GAY IE ISSUES
West Hollywood to honor marriages with plaque
The Los Angeles Times reports that a plaque honoring same-sex marriages will be installed in a park in West Hollywood.
The plaque will be unveiled at a City Council meeting on Sept. 8 and installed at West Hollywood Park off North San Vicente Boulevard. The park was the site of same-sex weddings on June 17, 2008, the first full day that the marriages were allowed. The legal weddings ended in November 2008 after the passage of Prop 8.
The bronze marker will be inscribed with a Nelson Mandela quote: "I am not truly free if I am taking away someone else's freedom, just as surely as I am not free when my freedom is taken from me. The oppressed and the oppressor alike are robbed of their humanity."
Friday, August 21, 2009
Thursday, August 20, 2009
GAY IE ISSUES
Marriage campaign calling, canvassing dates in IE
Help to win marriage rights back by volunteering to talk with voters in the Inland Empire. Training and materials are provided.
Equality California has organized volunteer events for these dates:
Calling volunteers:
WHEN: 6-9 p.m. Wednesdays
WHERE: United Church of Christ, 168 Bellevue Ave., Redlands
(Volunteers are asked to bring a cell phone.)
Canvassing door-to-door:
WHEN: 9:30 a.m-1:30 p.m. Saturdays, Aug. 22, Sept. 5 and 12
WHERE: United Church of Christ, 168 Bellevue Ave., Redlands
Recruit volunteers:
WHEN: 6-9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 29, and Saturday, Sept. 12
WHERE: Pomona Art Walk, 200 W. Second St., Pomona
INFO: http://www.eqca.org/site/pp.asp?c=kuLRJ9MRKrH&b=5174069
Marriage campaign calling, canvassing dates in IE
Help to win marriage rights back by volunteering to talk with voters in the Inland Empire. Training and materials are provided.
Equality California has organized volunteer events for these dates:
Calling volunteers:
WHEN: 6-9 p.m. Wednesdays
WHERE: United Church of Christ, 168 Bellevue Ave., Redlands
(Volunteers are asked to bring a cell phone.)
Canvassing door-to-door:
WHEN: 9:30 a.m-1:30 p.m. Saturdays, Aug. 22, Sept. 5 and 12
WHERE: United Church of Christ, 168 Bellevue Ave., Redlands
Recruit volunteers:
WHEN: 6-9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 29, and Saturday, Sept. 12
WHERE: Pomona Art Walk, 200 W. Second St., Pomona
INFO: http://www.eqca.org/site/pp.asp?c=kuLRJ9MRKrH&b=5174069
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
GAY IE ENTERTAINMENT
Actor talks about the gay scene in "Mad Men"
Salatore Romano, a Madison Avenue ad agency artist, is stepping out out of the closet in the season premiere of "Mad Men" with an encounter with a hotel bellhop. Here's an interview from New York magazine's Vulture with the actor who plays Romano, Bryan Batt.
http://nymag.com/daily/entertainment/2009/08/mad_mens_bryan_batt_aka_salvat.html
Actor talks about the gay scene in "Mad Men"
Salatore Romano, a Madison Avenue ad agency artist, is stepping out out of the closet in the season premiere of "Mad Men" with an encounter with a hotel bellhop. Here's an interview from New York magazine's Vulture with the actor who plays Romano, Bryan Batt.
http://nymag.com/daily/entertainment/2009/08/mad_mens_bryan_batt_aka_salvat.html
Monday, August 17, 2009
GAY IE ISSUES
In the news: Surveys on athletes, mental health
Results of twosurveys made the news recently:
--A survey of college football players finds that 49.4 percent said they believe they have at least one gay teammate. Read more about it here: http://www.edgelosangeles.com/index.php?ch=news&sc=&sc2=&sc3=&id=95130
--The California Health Interview Survey found 48.5 percent of gays, lesbians and bisexuals received mental health or substance abuse treatment in the past year, compared to 22.5 percent of the heterosexual population. More: http://www.edgelosangeles.com/index.php?ch=health_fitness&sc=health&sc2=&sc3=&id=95047
In the news: Surveys on athletes, mental health
Results of twosurveys made the news recently:
--A survey of college football players finds that 49.4 percent said they believe they have at least one gay teammate. Read more about it here: http://www.edgelosangeles.com/index.php?ch=news&sc=&sc2=&sc3=&id=95130
--The California Health Interview Survey found 48.5 percent of gays, lesbians and bisexuals received mental health or substance abuse treatment in the past year, compared to 22.5 percent of the heterosexual population. More: http://www.edgelosangeles.com/index.php?ch=health_fitness&sc=health&sc2=&sc3=&id=95047
GAY IE RESOURCES
Gay center opens in downtown Pomona
A new gay and lesbian community center, the LGBT Center of Power, has opened in downtown Pomona.
In an article in the Inland Valley Daily Bulletin, Leah Horowitz said she came up with the idea for the center as a project for a class. She attends Western University in Pomona. The owner of the Pomona gay nightclub The Brick donated space and money to get the center started.
Horowitz is acting as director of program development for the center. She claimed that the center is the "only comprehensive LGBT center within a 30-mile radius of Pomona."
She said that there are between 30,000 and 140,000 gays and lesbians within 15 miles of the non-profit center which offers information on health, legal issues, nutrition, careers and education. It also offers referrals, career assistance, Internet access and volunteer opportunities.
