**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net and we'll be happy to send the full article.
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Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Singapore fines TV station for gay show
SINGAPORE -- A Singapore television station has been fined for airing a showthat depicted a gay couple and their baby in a way that "promotes a gaylifestyle," the city-state's media regulator said Thursday.
http://www.miamiherald.com/577/story/507808.html
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Steve Rothaus
http://www.miamiherald.com/living/columnists/steve_rothaus/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Study: Gay and lesbian youth want long-term couple relationships andraising children
In what is believed to be the first study of its kind, social scientistshave found that many lesbian and gay youth have expectations of spendingtheir adult life in a long-term relationship raising children. More than 90percent of females and more than 80 percent of males expect to be partneredin a monogamous relationship after age 30. Two thirds of females and morethan half of males expressed likelihood that they would raise children inthe future.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2008/04/study-gay-and-l.html
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Express Gay News
http://www.expressgaynews.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Gay couple kisses on 'As the World Turns'
Fans accused soap opera of censoring male liplocks
After 214 days and an e-mail campaign by angry fans that generatedinternational coverage, the gay teen couple on CBS soap opera "As The WorldTurns" finally got to share their third on-screen kiss.
http://www.expressgaynews.com/thelatest/thelatest.cfm?blog_id=17887
-Clinton, Obama weigh in on plight of Iranian gays
Activist asks campaigns to condemn U.K. deportations
Britain's deportation of gay Iranians has emerged as a minor presidentialcampaign issue after a gay rights group asked each candidate to take astand.
http://www.expressgaynews.com/thelatest/thelatest.cfm?blog_id=17866
-T.R. Knight and Larry King Breaking the Silence
Silence will be golden tomorrow for T.R. Knight.
The openly gay Grey's Anatomy star has just signed on to participate in theNational Day of Silence ceremony at the Miguel Contreras Learning Complex inLos Angeles.
http://www.eonline.com/uberblog/marc_malkin/b132601_TR_Knight_and_Larry_.html?sid=rss_topstories&utm_source=eonline&utm_medium=rssfeeds&utm_campaign=rss_topstories
-After three years, 'Jeff's Law' cleared for Senate vote
An anti-bullying bill named after a Cape Coral teenager has made it to theFlorida Senate floor for a vote after three years.
http://www.news-press.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080423/NEWS0120/80423058
-Royal 'blackmail sting a failure'
A police operation to catch two men for allegedly blackmailing a member ofthe Royal Family was an "abject failure", London's Old Bailey has been toldhttp://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/7363630.stm
-What If Your Kid Is Gay? (Or Not?)
It's a question posed to some parents, and especially - in one form oranother - gay parents. I was asked this question during an interview withSlovenian television (of all things). The question got cut from our segmentof the interview, which instead included a short clip of me talking aboutgender roles (or the lack thereof) in our household. But when I saw thatDetails magazine has tackled the question, it seemed like a good time toaddress it.
http://www.bilerico.com/2008/04/what_if_your_kid_is_gay_or_not.php
-Omens In California
The chatter suggests that California's State Supreme Court may mandate equalmarriage rights in June. The governor has said he'll abide by the court; thelegislature has already voted to extend civil marriage to gay couples twice.
But those who believe that gay couples are a threat to social stability andto heterosexual families have managed to get enough signatures to get ameasure on the ballot this fall that would ban all such marriages. It wouldeffectively forcibly divorce all those gay couples who got married in Juneby November.
http://andrewsullivan.theatlantic.com/the_daily_dish/2008/04/omens-in-califo.html
-An Affront to American Principles of Fairness and Equality
Dan Tepfler knows a thing or two about the armed forces. The PFLAG dad, andnational PFLAG board member, served more than 23 years in the United StatesAir Force, retiring as Colonel. And he's alarmed that, while the militaryscrambles to find good people for its ranks, it continues to dismisslesbian, gay and bisexual service members under "Don't Ask, Don't Tell."
http://www.pflag.org/blog/?p=225
-Fleeing Torture But Finding Only Persecution
With just 17 days left until 19-year-old Jojo Yakob is due to be forciblyremoved from the UK to his imprisonment, torture, and probable execution inSyria, our negative attitude to refugees and why we have it needs to beseriously looked at.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/nick-henderson/fleeing-torture-but-findi_b_98269.html
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365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-McCain Miffed Over NC GOP Attack Ad
(Inez, Kentucky) Republican John McCain asked the North Carolina GOP not torun a television ad that brings up the controversial former pastor ofDemocratic presidential candidate Barack Obama.
-Clinton, Obama Both Claim Lead In Popular Votes
(Washington) If numbers don't lie, the Democratic presidential race isproving they can confuse: Both campaigns claim they are ahead in the popularvote.
-Rest A Luxury Obama, Clinton Cannot Afford
(New Albany, Indiana) How can they not be tired? Barack Obama and HillaryRodham Clinton are undeniably exhausted.
-Hollywood Still Forcing Gay Actors To Remain Closeted
(Toronto, Ontario) Ian McKellen made headlines two years ago when the openlygay British actor spouted off on what seemed an unspoken truth: it'simpossible for openly gay Hollywood actors to have successful careers.
-Moscow Bans Gay Pride
(Moscow) Moscow Mayor Yuri Lushkov has banned pride celebrations in Moscow,scheduled for next month - the twelfth year in a row the city has refused toissue permits to LGBT rights groups.
-UK Lords Nix Expanded Gay Hate Law
(London) A bill to toughen Britain's hate speech law banning attacks on gayshas been defeated in the House of Lords.
-New N.C. Hospital Rule To Benefit Gay Families
(Raleigh, North Carolina) North Carolina hospital patients will soon have anew right, ensuring that they can receive the visitors who matter most tothem regardless of the legal status of their relationship.
-Anti-Gay Amendment Advances In Arizona
(Phoenix, Arizona) A proposed amendment that would prevent same-sex couplesin Arizona from marrying has passed the House and if approved in the stateSenate will appear on the ballot in November.
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The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Analysis: Obama Still Struggling to Win Key Constituencies
Why can't Barack Obama close the deal?
It's a question Hillary Rodham Clinton and her surrogates raised through thelast days of the caustic Pennsylvania primary contest. And unfortunately forObama -- who lost to the former first lady by a 10-point margin Tuesdaynight -- it's a question that bears repeating.
http://advocate.com/news_detail_ektid53608.asp
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National Gay News
http://nationalgaynews.com/component/option,com_frontpage/Itemid,1/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Gay Entertainment Report
In Miami the mojitos are sweet, the pink flamingos indigen, and the GLBTfilms hot. That's because the Miami Gay & Lesbian Film Festival 2008 willpremiere several featured films and shorts over its ten day run startingApril 25th.
-Students Stop Talking, Start Walking
Students should not be surprised if they are able to hear a pin droptoday.The National Day of Silence at IU will be commemorated on campustoday. The event, in which participants take a vow of silence for all orpart of the day, is meant to bring attention to how people who are gay,lesbian, bisexual or transsexual often feel overlooked and silenced becausethey are different.
-Treasures and Secrets
"You've got so much here!" reads one comment in the guestbook at theAustralian Lesbian and Gay Archives (ALGA). Those who venture down to thesmall room beneath the Victorian AIDS Council where the Archives are storedare often overwhelmed by the breadth of materials they find there. Swapcards from a recent safe-sex campaign rub shoulders with lesbian magazinesof the 1960s. The wall-to-wall boxes, albums and files are home to thestories of thousands of lesbians and gay men, camps and butches, 'passingwomen' and all manner of queer types in between. For the past 30 years,volunteers have lovingly collected and preserved these traces of ourhistories from across the country.
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Marriage Equality News
http://samesexmarriage.typepad.com/weblog/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Same-sex marriage has been prohibited in Florida since the 1997 Defense ofMarriage Act was passed. Marriage is defined by law as the legal union ofone man and one woman only. A same-sex marriage performed in another stateor country is not recognized in Florida, period. Yet, the proponents of theso-called "Marriage Amendment," (Amendment 2) to the state constitution, andthe media, continue to refer to this amendment as a "gay marriage ban." Anaccurate and honest reading of the wording of the amendment, which onlyrecently garnered the necessary signatures to be placed on the ballot aftera failed attempt in 2006, shows that this is untrue and is completelymisleading. The amendment threatens not only gay people but all Floridianswho have set up joint households instead of getting married.
-Frank Ferri has played many roles in his life: business owner, GLBT civilrights activist and husband. Last December, Ferri, 54, was sworn in as thenewest member of the Rhode Island legislature. Ferri is epresenting District22 in Warwick as a Democrat, filling the seat vacated last July by longtimestate Rep. Peter Ginaitt (D). Ferri is only the second openly gay member ofthe general assembly, joining House Majority Leader Gordon Fox, who came outat a marriage equality rally in 2004. Ferri has served as co-chair ofMarriage Equality Rhode Island (MERI). Ferri and his partner Tony Caparcowere married in Vancouver, Canada in 2006. They have been together for 27years.
-TIAA-CREF today announced its support for H.R. 1820, Tax Equity for HealthPlan Beneficiaries Act of 2007, introduced by Congressman Jim McDermott(D-WA) in the House and S. 1556, Tax Equity for Domestic Partner and HealthPlan Beneficiaries Act of 2007, introduced by Senator Gordon Smith (R-OR) inthe Senate. The bill would eliminate the inequities in federal tax law byexcluding the value of domestic partner health coverage from the taxableincome of the employee and from wages for purposes of payroll taxobligations. The bill would correct these inequities for domestic partnersand others who qualify as plan beneficiaries under the employer plan but donot meet the tax code definition of spouse or dependent.
In particular, it would permit a Voluntary Employees' BeneficiaryAssociation (also known as a VEBA) to provide full benefits to domesticpartners or other non-spouse, non-dependent beneficiaries withoutendangering its tax-exempt status.
-It seems like a more recent event, but it was 12 years ago that I receivedthe phone call.
I was at work in Baltimore. Suddenly, on the line was a voice I didn't knowtelling me something I didn't want to hear. He explained that he was afriend of my brother's who lived in San Francisco. He said Calvin was dyingof AIDS and didn't want his family to know. When the phone caller told meCalvin was sick, I immediately made plans to go see him. There, I met the"roommate" who I then knew was Calvin's partner - the man who made sure hereceived the best home hospice care available. Only months later, Calvindied. I was glad he had someone who loved him with him during the ordeal. Noone should be alone knowing death is so near.
-The atmosphere surrounding the issue of gay marriage has changedsubstantially since the furor that gripped the state eight years ago. Thatwas when the Vermont Legislature became the first in the nation to institutecivil unions for gay and lesbian couples.A commission appointed by theLegislature last year to study the issue of gay marriage has presented itsreport amid a resounding absence of controversy. The commission held aseries of meetings around the state to hear all sides of the issue, butmostly what they heard were pleas by Vermonters to enact full marriageequality by moving beyond civil unions to civil marriage.
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Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Scientists consider giving up search for Aids vaccine
A shocking new survey has uncovered that the international community of Aidsscientists are giving up hope of finding a vaccine for the virus.
-UK: Gay men incorrectly sent for HIV tests by health insurers
Research has shown that many gay men are too often being sent to haveunnecessary HIV tests when they apply for health insurance.
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Anything but Straight
http://www.waynebesen.com/
-The Question of Choice Matters
In 2002, a large gay rights organization was hosting a luncheon thatfeatured a transgender speaker. During the Q&A, there was discussion on themerits of adding "gender identity" to the Employment Non-Discrimination Act(ENDA) - which, if passed, would protect people from being fired because oftheir sexual orientation. In the middle of a serious debate, a new staffer,who was just hired from the bluest city in a blue state, earnestly rose tohis feet. He proclaimed that he "couldn't comprehend" anti-trans attitudesand was dumbfounded that average people still held deep-seated prejudicesagainst such non-conforming individuals. "Why was this out-of-touch personhired for a GLBT movement job?" I thought to myself, upon hearing hisassertion. It was one thing to believe that transgender Americans deserveequality - which I do - and quite another to be "perplexed" that someconservatives are still freaked out by transgender (and, yes, gay) people.
http://www.waynebesen.com/2008/04/question-of-choice-matters.html
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From GLSEN
The Truth about the Day of Silence
Every year, more and more students participate in the Day of Silence, whichbegan 12 years ago when University of Virginia students wanted to find a wayto bring attention to anti-LGBT name-calling, bullying and harassment oncampus. As the day's popularity and exposure have increased, manymisperceptions have spread about what the Day of Silence is, why the dayexists and what participating in it means. Here are 4 truths that addresscommon misinformation about the Day of Silence.
