March, 2015 News (119 Articles with 644,795 total views)
On the cover of the print edition for March, 2015 Representatives from several local LGBT groups met on Feb 21 at the Erie Maennerchor Club. More details and updates next month. Photo: Mike Mahler
This began publication in December 2002 after a hiatus
Category for this issueCalendar & Upcoming Events
Calendar of Local GLBT Events |
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Local and Regional News
The Table and Theology on Tap updates
The Table continues to meet for contemplative, participatory experiences on Sunday's at 5:30 pm at 3176 W. 41st Street Erie PA. For the season of Lent, a daily reflection linked to an image and the daily scripture will be available on the website and on our Facebook page. Feel free to add your thoughts or stories in the comments.
Community Awareness Night Mar 24 raises awareness of free services
On Tuesday, March 24th, Crime Victim Center of Erie County will host a Community Awareness Night presentation at the Blasco Memorial Library Admiral Room, 160 East Front Street, Erie PA from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Learn about the free services offered by Crime Victim Center, Bradley H. Foulk Children's Advocacy Center, and Northwestern Legal Services. Additionally, those in attendance will be educated on the latest best practices and prevention skills related to child safety, internet and cybercrimes, and victim's legal rights.
Trans Lifeline offers free support
Trans Lifeline is a non-profit dedicated to the well being of transgender people. We run a hotline staffed by transgender people for transgender people. Trans Lifeline volunteers are ready to respond to whatever support needs members of our community might have. This is a free helpline run by volunteers and supported by the community.US: (877) 565-8860 www.translifeline.org/
March Against Crime 5k Run/Walk on March 8
There will be a March against Crime 5k Run/Walk on March 8, 2015 at 9am at the Rotary Pavilion, Presque Isle State Park—Erie, PA. The event is a benefit for Crime Victim Center of Erie. The fee is $25 and includes a long sleeve T-shirt. Erie Runners Club members may deduct $2.
The New Black at Edinboro Mar 3
Join Greater Erie Alliance for Equality (GEAE) in watching The New Black, an award-winning documentary followed by a panel discussion with Rev. Dr. Parris Baker, Rev. Dr. Richard McCarty, and Rev. Sonny Concepcion. The documentaary will be shown Tuesday, March 3rd. at the Pogue Student Center at Edinboro University from 6:30-8pm, followed by a panel discussion from 8:15-9pm. The New Black tells the story of how the African-American community is grappling with the gay rights issue in light of the recent marriage equality movement and the fight over civil rights.
Online Registration for First Texas LGBTQA Sci-Fi, Fantasy and Gaming Convention Ends March 1st
Austin, Tex. (February 13, 2015) – The first Texas lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered, questioning and allied (LGBTQA) comic book and gaming convention, HavenCon, is proud to announce its slate of guests, sponsors, and events for its inaugural convention. Online registration for the event ends March 1, through which time tickets will be 25% off for anyone purchasing an autograph package for special guests Janet Varney and Dante Brasco.
New Study: Coming Out as LGBT in School Contributes To Well-Being
FEBRUARY 9, 2015 – A timely new study has found that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youth who come out at school report more positive adjustment as young adults and have significantly lower levels of depression with higher levels of self-esteem and life satisfaction, compared with LGBT youth who did not disclose or who concealed their sexual orientation or gender identity from others at school. Results did not differ based on gender or ethnicity. This is the first known study to document the benefits of being out during adolescence, despite the victimization that youth may experience because they openly identify as LGBT. The study is published in the current issue of the American Journal of Orthopsychiatry.
Drenched Fur 11 Video News Update #4
It's here! The fourth news video update has posted to the Drenched Fur YouTube channel. This time we talk about the hotel selling out as well as massage services, the game show selection and a new sponsor for an event during the run weekend. The Drenched Fur 11 Events Schedule has been updated on the run website as continue to update items here in the month of February! Take a look at the video update below and we look forward to seeing you in April!
Entertainment and Travel
Buffalo United Artists Takes Ten: GLBT Short Plays 2015
Buffalo United Artists will present the third annual BUA Takes Ten: GLBT Short Plays. From among 300 submissions from all over the country, co-curators Matthew Crehan Higgins Donna Hoke, and Jessica K. Rasp chose nine plays that reflect diverse aspects of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender life on March 27-April 11, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM.
Dreams of Hope Absolute Motown Event March 28
Pittsburgh's only arts-focused LGBTQA youth organization, Dreams of Hope, will host their annual fundraiser, Absolute Motown, on March 28, 2015, 7:00 p.m. – VIP Pre-Party at 6:00. Join us for an evening of food, libations, music, live performance, and dance – while we honor Betty Hill, Executive Director of Persad Center, with the Dreams of Hope Champion Award. Be serenaded by Etta Cox and Friends, enjoy a performance by the theatriQ Youth Performance Ensemble, and join in both live and silent auctions – with award-winning artist Alexi Morrissey serving as auctioneer. General admission includes heavy hors d'oeuvres, beer, wine, and desserts. VIP Pre-party features specially crafted VIP hors d'oeuvre, photo opportunities with Etta Cox, and all- evening access to open bar. Tickets and information at www.dreamsofhope.org.
In Memory of Lesley Gore
From AfterEllen: A fixture of the music industry since she debuted in the 1960s, Lesley Gore has been considered one of the most beloved songwriters of her generation, and an out and proud feminist lesbian. We will miss her greatly, as she brought great joy, music and kindness to the world. Read more here.
Local Faces and Photos
Bear Bar Night
On Friday, February 6, 2015, Drenched Fur organized a Bear Bar Night at the Zone Dance Club, 133 W 18th St, Erie PA. It was a wonderful and friendly night for bears and their admirers. Photos are by Michael Mahler.
Political, Activism and Legal
NCLR and USDA Host LGBT #RuralPride Summit in Nashville, TN
(Nashville, TN, March 11, 2015)—The National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will host the next #RuralPride summit in Nashville, Tennessee on March 19. The event, co-hosted by True Colors Fund and the Oasis Center focuses on addressing the needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people living in rural communities across the country.