In the future the center could offer counseling, support groups, youth outreach and a speakers bureau.
LGBT Center of Power
WHERE: 340 S. Thomas Road, Pomona
WHEN: 3 to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday
Gay center opens in downtown Pomona
A new gay and lesbian community center, the LGBT Center of Power, has opened in downtown Pomona.
In an article in the Inland Valley Daily Bulletin, Leah Horowitz said she came up with the idea for the center as a project for a class. She attends Western University in Pomona. The owner of the Pomona gay nightclub The Brick donated space and money to get the center started.
Horowitz is acting as director of program development for the center. She claimed that the center is the "only comprehensive LGBT center within a 30-mile radius of Pomona."
She said that there are between 30,000 and 140,000 gays and lesbians within 15 miles of the non-profit center which offers information on health, legal issues, nutrition, careers and education. It also offers referrals, career assistance, Internet access and volunteer opportunities.
In the future the center could offer counseling, support groups, youth outreach and a speakers bureau.
LGBT Center of Power
WHERE: 340 S. Thomas Road, Pomona
WHEN: 3 to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday
Saturday, August 15, 2009
GAY IE TV:
“Project Runway" returns to the tube
It seems so long ago since we said Auf Wiedersehen to “Project Runway,” but the wait for the next season of the gay fav “Project Runway” will be over on Thursday, Aug. 20, when the show returns.
Season 6 will make it work on the Lifetime after the cable network finally cleared up legal troubles with the show’s former home, Bravo, and the show’s producer, The Weinstein Brothers. "Project Runway" will be followed by the new 30-minute show "Models of the Runway."
It will be a big evening for "Project Runway" fans:
8 p.m. "Project Runway All-Star Challenge" special
10 p.m. "Project Runway" season 6 premiere
11 p.m. "Models of the Runway" series premiere
And we may not have to wait so long for Season 7 – it could be shot later this year.
Here's an interview from EDGE with contestant Johnny Sakalis, of West Hollywood:
http://www.edgelosangeles.com/index.php?ch=entertainment&sc=television&sc2=&sc3=&id=94967
“Project Runway" returns to the tube
It seems so long ago since we said Auf Wiedersehen to “Project Runway,” but the wait for the next season of the gay fav “Project Runway” will be over on Thursday, Aug. 20, when the show returns.
Season 6 will make it work on the Lifetime after the cable network finally cleared up legal troubles with the show’s former home, Bravo, and the show’s producer, The Weinstein Brothers. "Project Runway" will be followed by the new 30-minute show "Models of the Runway."
It will be a big evening for "Project Runway" fans:
8 p.m. "Project Runway All-Star Challenge" special
10 p.m. "Project Runway" season 6 premiere
11 p.m. "Models of the Runway" series premiere
And we may not have to wait so long for Season 7 – it could be shot later this year.
Here's an interview from EDGE with contestant Johnny Sakalis, of West Hollywood:
http://www.edgelosangeles.com/index.php?ch=entertainment&sc=television&sc2=&sc3=&id=94967
GAY IE EVENTS
Artists can reserve space at Riverside-IE Pride
Painters, photographers and sculptors have the opportunity to exhibit and sell their art work at the Riverside-IE Pride to be held Saturday, Oct. 10, at White Park in Riverside.
The charge is $75 for a 5' by 5' exhibit space at the festival's arts tent. Work will be displayed from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. is $75. Deadline for reserving a space is Sept. 18.
INFO: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=117366594053
Artists can reserve space at Riverside-IE Pride
Painters, photographers and sculptors have the opportunity to exhibit and sell their art work at the Riverside-IE Pride to be held Saturday, Oct. 10, at White Park in Riverside.
The charge is $75 for a 5' by 5' exhibit space at the festival's arts tent. Work will be displayed from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. is $75. Deadline for reserving a space is Sept. 18.
INFO: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=117366594053
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
GAY IE ISSUES
EQ CA wants to wait until 2012 for marriage vote
California Equality, one of the leading groups working to restore marriage equality in California, has determined that it's best to bypass the 2010 election and work toward getting out the vote in 2012 (a presidential election year).
Read California Equality's full report on Winning Back Marriage Equality here:
http://www.eqca.org/atf/cf/%7B34f258b3-8482-4943-91cb-08c4b0246a88%7D/EQCA-WINNING_BACK_MARRIAGE_EQUALITY.PDF
EQ CA wants to wait until 2012 for marriage vote
California Equality, one of the leading groups working to restore marriage equality in California, has determined that it's best to bypass the 2010 election and work toward getting out the vote in 2012 (a presidential election year).
Read California Equality's full report on Winning Back Marriage Equality here:
http://www.eqca.org/atf/cf/%7B34f258b3-8482-4943-91cb-08c4b0246a88%7D/EQCA-WINNING_BACK_MARRIAGE_EQUALITY.PDF
Monday, August 10, 2009
GAY IE ENTERTAINMENT
'Brokeback Mountain' shirts on display in LA
No one who saw the movie "Brokeback Mountain" could forget the image at the end of the film of the intertwined shirts worn by Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal.
Now the shirts are on display at the Autry National Center of the American West in Los Angeles. The shirts are part of an exhibit in the Contemporary Westerns case in the museum's Imagination Gallery.