1) The Day of Silence's purpose is to bring attention to anti-LGBTname-calling, bullying and harassment and effective responses.
http://www.dayofsilence.org/content/truth.html
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Edge - Miami
http://www.edgemiami.com/
-Fighting for Silence
For Jennifer Legat, a high school sophomore in the Broward County PublicSchool System, the Day of Silence is the part of the year she looks forwardto most. As president of her high school's Gay Straight Alliance, Jenniferspends most of the year preparing and prepping the club's members for thisday.
http://www.edgemiami.com/index.php?ch=news&sc=local&sc2=&sc3=&id=73324
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Forwarded from Euro-Queer
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article:
-BELGRADE -- The conditions for a homosexual parade to be held in Serbia donot exist, an activists told reporters in Belgrade today. "In order torealize the freedom of movement that is guaranteed to us by theconstitution, we, the homosexuals, need the police protection, which theycannot provide," Boban Stojanovic, of the Queeria Culture and Non-ViolenceCenter, said in a news conference. The organization was promoting a campaigndubbed, "Love to the streets, hooligans to jails". Stojanovic also saidthat the Serbian police, MUP, advised them to seek protection from privatesecurity firms. He added policemen were not reacting to continuous threatsthat some gay activists have been receiving. "One in four homosexuals comesunder some form of attack, physical or physiological, and for that reason wehave launched this campaign," Stojanovic said. He also denied rumors thatsome 20,000 homosexuals were set to arrive in Belgrade in time for thisyear's Eurovision song contest.
http://www.b92.net/eng/news/society-article.php?yyyy=2008&mm=04&dd=23&nav_id=49692
-Riga Pride 2008: in a park behind the fence and police protection, again?
Today, Ivars Godmanis, Latvian Prime Minister, and yesterday, OskarsKastens, Integration Minister, said they believe this year Riga Pride/Marchfor Equality should take place in an enclosed park as it happened last yearat Vermanes Park in central Riga. Edgars Vaikulis, a press secretary ofprime minister said: "Last year the prime minister was an interior minister,managed to avoid any verbal or physical conflicts during the March andthinks that the optimal solution for this year would be to organise theMarch at the same place as last year - in Vermanes Park." Yesterday'sstatement by the integration minister was heavily critisised by IlzeBrands-Kehre, Director of the Latvian Human Rights Centre. She said that itis not within the competence of the integration minister to evaluate riskfactors and security situation and therefore the minister draws unfoundconclusions before even the police came out with their own conclusions onthe security situation for this year's Pride March. She also said that bydoing so the integration minister is interfering and limiting the freedom ofassembly.
-Germany says no additional legislation needed 'at this point in time'.
Germany has defended blocking a wide-ranging extension of Europeananti-discrimination legislation on the grounds that it is still assessingthe impact of previous European directives transposed into national law in2006. Ricklef Beutin of Germany's permanent representation to the EU saidthat his government had implemented four previous Europeananti-discrimination directives in 2006 alone and was not "at this point intime" in favour of introducing any further European laws. Germany isunderstood to be of the view that decisions on additional legislation inthis area are best left to the national governments of EU member states.
Current EU anti-discrimination legislation bans discrimination in theworkplace on all grounds. However, protection against discrimination inaccess to goods and services is provided only on the basis of gender andrace.
http://www.europeanvoice.com/article/2008/04/2127april/germany-scuppers-anti-discrimination-law/60504.aspx
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Forwarded from Gays Without Borders
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article
-Earlier this month the AP wire put out a story of great concern to humanrights, gay and HIV/AIDS advocates, one that I hope would generate actionsat and visits to Egyptian embassies and consulates in the U.S. and aroundthe globe: An Egyptian judicial official says four HIV-positive men havebeen convicted of being homosexual and sentenced to three years in prisonfollowed by three years of close police supervision . . .The defense lawyerfor the five, Adel Ramadan, says the judge convicted the men of the''habitual practice of debauchery,'' a term used in the Egyptian legalsystem to denote consensual homosexual acts . . .
http://mpetrelis.blogspot.com/2008/04/gays-egyptians-discuss-hiv-arrests-in.html
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Forwarded from Kenneth Sherrill - Ken's List
Kenneth.Sherrill@hunter.cuny.edu
kenslist@groups.queernet.org
Go to the links for the following articles:
Contact rays.list@comcast.net if can't access the article
-Call for Submissions:
Still Blue: More Writing By (For or About)Working-Class Queers
Following the success of *Everything I Have is Blue: Short Fiction byWorking-Class Men about More-or-Less Gay Life a new anthology on queer,working-class themes is currently in preparation. Writers are encouraged tosend their work for possible inclusion in the new volume, tentativelyentitled *Still Blue: More Writing By (For or About) Working-Class Queers*.
Writers of any and all genders are welcome! Submissions must be received byJuly 1, 2008.
http://www.everythingihaveisblue.com/still.html
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Forwarded from Victoria Lavin
Daily Queer News
dailyqueernews@yahoo.com
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Campaign for Repeal of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' Launches From San Diego
A San Diego reception marks the beginning of a six city whistle-stop tour ofcommunities in the Western U.S organized by Servicemembers Legal DefenseNetwork (SLDN) to highlight efforts to repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell." Thetour, which takes SLDN executive director Aubrey Sarvis from San Diego toPalm Springs before making stops in Las Vegas, Denver, Boulder, and ColoradoSprings, is an initiative aimed at educating Americans on efforts to liftthe ban on lesbian, gay and bisexual service personnel.
http://gay_blog.blogspot.com/2008/04/campaign-for-repeal-of-dont-ask-dont.html
-Anglican church warns against visit by controversial South American bishop
A controversial Anglican leader from South America arrived in Canada on
Wednesday, over the objections of the Anglican Church of Canada.
http://www.topix.net/content/cp/2008/04/anglican-church-warns-against-visit-by-ontroversial-south-american-bishop
-Indian Police Force Launches HIV/AIDS Awareness Program Aimed At Officers,Soldiers
India's Central Reserve Police Force on Saturday launched an HIV/AIDSawareness campaign aimed at officers and soldiers in an effort to reduce thespread of the disease, ANI/Thaindian News reports. Under the program, CRPFwill provide personnel with education about the disease and informationabout prevention methods. The police force also will establish condomvending machines. "Since people are often awkward and shy while buyingcondoms, we have taken care to maintain privacy while placing the machines,"M.V. Rao, chief medical officer for CRPF, said. In addition, CRPF plans toestablish a voluntary confidential counseling testing center, ANI/Newsreports.
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/105036.php
-S. Africa: Township Lesbians too Scared
http://www.lgbt.bz/2008/04/township-lesbians-too-scared.html
- Spain: Organizations decry homophobic attacks against gay men caughthaving sex in public bathrooms
Remember Senator Larry Craig's bathroom incident? You probably do as itbecame almost as big a news story as Britney Spears' meltdown last year(actually, my friend Michael Rogers broke the story over at his BlogActiveblog).
http://blabbeando.blogspot.com/2008/04/spain-organizations-decry-homophobic.html
-What bullying would Jesus embolden?
LGBT kids are still bullied in our nation's public schools. Those who woulddeny this are in a grand state of denial, and their rebuffing is quiteoffensive to those of us who either suffered adolescent harassment orcloseted ourselves in order to stave off the same. And those who would go sofar as to protest against those who are trying to end this bullying,teasing, and harassment, are following a code of conduct that is anythingbut moral!
http://www.goodasyou.org/good_as_you/2008/04/what-bullying-w.html
-Happy Passover, Jewish queers
Rabbi calls for 'rehabilitation of gays'
Homosexuality is a disease that should be treated, the chief rabbi of KIryatOno, near Tel Aviv, wrote in response to a letter from the gay communitypublished in Ynet weeks ago.
http://www.goodasyou.org/good_as_you/2008/04/rabbi-thinks-we.html
-John Hagee Stands by Remarks that Sinful Gays Caused Katrina
Pastor John Hagee, whose endorsement John McCain gladly gobbled up, stood byremarks he made in 2006 that Hurricane Katrina was God's punishment for thesinful Southern Decadence party that gays were planning to hold in NewOrleans.
http://www.towleroad.com/2008/04/john-hagee-stan.html
-Israel: Rabbi thinks we're rabid
Pastor John Hagee suggested to NPR that the devastating, life-robbingHurricane Katrina was God's judgement against New Orleans for the"homosexual parade" that was to be held in the city the following week.
February of 2008: Hagee endorses John McCain for President. This is anendorsement McCain has said he's both "very honored" by and "glad to have."
April 22, 2008: Hagee, apparently feeling like he hadn't made his ideasabout God's contempt for drag queens marching down Bourbon Street clearenough the first time, said the following on the talk show of conservativehost Dennis Prager:
PRAGER: Right, but in the case, did NPR get, is this quote correct thoughthat in the case of New Orleans you do feel it was sin?
http://www.goodasyou.org/good_as_you/2008/04/remember-when-a.html
-Tough times for Brazilian friends
My friend Marcos Costa, who blogs at Carioca Virtual, has been drawingattention to an outrageous case of mistreatment inflicted on Jose Ávila,days after the death of Fabio, his partner of 10 years. That's Jose andFabio in the photo; Jose's on the right.
http://citizenchris.typepad.com/citizenchris/2008/04/tough-times-f-1.html
-Gay Dutch tilting rightward
My pal Dan over at Gay Patriot has an interesting post about the rightwardtilt of gays in liberal Holland. Apparently a conservative party calledProud of the Netherlands scored best among gays in a poll by the TV programNova. The trend dates back at least to Pim Fortuyn, an openly gay politicianthere who launched his own nationalist party and was competing to be primeminister before being murdered by a radical animal rights activist.
http://citizenchris.typepad.com/citizenchris/2008/04/gay-dutch-tilti.html
-In the Business of Hurting Businesses. and People
Don Wildmon and his "American Family Association" just love to hurt Americanbusinesses and the families they support. Their modus operandi is launchingcampaigns and boycotts against any company that treats its gay and lesbianemployees equally or has the audacity to advertise in gay-orientedpublications. They don't give a damn about the families that might be hurt,including families they claim to be representing and "protecting."
http://atlanticfreepress.com/content/view/3747/81/
-When Dems act like Dems You know what's refreshing?
When instead of having an election in which a pair of supposed progressivesstop short of taking a reasoned position so as to not endanger theirelectability, you have two competing Democrats who both take a stand formarriage equality.
http://www.goodasyou.org/good_as_you/2008/04/when-dems-act-l.html
-A wolf in Republican clothing on gay issues
John McCain is certainly not perfect on gay issues. Even though the senatorhas been ordained a "maverick," which occasionally places him at odds withthe religious right, gay voters should still maintain a healthy skepticismconcerning him.
http://www.theithacajournal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080423/OPINION02/804230303
-Human Rights Campaign releases transgender workplace guide
Human Rights Campaign, the largest LGBT rights advocacy group in the nation,has released the second edition of its guide, Transgender Inclusion in theWorkplace, this week.
http://pageoneq.com/news/2008/hrc_042308.html
-Every day for the past 17 years, the members of Westboro Baptist Church inTopeka, Kan., have picketed churches, courthouses, gay pride parades andeven the White House for one express purpose: to preach that God hatesomosexuals and that those who support the homosexual lifestyle will be sentto hell. http://www.theheraldbulletin.com/local/local_story_114073626.html
-INTOLERANCE: Churches differ on gay stance
Focus on the Family Double-Speak
Focus in the Family has long been truth challenged. A story on its websitethis week, "Psychiatric group will host 'historic' symposium on faith andtherapy," shows just how unethical and slippery the organization can be.
http://www.truthwinsout.org/blog/focus-on-the-family-double-speak/
-Relatively Masculine
Poking around in Gay.com personals, I keep seeing guys' profiles listingthem as "masculine." This confuses me because everyone's idea of masculinitydiffers. Sometimes it means that they are, "Yo, dude!'s" on the street, and"pansy boi's" in the bedroom, and sometimes it means they just aren'tcomfortable with anything feminine.
http://www.alternet.org/sex/83346
-House Committee questions anti-gay, ineffective abstinence-only programsFrom Dena Wigder Feldman, HRC's public policy advocate:
"Research shows the homosexual lifestyle is not a healthy alternative formales or females. The male and female body are not anatomically suited toaccommodate sexual relations with members of the same sex. Sexual practicesin the homosexual lifestyle are considered very dangerous for disease,infection, etc. This lifestyle should not be encouraged as healthy or as anequal alternative to marriage."
http://www.ours.bz/2008/04/house-committee-questions-anti-gay.html
-Louisiana Leaves Some Children Behind
It used to be that turning the big 3-0 was about as scary as waiting to betaken into that little room to receive your test results. Nowadays, however,30 is the new 20. Or at least that's what I keep telling myself. But there'sone group of ladies who isn't afraid to show their age - the Dykes onBikes®!