HRC Unable to Confirm Any Counties Issuing Marriage Licenses to Same-Sex Couples After Shameful Alabama Supreme Court Or
MONTGOMERY - March 4, 2015 - As of noon today, HRC Alabama was unable to confirm any Alabama counties that are issuing licenses to same-sex couples, in the wake of an order by the Alabama Supreme Court late Tuesday night. This turn around comes as the result of the confusion created by an emergency petition to the Alabama Supreme Court by two anti-LGBT groups, the Alabama Policy Institute and Alabama Citizens Action Program, who sought to stop probate judges from issuing marriage licenses.
Victory! Following HRC Action, Psychology Today Agrees to Reject Listings from Practitioners of 'Conversion Therapy'
WASHINGTON - March 4, 2015 - Today, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, welcomed as a much-needed step the decision by Psychology Today to stop accepting online listings from mental health practitioners who offer to "cure" LGBT people.
When Did Ben Carson Choose to be Straight?
WASHINGTON - March 4, 2015 – The following is a statement from the Human Rights Campaign's Fred Sainz in reaction to the latest anti-LGBT rhetoric from retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson. Carson's history of anti-LGBT rhetoric includes comparing same-sex marriage to NAMBLA and bestiality.
HRC Supports Non-Discrimination Measure That Would Extend Protections to LGBT Residents in Devoutly Mormon Utah
WASHINGTON - March 4, 2015 – Today, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, welcomed a proposed Utah non-discrimination bill that extends employment and housing non-discrimination protections to include sexual orientation and gender identity
Alabama Supreme Court Orders Temporary Hold on Marriages for Same-Sex Couples
Montgomery - March 4, 2015 – The Alabama Supreme Court has ordered probate judges in the state to temporarily stop issuing marriage licenses, aside from probate judge Davis in Mobile, who was specifically ordered to stop enforcing Alabama's ban on marriage for same-sex couples.
TLDEF Responds to Indictment in the Killing of Islan Nettles
New York, NY - March 4, 2015 - The Transgender Legal Defense & Education Fund (TLDEF) responded to the announcement by Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus R. Vance Jr. that his office has indicted 24-year old James Dixon on first and second degree manslaughter and first degree assault charges for the August 17, 2013 killing of Islan Nettles, a 21-year-old African American transgender woman from Harlem.
Extralegal Ruling Shames Alabama Supreme Court
MONTGOMERY AL - March 3, 2015 —Today, HRC condemned a ruling by the Alabama state Supreme Court ordering a halt to same-sex marriages in the state. In the ruling, the Court granted an emergency petition by two anti-LGBT groups, the Alabama Policy Institute and Alabama Citizens Action Program, who sought to stop probate judges from issuing marriage licenses across the state.
Marriage Equality Comes to Slovenia
WASHINGTON - March 3, 2015 –– Today the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), America's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, commended the government of Slovenia for passing legislation that will make it the 21st nation to grant full marriage rights to all of its citizens.
LGBT & HIV Advocates Welcome Recommendations of Obama Policing Task Force
Washington DC - March 3, 2015 —Following the release of the Interim Report of President Obama's Task Force on 21st Century Policing, LGBT and HIV advocacy organizations who presented testimony to the Task Force issued a joint statement:
HRC Will Submit People's Brief with More Than 200,000 Signatories for Marriage Equality to the Supreme Court
WASHINGTON - March 3, 2015 – Today, the Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization announced that 207,551 Americans from all 50 states, as well as Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa and the U.S. Virgin Islands have joined as signatories on its unprecedented "The People's Brief" in support of marriage equality. Authored by prominent lawyer Roberta Kaplan, who successfully defeated the key section of The Defense of Marriage Act ("DOMA") before the Supreme Court in 2013, The People's Brief has more signatories than any other amicus brief that has ever been submitted to the U.S. Supreme Court.
AMPA To SCOTUS: Marriage Inequality Harms Military & Veteran Families
WASHINGTON, DC - March 3, 2015 – Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of LGBT military families, filed a joint brief to the Supreme Court of the United States in the case being considered that could lead to nationwide marriage equality. In the brief, AMPA and OutServe-SLDN argue that the uneven patchwork of states providing marriage equality harms military families, undermines national security, and harms veterans by cutting them off to earned federal benefits. The brief, on which the law firm Chadbourne & Parke serves as counsel, urges the Supreme Court to end the discrimination caused by the lack of marriage equality nationwide.
Outserve-SLDN Files Joint Amicus Brief in Supreme Court Marriage Case
(WASHINGTON) March 3, 2015 – OutServe-SLDN today will file a joint amicus brief in the crucial marriage equality case being brought before the Supreme Court this spring.
HRC To Psychology Today: Reject Ads from Practitioners of Dangerous and Debunked LGBT 'Conversion Therapy'
WASHINGTON - March 3, 2015 - Today, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, called on Psychology Today to stop accepting online listings from mental health practitioners who offer to "cure" LGBT people.
Vice President Joe Biden to Deliver Remarks at HRC Spring Equality Convention
WASHINGTON - March 3, 2015 - Today, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, announced that Vice President Joe Biden will address the HRC boards, steering committees, staff, and volunteers at its Spring Equality Convention on Friday, March 6, 2015, in Washington, DC.
Nebraska Suspends Discriminatory Policy That Barred Gay and Lesbian Couples from Becoming Foster Parents
WASHINGTON - March 2, 2015 – Today, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, commended a move by Nebraska child welfare officials to stop enforcing a two-decade-old policy barring gay and lesbian couples from obtaining state foster parent licenses.
HRC Statement on Senator Barb Mikulski
WASHINGTON - March 2, 2015 - Following is a statement from the Human Rights Campaign's Vice President of Policy and Political Affairs JoDee Winterhof upon news that Senator Mikulski would retire from the U.S. Senate after the completion of her current term. During her time in the U.S. Senate, Mikulski co-sponsored key pieces of LGBT legislation, including the Hate Crimes Prevention Act, ENDA, and a bill to repeal DOMA.