"Brokeback Mountain," released in 2005, is the story of a relationship between two cowboys . It's based on a short story by E. Annie Proulx from her book "Close Range: Wyoming Stories." The film won an Academy Award for Best Director for Ang Lee.
In the movie, Ennis Del Mar (played by Ledger) saves the shirts as a keepsake of the relationship he's had with Jack Twist (Gyllenhaal).
According to the museum, the shirts are on loan from collector and producer Tom Gregory. He reportedly bought the shirts for $101,00 at auction in 2006.
The Autry is working to house the achieves of the International Gay Rodeo Association. The museum is also planning a panel on what it means to be gay in the West. It's all part of the Autry's effort to study LGBT advancements in the West.
'Brokeback Mountain' shirts on display in LA
No one who saw the movie "Brokeback Mountain" could forget the image at the end of the film of the intertwined shirts worn by Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal.
Now the shirts are on display at the Autry National Center of the American West in Los Angeles. The shirts are part of an exhibit in the Contemporary Westerns case in the museum's Imagination Gallery.
"Brokeback Mountain," released in 2005, is the story of a relationship between two cowboys . It's based on a short story by E. Annie Proulx from her book "Close Range: Wyoming Stories." The film won an Academy Award for Best Director for Ang Lee.
In the movie, Ennis Del Mar (played by Ledger) saves the shirts as a keepsake of the relationship he's had with Jack Twist (Gyllenhaal).
According to the museum, the shirts are on loan from collector and producer Tom Gregory. He reportedly bought the shirts for $101,00 at auction in 2006.
The Autry is working to house the achieves of the International Gay Rodeo Association. The museum is also planning a panel on what it means to be gay in the West. It's all part of the Autry's effort to study LGBT advancements in the West.
The Autry Museum is at 4700 Western Heritage Way, Los Angeles.
Saturday, August 8, 2009
GAY IE ISSUES
Gaywheels.com lists most-researched cars
What do gays and lesbians want -- when they buy cars?
Gaywheels.com lists the top 10 most-researched vehicles from the last six months. Users of the gaywheels.com Web site can find which automakers offer domestic partner benefits to employees, plus read reviews of vehicles.
Foreign compact cars are well represented on the list.
Did your car make the list? Here's the top 10:
1. Volkswagen Rabbit
2. Audi R8
3. VW Eos
4. VW Jetta
5. Volvo C30
6. Mercedes-Benz E-Class
7. Saab 9-3Sedan
8. Nissan Quest
9. Toyota Yaris
10. Mazda3
Gaywheels.com lists most-researched cars
What do gays and lesbians want -- when they buy cars?
Gaywheels.com lists the top 10 most-researched vehicles from the last six months. Users of the gaywheels.com Web site can find which automakers offer domestic partner benefits to employees, plus read reviews of vehicles.
Foreign compact cars are well represented on the list.
Did your car make the list? Here's the top 10:
1. Volkswagen Rabbit
2. Audi R8
3. VW Eos
4. VW Jetta
5. Volvo C30
6. Mercedes-Benz E-Class
7. Saab 9-3Sedan
8. Nissan Quest
9. Toyota Yaris
10. Mazda3
Friday, August 7, 2009
GAY IE ISSUES
Poll finds marriage equality gaining supporters
The latest Field Poll of Californians show 49 percent of registered voters favor allowing same sex marriage, 44 percent are opposed. The poll taken in March was released earlier this week.
The poll shows a big shift in attitudes since 1978 when the poll found 62 percent opposed same sex marriage and 31 favored it.
Prop 8 outlawing same sex marriage passed in November 2008 with 52.8 percent of the vote.
Pollsters said the shift toward acceptance of same sex marriage is coming from Democrats and Independents. Republicans remain opposed by a large majority, 68 percent opposed to 23 percent supporting.
Poll finds marriage equality gaining supporters
The latest Field Poll of Californians show 49 percent of registered voters favor allowing same sex marriage, 44 percent are opposed. The poll taken in March was released earlier this week.
The poll shows a big shift in attitudes since 1978 when the poll found 62 percent opposed same sex marriage and 31 favored it.
Prop 8 outlawing same sex marriage passed in November 2008 with 52.8 percent of the vote.
Pollsters said the shift toward acceptance of same sex marriage is coming from Democrats and Independents. Republicans remain opposed by a large majority, 68 percent opposed to 23 percent supporting.
GAY IE ISSUES
Walkers have a hot idea for promoting equality
The New Times in Phoenix, Ariz., reports that six members of Right to Marry: Arizona will walk 97 miles through Phoenix this month to promote marriage equality. Read about it here: http://blogs.phoenixnewtimes.com/valleyfever/2009/08/six_phoenicians_will_walk_97_m.php
Walkers have a hot idea for promoting equality
The New Times in Phoenix, Ariz., reports that six members of Right to Marry: Arizona will walk 97 miles through Phoenix this month to promote marriage equality. Read about it here: http://blogs.phoenixnewtimes.com/valleyfever/2009/08/six_phoenicians_will_walk_97_m.php
Monday, August 3, 2009
GAY IE ENTERTAINMENT
"Laramie Project" Part 2 to be staged in October
The stage play "The Laramie Project" is getting a sequel.