http://www.bilerico.com/2008/04/louisiana_leaves_some_children_behind.php
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[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
Thursday, April 24, 2008
NATIONAL & WORLD NEWS April 24, 2008
**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:
-Empty Talk on Taxes
One of the toughest questions that will face the next president is what todo about taxes. There can be no real progress on health care, rebuilding themilitary or any other major issue without dealing with rising budgetdeficits and mounting debt from nearly eight years of profligate spendingand tax breaks for the wealthy.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/24/opinion/24thu1.html?ref=opinion
-Better Roses Than Cocaine
For seven years, Democrats have rightfully complained that President Bushhas gratuitously antagonized the world, exasperating our allies and erodingAmerica's standing and influence.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/24/opinion/24kristof.html?ref=opinion
-Zimbabwe-Bound Ship Heads Back to China
JOHANNESBURG - A Chinese ship carrying armaments made by a Chinesestate-owned company and bound for Zimbabwe has headed back to China withoutunloading its cargo of bullets and mortar bombs, a spokeswoman for China'sforeign ministry confirmed at a briefing Thursday.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/25/world/africa/25zimbabwe.html?hp
-In Surprise, Ford Swings to Profit
2008DETROIT - The Ford Motor Company on Thursday said it earned $100 millionin the first quarter, following a loss in the same quarter last year, asurprising improvement amid a slump in the United States market that has cutsales of its most lucrative vehicles.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/24/business/25ford.html?hp
-Russia Embraces Its Church
The Kremlin has turned the Russian Orthodox Church into a de facto officialreligion.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/24/world/europe/24church.html?hp
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Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Trouble Ahead for Obama
When Pennsylvania exit polls came out late Tuesday afternoon showing a leadof 3.6 points for Hillary Clinton over Barack Obama, Democratic leaders whodesperately wanted her to end her candidacy were not cheered. They were surethat this puny lead overstated Obama's strength, as exit polls nearly alwayshave in diverse states with large urban populations. How is it possible,then, that Clinton, given up for dead by her party's establishment, wonPennsylvania in a 10-point landslide? The answer is the dreaded "Bradleyeffect."
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/23/AR2008042302978.html
-Running on Sweet Nothings
Maybe it's in the nature of politics to sugarcoat reality, but this year'spolitical campaign is becoming an escape to Fantasy Island, rather than areal exploration of the serious problems facing the United States.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/23/AR2008042302981.html
-Education Lessons We Left Behind
Let us limp down memory lane to mark this week's melancholy 25th anniversaryof a national commission's report that galvanized Americans to vow to dobetter. Today the nation still ignores what had been learned years before1983.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/23/AR2008042302983.html
-Defending a 'Wide Stance' Requires a Thick Wallet
Add this to the list of indignities Sen. Larry Craig (R-Idaho) has sufferedsince getting busted in an airport restroom last June: He now has to pay hislegal dream team out of his own pocket.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/23/AR2008042303081.html?hpid=sec-politics
=
Fort Report
http://www.fortreport.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-The Democrats' war of attrition
The Democratic race is beginning to erode party unity and solidify voterresentment.
So much for predictions that the Pennsylvania primary would be decisive inthe contest for the Democratic presidential nomination. It takes nothingaway from Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton's impressive victory to observe thatTuesday's primary turned out to be one more contest in a long war ofattrition.
http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/editorials/la-ed-primary24apr24,0,4096981.story
-Pay discrimination bill killed in Senate
GOP blocks bid to ease lawsuits
WASHINGTON - Republicans in the Senate have killed a bill that would haveremoved limits on how long workers can wait before suing their employers forpay discrimination.
http://www.boston.com/news/nation/washington/articles/2008/04/24/pay_discrimination_bill_killed_in_senate/?rss_id=Boston+Globe+--+Today%27s+paper+A+to+Z
=
[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:
-Empty Talk on Taxes
One of the toughest questions that will face the next president is what todo about taxes. There can be no real progress on health care, rebuilding themilitary or any other major issue without dealing with rising budgetdeficits and mounting debt from nearly eight years of profligate spendingand tax breaks for the wealthy.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/24/opinion/24thu1.html?ref=opinion
-Better Roses Than Cocaine
For seven years, Democrats have rightfully complained that President Bushhas gratuitously antagonized the world, exasperating our allies and erodingAmerica's standing and influence.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/24/opinion/24kristof.html?ref=opinion
-Zimbabwe-Bound Ship Heads Back to China
JOHANNESBURG - A Chinese ship carrying armaments made by a Chinesestate-owned company and bound for Zimbabwe has headed back to China withoutunloading its cargo of bullets and mortar bombs, a spokeswoman for China'sforeign ministry confirmed at a briefing Thursday.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/25/world/africa/25zimbabwe.html?hp
-In Surprise, Ford Swings to Profit
2008DETROIT - The Ford Motor Company on Thursday said it earned $100 millionin the first quarter, following a loss in the same quarter last year, asurprising improvement amid a slump in the United States market that has cutsales of its most lucrative vehicles.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/24/business/25ford.html?hp
-Russia Embraces Its Church
The Kremlin has turned the Russian Orthodox Church into a de facto officialreligion.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/24/world/europe/24church.html?hp
=
Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Trouble Ahead for Obama
When Pennsylvania exit polls came out late Tuesday afternoon showing a leadof 3.6 points for Hillary Clinton over Barack Obama, Democratic leaders whodesperately wanted her to end her candidacy were not cheered. They were surethat this puny lead overstated Obama's strength, as exit polls nearly alwayshave in diverse states with large urban populations. How is it possible,then, that Clinton, given up for dead by her party's establishment, wonPennsylvania in a 10-point landslide? The answer is the dreaded "Bradleyeffect."
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/23/AR2008042302978.html
-Running on Sweet Nothings
Maybe it's in the nature of politics to sugarcoat reality, but this year'spolitical campaign is becoming an escape to Fantasy Island, rather than areal exploration of the serious problems facing the United States.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/23/AR2008042302981.html
-Education Lessons We Left Behind
Let us limp down memory lane to mark this week's melancholy 25th anniversaryof a national commission's report that galvanized Americans to vow to dobetter. Today the nation still ignores what had been learned years before1983.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/23/AR2008042302983.html
-Defending a 'Wide Stance' Requires a Thick Wallet
Add this to the list of indignities Sen. Larry Craig (R-Idaho) has sufferedsince getting busted in an airport restroom last June: He now has to pay hislegal dream team out of his own pocket.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/23/AR2008042303081.html?hpid=sec-politics
=
Fort Report
http://www.fortreport.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-The Democrats' war of attrition
The Democratic race is beginning to erode party unity and solidify voterresentment.
So much for predictions that the Pennsylvania primary would be decisive inthe contest for the Democratic presidential nomination. It takes nothingaway from Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton's impressive victory to observe thatTuesday's primary turned out to be one more contest in a long war ofattrition.
http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/editorials/la-ed-primary24apr24,0,4096981.story
-Pay discrimination bill killed in Senate
GOP blocks bid to ease lawsuits
WASHINGTON - Republicans in the Senate have killed a bill that would haveremoved limits on how long workers can wait before suing their employers forpay discrimination.
http://www.boston.com/news/nation/washington/articles/2008/04/24/pay_discrimination_bill_killed_in_senate/?rss_id=Boston+Globe+--+Today%27s+paper+A+to+Z
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
FLORIDA DIGEST April 24, 2008
**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.
=
Letter from Michael Rajner
merajner@gmail.com
The National Day of Silence brings attention to anti-LGBT name-calling,bullying and harassment in schools. This year's event will be held in memoryof Lawrence King, a California 8th-grader who was shot and killed Feb. 12 bya classmate because of his sexual orientation and gender expression.Hundreds of thousands of students will come together on April 25 toencourage schools and classmates to address the problem of anti-LGBTbehavior. (http://www.dayofsilence.org/)
On Friday, April 25th students across the nation will participate in theGLSEN's National Day of Silence to raise awareness for need to enactcomprehensive anti-bullying legislation. In Broward County, severalGay/Straight Alliance groups met resistance by school administrators due topoor interpretation of the district's position on the National Day ofSilence. On a website, www.missionamerica.com the National Day of Silenceis under attack and identifies an extensive list of schools across thenation where students are organizing events.
A few days ago Sun-Sentinel editorial columnist William Butte's article onthe need for the National Day of Silence was posted to our list-serve. Ithelped provide understanding for the importance and need for such a day. Iwrote Mr. Butte and thanked him for his column and noted that severalBroward County schools were participating in this day. He responded to mye-mail and forwarded me an e-mail from a student concerned that a schoolboard official was interfering with the observance of this day. At thetime, every school in Broward County was forced to discontinue planning forany event already underway. On Monday, the district clarified it's policyand stated that the school district has not officially endorsed this day andauthorization to organize such event is at the decision of local schooladministrators. Students were also permitted to exercise their firstamendment as long as it did not interfere with academic pursuits.
What upset me greatly was to learn that churches in Broward County werepreaching against this day from the pulpit. Preaching against a day thatwas designed to speak out against harassment, hatred and intolerance.
Parents were reported to have called the school district to complain againstthis peaceful and silent demonstration. The Christ I grew to know and lovewould not be preaching the sermon of hate in those churches that contributesto societies shame, he in fact would be standing with all of God's children.The Christ I know is caring and compassionate.
In 1994 I lived in Los Angeles and had the honor to sit on an advisory boardfor the first gay prom for teens. At 23 years of age, it was a lifechanging experience to listen to the horror stories of the youth that werebanish from their homes simply because of their sexual orientation. Onechild shared that his father grappled him by the throat and tossed him outthe front door onto the dirt and ordered never to return home. Homeless,hungry and desperate, this youth was forced to engage in survival sex on thestreets of Santa Monica Boulevard so he could earn some money to afford someform of shelter and food to eat. In Broward County this very situation doesexist more than we can ever imagine.
A few months ago, we rallied as a united community to grieve and speak outagainst the loss of 17-year old Simmie Williams, Jr. A youth murdered forhis sexual orientation/gender expression. In many ways Simmie is our ownLawrence "Larry" King. When Simmie was approximately 15, his mother had nochoice but to remove him from high school because he was bullied andharassed by his peers for his sexual orientation. It was the only way sheknew to protect her child from institutionalized hate that is indoctrinatedin our laws. On the very night her child lay at rest, Denise King drovearound the Sistrunk neighborhood to search for a 15 year old boy who wasturned away from his home for being gay. During a time of such tremendousloss and agonizing pain, Denise found incredible strength in God to go outand search for this abandoned child. Sadly, we do not know the whereaboutsof this child.
On Friday, April 25th the Sun-Sentinel will be printing an article toaddress the conflict that students in Broward County experienced this yearwhile attempting to organize a peaceful and silent demonstration in BrowardCounty to honor a murdered child. As you read the article this comingFriday, please remember the youth across this nation attempting todemonstrate incredible leadership to exercise their constitutional right andattempted to bring about positive change.
The conversations and e-mail communications with students of Broward Countythis week have provided me with incredible hope and inspiration for a bettertomorrow.
With you in the Fight!
Michael Emanuel Rajner
=
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-The 10th annual Miami Gay & Lesbian Film Festival
Nearly 100 films unspool in Miami-Dade and Broward
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/entertainment/events/sfl-mvmglffsbapr24,0,6663353.story
-Legislators, stay out of very sensitive abortion issue
They say a picture is worth a thousand words, which is why some Floridalegislators are hoping to mandate that all women, seeking an abortion,review an ultrasound image of their fetus prior to consenting to theprocedure. Although ultrasounds performed in the first trimester areconsidered medically unnecessary, the proposed law commands physicians toconduct them. The action also attempts to distort the directive of informedconsent into a tactic to dissuade women from terminating their pregnancies.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/opinion/sfl-forum24plakaspnapr24,0,1220303.story
=
From Equality Florida
Pinellas County Partially Amends Human Rights Ordinance
Gender Identity and Expression Still Must Be AddedLast night was a big nightin Pinellas County and I wanted to give you a quick update. The Board ofCounty Commissioners approved adding sexual orientation to the county'sHuman Rights Ordinance (HRO) by a vote of 4 to 2. While we would prefer tobe celebrating a fully inclusive ordinance this morning, our team securedthe second best outcome: a commitment by the board to bring forward genderidentity or expression within the next six weeks.
Tobias Packer Local Policy Coordinator
EQUALITY FLORIDA
=
Wilton Manors: Free Movie in the Park
Friday, April 25, 2008 At Hagen Park
2020 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors
"Happy Feet" Rated PG
Into the world of the Emperor Penguins, who find theirsoul mates through song, a penguin is born whocannot sing. But he can tap dance something fierce!