HRC Commends Appointment of Benjamin Mizer as Interim Head of Civil Division at Justice Department
WASHINGTON March 2, 2015 - Today, the Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, commended the appointment of Benjamin C. Mizer as Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General and Acting Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Division. HRC Legal Director Sarah Warbelow issued the following statement:
Federal Judge Strikes Down Nebraska Marriage Ban
New York - March 2, 2015– Today U.S. District Judge Joseph Bataillon ruled that denying marriage for same-sex couples in Nebraska is unconstitutional. The ruling is set to go in effect on March 9th at 8:00 a.m., unless a stay is granted by the 8th Circuit.
Alabama Court of Appeals Recognizes Adoptions by Same-Sex Parents
(Montgomery, AL, February 27, 2015)—Today, the Alabama Court of Civil Appeals unanimously held that a second parent adoption granted to now separated same-sex parents by a Georgia court in 2007 must be recognized in Alabama—and that V.L., the adoptive mother of their three children, must be recognized as their parent and allowed to seek custody or visitation. The court explained that the "Georgia judgment is entitled to full faith and credit throughout the United States, including Alabama," and ordered the case sent back to Family Court for a hearing on visitation. This decision reverses the same court's earlier ruling last fall, which ruled that the adoption was void and could not be recognized because the Alabama court interpreted Georgia law as not allowing second parent adoptions.
Kentucky Legal Team Files Brief at U.S. Supreme Court Challenging Marriage Bans for Same-Sex Couples
NEW YORK - February 27, 2015 – The American Civil Liberties Union, Stanford Law School Supreme Court Litigation Clinic and Kentucky-based firms Clay Daniel Walton & Adams and the Fauver Law Office today filed their brief with the U.S. Supreme Court in two Kentucky cases that challenge the state's laws barring same-sex couples from marrying and barring the recognition of same-sex couples' marriages from out of state.
Opening Brief Filed with SCOTUS in Marriage Equality Case of Michigan Nurses April DeBoer and Jayne Rowse
WASHINGTON, D.C. - February 27, 2015 – Lawyers for Michigan nurses April DeBoer and Jayne Rowse, who seek to marry in their home state of Michigan, today filed their opening brief with the U.S. Supreme Court. The Court agreed to hear their case, DeBoer v. Snyder, along with marriage-related cases from Ohio, Tennessee and Kentucky this Term, potentially setting up a resolution to the country's ongoing conversation about marriage equality which has now stretched over two decades.
Tennessee Couples File Brief Asking Supreme Court to Uphold the Freedom to Marry and End 'Checkerboard Nation' of Marria
(Washington D.C., February 27, 2015)—Three couples challenging Tennessee's marriage ban filed a brief in the Supreme Court of the United States today, asking the Court to rule that same-sex couples have the freedom to marry and thereby put an end to "a checkerboard nation in which same-sex couples' marriages are dissolved and reestablished as they travel or move from state to state." The couples' brief argues that the Supreme Court "should not permit any state to deprive another generation of lesbian and gay persons of the opportunity to participate fully in marriage."
HRC on Jeb Bush: An 'LGBT-friendly' Republican Should Support Marriage Equality and Discrimination Protections for all
WASHINGTON - February 27, 2015 – During the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) this week, some media reports have suggested that Jeb Bush is the "gay-friendly republican" of the 2016 cycle – even during the same week he is scheduled to meet with anti-LGBT activist Tony Perkins.
Same-Sex Married War Veteran Denied Equal Veterans Benefits by the Department of Veterans Affairs
WASHINGTON, DC - Februry 26, 2015 – Today, the American Military Partner Association, the nation's largest organization of LGBT military families, strongly condemned a move by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), requiring a female Iraq war veteran, Melissa Perkins-Fercha, to pay back her federal veterans benefits tied to her legal wife and daughter because the state of Texas does not recognize her same-sex marriage.
GLSEN Statement on Facebook's Addition of Free-Form Field for Gender Identity
NEW YORK (Feb. 26, 2015) – GLSEN Executive Director, Dr. Eliza Byard, applauded Facebook's decision to allow users to add their own description beyond the pre-set options to accurately describe their gender identity. Users can also control with whom they share their gender identity, an important safety and privacy feature.
Cloaked in Religious Rhetoric, More Than Thirty Bills Threaten Jobs & Economic Growth in More Than A Dozen States
WASHINGTON - February 26, 2015 - Today, the Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, issued an updated primer for reporters on a wave of more than 30 bills threatening LGBT equality in the guise of “religious freedom” across the country.
HRC Commends Facebook for New Option Allowing Users to Describe Their Own Gender Identity
WASHINGTON - February 26. 2015- The Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, commended Facebook for a new, inclusive feature the social networking giant rolled out today that will allow individuals to use their own words to describe their gender identity.
Congressman Lowenthal Named Vice-Chair Of House LGBT Equality Caucus
WASHINGTON, D.C. - February 26, 2015 – Congressman Alan Lowenthal, in recognition of his commitment and dedication to equality and LGBT issues, has been named as a vice-chair of the U.S. House of Representatives LGBT Equality Caucus.
Equality, Education, Research, & Respect Guide New AGS Recommendations for Care of Older LGBT Adults
New York, N.Y. (Feb. 26, 2015) - Health professionals who care for older adults can pioneer fairer and more equitable treatment for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals subject to unfair discrimination in health care and society, this according to a new position statement from the American Geriatrics Society (AGS). The statement tackles the present realities of prejudice due to age, sexual orientation, gender, and other personal traits, and also charts a path forward by advocating policies for equal treatment, professional training on LGBT needs, deeper awareness of unique circumstances facing LGBT older adults, and an enhanced research agenda supporting the same.