Creators of the play about the 1998 murder of Matthew Shepard, a 21-year-old gay man, are working on an 80-minute epilogue, according to The New York Times. The new play explores the impact of the murder that shocked the nation on the residents of Laramie, Wyo., where Shepard attended college.
"The Laramie Project - 10 Years Later" will open at Lincoln Center in New York City and at up to 100 theaters across the nation on Oct. 12, the 11th anniversary of Shepard's death. The Gay Mens Chorus of Los Angeles is reportedly among the groups that have committed to the project.
Read more about it at:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/04/theater/04theater.html?_r=2
And see a video of some of the project's interviews:
"Laramie Project" Part 2 to be staged in October
The stage play "The Laramie Project" is getting a sequel.
Creators of the play about the 1998 murder of Matthew Shepard, a 21-year-old gay man, are working on an 80-minute epilogue, according to The New York Times. The new play explores the impact of the murder that shocked the nation on the residents of Laramie, Wyo., where Shepard attended college.
"The Laramie Project - 10 Years Later" will open at Lincoln Center in New York City and at up to 100 theaters across the nation on Oct. 12, the 11th anniversary of Shepard's death. The Gay Mens Chorus of Los Angeles is reportedly among the groups that have committed to the project.
Read more about it at:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/04/theater/04theater.html?_r=2
And see a video of some of the project's interviews:
GAY IE ISSUES
What did the marriage summit accomplish?
Read a report from the marriage equality leadership summit, held recently in San Bernardino. Was there progress on deciding when to attempt to repeal Prop 8 or was the meeting "an utter failure"?
http://www.edgelosangeles.com/index.php?ch=news&sc=&sc2=&sc3=&id=94456
What did the marriage summit accomplish?
Read a report from the marriage equality leadership summit, held recently in San Bernardino. Was there progress on deciding when to attempt to repeal Prop 8 or was the meeting "an utter failure"?
http://www.edgelosangeles.com/index.php?ch=news&sc=&sc2=&sc3=&id=94456
GAY IE ENTERTAINMENT
Out "Design Star" competitors talk to EDGE
EDGE contributor Jim Halterman asks: Will the next "Design Star" be gay? And with two out designers on the HGTV reality show, will there be any flirting? Read a Q&A with Nathan Galui and Jason Champion, competitors on the HGTV reality show at http://edgelosangeles.com/index.php?ch=entertainment&sc=television&sc2=&sc3=&id=94480ch=entertainment&sc=television&sc2=&sc3=&id=94480
"Design Star" airs at 10 p.m. Sundays on HGTV.
Out "Design Star" competitors talk to EDGE
EDGE contributor Jim Halterman asks: Will the next "Design Star" be gay? And with two out designers on the HGTV reality show, will there be any flirting? Read a Q&A with Nathan Galui and Jason Champion, competitors on the HGTV reality show at http://edgelosangeles.com/index.php?ch=entertainment&sc=television&sc2=&sc3=&id=94480ch=entertainment&sc=television&sc2=&sc3=&id=94480
"Design Star" airs at 10 p.m. Sundays on HGTV.
GAY IE EVENTS
Legacy Project selects "Choosing Children"
The movie "Choosing Children," a 1984 film that inspired many LGBT people to become parents, is the latest film selected for restoration by the Outfest Legacy Project. The program is a collaboration of the LA gay and lesbian film festival and the UCLA Film and Television Archive to save and preserve LGBT historic films.
In conjunction with the selection, the Legacy Project invites people to share stories about how they choose children at its Web site at http://www.outfest.org/article.php?id_art=105
Other films slated for preservation for 2008-09 are "Queens of the Heart," "One Archive Collection" and "Tom Chomont Collection."
The Legacy Awards, a gala to benefit the project, is scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 30.
Legacy Project selects "Choosing Children"
The movie "Choosing Children," a 1984 film that inspired many LGBT people to become parents, is the latest film selected for restoration by the Outfest Legacy Project. The program is a collaboration of the LA gay and lesbian film festival and the UCLA Film and Television Archive to save and preserve LGBT historic films.
In conjunction with the selection, the Legacy Project invites people to share stories about how they choose children at its Web site at http://www.outfest.org/article.php?id_art=105
Other films slated for preservation for 2008-09 are "Queens of the Heart," "One Archive Collection" and "Tom Chomont Collection."
The Legacy Awards, a gala to benefit the project, is scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 30.
GAY IE PRIDE
Events in Riverside and Palm Springs
The Pride festival season isn't over yet, with the fall events set right in our backyard.
Here are the details:
RIVERSIDE-IE PRIDE FESTIVAL
Planning meetings for the festival are held at 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the Jeffery Owens Community Center.
WHEN: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 10.
WHERE: White Park, 3901 Market St., Riverside
GREATER PALM SPRINGS PRIDE FESTIVAL
WHEN: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 8
WHERE: Palm Springs Baseball Stadium
ADMISSION: $15 each day or $20 for a two-day ticket
PARADE: 10 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 8. , steps off at Alejo Road and goes south on Palm Canyon Drive to Ramon Road
INFO: http://www.pspride.org/
A LITTLE FARTHER AWAY
Rainbows Festival, Phoenix: Oct. 3-4
Pride in the Desert, Tucson, Ariz.: Oct. 9-10
Events in Riverside and Palm Springs
The Pride festival season isn't over yet, with the fall events set right in our backyard.