Starring Elijah Wood and Robin Williams.
WARNING: May Cause Toe-Tapping
=
Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Broward leaders fear losing port business over IDs
Broward County officials told state legislators that a proposed new port IDsystem might drive some shippers out of Florida.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/broward/story/507414.html
-Florida's budget squeeze easing
Lawmakers started compromising on the state budget, saving some programsthat appeared to be in for major cuts, but some big-ticket items remainunresolved.
http://www.miamiherald.com/519/story/507399.html
=
Palm Beach Post
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Senate approves paying those wrongfully imprisioned
TALLAHASSEE - The Florida Senate passed a bill that would automatically paypeople who were wrongfully incarcerated, but excludes those who havecommitted prior crimes
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/state/content/state/epaper/2008/04/23/0423wrongfulincarceration.html
-Once again the Senate blushes, this time it's the m-word [masturbation]
Senate President Ken Pruitt temporarily ended discussion on a billprotecting children when it appeared discussion would devolve into the useof the "m-word."
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/state/content/state/epaper/2008/04/23/0423mword.html
-Tobacco fund used for health programs
TALLAHASSEE - The House and Senate leadership on Wednesday rescued twohealth programs from the budget ax by tapping into Florida's landmark cashsettlement with tobacco companies.
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/business/content/business/epaper/2008/04/23/a10a_xgr_needy_24.html
-Broward Community College faculty complain about trustees to Gov. CharlieCrist
The Faculty Senate at Broward Community College gave Gov. Charlie Crist apetition Wednesday blasting the school's governing Board of Trustees.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/local/broward/sfl-flbbcc0424sbapr24,0,7009193.story
-Florida Senate OKs ban on penalties for teachers who challenge evolution
TALLAHASSEE - The Florida Senate passed a measure today that would preventschool districts and principals from penalizing teachers who challenge evolution.
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/state/content/state/epaper/2008/04/23/0423creationism.html
-Jeb Bush skeptical about global warming
DALLAS (AP) -- Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush says he is "light green" on theenvironment and is skeptical that humans are causing global warming.
http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/T/TX_JEB_BUSH_FLOL-?SITE=FLTAL&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT
=
Fort Report
http://www.fortreport.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-What are Florida's votes- real, virtual or imaginary?
Nearly 1.75-million Democrats voted in Florida's officially meaninglesspresidential primary, and it remains to be seen whether Florida will sendany delegates to the national convention.
http://www.tampabay.com/news/politics/state/article470473.ece
-With Michigan, Florida, Clinton claims popular vote lead
But Obama discounts votes in two disputed primaries, touts his higherdelegate count
http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080424/POLITICS01/804240384/-1/rss
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
=
Letter from Michael Rajner
merajner@gmail.com
The National Day of Silence brings attention to anti-LGBT name-calling,bullying and harassment in schools. This year's event will be held in memoryof Lawrence King, a California 8th-grader who was shot and killed Feb. 12 bya classmate because of his sexual orientation and gender expression.Hundreds of thousands of students will come together on April 25 toencourage schools and classmates to address the problem of anti-LGBTbehavior. (http://www.dayofsilence.org/)
On Friday, April 25th students across the nation will participate in theGLSEN's National Day of Silence to raise awareness for need to enactcomprehensive anti-bullying legislation. In Broward County, severalGay/Straight Alliance groups met resistance by school administrators due topoor interpretation of the district's position on the National Day ofSilence. On a website, www.missionamerica.com the National Day of Silenceis under attack and identifies an extensive list of schools across thenation where students are organizing events.
A few days ago Sun-Sentinel editorial columnist William Butte's article onthe need for the National Day of Silence was posted to our list-serve. Ithelped provide understanding for the importance and need for such a day. Iwrote Mr. Butte and thanked him for his column and noted that severalBroward County schools were participating in this day. He responded to mye-mail and forwarded me an e-mail from a student concerned that a schoolboard official was interfering with the observance of this day. At thetime, every school in Broward County was forced to discontinue planning forany event already underway. On Monday, the district clarified it's policyand stated that the school district has not officially endorsed this day andauthorization to organize such event is at the decision of local schooladministrators. Students were also permitted to exercise their firstamendment as long as it did not interfere with academic pursuits.
What upset me greatly was to learn that churches in Broward County werepreaching against this day from the pulpit. Preaching against a day thatwas designed to speak out against harassment, hatred and intolerance.
Parents were reported to have called the school district to complain againstthis peaceful and silent demonstration. The Christ I grew to know and lovewould not be preaching the sermon of hate in those churches that contributesto societies shame, he in fact would be standing with all of God's children.The Christ I know is caring and compassionate.
In 1994 I lived in Los Angeles and had the honor to sit on an advisory boardfor the first gay prom for teens. At 23 years of age, it was a lifechanging experience to listen to the horror stories of the youth that werebanish from their homes simply because of their sexual orientation. Onechild shared that his father grappled him by the throat and tossed him outthe front door onto the dirt and ordered never to return home. Homeless,hungry and desperate, this youth was forced to engage in survival sex on thestreets of Santa Monica Boulevard so he could earn some money to afford someform of shelter and food to eat. In Broward County this very situation doesexist more than we can ever imagine.
A few months ago, we rallied as a united community to grieve and speak outagainst the loss of 17-year old Simmie Williams, Jr. A youth murdered forhis sexual orientation/gender expression. In many ways Simmie is our ownLawrence "Larry" King. When Simmie was approximately 15, his mother had nochoice but to remove him from high school because he was bullied andharassed by his peers for his sexual orientation. It was the only way sheknew to protect her child from institutionalized hate that is indoctrinatedin our laws. On the very night her child lay at rest, Denise King drovearound the Sistrunk neighborhood to search for a 15 year old boy who wasturned away from his home for being gay. During a time of such tremendousloss and agonizing pain, Denise found incredible strength in God to go outand search for this abandoned child. Sadly, we do not know the whereaboutsof this child.
On Friday, April 25th the Sun-Sentinel will be printing an article toaddress the conflict that students in Broward County experienced this yearwhile attempting to organize a peaceful and silent demonstration in BrowardCounty to honor a murdered child. As you read the article this comingFriday, please remember the youth across this nation attempting todemonstrate incredible leadership to exercise their constitutional right andattempted to bring about positive change.
The conversations and e-mail communications with students of Broward Countythis week have provided me with incredible hope and inspiration for a bettertomorrow.
With you in the Fight!
Michael Emanuel Rajner
=
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-The 10th annual Miami Gay & Lesbian Film Festival
Nearly 100 films unspool in Miami-Dade and Broward
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/entertainment/events/sfl-mvmglffsbapr24,0,6663353.story
-Legislators, stay out of very sensitive abortion issue
They say a picture is worth a thousand words, which is why some Floridalegislators are hoping to mandate that all women, seeking an abortion,review an ultrasound image of their fetus prior to consenting to theprocedure. Although ultrasounds performed in the first trimester areconsidered medically unnecessary, the proposed law commands physicians toconduct them. The action also attempts to distort the directive of informedconsent into a tactic to dissuade women from terminating their pregnancies.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/opinion/sfl-forum24plakaspnapr24,0,1220303.story
=
From Equality Florida
Pinellas County Partially Amends Human Rights Ordinance
Gender Identity and Expression Still Must Be AddedLast night was a big nightin Pinellas County and I wanted to give you a quick update. The Board ofCounty Commissioners approved adding sexual orientation to the county'sHuman Rights Ordinance (HRO) by a vote of 4 to 2. While we would prefer tobe celebrating a fully inclusive ordinance this morning, our team securedthe second best outcome: a commitment by the board to bring forward genderidentity or expression within the next six weeks.
Tobias Packer Local Policy Coordinator
EQUALITY FLORIDA
=
Wilton Manors: Free Movie in the Park
Friday, April 25, 2008 At Hagen Park
2020 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors
"Happy Feet" Rated PG
Into the world of the Emperor Penguins, who find theirsoul mates through song, a penguin is born whocannot sing. But he can tap dance something fierce!
Starring Elijah Wood and Robin Williams.
WARNING: May Cause Toe-Tapping
=
Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Broward leaders fear losing port business over IDs
Broward County officials told state legislators that a proposed new port IDsystem might drive some shippers out of Florida.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/broward/story/507414.html
-Florida's budget squeeze easing
Lawmakers started compromising on the state budget, saving some programsthat appeared to be in for major cuts, but some big-ticket items remainunresolved.
http://www.miamiherald.com/519/story/507399.html
=
Palm Beach Post
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Senate approves paying those wrongfully imprisioned
TALLAHASSEE - The Florida Senate passed a bill that would automatically paypeople who were wrongfully incarcerated, but excludes those who havecommitted prior crimes
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/state/content/state/epaper/2008/04/23/0423wrongfulincarceration.html
-Once again the Senate blushes, this time it's the m-word [masturbation]
Senate President Ken Pruitt temporarily ended discussion on a billprotecting children when it appeared discussion would devolve into the useof the "m-word."
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/state/content/state/epaper/2008/04/23/0423mword.html
-Tobacco fund used for health programs
TALLAHASSEE - The House and Senate leadership on Wednesday rescued twohealth programs from the budget ax by tapping into Florida's landmark cashsettlement with tobacco companies.
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/business/content/business/epaper/2008/04/23/a10a_xgr_needy_24.html
-Broward Community College faculty complain about trustees to Gov. CharlieCrist
The Faculty Senate at Broward Community College gave Gov. Charlie Crist apetition Wednesday blasting the school's governing Board of Trustees.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/local/broward/sfl-flbbcc0424sbapr24,0,7009193.story
-Florida Senate OKs ban on penalties for teachers who challenge evolution
TALLAHASSEE - The Florida Senate passed a measure today that would preventschool districts and principals from penalizing teachers who challenge evolution.
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/state/content/state/epaper/2008/04/23/0423creationism.html
-Jeb Bush skeptical about global warming
DALLAS (AP) -- Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush says he is "light green" on theenvironment and is skeptical that humans are causing global warming.
http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/T/TX_JEB_BUSH_FLOL-?SITE=FLTAL&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT
=
Fort Report
http://www.fortreport.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-What are Florida's votes- real, virtual or imaginary?
Nearly 1.75-million Democrats voted in Florida's officially meaninglesspresidential primary, and it remains to be seen whether Florida will sendany delegates to the national convention.
http://www.tampabay.com/news/politics/state/article470473.ece
-With Michigan, Florida, Clinton claims popular vote lead
But Obama discounts votes in two disputed primaries, touts his higherdelegate count
http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080424/POLITICS01/804240384/-1/rss
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
NATIONAL & WORLD NEWS April 23, 2008
**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:
-Clinton Outduels Obama in Primary
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/23/us/politics/23assess.html?_r=1&hp&oref=slogin
-With Clear Victory, She Has Rationale to Fight On
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/23/us/politics/23penn.html?hp
-National Democratic Results Map
http://politics.nytimes.com/election-guide/2008/results/demmap/index.html
-Obama Shifting Focus From Clinton to McCain
Barack Obama wants to persuade Democrats that time is running out to startdefining their Republican opponent.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/23/us/politics/23obama.html?hp
-The Low Road to Victory
It is past time for Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton to acknowledge that thecampaign's negativity, for which she is mostly responsible, does nothing butharm to her, her opponent, her party and the 2008 election.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/23/opinion/23wed1.html?ref=opinion
-Pass the Fair Pay Act
Last year, the Supreme Court tossed aside longstanding legal precedents andgovernment practice to make it much harder for an employee to sue overunlawful pay discrimination.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/23/opinion/23wed2.html?ref=opinion
-Million-Dollar Meat
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals is offering a million-dollarprize for the "first person to come up with a method to produce commerciallyviable quantities of in vitro meat at competitive prices by 2012." "In vitro" and "test-tube grown" are not ideas one usually associates withmeat. The meat-substitute niche is currently occupied largely by soy in allits miraculous if slightly disappointing forms.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/23/opinion/23wed4.html?ref=opinion
-Government Seeks to Buy Student Loans
The Bush administration is proposing that Congress authorize it to buybillions of dollars in federal student loans to make sure the nation'scredit crunch does not block borrowing for higher education.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/23/washington/23loans.html?hp
-China May Give Up Attempt to Send Arms to Zimbabwe
JOHANNESBURG - As protests intensified across southern Africa against theshipment of Chinese-made arms intended for Zimbabwe, the government inBeijing said Tuesday that the ship carrying the arms - owned by a largeChinese state-owned company, Cosco - may return to China because of thedifficulties in delivering the goods.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/23/world/africa/23zimbabwe.html?hp
-Inmate Count in U.S. Dwarfs Other Nations'
The U.S. has less than 5 percent of the world's population but almost aquarter of its prisoners. Indeed, the United States leads the world inproducing prisoners, a reflection of a relatively recent and now entirelydistinctive American approach to crime and punishment. Americans are lockedup for crimes - from writing bad checks to using drugs - that would rarelyproduce prison sentences in other countries. And in particular they are keptincarcerated far longer than prisoners in other nations.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/23/us/23prison.html?hp
-Europe Turns to Coal Again, Raising Alarms on Climate
European countries plan to use coal, generally the dirtiest fuel on earth,in new power plants.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/23/world/europe/23coal.html?hp
-U.S. Rice Jumps to Record High on Supply Fears
TOKYO/LONDON (Reuters) - U.S. rice futures rose to a fresh all-time high onWednesday on worries about supply shortages which have triggered politicalunrest and export restrictions designed to protect dwindling domesticstocks.