Pride at Work Challenges Special Envoy for the Human Rights of LGBT Persons to Tackle Trade
WASHINGTON, DC - February 24, 2015 - Yesterday, the State Department announced the appointment of Randy Berry as the first Special Envoy for the Human Rights of LGBT Persons. In this role, Berry will be responsible for advancing US efforts to protect and defend the human rights of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people around the world. Pride at Work Executive Director Jerame Davis reacts:
Georgians Are Uniting Against LGBT Discrimination
ATLANTA - February 24, 2015 - Today, the Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, announced it is joining forces with Georgia Equality, an organization working to advance fairness, safety and opportunity for LGBT communities and allies throughout the state, for a project called "Georgia Unites Against Discrimination." Launched by Georgia Equality in January of this year, Georgia Unites Against Discrimination is a bipartisan grassroots campaign dedicated to protecting LGBT Georgians from discrimination and ensuring that individuals and businesses aren't able to use their religious beliefs to harm others.
Statement on Randy Berry appt. as Special Envoy for LGBT rights from AJWS
WASHINGTON, DC - February 24, 2015 – American Jewish World Service (AJWS), the leading Jewish international development and human rights organization, applauds U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry for making history by appointing veteran diplomat Randy Berry as the first Special Envoy for the Human Rights of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) persons In this newly created role, Berry will lead efforts by the U.S. government to defend the rights of LGBT people worldwide.
Department of Labor To Implement FMLA Rule Change Impacting Married Same-Sex Couples
WASHINGTON - February 23, 2015 - Today, the Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, praised the Department of Labor (DOL) announcement that a final rule change to the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) will be issued on February 25th impacting legally married same-sex couples living in non-marriage equality states. Because of the Supreme Court's decision in the Windsor case and DOL's change from a "state of residence" rule to a "place of celebration" rule concerning marriage recognition, the announcement states: "The Final Rule amends the regulatory definition of spouse under the FMLA so that eligible employees in legal same-sex marriages will be able to take FMLA leave to care for their spouse or family member, regardless of where they live. This will ensure that the FMLA will give spouses in same-sex marriages the same ability as all spouses to fully exercise their FMLA rights."
HRC Welcomes New Findings Showing Promise of HIV-Prevention Drug
WASHINGTON - February 24, 2015 - The Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, today hailed new results from two major studies showing that the use of Truvada for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is proving extraordinarily effective in reducing the risk of contracting HIV.
As Some Candidates Try to Duck, HRC Unveils Website Highlighting GOP Candidates' Record on LGBT Equality
WASHINGTON - February 25, 2015 – As potential Republican candidates gather this week in Washington, D.C. for the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC), the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, released a new microsite 2016: Republican Facts that will serve as an online resource for documenting the record and rhetoric of potential 2016 GOP presidential candidates, and where they stand on key LGBT issues.
Anti-LGBT Bill Stripping Local Non-Discrimination Ordinances Advances in West Virginia
CHARLESTON - February 25, 2015 - Today, Fairness West Virginia, the statewide civil rights advocacy organization dedicated to fair treatment and civil rights for LGBT West Virginians, and the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, strongly condemned a vote by the West Virginia House Government Organization Committee to advance H.B. 2881, the so-called West Virginia Intrastate Commerce Improvement Act. This anti-equality bill would strip away the rights of local municipalities to pass non-discrimination ordinances protecting LGBT West Virginians.
President Obama Agrees With Defense Secretary Ashton Carter's Comments on Transgender Service
WASHINGTON, DC - February 23, 2015 – Today during the daily briefing, White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest responded to a reporter's question on the President's reaction to Defense Secretary Ashton Carter's remarks on transgender service yesterday at a town hall in Kandahar, Afghanistan. According to Earnest, "The President agrees with the sentiment that all Americans who are qualified to serve should be able to serve."
HRC Applauds Appointment of Randy Berry as State Department's First Ever LGBT Human Rights Envoy
WASHINGTON - February 23, 2015 - Today the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, applauded the appointment of Randy W. Berry, a veteran senior U.S. Foreign Service Officer, as the State Department's first ever LGBT Human Rights Envoy. HRC praised President Barack Obama and Secretary of State John Kerry for creating this new senior-level position to oversee the United States government's efforts to support the human rights of LGBT people around the world.
HUD Issues Guidance on Home Lending and Transgender Access To Homeless Shelters
WASHINGTON February 23, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) issued guidance to better serve LGBT Americans seeking to obtain a home loan and transgender individuals seeking access to homeless shelters. These two sets of guidance will help clarify the Equal Access to Housing in HUD Programs Regardless of Sexual Orientation or Gender Identity Rule (Equal Access Rule), which was published in 2012. The Equal Access Rule ensures that housing across HUD programs is open to all eligible individuals regardless of actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity or marital status.
Oklahoma's Sally Kern Wants Special State Protection For Dangerous Anti-LGBT Psychological Abuse
OKLAHOMA CITY February 23. 2015 – Today, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR), and Freedom Oklahoma condemned an extreme anti-LGBT Oklahoma bill that attacks Oklahoma children and seeks to legitimize so-called "conversion therapy," the dangerous and discredited practices linked to lifelong damage including depression, substance abuse, and even suicide. The bill is backed by anti-LGBT State Rep. Sally Kern and will be the subject of a public hearing on Tuesday in the House Committee on Children, Youth, and Family Services, which is also chaired by Rep. Kern.
Mass Appeal presented in Jamestown March 6, 7 and 13, 14
Winged Ox Players presents Mass Appeal. It is a play about a young priest who wants to shake up and challenge an older priest with his ideas on women in the priesthood, homesexuals in the church and the reason for wanting to be a priest. In the sanctuary of Saint Luke's Episcopal Church in Jamestown NY (a better setting there could not be).Show times will be Mar. 6, 7 and Mar. 13, 14 at 7:00PM. There will be a special dinner and ticket package (only 50 seats available for this package; dinner will be served at the new Valhalla's restaurant) There will also be a ticket package to the show without dinner for $10. Discussion will be held after the show in the undercroft of the church with coffee and a dessert. Steven Michael Cobb is directing the play and Lars Benson and Deacon Pierce will be playing the younger and older priests respectively. We hope you can join us! Info: Venue: (716) 483-6405 Steven Michael Cobb: (716)499-5142
Defense Secretary Ashton Carter Addresses Transgender Service
WASHINGTON - February 22, 2015 - Today, the Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, responded to the news that Department of Defense Secretary Ashton Carter addressed the issue of military service by transgender people - who are currently prohibited from serving openly - in a town hall in Kandahar, Afghanistan. When asked about transgender service members serving in "austere environments" like Afghanistan, Secretary Carter ended his response by saying, "And I don't think anything but their suitability for service should preclude them."