Here are the details:
RIVERSIDE-IE PRIDE FESTIVAL
Planning meetings for the festival are held at 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the Jeffery Owens Community Center.
WHEN: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 10.
WHERE: White Park, 3901 Market St., Riverside
GREATER PALM SPRINGS PRIDE FESTIVAL
WHEN: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 8
WHERE: Palm Springs Baseball Stadium
ADMISSION: $15 each day or $20 for a two-day ticket
PARADE: 10 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 8. , steps off at Alejo Road and goes south on Palm Canyon Drive to Ramon Road
INFO: http://www.pspride.org/
A LITTLE FARTHER AWAY
Rainbows Festival, Phoenix: Oct. 3-4
Pride in the Desert, Tucson, Ariz.: Oct. 9-10
Sunday, August 2, 2009
GAY IE EVENTS
Palm Springs film festival announces screenings
WHEN: Sept. 24-27
WHERE: Camelot Theatre, 2300 E. Baristo Road, Palm Springs
ADMISSION: 1 p.m. screenings $10; 4 and 7 p.m. screenings $12. Opening night screening and official opening night party $75; closing night screening and official closing night party $25. Tickets and passes go on sale July 1 and can be purchased at the Camelot box office or call 760-325-6565
INFO: http://www.cinemadiverse.ning.com/
BUY GROCERIES, HELP OUTFEST
Helping gay cinema is as easy as buying groceries – almost.
Outfest, the Los Angeles gay and lesbian film festival, will benefit every time you shop at Ralphs if you register your Rewards card with the grocery chain’s Web site. Then sign up for the store’s Community Contribution Program and indicate Outfest as the organization to benefit. When you use your card at the store a percentage of the purchase is donated to Outfest.
Details on the program are on the Outfest Web site at http://www.outfest.org/affinity.html
Palm Springs film festival announces screenings
A series of weekly film screenings in September will lead up to this year's Cinema Diverse, the gay and lesbian film festival in Palm Springs.
SEPTEMBER FILM SERIES
Thursday, Sept. 3: "The Ritz," starring Kaye Ballard, Jack Weston, Rita Moreno, Herry Stiller and Treat Williams.
Thursday, Sept. 10: "Waiting for Guffman"
Thursday, Sept. 17: "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas"
CINEMA DIVERSE: THE PALM SPRINGS GAY & LESBIAN FILM FESTIVAL
The second year for Cinema Diverse presented by the Palm Springs Cultural Center promises 17 programs – features, documentaries and shorts.
WHEN: Sept. 24-27
WHERE: Camelot Theatre, 2300 E. Baristo Road, Palm Springs
ADMISSION: 1 p.m. screenings $10; 4 and 7 p.m. screenings $12. Opening night screening and official opening night party $75; closing night screening and official closing night party $25. Tickets and passes go on sale July 1 and can be purchased at the Camelot box office or call 760-325-6565
INFO: http://www.cinemadiverse.ning.com/
BUY GROCERIES, HELP OUTFEST
Helping gay cinema is as easy as buying groceries – almost.
Outfest, the Los Angeles gay and lesbian film festival, will benefit every time you shop at Ralphs if you register your Rewards card with the grocery chain’s Web site. Then sign up for the store’s Community Contribution Program and indicate Outfest as the organization to benefit. When you use your card at the store a percentage of the purchase is donated to Outfest.
Details on the program are on the Outfest Web site at http://www.outfest.org/affinity.html
GAY IE AIDS WALKS:
Inland Empire AIDS Walk is Oct. 3
Here’s the schedule for AIDS Walks scheduled for Southern California.
INLAND EMPIRE
The goal for 2009 is $25,000.
WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 3
WHERE: Fairmount Park, 2601 Fairmount, Riverside
INFO: http://www.inlandaidsproject.org/
LOS ANGELES
AIDS Walk LA has raised $59 million for HIV programs and services in LA County since 1985.
WHEN: Oct. 18
INFO: www.aidswalk.net/losangeles
PALM SPRINGS
WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 31; 7:30 a.m. registration, 8 a.m. presentation, 9:30 a.m. walk steps off
WHERE: Ruth Hardy Park, corner of Tamarisk and Avenida Caballeros, Palm Springs. The 2-mile walk will go through the Movie Colony area of town.
NOTES:
--Yes, the walk is on Halloween, and participants are encouraged to wear costumes.
--Pets on leashes are permitted on the walk.
--Lunch and entertainment will be provided following completed walk.
--Walkers receive a T-shirt, water bottle and bag with a minimum $25 donation; plus a journal and pen with a $150 or more donation; plus a pedometer with a $500 or more donation; plus a Sunday brunch invitation with a $1,000 donation.
INFO: http://www.desertaidsproject.org/aidswalk/index.php
SAN DIEGO
5K walk and 10K USA Track and Field sanctioned run
WHEN: 8 p.m. Sept. 27
WHERE: Balboa Park
INFO: http://www.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=312098
Inland Empire AIDS Walk is Oct. 3
Here’s the schedule for AIDS Walks scheduled for Southern California.
INLAND EMPIRE
The goal for 2009 is $25,000.
WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 3
WHERE: Fairmount Park, 2601 Fairmount, Riverside
INFO: http://www.inlandaidsproject.org/
LOS ANGELES
AIDS Walk LA has raised $59 million for HIV programs and services in LA County since 1985.
WHEN: Oct. 18
INFO: www.aidswalk.net/losangeles
PALM SPRINGS
WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 31; 7:30 a.m. registration, 8 a.m. presentation, 9:30 a.m. walk steps off
WHERE: Ruth Hardy Park, corner of Tamarisk and Avenida Caballeros, Palm Springs. The 2-mile walk will go through the Movie Colony area of town.
NOTES:
--Yes, the walk is on Halloween, and participants are encouraged to wear costumes.
--Pets on leashes are permitted on the walk.
--Lunch and entertainment will be provided following completed walk.
--Walkers receive a T-shirt, water bottle and bag with a minimum $25 donation; plus a journal and pen with a $150 or more donation; plus a pedometer with a $500 or more donation; plus a Sunday brunch invitation with a $1,000 donation.
INFO: http://www.desertaidsproject.org/aidswalk/index.php
SAN DIEGO
5K walk and 10K USA Track and Field sanctioned run
WHEN: 8 p.m. Sept. 27
WHERE: Balboa Park
INFO: http://www.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=312098
GAY IE EVENTS:
Anaheim Gay Days Oct. 2-4
Save the Date -- you’ve got time to find a red shirt to wear to Gay Days at Disneyland, set for Oct. 2-4 at the park in Anaheim.
The schedule looks like this:
---The Wonderland bash benefiting The Trevor Project from 9:30 p.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 2.
--On Oct. 3, it’s Gay Day at Disneyland, then the Kingdom party from 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. at the House of Blues in Downtown Disney.
--On Oct. 4, the party moves to California Adventure. The weekend ends with Gay at the Grand, a free gathering at the Hearthstone Lounge at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel.
The Trillium Room at the hotel serves as Gay Days , a place to buy the event’s official red T-shirt or check out vendors.
Gay Days isn’t sponsored by Disneyland, and the park is open to the general public, so those T-shirts serve to identify the Gay Day participants.
INFO: http://www.gaydaysanheim.com/. The Web site has information about discounted hotel rooms are available and even an on-line Gay Days souvenir store.
GET READY: “Queens of the Kingdom” is an updated and expanded guide to Disney parks.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
GAY IE ISSUES
Remembering the 40th anniversary of Stonewall
As the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots are observed on June 28, here are a couple of resources commemorating the event.
AARP, the organization for the 50-plus crowd, has established a Web site that people of any age will find interesting: http://www.aarp.org/makeadifference/advocacy/stonewall_40th_anniversary/
And here's a bit of a commentary from the Comment Factory:
40-year ‘Stonewall’ Anniversary: What we can learn from the gay rights pioneers, by Simon Hall:
At a time when many battles remain to be fought and victories won, and when everyday life for LGBT people in so many countries is marred by fear and violence, it is entirely fitting that we should remember with pride the activists of June 1969 and salute their courage, draw on their example, and celebrate too the considerable progress made these past 40 years.
MORE: http://www.thecommentfactory.com/40-year-stonewall-anniversary-what-we-can-learn-from-the-gay-rights-pioneers-2256
Remembering the 40th anniversary of Stonewall
As the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots are observed on June 28, here are a couple of resources commemorating the event.
AARP, the organization for the 50-plus crowd, has established a Web site that people of any age will find interesting: http://www.aarp.org/makeadifference/advocacy/stonewall_40th_anniversary/
And here's a bit of a commentary from the Comment Factory:
40-year ‘Stonewall’ Anniversary: What we can learn from the gay rights pioneers, by Simon Hall:
At a time when many battles remain to be fought and victories won, and when everyday life for LGBT people in so many countries is marred by fear and violence, it is entirely fitting that we should remember with pride the activists of June 1969 and salute their courage, draw on their example, and celebrate too the considerable progress made these past 40 years.
MORE: http://www.thecommentfactory.com/40-year-stonewall-anniversary-what-we-can-learn-from-the-gay-rights-pioneers-2256
GAY IE ISSUES
Project Pushback winners named
"Family Values," a one-minute film by LA filmmaker Andrew Putschoegl, has been named winner of Project Pushback, the contest for videos promoting marriage equality sponsored by the LA Gay & Lesbian Center.
Putschoegel made the video about his housemates' family -- married men with two children. The story is narrated by the children's grandfather. Putschoegl's prize is $2,500.
The People's Choice Award for the film with the most votes from the public went to "Blaire Wedding Project," a spoof of the indie film "Blair Witch Project."
The contest attracted 68 entries and 6,300 votes from the public.
The winning films and nine other contest finalists will be screened during Outfest or can be seen here: http://laglc.convio.net/site/PageServer?pagename=Project_Pushback_Winners
Project Pushback winners named
"Family Values," a one-minute film by LA filmmaker Andrew Putschoegl, has been named winner of Project Pushback, the contest for videos promoting marriage equality sponsored by the LA Gay & Lesbian Center.
Putschoegel made the video about his housemates' family -- married men with two children. The story is narrated by the children's grandfather. Putschoegl's prize is $2,500.
The People's Choice Award for the film with the most votes from the public went to "Blaire Wedding Project," a spoof of the indie film "Blair Witch Project."