http://www.nytimes.com/reuters/business/business-markets-grains-rice.html
-Administration Disavows Carter's Trip
WASHINGTON - Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said Tuesday that formerPresident Jimmy Carter's recent talks with the Palestinian group Hamas hadnot been helpful, and she disputed Mr. Carter's claim that no one in thegovernment had tried to dissuade him from his mission
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/23/washington/23diplo.html
-Murdoch Taking on F.C.C. Media Rule
WASHINGTON - As he nears completion of a deal to acquire Newsday from theTribune Company, Rupert Murdoch appears likely to pose the first significantchallenge to the media ownership rule that the Federal Communications
Commission recently adopted.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/23/business/media/23ownership.html
=
Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Levin seeks to expand hate crimes bill, end Iraq war
WASHINGTON -- A senior Senate Democrat said Tuesday that he wants to use amajor defense policy bill to expand federal hate crimes laws to protectgays, bring troops home from Iraq and force Baghdad to pay more towardreconstruction costs.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/22/AR2008042202040.html
-Just When You Think They Might Be Out, They Get Pulled Back In
Somebody, please make it stop. It's primary night -- again. Barack Obama ison the verge of eliminating Hillary Clinton to win the Democraticpresidential nomination -- again. And Clinton -- her campaign broke andwritten off by the pundits -- wins. Again.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/22/AR2008042202848.html
-Action on Zimbabwe
Africans reject a Chinese arms shipment for Robert Mugabe.
SOUTHERN AFRICAN leaders at last have demonstrated a willingness to confrontthe ongoing political crisis in Zimbabwe, as well as its instigator, RobertMugabe. Ironically, the impetus for action came from China, one of theautocrat's best friends.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/22/AR2008042202565.html
-Dan Balz's Take: Is McCain a Different Kind of Republican?
As Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton continue their battle for the Democraticnomination, John McCain is embarked this week on a tour designed to persuadethe country that he is "a different kind of Republican."
http://blog.washingtonpost.com/the-trail/2008/04/22/mccains_challenge_convincing_v.html?hpid=topnews
-Food Crisis Is Depicted As 'Silent Tsunami'
Sharp Price Hikes Leave Many Millions in Hunger
LONDON, April 22 -- More than 100 million people are being driven deeperinto poverty by a "silent tsunami" of sharply rising food prices, which havesparked riots around the world and threaten U.N.-backed feeding programs for20 million children, the top U.N. food official said Tuesday.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/22/AR2008042201481.html?hpid=moreheadlines
=
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Earth Day: 20 ways you can fight global warming
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/entertainment/news/thingstodo/sfl-0422fightwarming.pg,0,833956.photogallery
=
[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:
-Clinton Outduels Obama in Primary
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/23/us/politics/23assess.html?_r=1&hp&oref=slogin
-With Clear Victory, She Has Rationale to Fight On
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/23/us/politics/23penn.html?hp
-National Democratic Results Map
http://politics.nytimes.com/election-guide/2008/results/demmap/index.html
-Obama Shifting Focus From Clinton to McCain
Barack Obama wants to persuade Democrats that time is running out to startdefining their Republican opponent.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/23/us/politics/23obama.html?hp
-The Low Road to Victory
It is past time for Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton to acknowledge that thecampaign's negativity, for which she is mostly responsible, does nothing butharm to her, her opponent, her party and the 2008 election.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/23/opinion/23wed1.html?ref=opinion
-Pass the Fair Pay Act
Last year, the Supreme Court tossed aside longstanding legal precedents andgovernment practice to make it much harder for an employee to sue overunlawful pay discrimination.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/23/opinion/23wed2.html?ref=opinion
-Million-Dollar Meat
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals is offering a million-dollarprize for the "first person to come up with a method to produce commerciallyviable quantities of in vitro meat at competitive prices by 2012." "In vitro" and "test-tube grown" are not ideas one usually associates withmeat. The meat-substitute niche is currently occupied largely by soy in allits miraculous if slightly disappointing forms.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/23/opinion/23wed4.html?ref=opinion
-Government Seeks to Buy Student Loans
The Bush administration is proposing that Congress authorize it to buybillions of dollars in federal student loans to make sure the nation'scredit crunch does not block borrowing for higher education.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/23/washington/23loans.html?hp
-China May Give Up Attempt to Send Arms to Zimbabwe
JOHANNESBURG - As protests intensified across southern Africa against theshipment of Chinese-made arms intended for Zimbabwe, the government inBeijing said Tuesday that the ship carrying the arms - owned by a largeChinese state-owned company, Cosco - may return to China because of thedifficulties in delivering the goods.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/23/world/africa/23zimbabwe.html?hp
-Inmate Count in U.S. Dwarfs Other Nations'
The U.S. has less than 5 percent of the world's population but almost aquarter of its prisoners. Indeed, the United States leads the world inproducing prisoners, a reflection of a relatively recent and now entirelydistinctive American approach to crime and punishment. Americans are lockedup for crimes - from writing bad checks to using drugs - that would rarelyproduce prison sentences in other countries. And in particular they are keptincarcerated far longer than prisoners in other nations.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/23/us/23prison.html?hp
-Europe Turns to Coal Again, Raising Alarms on Climate
European countries plan to use coal, generally the dirtiest fuel on earth,in new power plants.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/23/world/europe/23coal.html?hp
-U.S. Rice Jumps to Record High on Supply Fears
TOKYO/LONDON (Reuters) - U.S. rice futures rose to a fresh all-time high onWednesday on worries about supply shortages which have triggered politicalunrest and export restrictions designed to protect dwindling domesticstocks.
http://www.nytimes.com/reuters/business/business-markets-grains-rice.html
-Administration Disavows Carter's Trip
WASHINGTON - Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said Tuesday that formerPresident Jimmy Carter's recent talks with the Palestinian group Hamas hadnot been helpful, and she disputed Mr. Carter's claim that no one in thegovernment had tried to dissuade him from his mission
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/23/washington/23diplo.html
-Murdoch Taking on F.C.C. Media Rule
WASHINGTON - As he nears completion of a deal to acquire Newsday from theTribune Company, Rupert Murdoch appears likely to pose the first significantchallenge to the media ownership rule that the Federal Communications
Commission recently adopted.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/23/business/media/23ownership.html
=
Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Levin seeks to expand hate crimes bill, end Iraq war
WASHINGTON -- A senior Senate Democrat said Tuesday that he wants to use amajor defense policy bill to expand federal hate crimes laws to protectgays, bring troops home from Iraq and force Baghdad to pay more towardreconstruction costs.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/22/AR2008042202040.html
-Just When You Think They Might Be Out, They Get Pulled Back In
Somebody, please make it stop. It's primary night -- again. Barack Obama ison the verge of eliminating Hillary Clinton to win the Democraticpresidential nomination -- again. And Clinton -- her campaign broke andwritten off by the pundits -- wins. Again.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/22/AR2008042202848.html
-Action on Zimbabwe
Africans reject a Chinese arms shipment for Robert Mugabe.
SOUTHERN AFRICAN leaders at last have demonstrated a willingness to confrontthe ongoing political crisis in Zimbabwe, as well as its instigator, RobertMugabe. Ironically, the impetus for action came from China, one of theautocrat's best friends.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/22/AR2008042202565.html
-Dan Balz's Take: Is McCain a Different Kind of Republican?
As Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton continue their battle for the Democraticnomination, John McCain is embarked this week on a tour designed to persuadethe country that he is "a different kind of Republican."
http://blog.washingtonpost.com/the-trail/2008/04/22/mccains_challenge_convincing_v.html?hpid=topnews
-Food Crisis Is Depicted As 'Silent Tsunami'
Sharp Price Hikes Leave Many Millions in Hunger
LONDON, April 22 -- More than 100 million people are being driven deeperinto poverty by a "silent tsunami" of sharply rising food prices, which havesparked riots around the world and threaten U.N.-backed feeding programs for20 million children, the top U.N. food official said Tuesday.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/22/AR2008042201481.html?hpid=moreheadlines
=
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Earth Day: 20 ways you can fight global warming
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/entertainment/news/thingstodo/sfl-0422fightwarming.pg,0,833956.photogallery
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
FLORIDA DIGEST April 23, 2008
**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net and we'll be happy to send the full article.
=
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-House pushes referendum on slashing property taxes 30%
The Florida House is poised today to approve a tax cut package that wouldslice an average property owner's bill in Broward and Palm Beach counties bymore than 30 percent, in a bid to place unprecedented restrictions on localtaxation.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
-Housing expert sees S. Florida struggling in 2009
South Florida's tattered housing market is stumbling into the spring sellingseason, with any hope for a recovery still months away, experts say.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/business/sfl-flzhousingbr0423sbapr23,0,7335741.story
-Broward County groups push their causes in Tallahassee
Service cuts in 'tight budget year' chief concern
TALLAHASSEE - It may be a little late in the legislative game to make aprofound impact, but Broward Days - the annual chance for Broward politicaland business leaders to mingle and connect with Tallahassee lawmakers andlobbyists - kicked off Tuesday in an upbeat and optimistic mood.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/local/broward/sfl-flfbroward0423sbapr23,0,5117866.story
=
Steve Rothaus
http://www.miamiherald.com/living/columnists/steve_rothaus/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Jim Carrey and Ewan McGregor Have a Gay Ol' Time
In town filming I Love You Phillip Morris, based on the true story of aTexan convict who fell in love with his celly, Jim Carrey, Ewan McGregor andRodrigo Santoro were spotted doing some field research at Edison Farrow'sMartini Tuesdays party at Halo, the gay bar off Lincoln Road, where theywere hanging out at a table, drinking champagne (water for Carrey). SaidMcGregor, "Jim's character is a con artist and an escape artist, who escapesfrom prison to be with me. It's an incredible story." If you live here onSouth Beach that story is more typical than incredible, but we'll take it.
http://blogs.herald.com/scene_in_the_tropics/2008/04/jim-carrey-and.html
=
The Aqua Foundation for Women presents the
2008 VIP Cocktail Receiption
At The Home of Olive Watson and Joanne Rover/Watson
7305 Belle Meade Island Drive, Miami, Fl 33138
Saturday, May 10
COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP AWARD RECIPIENTS
De Palazzo
Heddy Pena
FOUNDERS AWARD
Carol Coombes
COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER AWARD
Maria Pino
The AFW is 501(c)3 non-profit organization whose mission is to promote theequality, strength, health and visibility of South Florida lesbian, bisexualand transgender women. Monies raised from this event and the Foundation'ssignature weekend, Aqua Girl, as well as through individual and groupdonations, go directly towards educating, empowering and fostering thewomen's communities.
RSVP (800) 494.TIXS or online at www.boxofficetickets.com.
For more information, please call 305.576.AQUA
or visit www.aquagirl.org
=
You are invited! Adriane Reesey
Democratic Candidate for
Broward County Supervisor of Elections
invites you to a Fundraiser
Saturday May 17, 2008
At the Long Key Nature Center Davie, Florida
Special guest VIP Janet Reno Former US Attorney General
VIP Social - $250 4:00pm - 4:30pm includes Reception
Reception only- $100 4:30pm - 6:30pm
RSVP's Only 954-594-3363
or www.votereesey2008.com
=
In Celebration of National Poetry Month
Lavender Writes & the Broward County Library
Present: A Spring Poetry Extravaganza
Saturday, April 26 7 p.m.
Broward Main Library
100 S. Andrews Avenue, Bienes Center 6th Floor
Fort Lauderdale 954-357-7348
Lavender Writes provides service and support to lesbian and gay writers bysponsoring writing workshops, developing public forums for writers topresent their work and offering assistance with publication. Non-gay readersand audience members are also welcome to participate.