Bisexual Resource Center Designates March as Bisexual Health Awareness Month
Boston, MA – Recognizing that the bisexual community remains marginalized and underserved, the Bisexual Resource Center (BRC) proudly proclaims March once more as Bisexual Health Awareness Month (BHAM).
Palm Center Response to Defense Secretary Carter's Remarks on Transgender Service Today in Kandahar
SAN FRANCISCO, CA - February 22, 2015 – In response to Defense Secretary Ashton Carter's comments today in Kandahar, Afghanistan on whether transgender personnel can serve effectively in austere environments, Palm Center director Aaron Belkin issued the following statement:
Animus on Display - Why Arkansas SB 202 Deserves a Veto
Little Rock, Ark. - February 21, 2015 – In response to the passage of SB 202 by the Arkansas legislature, the American Civil Liberties Union, ACLU of Arkansas, Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders, Lambda Legal, and National Center for Lesbian Rights issued the following statement to Governor Asa Hutchinson:
NCLR Welcomes HUD Policy for Transgender Residents in Federally Funded Shelters
(Washington, DC, February 20, 2015)—Today, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) issued guidance clarifying that single-sex shelters receiving federal funds must respect the gender identity of all residents and provide access to sex-segregated shelters based on gender identity.
SPLC Lawsuit Demands Necessary Health Care for Transgender Inmate in Georgia State Prison
Macon, Ga. - Feburary 20, 2015 – The Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) has filed a federal lawsuit against the Georgia Department of Corrections on behalf of a transgender woman who has been denied medically necessary treatment and sexually assaulted by other inmates while held at a men's prison.
New Video Featuring Edie Windsor and Roberta Kaplan Highlights the Importance of The People's Brief, as it Crosses 100K
WASHINGTON - February 19, 2015 – Today, the Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest civil rights organization, released a new video featuring leading civil rights lawyer Roberta Kaplan and her trailblazing client Edie Windsor, urging every marriage equality supporter to read and sign "The People's Brief." Together, Windsor and Kaplan successfully challenged the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act at the Supreme Court in 2013, and now they have joined with HRC to give every American the ability to help make history for marriage equality.
As First Couple Marries in Texas, Now is the Time for the 5th Circuit to Act
WASHINGTON - February 19, 2015 —The Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, today congratulated Sarah Goodfriend and Suzanne Bryant, the first same-sex couple to successfully obtain a marriage license in Texas. The Travis County nuptials took place after a state judge David Wahlberg issued an order requiring the local clerk to issue a license in light of Goodfriend's recent illness:
HRC Partners with State Department to Support LGBT Communities Abroad
WASHINGTON - February 19, 2015 –– Today the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, announced its newly formed partnership with the U.S. Department of State's Global Equality Fund. Established in 2011 by then-Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, the fund brings together governments, corporations, foundations, and civil society organizations to work towards a world where LGBT people can live free of violence and discrimination.
First Same-Sex Couple Marries in Texas
Austin - February 19, 2015 – Today Suzanne Bryant and Sarah Goodfriend became the first same-sex couple to legally marry in Texas. They received their marriage license from Travis County Clerk Dana DeBeauvoir in Austin, accompanied by their two daughters. The news follows an order on Tuesday from State Judge Guy Herman in which he struck down Texas' ban on marriage between same-sex couples.
For First Time in Polling History, Supermajority of Americans Support Gay Couples' Freedom to Marry as Constitutional Ri
New York - February 19, 2015 – The highest percentage ever of Americans – a 63% supermajority - now back the freedom to marry as a constitutional right for gay couples, according to the latest CNN/ORC poll. This is up 14 percentage points from 2010, with significant increases by both Republicans and Democrats.
New EEOC Memo Says Title VII Protects Workers from Discrimination Based on Sexual Orientation
WASHINGTON - February 18, 2015 - Today, the Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, responded to a new field memo issued February 3, 2015, by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) saying that workers are protected under Title VII from employment discrimination based on sexual orientation, as well as gender identity.
HRC Praises Selection of Eric Fanning as Chief of Staff for the Secretary of Defense
WASHINGTON - February 18, 2015 - Today, the Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, praised the selection of Eric Fanning - who is openly gay - as the Chief of Staff for the new Secretary of Defense, Ashton Carter. HRC President Chad Griffin issued the following statement:
Openly Gay Man Appointed as Chief of Staff for the Secretary of Defense
WASHINGTON, DC - February 18, 2015- The American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation’s largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, released the following statement today in response to Eric Fanning's appointment as the Chief of Staff for the Secretary of Defense.
Transgender Americans Face Staggering Rates of Poverty, Violence
Washington, D.C., February 18, 2015 — In a year when transgender Americans are experiencing unprecedented visibility in the State of the Union address, the media, and popular culture, while simultaneously suffering extreme violence, two new reports released today detail the widespread discrimination and inequities the transgender population faces, particularly transgender women and transgender people of color. From high rates of poverty, harassment, violence, poor health, limited job opportunities, and isolation from their larger communities, transgender people are among the most vulnerable communities in the country.
HRC Arkansas to Governor Hutchinson: Veto SB202 Now
Little Rock - February 17, 2015 -- Today, HRC Arkansas calls on Governor Asa Hutchinson to exercise his executive powers and veto Senate Bill 202 (SB202), which would prohibit municipalities from enacting nondiscrimination ordinances that protect LGBT people. Anti-LGBT Arkansas State Senator Bart Hester is sponsor of SB202, the "Intrastate Commerce Improvement Act". If SB202 takes effect, Arkansas cities will lose their ability to recruit top talent, compete for quality jobs and welcome many Fortune 500 companies—who support LGBT equality-- to their region.