The contest attracted 68 entries and 6,300 votes from the public.
The winning films and nine other contest finalists will be screened during Outfest or can be seen here: http://laglc.convio.net/site/PageServer?pagename=Project_Pushback_Winners
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
GAY IE ENTERTAINMENT
Movies to see on DVD
Here’s a roundup of some recent DVD releases of movies that had only limited release in theaters:
“If The World Were Mine”
Here’s a different kind of high school musical. An all-boys prep school gets ready to stage a musical version of Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and outcast gay Timothy lands the role of Puck. But while the show is still in rehearsal Timothy discovers a magic potion and turns just about everyone in town gay, including the high school jock he’s interested in. It’s a fun fantasy that has everyone seeing things from Timothy’s perspective for a change.
“Chris &
Don. A Love Story”
A documentary about a long term gay love story may not sound so interesting, but this film is surprisingly compelling. Don Bachardy narrates the tale of his relationship with Christopher Isherwood, author of “The Berlin Stories,” which inspired the musical “Cabaret.” The men met at Will Rogers beach in 1953 when Don was a teenager and Chris was 30 years older. They stayed together for decades until Isherwood died in 1986. The age difference was one of the challenges to maintaining their relationship depicted here in home movies, interviews and readings. The extras include Bachardy giving a tour of his art-covered home in Santa Monica and his rant on gay marriage.
“The Mulligans”
The production values are first rate, but the script is silly soap opera. The film’s title comes from the golf term mean “do over.” Tyler brings his friend chase to the family lake place for the summer. Soon Chase comes out to his friend, and then there’s a family crisis when Tyler’s father Nathan, an avid golfer, wants a “do over” of his life and acts on his attraction to Chase. In an interesting bit of casting, Nathan’s wife is played by Thea Gill, who starred as one of the lesbians in “Queer As Folk."
Movies to see on DVD
Here’s a roundup of some recent DVD releases of movies that had only limited release in theaters:
“If The World Were Mine”
Here’s a different kind of high school musical. An all-boys prep school gets ready to stage a musical version of Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and outcast gay Timothy lands the role of Puck. But while the show is still in rehearsal Timothy discovers a magic potion and turns just about everyone in town gay, including the high school jock he’s interested in. It’s a fun fantasy that has everyone seeing things from Timothy’s perspective for a change.
“Chris &
Don. A Love Story”A documentary about a long term gay love story may not sound so interesting, but this film is surprisingly compelling. Don Bachardy narrates the tale of his relationship with Christopher Isherwood, author of “The Berlin Stories,” which inspired the musical “Cabaret.” The men met at Will Rogers beach in 1953 when Don was a teenager and Chris was 30 years older. They stayed together for decades until Isherwood died in 1986. The age difference was one of the challenges to maintaining their relationship depicted here in home movies, interviews and readings. The extras include Bachardy giving a tour of his art-covered home in Santa Monica and his rant on gay marriage.
“The Mulligans”
The production values are first rate, but the script is silly soap opera. The film’s title comes from the golf term mean “do over.” Tyler brings his friend chase to the family lake place for the summer. Soon Chase comes out to his friend, and then there’s a family crisis when Tyler’s father Nathan, an avid golfer, wants a “do over” of his life and acts on his attraction to Chase. In an interesting bit of casting, Nathan’s wife is played by Thea Gill, who starred as one of the lesbians in “Queer As Folk."
GAY IE EVENTS
Baby Dragon 180 ride set for Oct. 17-18
If you missed the LifeCycle ride or if the idea of a bike ride from San Francisco to Los Angeles was a little much, here's another opportunity.
The Baby Dragon Ride 180 is a 2-day, 180 mile roundtrip ride Oct. 17-18 between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara.
The ride is limited to 100-150 people who are committed to raising a mininum of $1,000 to benefit the LA Gay & Lesbian Center's mental health services, crystal meth recovery and youth programs.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
GAY IE ENTERTAINMENT
British movie critics like "Bruno"
Sacha Baron Cohen's movie "Bruno" doesn't open in the United States until July 10, but the reviews are starting to come in from Britain, where it premiered this week.
From The Sun:
The film follows the camp presenter’s bid for fame in LA after he is sacked from his beloved fashion show on Austrian TV for bringing a Milan catwalk show to a standstill with his all-in-one Velcro outfit. The scene is utterly brilliant and wipes the smiles from the faces of the snooty fashion world.
MORE: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/showbiz/film/2482727/World-exclusive-review-of-Bruno-movie-starring-Sacha-Baron-Cohen.html
From The Guardian:
Beneath the idiocy, Baron Cohen is also a politically astute agent who's devised an ingenious way to confront and expose serious social issues - and indulge his own exhibitionism. ... Much of it is unavoidably hilarious, but is he lampooning homophobia or perpetuating it?
MORE: http://www.guardian.co.uk/film/2009/jun/17/bruno-review-sacha-baron-cohen
British movie critics like "Bruno"
Sacha Baron Cohen's movie "Bruno" doesn't open in the United States until July 10, but the reviews are starting to come in from Britain, where it premiered this week.
From The Sun:
The film follows the camp presenter’s bid for fame in LA after he is sacked from his beloved fashion show on Austrian TV for bringing a Milan catwalk show to a standstill with his all-in-one Velcro outfit. The scene is utterly brilliant and wipes the smiles from the faces of the snooty fashion world.