=
From Mark LaFontaine for Florida State House District #92
For the full letter, contact rays.list@comcast.net
-Things are heating up in the race for the Florida Legislature from District92! Here's a quick summary of what's going on: Tops in fundraising -without lobbyists! Thanks to you, we're number one! When the amounts weretallied for the first quarter of the year, my campaign once again raisedmore than anyone else in this race. And here's the important part - we didit without taking lobbyist money! While my opponents are raising money fromlobbyists, my funding is coming from the community. That's a strong messagethat says who I'll owe my victory to - you, not the lobbyists. Even thoughwe're on top, we still need to keep on track to bring change to Tallahassee. We also have a growing roster of events coming up. The next one is abrunch hosted by Harve Brosten, which is this Sunday, April 27 at 11am.
Harve is opening his home in Palm-Aire to Mark's supporters. For more
information or to RSVP call (954) 651-3147.
http://marklafontaine.com/donate.html
=
Fort Report
http://www.fortreport.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Our position: A bill that pushes women to see sonogram before abortioninvades privacy
There is no relationship more deserving of privacy than that between apatient and her doctor.
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/opinion/orl-ed23208apr23,0,75769.story
-Amendment 2 erodes rights, protects no one
Same-sex marriage has been prohibited in Florida since the 1997 Defense ofMarriage Act was passed. Marriage is defined by law as the legal union ofone man and one woman only. A same-sex marriage performed in another stateor country is not recognized in Florida, period. Yet, the proponents of theso-called "Marriage Amendment," (Amendment 2) to the state constitution, andthe media, continue to refer to this amendment as a "gay marriage ban."
http://www.news-journalonline.com/NewsJournalOnline/Opinion/Editorials/opnOPN61042308.htm
-School budget cuts 'the unraveling of public education'
DELAND -- A $24 million budget-cutting plan that would impact everythingfrom Volusia County public school classrooms to sports programs andadministrators' paychecks was released Tuesday, and there's more to come.
http://www.news-journalonline.com/NewsJournalOnline/News/Headlines/frtHEAD01042308.htm
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
=
Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-House pushes referendum on slashing property taxes 30%
The Florida House is poised today to approve a tax cut package that wouldslice an average property owner's bill in Broward and Palm Beach counties bymore than 30 percent, in a bid to place unprecedented restrictions on localtaxation.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
-Housing expert sees S. Florida struggling in 2009
South Florida's tattered housing market is stumbling into the spring sellingseason, with any hope for a recovery still months away, experts say.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/business/sfl-flzhousingbr0423sbapr23,0,7335741.story
-Broward County groups push their causes in Tallahassee
Service cuts in 'tight budget year' chief concern
TALLAHASSEE - It may be a little late in the legislative game to make aprofound impact, but Broward Days - the annual chance for Broward politicaland business leaders to mingle and connect with Tallahassee lawmakers andlobbyists - kicked off Tuesday in an upbeat and optimistic mood.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/local/broward/sfl-flfbroward0423sbapr23,0,5117866.story
=
Steve Rothaus
http://www.miamiherald.com/living/columnists/steve_rothaus/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Jim Carrey and Ewan McGregor Have a Gay Ol' Time
In town filming I Love You Phillip Morris, based on the true story of aTexan convict who fell in love with his celly, Jim Carrey, Ewan McGregor andRodrigo Santoro were spotted doing some field research at Edison Farrow'sMartini Tuesdays party at Halo, the gay bar off Lincoln Road, where theywere hanging out at a table, drinking champagne (water for Carrey). SaidMcGregor, "Jim's character is a con artist and an escape artist, who escapesfrom prison to be with me. It's an incredible story." If you live here onSouth Beach that story is more typical than incredible, but we'll take it.
http://blogs.herald.com/scene_in_the_tropics/2008/04/jim-carrey-and.html
=
The Aqua Foundation for Women presents the
2008 VIP Cocktail Receiption
At The Home of Olive Watson and Joanne Rover/Watson
7305 Belle Meade Island Drive, Miami, Fl 33138
Saturday, May 10
COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP AWARD RECIPIENTS
De Palazzo
Heddy Pena
FOUNDERS AWARD
Carol Coombes
COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER AWARD
Maria Pino
The AFW is 501(c)3 non-profit organization whose mission is to promote theequality, strength, health and visibility of South Florida lesbian, bisexualand transgender women. Monies raised from this event and the Foundation'ssignature weekend, Aqua Girl, as well as through individual and groupdonations, go directly towards educating, empowering and fostering thewomen's communities.
RSVP (800) 494.TIXS or online at www.boxofficetickets.com.
For more information, please call 305.576.AQUA
or visit www.aquagirl.org
=
You are invited! Adriane Reesey
Democratic Candidate for
Broward County Supervisor of Elections
invites you to a Fundraiser
Saturday May 17, 2008
At the Long Key Nature Center Davie, Florida
Special guest VIP Janet Reno Former US Attorney General
VIP Social - $250 4:00pm - 4:30pm includes Reception
Reception only- $100 4:30pm - 6:30pm
RSVP's Only 954-594-3363
or www.votereesey2008.com
=
In Celebration of National Poetry Month
Lavender Writes & the Broward County Library
Present: A Spring Poetry Extravaganza
Saturday, April 26 7 p.m.
Broward Main Library
100 S. Andrews Avenue, Bienes Center 6th Floor
Fort Lauderdale 954-357-7348
Lavender Writes provides service and support to lesbian and gay writers bysponsoring writing workshops, developing public forums for writers topresent their work and offering assistance with publication. Non-gay readersand audience members are also welcome to participate.
=
From Mark LaFontaine for Florida State House District #92
For the full letter, contact rays.list@comcast.net
-Things are heating up in the race for the Florida Legislature from District92! Here's a quick summary of what's going on: Tops in fundraising -without lobbyists! Thanks to you, we're number one! When the amounts weretallied for the first quarter of the year, my campaign once again raisedmore than anyone else in this race. And here's the important part - we didit without taking lobbyist money! While my opponents are raising money fromlobbyists, my funding is coming from the community. That's a strong messagethat says who I'll owe my victory to - you, not the lobbyists. Even thoughwe're on top, we still need to keep on track to bring change to Tallahassee. We also have a growing roster of events coming up. The next one is abrunch hosted by Harve Brosten, which is this Sunday, April 27 at 11am.
Harve is opening his home in Palm-Aire to Mark's supporters. For more
information or to RSVP call (954) 651-3147.
http://marklafontaine.com/donate.html
=
Fort Report
http://www.fortreport.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:
-Our position: A bill that pushes women to see sonogram before abortioninvades privacy
There is no relationship more deserving of privacy than that between apatient and her doctor.
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/opinion/orl-ed23208apr23,0,75769.story
-Amendment 2 erodes rights, protects no one
Same-sex marriage has been prohibited in Florida since the 1997 Defense ofMarriage Act was passed. Marriage is defined by law as the legal union ofone man and one woman only. A same-sex marriage performed in another stateor country is not recognized in Florida, period. Yet, the proponents of theso-called "Marriage Amendment," (Amendment 2) to the state constitution, andthe media, continue to refer to this amendment as a "gay marriage ban."
http://www.news-journalonline.com/NewsJournalOnline/Opinion/Editorials/opnOPN61042308.htm
-School budget cuts 'the unraveling of public education'
DELAND -- A $24 million budget-cutting plan that would impact everythingfrom Volusia County public school classrooms to sports programs andadministrators' paychecks was released Tuesday, and there's more to come.
http://www.news-journalonline.com/NewsJournalOnline/News/Headlines/frtHEAD01042308.htm
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
GLBT DIGEST April 22, 2008
**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
http://www.miamiherald.com/living/columnists/steve_rothaus/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Jamaica Observer advice column: Reader asks, 'Is my son gay?'
I found this item today on The Jamaica Observer's All Woman page. What doyou think of this advice? Please comment and share your opinions.
Is my son gay?Monday, April 21, 2008
Dear RB,
My son is seven and is displaying tendencies that I am not comfortable with.
He wants to play with his sisters' dolls, and allows the girls to dress himup in hair clips and paint his nails. I became enraged the other day when Isaw him dancing ballet while watching TV. I don't want to stifle him, but Idon't want him to grow up gay either. I want him to play ball, but hedoesn't even want to leave the house barefoot! He's around a lot of womenand I'm the only male influence in his life, unfortunately I work out oftown and only see the family on weekends. How can I turn him around to domanly things? Concerned Father
Dear Concerned father,
Since you have not, I will say it. You can't say that your young son ishaving homosexual tendencies because he likes dolls and plays with hissisters and her friends. I do not think that you can say that you willreverse these inclinations by getting him involved in more manly pursuits. Iknow how frightened you must be if you believe that your son is gay, but mayI say that your son, when he comes to this realisation will also beconcerned. I do not believe that anyone chooses lightly a lifestyle thatexposes him/her to violence, exclusion and ridicule.
You are correctly concerned that you do not spend enough time with your son.
Sons need their fathers to pattern themselves after. They need your help tounderstand how men see and experience the world. This is your job as hisfather, and know this, his mother can't do this. So spend more time withyour son. Learn to love him as he is.
Don't worry about his little boy games, just try to encourage his talentsand help him realise his dreams. Encourage him to be his authentic, trueself. That is the best gift you can give your son. I believe that if you dothis you will learn to love your son, and if the day comes when he must copewith this challenge or any other challenge, he will know that he can counton his father's love and support. If you do not do this and force him tobecome your mirror image, he will ultimately resent you and hate himself fornot loving his father. Try. I know that it is not easy, but you must do thisfor your son. He is depending on you.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2008/04/jamaica-observe.html
=
Express Gay News
http://www.expressgaynews.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Art Project Causes Controversy At Truman High
Anti-Gay Posters Displayed Behind Message Of Love
INDEPENDENCE, Mo. -- A Truman High School senior's art project causedcontroversy Friday. Senior Amy Burrow affixed the words "love conquers all"to the front of a glass case filled with anti-gay poster s designed to looklike the ones used by protesters from Fred Phelps' Westboro Baptist Church.
"I'm happy actually, because at least it involved thought," Burrow said. "Atleast it got them to stop and look at it." She spent two weeks working onthe project for her 3D art class. She was at the school until 10 p.m.Thursday, keeping the project a secret from students until Friday morning.
http://www.kctv5.com/news/15928001/detail.html
=
365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Decision Day In Pennsylvania
(Blue Bell, Pennsylvania) Hillary Rodham Clinton invoked Pearl Harbor, theBerlin Wall and Osama bin Laden as she reached for a victory today inPennsylvania's Democratic presidential primary to recharge her comebackeffort.
-Pa. Demographics Can Be Misleading
(Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) Older, whiter and more female than the nationas a whole, Pennsylvania looks like Hillary Rodham Clinton country.
Wealthier, better educated and more African American than the rest of thestate, Pennsylvania's thickly settled southeast corner could belong toBarack Obama.
-Military Using Convicted Felons To Replace Drummed Out Gays
(Washington) Newly released data show that the Army and the Marine Corp,under pressure to increase their numbers, have sharply raised the number ofrecruits who have felony convictions.
-Vt. Commission Makes No Recommendation On Gay Marriage
(Montpelier, Vermont) A state commission on Vermont's civil union lawsubmitted its report to the legislature on Monday but made norecommendations on revising the law to allow for same-sex marriage.
-Bill To Expand Colorado Gay Bias Law Advances
(Denver, Colorado) Legislation to ban discrimination against gays andlesbians in housing and credit in Colorado is expected to go to the Housethis week after a raucous debate in the Senate.
=
The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-All Politics Is Local
Senator Obama has taken a targeted approach to LGBT outreach at differenttimes in this race. Now if he would just apply the same philosophy to gaymedia.
http://advocate.com/exclusive_detail_ektid53588.asp
-Targeted Vandalization Not a Hate Crime in Oklahoma
After a night of partying in Oklahoma City, a gay resident returned to hiscar outside the Copa nightclub to find that it and several others had beenvandalized. Carber, as the man prefers to be identified, was with a friendthe night of April 12 when he discovered that the passenger-side window ofhis car had been smashed in with a cement block, which had a note attachedto it that read, "fag." Carber's car was the only one with such a note, henoted to police.
http://advocate.com/news_detail_ektid53592.asp
-Obama Flush With Cash While Clinton Struggles With Debts
Barack Obama began the month of April with a 5-1 cash advantage over adebt-saddled Hillary Rodham Clinton, setting the stage for his lopsidedspending in the crucial primary state of Pennsylvania.
http://advocate.com/news_detail_ektid53574.asp
-Seeking LGBTs to Serve the Next Administration
The Victory Fund begins vetting those interested in working for the nextpresident with far more applicants than when the process first took place inthe '90s.
http://advocate.com/exclusive_detail_ektid53573.asp
=
National Gay News
http://nationalgaynews.com/component/option,com_frontpage/Itemid,1/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Harrah's Named National Presenting Sponsor for the 19th Annual GLAAD MediaAwards in Los Angeles
The Harrah's Foundation is the presenting sponsor of the 19th Annual GLAADMedia Awards along with AT&T in Los Angeles at the Kodak Theatre onSaturday, April 26, 2008. The Harrah's Foundation donated a philanthropiccontribution of $150,000 in recognition of the critical work done by Gay &Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD).