Army Considers Change in Policy on Transgender Soldiers
WASHINGTON, DC - February 16, 2015 - The American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of LGBT military families, released the following statement today in response to the news that the Army is considering a policy change regarding dismissal of transgender service members, who are still prohibited from serving openly.
Freedom to Marry Video Showcases First Marriages in Alabama
February 13, 2015 - For Valentine's Day, Freedom to Marry has released a video celebrating the joy and happiness of the first weddings for same-sex couples in Alabama this week. On Sunday night, Alabama Supreme Court Chief Justice Roy Moore ordered local officials to defy a federal court ruling ensuring marriage for same-sex couples. But an order issued yesterday by Judge Callie Granade has led to an increasing number of counties that have opened their doors to same-sex couples. As of this afternoon, 50 out of 67 counties are currently issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples or will do so by next week. You can view the video here: http://youtu.be/r2cP2GiHKdk
Fairness and Equality Advance With Jury Verdict in Houston Equal Rights Ordinance Trial
WASHINGTON - February 13, 2015- Today, the Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, responded to the jury's verdict in a case involving the Houston Equal Rights Ordinance (HERO) - an important measure passed by the City Council in May of 2014 extending workplace, housing, public contracting, and public accommodation protections to LGBT people in America's 4th largest city. Opponents of equality sued following the City's determination that over half of the signatures on a petition attempting to repeal HERO at the ballot were invalid. Today, the jury found evidence of fraud in several of the petitions, supporting the City's dismissal of the signatures in question. It is yet to be determined whether this fraud is sufficient to disqualify the measure from reaching the required signature threshold to place HERO on the ballot.
UPDATE: Seismic Shift Underway as Increasing Number of Alabama Counties Extend Marriage Rights to Couples
WASHINGTON - February 13, 2015 — As of 4:00 p.m. ET on Friday, the Human Rights Campaign has confirmed that a seismic shift in favor of equality is occurring throughout Alabama as 50 counties -- up from 23 yesterday afternoon – are, or will soon, begin to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples. Here is the current state of play across Alabama:
Kate Brown To Be The Nation's First Sitting Openly LGBT Governor
WASHINGTON - February 13, 2014 - Today, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, responded to the news that Oregon Governor John Kitzhaber will resign effective Wednesday, February 18, and be replaced by Secretary of State Kate Brown, who is openly bisexual. HRC President Chad Griffin issued the following statement:
Leading Behavioral Healthcare Provider Teams with Nation's Biggest LGBTQ Rights Group to Support LGBTQ Youth
WASHINGTON - February 13, 2015 - Today, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation announced that it will expand its partnership with Devereux, one of the oldest and largest providers of behavioral healthcare in the nation, to better reach and care for vulnerable lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth.
New Poll Shows Record Support for Marriage Equality
WASHINGTON - February 13, 2015 – Today,the Human Rights Campaign, (HRC), the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, released the results from a new national poll commissioned to gauge voter attitudes ahead of a Supreme Court ruling on marriage equality. The survey showed support for marriage equality continues to expand and that there is virtually no public support for the opponents of marriage equality who have encouraged the public to resist a Supreme Court ruling -- even among voters who oppose marriage equality.
DelBene Introduces Bill to Add LGBT Representation to Veterans Advisory Committee
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) introduced legislation today to reauthorize and expand the Department of Veterans Affairs' Advisory Committee on Minority Veterans to include lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) veterans in its membership and scope.
Federal Judge Instructs Alabama's Mobile County Probate Judge to Issue Marriage Licenses to Same-Sex Couples
(Mobile, AL, February 12, 2015)—Moments ago, United States District Judge Callie V. S. Granade instructed Mobile County Probate Judge Don Davis to begin issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples.
Judge Granade Sends Clear Message: Probate Judges Should Start Issuing Marriage Licenses Immediately
MONTGOMERY - February 12, 2015 —In a federal court hearing in Mobile today, U.S. District Judge Callie V.S. Granade issued an order in favor of several same-sex couples—represented by the National Center for Lesbian Rights, ACLU of Alabama, and private counsel—who tried unsuccessfully to get married in the city earlier this week. Probate Judge Don Davis, who has refused to issue licenses to any couples since Monday, was cited by Granade for failing to follow the law.
Calling the Question: Is the Mormon Church Behind a Racist, Anti-Semitic and Anti-LGBT Bill?
Washington - February 12, 2015 - Today, the Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, strongly condemned an extreme anti-equality bill introduced in the Utah House of Representatives and questioned whether the Mormon church is behind the bill. Geared toward undermining equality in a shroud of religious language, HB 322 - the so-called "Religious Liberty Recognition and Protection Act" - was introduced by Rep. LaVar Christensen and is so broad and sweeping that it threatens not just the LGBT community, but women, members of minority faiths and other minority classes.
Won't You Be My Neighbor? Meet Gambian President Jammeh, the Human Rights Violator Just Next Door
WASHINGTON - Fenuary 12, 2015 – This week the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), America's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, ran a full-page advertisement in the local Potomac, MD newspaper The Gazette highlighting the horrific anti-LGBT human rights abuses of Gambian President Yahya Jammeh. Jammeh owns a home in the suburban community that is reported to be worth $3.5 million
Rand Paul, Mike Huckabee to Star in Film Featuring Activist Credited with Uganda's Draconian Anti-LGBT Law
WASHINGTON - February 12, 2015 – Today, the Human Rights Campaign, (HRC), the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, called on Senator Rand Paul and former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee to renounce their participation in an upcoming film featuring notorious anti-LGBT extremist Scott Lively.
More Alabama Counties Following the Law, But 44 Still Refusing to Issue Marriage Licenses
WASHINGTON - February 11, 2015 —The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) is demanding that all Alabama probate judges follow the law and issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples after learning Wednesday that 44 counties are still refusing to grant licenses to same-sex couples.
NCLR and ACLU of Alabama Applaud President Obama's Support For Marriage Equality in Alabama
(Washington, DC., February 10, 2015)—Today, in an interview with BuzzFeed, President Obama stated that he would welcome a ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court that same-sex couples have the freedom to marry in every state, stating: "It's time to recognize that under the equal protection clause of the United States Constitution, same-sex couples should have the same rights as anybody else."
