban on gay adoption. More on the story at Bilerico.
http://joemygod.blogspot.com/2010/01/father-tony-talks-to-cynthia-nixon.html/

Ill Papa: Gays Endanger Humanity
posted by Joe
Pope Benedict Palpatine has issued another insulting attack on gays, saying that homosexual marriage endangers all of humanity. Oh noes! Pope Benedict XVI on Monday called laws ignoring the difference between the sexes an "attack" on creation just days after Portugal moved to legalise gay marriage. Creatures, including humans, "can be protected or endangered", the pope, 82, told the Vatican diplomatic corps in a traditional January address focusing mainly on environmental issues.
http://joemygod.blogspot.com/2010/01/ill-papa-gays-endanger-humanity.html/

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