-National Day of Silence to be Held in Record 6,000 Schools on Friday
Students from a record 6,000 middle and high schools have registered asparticipants in GLSEN's 12th annual National Day of Silence on Friday tobring attention to anti-lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT)name-calling, bullying and harassment in schools. The event is being heldthis year in memory of Lawrence King, a 15-year-old from Oxnard, Calif., whowas shot and killed in school on Feb. 12 because of his sexual orientationand gender expression.
-PDA With A Purpose
Friday afternoon students in the Saluki Rainbow Network had more on theiragenda in the Student Center than enjoying a McDonald's value meal. A"Kiss-in" was staged to see public reaction to public displays of affectionbetween students in the Rainbow Network. Three couples moved around thefirst floor of the Student Center, holding hands and stopping to kissperiodically.
-UNICEF Backs Off Tongan HIV Role Claim
UNICEF, which carries out the United Nations HIV and AIDS work in the SouthPacific, has today backed down from over-stating its role in the drafting ofwhat it then incorrectly claimed is Tonga's first HIV Strategy. Meanwhile,Tonga's main HIV/AIDS organisation, founded by glbt people in the islandKingdom, has welcomed the continued inclusion of sexual minorities in whatis in fact a draft of Tonga's second HIV Strategy which will soon bepresented to the Tongan government, but is concerned that it was notconsulted about input into the detail of the Strategy.
-Breaking Out of the Glass Closet
'I am not a leather daddy. I am not a twink boy. But hey, I'm always up foradventure," says Charlie David, his perfect grin flashing. A twink boy is abarely legal gay boy. (I had to look it up.) The gay world has long had itsown lingo. But who knew it had its own travel show, too? Many people, itturns out. According to its publicists, Bump! is "the world's most watchedgay and lesbian travel series and Canada's most successful gay TV showexport." Its third season launched in February on the Canadian digital cablechannel OUTtv, as well as international outlets. It is also available onDVD.
-Gay and Lesbian Adults Are Reading and Responding to More Blogs ThanHeterosexuals
According to a recent national survey conducted by Harris Interactive®, gayand lesbian adults online are reading more blogs than their heterosexualcounterparts. When asked, just over half (51 percent) of the gay and lesbianrespondents reported reading some type of blog, compared to 36 percent ofheterosexual adults. A similar question on blog readership also was asked inNovember 2006, and at that time 32 percent of gay and lesbian adults thenreported reading blogs.
=
Marriage Equality News
http://samesexmarriage.typepad.com/weblog/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-A special commission appointed by legislative leaders to study same-sexmarriage stopped just short in its final report Monday of recommending thatthe state become the second in the country -- after Massachusetts -- toallow gay and lesbian couples to marry.
-The day had finally dawned. After 12 years of being girlfriend andgirlfriend, Holly Miller and P.R. Banks were getting married. Dressed in acream trouser suit with a sparkly pink top, Holly, 44, looked radiant as sheadjusted a silver tiara on her highlighted hair. P.R., who won't reveal herage, looked equally serene, wearing a traditional wedding gown with amatching tiara perched atop her elegant blonde bun.
-The sponsors of a proposed constitutional amendment to outlaw same-sexmarriage in California said Monday they have gathered enough signatures toqualify the measure for the November ballot.
A coalition of religious groups called Protect Marriage collected more than1.1 million signatures in support of the amendment, said Brian Brown,executive director of the California office of the National Organization forMarriage.
-UCLA: As Tom Keegan and Davidson Lloyd declared "I do" in front ofapproximately a hundred spectators in Bruin Plaza on Friday, they provided aglimpse of a possible future in which same-sex couples enjoy full maritalrights. The Student Coalition for Marriage Equality created a lavish settingof purple and black for its Fourth Annual Same-Sex Wedding Ceremony. Keeganand Lloyd stood with their daughter, Connor Keegan-Lloyd, to exchange vowsin celebration of their 31 years together.
-Deb Price: My nominee for best ex-actor in a very supportive role: ArnoldSchwarzenegger. In a few simple sentences, the muscular Republican governorof California did some heroically heavy lifting for all Americans whobelieve in equal marriage rights for those of us who're gay. Asked at thegay Log Cabin Republicans' recent national convention whether he would jointhem in opposing a proposed California ballot initiative that would prohibitgay couples there from achieving marriage equality, Schwarzenegger began,"First of all, I think that (such a ban) would never happen in Californiabecause I think California people are much further along on that issue."
Then, as every heart in the room skipped a beat, he delivered some of themost important lines of his career: " And, No. 2, I will always be there tofight against that -- because it should never happen."
=
Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Pope reinforces conservative values at the end of US tour
Pope Benedict XVI has concluded his six-day visit to the United States witha speech that spoke against abortion and gay marriage. Before a crowd ofover 60,000 people, he ended his first visit to the United States.
-Royal gay sex blackmail tape played in secret
The Old Bailey today heard a tape recording that contains claims that a malemember of the Royal family performed a gay sex act on an employee, known aswitness D. Members of the press and the public were ordered to leave thecourt room before the judge allowed the tape to be played.
-There are no gays in football claims Italian club official
A former managing director of one of the world's best-known football clubshas claimed that "a homosexual cannot do the job of a footballer." LucianoMoggi, formerly with Juventus, is banned from football until 2011.
-Uruguay's first gay union, four months after they became legal
In the South American nation of Uruguay, a new law granting cohabitingcouples who have lived together for more than five years the same rights asstraight married couples was signed into law in December.
-European Commission abandons gay discrimination directive
Opposition from Germany and other member states means that European Unioncitizens will not be protected by an EU directive from discrimination on thegrounds of sexual orientation. The BBC has learned that only disability willbe covered by the new directive.
=
Forwarded from Euro-Queer
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article:
-Homophobic singer Bounty Killer is facing ruin after cities across Europerefused to host his concerts. London should have done the same
By PeterTatchell
Anti-gay Jamaican "murder music" singer, Bounty Killer, is facing financialmeltdown as his European tour is besieged by protests and concertcancellations. Despite the shameful collusion of the Metropolitan Policewith this notorious "kill gays" singer, Bounty Killer's UK tour datesoutside ofLondon - in Bradford and Birmingham - were axed, losing himthousands of pounds in performance fees. In Germany, Bounty Killer'sconcerts in Dortmund, Essen and Berlin were also cancelled; together withhis gig in Antwerp, Belgium. In contrast to the appeasement of the HomeOffice and the Metropolitan Police, the German government has announced thatBounty Killer and other singers who advocate violence and murder will, infuture, be refused visas.
http://commentisfree.guardian.co.uk/peter_tatchell/2008/04/not_making_a_killing.html
-Brussels abandons plans to protect gays and lesbians
The European Commission has abandoned its plans to protect gays and lesbiansagainst discrimination under pressure from Germany. An anti-discriminationbill against all forms of discrimination on the grounds laid out in Article13 of the Amsterdam Treaty had been announced as part of the commission'swork programme for 2008. However, the European executive is now retreatingto the safe grounds of focussing solely on disability protection. Thecommission is afraid that more conservative member states will endanger theunanimity needed by member states. In its first public interview on thesubject, the commission confirmed to the BBC Parliament channel'sEurope-specialist programme, The Record: Europe what gay rights campaignersand many MEPs had feared would happen. "The commission would still preferto have a 'horizontal' directive that covers all the discrimination groundsin all the areas that are not covered yet," said Jan Jarab of thecommission's employment department in the interview.
http://euobserver.com/9/26023
=
From Mark Haines - Mark's List
http://frontpage.jumponmarkslist.com/MSFL/2008/042108.htm
-Florida: St. Petersburg Pride 2008
St Pete Pride and Street Festival is billed as the largest Gay and LesbianPride celebration in Florida. Attendance at the June 2008 event is expectedto exceed 80,000 people. Last year's attendance topped 70,000. Thisspectacular event includes a Street Festival in St Pete's beautiful downtownthat has spectacular views of Tampa Bay and the world famous St PetersburgPier. Don't miss this incredible annual event.
http://frontpage.jumponmarkslist.com/events/st_petersburg_pride/2008/index1.htm
-Stonewall Street Festival
Saturday June 21 and Sunday 22nd, 2008
Gay and Lesbian Pride on the Streets of Wilton Manors, Florida
http://frontpage.jumponmarkslist.com/events/stonewall/2008/index1.htm
=
Forwarded from Kenneth Sherrill - Ken's List
Kenneth.Sherrill@hunter.cuny.edu
kenslist@groups.queernet.org
Go to the links for the following articles:
Contact rays.list@comcast.net if can't access the article
-Sexuality & the Law Vol. 1 No. 1, 04/15/2008
The first issue of the abstract series on Sexuality and Law is out - seebelow. It is open to scholars outside the legal academy who write aboutlaw. Could you circulate and/or announce to the LGBT poli sci network?
Although subscriptions to SSRN are not as widespread for poli scidepartments as for law schools, the law professor readership is enormous.
For anyone who wants to have his/her work read by those in the legalacademy, this is a tremendous opportunity, and I very much want it to beinter-disciplinary. Registration and uploads are free at http://hq.ssrn.com/.
-Campus Pride Founder Receives 2008 National "Voice of Inclusion" Medallionfrom ACPA
Because of his commitment to social justice, education development andtraining, Campus Pride founder andexecutive director, Shane L. Windmeyer, has been honored with the 2008 Voiceof Inclusion Medallion from the ACPA - College Educators International(American College Personnel Association). The Voice of Inclusion Medallionrecognizes an individual for their exemplary campus-based programs in thefield of Higher Education and Student Affairs. In addition, the award isbestowed to recipients who have responded to an assessed need in the areasof multiculturalism and diversity through well-developed, meaningfulprograms and practice.
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
=
Steve Rothaus
http://www.miamiherald.com/living/columnists/steve_rothaus/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Jamaica Observer advice column: Reader asks, 'Is my son gay?'
I found this item today on The Jamaica Observer's All Woman page. What doyou think of this advice? Please comment and share your opinions.
Is my son gay?Monday, April 21, 2008
Dear RB,
My son is seven and is displaying tendencies that I am not comfortable with.
He wants to play with his sisters' dolls, and allows the girls to dress himup in hair clips and paint his nails. I became enraged the other day when Isaw him dancing ballet while watching TV. I don't want to stifle him, but Idon't want him to grow up gay either. I want him to play ball, but hedoesn't even want to leave the house barefoot! He's around a lot of womenand I'm the only male influence in his life, unfortunately I work out oftown and only see the family on weekends. How can I turn him around to domanly things? Concerned Father
Dear Concerned father,
Since you have not, I will say it. You can't say that your young son ishaving homosexual tendencies because he likes dolls and plays with hissisters and her friends. I do not think that you can say that you willreverse these inclinations by getting him involved in more manly pursuits. Iknow how frightened you must be if you believe that your son is gay, but mayI say that your son, when he comes to this realisation will also beconcerned. I do not believe that anyone chooses lightly a lifestyle thatexposes him/her to violence, exclusion and ridicule.
You are correctly concerned that you do not spend enough time with your son.
Sons need their fathers to pattern themselves after. They need your help tounderstand how men see and experience the world. This is your job as hisfather, and know this, his mother can't do this. So spend more time withyour son. Learn to love him as he is.
Don't worry about his little boy games, just try to encourage his talentsand help him realise his dreams. Encourage him to be his authentic, trueself. That is the best gift you can give your son. I believe that if you dothis you will learn to love your son, and if the day comes when he must copewith this challenge or any other challenge, he will know that he can counton his father's love and support. If you do not do this and force him tobecome your mirror image, he will ultimately resent you and hate himself fornot loving his father. Try. I know that it is not easy, but you must do thisfor your son. He is depending on you.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2008/04/jamaica-observe.html
=
Express Gay News
http://www.expressgaynews.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Art Project Causes Controversy At Truman High
Anti-Gay Posters Displayed Behind Message Of Love
INDEPENDENCE, Mo. -- A Truman High School senior's art project causedcontroversy Friday. Senior Amy Burrow affixed the words "love conquers all"to the front of a glass case filled with anti-gay poster s designed to looklike the ones used by protesters from Fred Phelps' Westboro Baptist Church.