LGBT Youth Deserve Fairness and Equality at School
WASHINGTON February 10, 2015 - Today, the Student Non-Discrimination Act - a bill that would prohibit public schools from discriminating against any student on the basis of actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity - was reintroduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Reps. Jared Polis (D-CO), Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), and Bobby Scott (D-VA) and in the U.S. Senate by Sen. Al Franken (D-MN). With LGBT youth twice as likely to experience verbal harassment, exclusion, and physical attack at school as their non-LGBT peers, the Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, praised the bill as a critical step towards ending harassment and discrimination of LGBT youth.
Senator Cruz and Rep. Weber Re-Introduce Shameful Legislation To Strip Federal Recognition of Married Same-Sex Couples
WASHINGTON - February 10, 2015 - Today, U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) and U.S. Representative Randy Weber, Sr. (R-TX) reintroduced the so-called State Marriage Defense Act which would require the federal government to recognize only marriages that are valid under the laws of the state in which a couple are domiciled. The Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, strongly condemned the legislation as a reckless and irresponsible attack on same-sex couples and their families.
Kansas Governor Brownback Shamefully Removes Non-Discrimination Protections for LGBT State Employees
Washington February 10, 2015 - Today, the Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, responded to the news that Kansas Governor Sam Brownback rescinded an executive order signed by former Governor Kathleen Sebelius in 2007 that extended non-discrimination protections to state employees on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. HRC National Field Director Marty Rouse issued the following statemen
GLSEN Statement on the Reintroduction of the Student Non-Discrimination Act by Sen. Franken and Rep. Polis
NEW YORK (Feb. 10, 2015) – GLSEN Executive Director, Dr. Eliza Byard, applauded the reintroduction of the Student Non-Discrimination Act (SNDA) in Congress today. Sen. Al Franken, D-Minn., and Rep. Jared Polis, D-Colo., filed the bill that would protect lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) students from discrimination in the nation's K-12 public schools by establishing new federal non-discrimination protections modeled after Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. The bill is co-sponsored in the House by Reps. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, R-Fla., and Bobby Scott, D-Va.
HRC Condemns Urban Outfitters' Latest Offense: Peddling Tapestry with Nazi-Era Anti-Gay Imagery
WASHINGTON -February 10, 2015 - Today, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) joined the Anti-Defamation League in calling out retailer Urban Outfitters for selling a striped tapestry featuring a single pink triangle, an unmistakable echo of uniforms Nazis issued to suspected gay male concentration camp prisoners.
New Jersey Judge Rules Conversion Therapy Group Can't Claim Homosexuality is a Disorder
JERSEY CITY, N.J. - February 10, 2015 – A New Jersey Superior Court judge has ruled that misrepresenting that homosexuality is a disorder in marketing conversion therapy services violates the state's consumer protection laws – a devastating ruling for the conversion therapy industry, which claims to "convert" people from gay to straight, the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) announced today.
As More Alabama Probate Judges Start Issuing Marriage Licenses, HRC Urges Others to Follow the Law
WASHINGTON - February 10, 2015 —As probate judges in ten counties began issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples on Tuesday after failing to do so on Monday, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) calls on all remaining judges to follow the rule of law and ignore Justice Roy Moore's attempts at judicial fiat.
Federal Judge Schedules Thursday Hearing to Decide Whether to Order Alabama's Mobile County Probate Judge to Issue Marri
Mobile, AL, February 10, 2015)—Moments ago, United States District Judge Callie V. S. Granade granted the request of four Mobile County same-sex couples to add Mobile County Probate Judge Don Davis as a defendant in a lawsuit in which Judge Granade previously struck down Alabama's marriage equality ban as violating the federal Constitution. Judge Granade scheduled a hearing for this Thursday, February 12, 2015, at 1:00 PM CT in the U.S. Courthouse, Courtroom 2B, 113 St. Joseph Street, Mobile, Alabama 36602.
Human Rights Campaign Calls on Americans to Sign the People's Brief
WASHINGTON - February 10, 2015 – Today, the Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization launched an unprecedented "People's Brief" to the U.S. Supreme Court. Roberta Kaplan, the leading civil rights litigator who won a landmark Supreme Court ruling in United States v. Windsor striking down Section 3 of the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act in 2013, is the author and lead counsel on the brief. The "People's Brief" campaign allows any American who has read the brief and agrees with its contents to sign on and to show their support for marriage equality directly to the Supreme Court.
Alabama Same-Sex Couples Ask Federal Court To Require Probate Judge To Issue Marriage Licenses
(Mobile, AL, February 9, 2015)—Today, four same-sex couples in Mobile, AL asked United States District Judge Callie V. S. Granade to instruct Mobile County Probate Judge Don Davis to issue them marriage licenses after Davis stopped issuing marriage licenses entirely today rather than issue licenses to same-sex couples as Judge Granade previously ordered
Same-Sex Couples Can Now Marry in Alabama
(Mobile, AL, February 9, 2015)—Today, Alabama becomes the nation’s 38th state to honor the freedom to marry after a federal district court struck down the state’s marriage equality ban and ordered marriage equality to begin this morning.
SCOTUS Sez: That's All, Folks
WASHINGTON - February 9, 2015 —Today the U.S. Supreme Court denied a request by Alabama state officials to stay a recent ruling striking down the state's ban on marriage equality.
DISCRIMINATION BY ANOTHER NAME: Advocates Sound Alarm on Wave of New State Bills
WASHINGTON- February 6, 2015 —Today the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) issued a report and resource guide for journalists compiling more than two dozen new, sweeping and seemingly-coordinated pieces of legislation in more than a dozen states across the country—all geared toward undermining LGBT equality in a shroud of religious language.
HRC to Probate Judges: Ignore Lawless Moore, Follow the Constitution, Issue Licenses
MONTGOMERY - February 8, 2015 —Late this evening, in clear violation of all codes of legal ethics, boundaries of jurisdiction, and moral decency, Chief Justice of the Alabama Supreme Court Roy Moore issued an order commanding all probate judges in the state to refuse to issue marriage licenses to committed and loving same-sex couples tomorrow.