"I'm happy actually, because at least it involved thought," Burrow said. "Atleast it got them to stop and look at it." She spent two weeks working onthe project for her 3D art class. She was at the school until 10 p.m.Thursday, keeping the project a secret from students until Friday morning.
http://www.kctv5.com/news/15928001/detail.html
=
365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Decision Day In Pennsylvania
(Blue Bell, Pennsylvania) Hillary Rodham Clinton invoked Pearl Harbor, theBerlin Wall and Osama bin Laden as she reached for a victory today inPennsylvania's Democratic presidential primary to recharge her comebackeffort.
-Pa. Demographics Can Be Misleading
(Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) Older, whiter and more female than the nationas a whole, Pennsylvania looks like Hillary Rodham Clinton country.
Wealthier, better educated and more African American than the rest of thestate, Pennsylvania's thickly settled southeast corner could belong toBarack Obama.
-Military Using Convicted Felons To Replace Drummed Out Gays
(Washington) Newly released data show that the Army and the Marine Corp,under pressure to increase their numbers, have sharply raised the number ofrecruits who have felony convictions.
-Vt. Commission Makes No Recommendation On Gay Marriage
(Montpelier, Vermont) A state commission on Vermont's civil union lawsubmitted its report to the legislature on Monday but made norecommendations on revising the law to allow for same-sex marriage.
-Bill To Expand Colorado Gay Bias Law Advances
(Denver, Colorado) Legislation to ban discrimination against gays andlesbians in housing and credit in Colorado is expected to go to the Housethis week after a raucous debate in the Senate.
=
The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-All Politics Is Local
Senator Obama has taken a targeted approach to LGBT outreach at differenttimes in this race. Now if he would just apply the same philosophy to gaymedia.
http://advocate.com/exclusive_detail_ektid53588.asp
-Targeted Vandalization Not a Hate Crime in Oklahoma
After a night of partying in Oklahoma City, a gay resident returned to hiscar outside the Copa nightclub to find that it and several others had beenvandalized. Carber, as the man prefers to be identified, was with a friendthe night of April 12 when he discovered that the passenger-side window ofhis car had been smashed in with a cement block, which had a note attachedto it that read, "fag." Carber's car was the only one with such a note, henoted to police.
http://advocate.com/news_detail_ektid53592.asp
-Obama Flush With Cash While Clinton Struggles With Debts
Barack Obama began the month of April with a 5-1 cash advantage over adebt-saddled Hillary Rodham Clinton, setting the stage for his lopsidedspending in the crucial primary state of Pennsylvania.
http://advocate.com/news_detail_ektid53574.asp
-Seeking LGBTs to Serve the Next Administration
The Victory Fund begins vetting those interested in working for the nextpresident with far more applicants than when the process first took place inthe '90s.
http://advocate.com/exclusive_detail_ektid53573.asp
=
National Gay News
http://nationalgaynews.com/component/option,com_frontpage/Itemid,1/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Harrah's Named National Presenting Sponsor for the 19th Annual GLAAD MediaAwards in Los Angeles
The Harrah's Foundation is the presenting sponsor of the 19th Annual GLAADMedia Awards along with AT&T in Los Angeles at the Kodak Theatre onSaturday, April 26, 2008. The Harrah's Foundation donated a philanthropiccontribution of $150,000 in recognition of the critical work done by Gay &Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD).
-National Day of Silence to be Held in Record 6,000 Schools on Friday
Students from a record 6,000 middle and high schools have registered asparticipants in GLSEN's 12th annual National Day of Silence on Friday tobring attention to anti-lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT)name-calling, bullying and harassment in schools. The event is being heldthis year in memory of Lawrence King, a 15-year-old from Oxnard, Calif., whowas shot and killed in school on Feb. 12 because of his sexual orientationand gender expression.
-PDA With A Purpose
Friday afternoon students in the Saluki Rainbow Network had more on theiragenda in the Student Center than enjoying a McDonald's value meal. A"Kiss-in" was staged to see public reaction to public displays of affectionbetween students in the Rainbow Network. Three couples moved around thefirst floor of the Student Center, holding hands and stopping to kissperiodically.
-UNICEF Backs Off Tongan HIV Role Claim
UNICEF, which carries out the United Nations HIV and AIDS work in the SouthPacific, has today backed down from over-stating its role in the drafting ofwhat it then incorrectly claimed is Tonga's first HIV Strategy. Meanwhile,Tonga's main HIV/AIDS organisation, founded by glbt people in the islandKingdom, has welcomed the continued inclusion of sexual minorities in whatis in fact a draft of Tonga's second HIV Strategy which will soon bepresented to the Tongan government, but is concerned that it was notconsulted about input into the detail of the Strategy.
-Breaking Out of the Glass Closet
'I am not a leather daddy. I am not a twink boy. But hey, I'm always up foradventure," says Charlie David, his perfect grin flashing. A twink boy is abarely legal gay boy. (I had to look it up.) The gay world has long had itsown lingo. But who knew it had its own travel show, too? Many people, itturns out. According to its publicists, Bump! is "the world's most watchedgay and lesbian travel series and Canada's most successful gay TV showexport." Its third season launched in February on the Canadian digital cablechannel OUTtv, as well as international outlets. It is also available onDVD.
-Gay and Lesbian Adults Are Reading and Responding to More Blogs ThanHeterosexuals
According to a recent national survey conducted by Harris Interactive®, gayand lesbian adults online are reading more blogs than their heterosexualcounterparts. When asked, just over half (51 percent) of the gay and lesbianrespondents reported reading some type of blog, compared to 36 percent ofheterosexual adults. A similar question on blog readership also was asked inNovember 2006, and at that time 32 percent of gay and lesbian adults thenreported reading blogs.
=
Marriage Equality News
http://samesexmarriage.typepad.com/weblog/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-A special commission appointed by legislative leaders to study same-sexmarriage stopped just short in its final report Monday of recommending thatthe state become the second in the country -- after Massachusetts -- toallow gay and lesbian couples to marry.
-The day had finally dawned. After 12 years of being girlfriend andgirlfriend, Holly Miller and P.R. Banks were getting married. Dressed in acream trouser suit with a sparkly pink top, Holly, 44, looked radiant as sheadjusted a silver tiara on her highlighted hair. P.R., who won't reveal herage, looked equally serene, wearing a traditional wedding gown with amatching tiara perched atop her elegant blonde bun.
-The sponsors of a proposed constitutional amendment to outlaw same-sexmarriage in California said Monday they have gathered enough signatures toqualify the measure for the November ballot.
A coalition of religious groups called Protect Marriage collected more than1.1 million signatures in support of the amendment, said Brian Brown,executive director of the California office of the National Organization forMarriage.
-UCLA: As Tom Keegan and Davidson Lloyd declared "I do" in front ofapproximately a hundred spectators in Bruin Plaza on Friday, they provided aglimpse of a possible future in which same-sex couples enjoy full maritalrights. The Student Coalition for Marriage Equality created a lavish settingof purple and black for its Fourth Annual Same-Sex Wedding Ceremony. Keeganand Lloyd stood with their daughter, Connor Keegan-Lloyd, to exchange vowsin celebration of their 31 years together.
-Deb Price: My nominee for best ex-actor in a very supportive role: ArnoldSchwarzenegger. In a few simple sentences, the muscular Republican governorof California did some heroically heavy lifting for all Americans whobelieve in equal marriage rights for those of us who're gay. Asked at thegay Log Cabin Republicans' recent national convention whether he would jointhem in opposing a proposed California ballot initiative that would prohibitgay couples there from achieving marriage equality, Schwarzenegger began,"First of all, I think that (such a ban) would never happen in Californiabecause I think California people are much further along on that issue."
Then, as every heart in the room skipped a beat, he delivered some of themost important lines of his career: " And, No. 2, I will always be there tofight against that -- because it should never happen."
=
Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:
-Pope reinforces conservative values at the end of US tour
Pope Benedict XVI has concluded his six-day visit to the United States witha speech that spoke against abortion and gay marriage. Before a crowd ofover 60,000 people, he ended his first visit to the United States.
-Royal gay sex blackmail tape played in secret
The Old Bailey today heard a tape recording that contains claims that a malemember of the Royal family performed a gay sex act on an employee, known aswitness D. Members of the press and the public were ordered to leave thecourt room before the judge allowed the tape to be played.
-There are no gays in football claims Italian club official
A former managing director of one of the world's best-known football clubshas claimed that "a homosexual cannot do the job of a footballer." LucianoMoggi, formerly with Juventus, is banned from football until 2011.
-Uruguay's first gay union, four months after they became legal
In the South American nation of Uruguay, a new law granting cohabitingcouples who have lived together for more than five years the same rights asstraight married couples was signed into law in December.
-European Commission abandons gay discrimination directive
Opposition from Germany and other member states means that European Unioncitizens will not be protected by an EU directive from discrimination on thegrounds of sexual orientation. The BBC has learned that only disability willbe covered by the new directive.
=
Forwarded from Euro-Queer
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article:
-Homophobic singer Bounty Killer is facing ruin after cities across Europerefused to host his concerts. London should have done the same
By PeterTatchell
Anti-gay Jamaican "murder music" singer, Bounty Killer, is facing financialmeltdown as his European tour is besieged by protests and concertcancellations. Despite the shameful collusion of the Metropolitan Policewith this notorious "kill gays" singer, Bounty Killer's UK tour datesoutside ofLondon - in Bradford and Birmingham - were axed, losing himthousands of pounds in performance fees. In Germany, Bounty Killer'sconcerts in Dortmund, Essen and Berlin were also cancelled; together withhis gig in Antwerp, Belgium. In contrast to the appeasement of the HomeOffice and the Metropolitan Police, the German government has announced thatBounty Killer and other singers who advocate violence and murder will, infuture, be refused visas.
http://commentisfree.guardian.co.uk/peter_tatchell/2008/04/not_making_a_killing.html
-Brussels abandons plans to protect gays and lesbians
The European Commission has abandoned its plans to protect gays and lesbiansagainst discrimination under pressure from Germany. An anti-discriminationbill against all forms of discrimination on the grounds laid out in Article13 of the Amsterdam Treaty had been announced as part of the commission'swork programme for 2008. However, the European executive is now retreatingto the safe grounds of focussing solely on disability protection. Thecommission is afraid that more conservative member states will endanger theunanimity needed by member states. In its first public interview on thesubject, the commission confirmed to the BBC Parliament channel'sEurope-specialist programme, The Record: Europe what gay rights campaignersand many MEPs had feared would happen. "The commission would still preferto have a 'horizontal' directive that covers all the discrimination groundsin all the areas that are not covered yet," said Jan Jarab of thecommission's employment department in the interview.
http://euobserver.com/9/26023
=
From Mark Haines - Mark's List
http://frontpage.jumponmarkslist.com/MSFL/2008/042108.htm
-Florida: St. Petersburg Pride 2008
St Pete Pride and Street Festival is billed as the largest Gay and LesbianPride celebration in Florida. Attendance at the June 2008 event is expectedto exceed 80,000 people. Last year's attendance topped 70,000. Thisspectacular event includes a Street Festival in St Pete's beautiful downtownthat has spectacular views of Tampa Bay and the world famous St PetersburgPier. Don't miss this incredible annual event.
http://frontpage.jumponmarkslist.com/events/st_petersburg_pride/2008/index1.htm
-Stonewall Street Festival
Saturday June 21 and Sunday 22nd, 2008
Gay and Lesbian Pride on the Streets of Wilton Manors, Florida
http://frontpage.jumponmarkslist.com/events/stonewall/2008/index1.htm
=
Forwarded from Kenneth Sherrill - Ken's List
Kenneth.Sherrill@hunter.cuny.edu
kenslist@groups.queernet.org
Go to the links for the following articles:
Contact rays.list@comcast.net if can't access the article
-Sexuality & the Law Vol. 1 No. 1, 04/15/2008
The first issue of the abstract series on Sexuality and Law is out - seebelow. It is open to scholars outside the legal academy who write aboutlaw. Could you circulate and/or announce to the LGBT poli sci network?
Although subscriptions to SSRN are not as widespread for poli scidepartments as for law schools, the law professor readership is enormous.
For anyone who wants to have his/her work read by those in the legalacademy, this is a tremendous opportunity, and I very much want it to beinter-disciplinary. Registration and uploads are free at http://hq.ssrn.com/.
-Campus Pride Founder Receives 2008 National "Voice of Inclusion" Medallionfrom ACPA
Because of his commitment to social justice, education development andtraining, Campus Pride founder andexecutive director, Shane L. Windmeyer, has been honored with the 2008 Voiceof Inclusion Medallion from the ACPA - College Educators International(American College Personnel Association). The Voice of Inclusion Medallionrecognizes an individual for their exemplary campus-based programs in thefield of Higher Education and Student Affairs. In addition, the award isbestowed to recipients who have responded to an assessed need in the areasof multiculturalism and diversity through well-developed, meaningfulprograms and practice.
=
[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####
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