Health
CDC Statement on IPERGAY Trial of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV Prevention among Men Who Have Sex with Men
February 24, 2015 - Today at the Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI), the French national HIV research agency ANRS announced results of the IPERGAY trial, which examined a novel dosing strategy for pre-exposure prophylaxis, or PrEP, among men who have sex with men (MSM). The study evaluated a three-day PrEP regimen of tenofovir plus emtricitabine (brand name Truvada) designed to be taken orally before and after sex. The researchers reported that PrEP reduced HIV risk among the MSM who were prescribed this regimen by an average of 86 percent.
9 in 10 new U.S. HIV infections come from people not receiving HIV care
February 23, 2015- More than 90 percent of new HIV infections in the United States could be averted by diagnosing people living with HIV and ensuring they receive prompt, ongoing care and treatment. This finding was published today in JAMA Internal Medicine by researchers at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Taking Care of Others (And Yourself)
My elderly parents live in El Centro. So far, they've been okay, but lately my dad's health is shaky and my mom's mental state isn't the greatest. I am the only child who lives nearby.
Wellness Meets Oscar On The Red Carpet
It's time for the 2015 Academy Awards and I've honored all the best picture nominations. Enjoy this metaphorical montage of these masterful movies meant to motivate you to healthiness and happiness.
Letters, Columnists and Opinion
Michael Dithers
Wedding officiant directory published, LGBT Roundtable, Drenched Fur events and new kitties!
Loss of a pioneer
From Philadelphia Gay News: My friend Jerry Hoose died last week. You most likely don't know the name, but he affected your life; he certainly affected mine.
The Amazon Trail: Staying Home
We are not traveling this year. Definitely, positively, no ifs ands or buts. No one can make me.
Is Anyone in Charge in Alabama?
WASHINGTON- February 9, 2015 —After staying silent all morning—and tolerating Chief Justice Roy Moore's lawless rampage against marriage equality over the past few days—Alabama Governor Robert Bentley has issued a statement . What does it say? Nothing. Nothing coherent, anyway.
Rubyfruit Jungle by Rita Mae Brown to win 2015 Lee Lynch Classic Award
DALLAS, TX, Feb. 3, 2015 – Golden Crown Literary Society (GCLS) is pleased to announce that Rubyfruit Jungle by bestselling author Rita Mae Brown (Bantam Press) has been selected as the 2015 winner of the coveted Lee Lynch Classic Book Award. The award will be presented at the Annual GCLS Literary Awards Ceremony, July 25, 2015 in New Orleans, during the GCLS Annual Literary Conference.
Contests
Enter to win an Into The Woods Blu-ray™ Combo Pack!
Enter to win an Into The Woods Blu-ray™ Combo Pack! Into The Woods. From the director of Chicago and the producer of Wicked comes a modern twist on the beloved fairy tales you thought you knew. Iconic characters, such as Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk and Rapunzel, find their fates intertwined with a humble baker and his wife, whose longing to have a child sends them on a quest to reverse a witch's curse. To enter the contest, fill out the form here between March 20 and April 10.
Enter to win BOYSTOWN by Jake Biondi
Enter to win BOYSTOWN by Jake Biondi. To enter the contest, fill out the form here between March 20 and April 10.
Enter to win Finding Pluck by Peter Difatta
Enter to win Finding Pluck, the William Faulkner Award Winning novel by Peter Difatta. To enter the contest, fill out the form here between March 17 and March 31.
Win The Human Agenda by Joe Wenke!
Win Quentin Tarantino FAQ by Dale Sherman from Applause Books!
Win Quentin Tarantino FAQ by Dale Sherman from Applause Books! To enter the contest, fill out the form here between March 10 and March 31.
Enter to win Rebel Heart from Madonna!
Enter to win Rebel Heart from Madonna! REBEL HEART Available March 10: http://smarturl.it/RebelHeart. The brand-new album from global superstar MADONNA, Featuring the hit single "Living For Love," "Ghosttown," "Unapologetic Bitch" and "Bitch I'm Madonna" feat. Nicki Minaj. See Madonna live on the 'Rebel Heart’ Tour! For complete tour and ticket information, visit: http://www.madonna.com and http://www.livenation.com #RebelHeartTour. To enter the contest, fill out the form here between March 6 and March 27.
Enter to win Piece By Piece from Kelly Clarkson!
Enter to win Piece By Piece from Kelly Clarkson! Piece By Piece, the new album from global superstar KELLY CLARKSON. Featuring the hit single "Heartbeat Song" Available Everywhere NOW: http://smarturl.it/PxPiT To enter the contest, fill out the form here between March 6 and March 27!
Win Deeper Dating: How to Drop the Games of Seduction and Discover the Power of Intimacy By Ken Page, LCSW
Win Deeper Dating: How to Drop the Games of Seduction and Discover the Power of Intimacy By Ken Page, LCSW! To enter the contest, fill out the form here between March 3 and March 24.
Win Time on Two Crosses: The Collected Writings of Bayard Rustin from Cleis Press!
Win Time on Two Crosses: The Collected Writings of Bayard Rustin from Cleis Press! To enter the contest, fill out the form here between February 27 and March 20. The book includes a foreword by Barack Obama and afterword by Barney Frank.
Win Wanted On Voyage vinyl record by George Ezra
Win Wanted On Voyage vinyl record by George Ezra! To enter the contest, fill out the form here between February 24 and March 17.
Miscellaneous
Wedding Officiant Directory
Marriage equality became the law in Pennsylvania in May 2014.
But same-sex couples who wish to wed may still may face prejudice. The number of churches that will allow their clergy to conduct same-sex weddings is still small. And a judge may refuse to perform a ceremony.
This listing was inspired in large part by an incident last fall, when an Erie district justice turned away a same-sex couple on their wedding day. We wanted to provide a resource where couples did not have to risk feeling the sting of prejudice on their special day.
All of the officiants in this listing have contacted us and specifically stated that they want to be included.
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