MORE: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/showbiz/film/2482727/World-exclusive-review-of-Bruno-movie-starring-Sacha-Baron-Cohen.html
From The Guardian:
Beneath the idiocy, Baron Cohen is also a politically astute agent who's devised an ingenious way to confront and expose serious social issues - and indulge his own exhibitionism. ... Much of it is unavoidably hilarious, but is he lampooning homophobia or perpetuating it?
MORE: http://www.guardian.co.uk/film/2009/jun/17/bruno-review-sacha-baron-cohen
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
GAY IE EVENTS
Redlands event honors same-sex unions
Same-sex marriage may not be legal in California for now -- but some of the couples who were married last year stood up on Wednesday to demonstrate the power of their unions.
The ceremony at the United Church of Christ in Redlands marked the one-year anniversary of the day that the first same-sex marriages were conducted.
"Love is stronger than hate," said the Rev. John Walsh, chaplain at the University of Redlands, who conducted the 30-minute service that included music, scripture and Catholic and Jewish prayers.
Eleven couples stood to have their unions blessed by four clergymen participating in the ceremony. One couple held a toddler wearing a Mickey Mouse shirt. Another couple wore matching Hawaiian shirts. After the blessing about 100 people in attendance stood and applauded.
The couples are among the 18,000 same-sex couples who were married last year before the passage of Proposition 8. That vote was upheld last month by the California Supreme Court, but the same-sex marriages conducted before the vote were ruled valid.
Walsh said the couples represented a "foot in the door" for restoring same-sex marriage rights. "Is there anyone who doesn't think that day is coming?" he asked.
The Redlands event, sponsored by California Faith for Equality and local churches and faith-based leaders in the Inland Empire, was one of several across California.
See PE.com's story previewing the event here: http://www.pe.com/localnews/sbcounty/stories/PE_News_Local_S_marriage17.4bada19.html
Redlands event honors same-sex unions
Same-sex marriage may not be legal in California for now -- but some of the couples who were married last year stood up on Wednesday to demonstrate the power of their unions.
The ceremony at the United Church of Christ in Redlands marked the one-year anniversary of the day that the first same-sex marriages were conducted.
"Love is stronger than hate," said the Rev. John Walsh, chaplain at the University of Redlands, who conducted the 30-minute service that included music, scripture and Catholic and Jewish prayers.
Eleven couples stood to have their unions blessed by four clergymen participating in the ceremony. One couple held a toddler wearing a Mickey Mouse shirt. Another couple wore matching Hawaiian shirts. After the blessing about 100 people in attendance stood and applauded.
The couples are among the 18,000 same-sex couples who were married last year before the passage of Proposition 8. That vote was upheld last month by the California Supreme Court, but the same-sex marriages conducted before the vote were ruled valid.
Walsh said the couples represented a "foot in the door" for restoring same-sex marriage rights. "Is there anyone who doesn't think that day is coming?" he asked.
The Redlands event, sponsored by California Faith for Equality and local churches and faith-based leaders in the Inland Empire, was one of several across California.
See PE.com's story previewing the event here: http://www.pe.com/localnews/sbcounty/stories/PE_News_Local_S_marriage17.4bada19.html
GAY IE ISSUES
Gay partners of federal employees to get benefits;
Obama pledges to work to repeal DOMA
President Barack Obama signed a presidential memorandum on Wednesday to extend some benefits to the gay and lesbian partners of executive branch and foreign service employees.
In his remarks, the president said this was just a first step and promised to work with Congress to overturn the Defense of Marriage Act.
The signing ceremony was conducted in the Oval Office at the White House and broadcast live on some cable news networks.
The memorandum directs Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Director of the Office of Personnel Management John Berry to oversee implementation of the policy.
Berry is the highest-ranking openly gay official in the administration. Clinton announced in May that the U.S. State Department would extend benefits to same-sex partners of diplomats.
Obama's action comes as many gay advocates are expressing disappointment in the administration's lack of progress on repealing the Defense of Marriage Act and Don't Ask, Don't Tell.
Reaction from the Human Rights Campaign:
"We commend President Obama and his administration for taking this beginning step to level the playing field but we look forward to working with him to repeal the Defense of Marriage Act, overturn 'Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell' and guarantee the entire American workforce is free from discrimination.”
Gay partners of federal employees to get benefits;
Obama pledges to work to repeal DOMA
President Barack Obama signed a presidential memorandum on Wednesday to extend some benefits to the gay and lesbian partners of executive branch and foreign service employees.
In his remarks, the president said this was just a first step and promised to work with Congress to overturn the Defense of Marriage Act.
The signing ceremony was conducted in the Oval Office at the White House and broadcast live on some cable news networks.
The memorandum directs Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Director of the Office of Personnel Management John Berry to oversee implementation of the policy.
Berry is the highest-ranking openly gay official in the administration. Clinton announced in May that the U.S. State Department would extend benefits to same-sex partners of diplomats.
Obama's action comes as many gay advocates are expressing disappointment in the administration's lack of progress on repealing the Defense of Marriage Act and Don't Ask, Don't Tell.
Reaction from the Human Rights Campaign:
"We commend President Obama and his administration for taking this beginning step to level the playing field but we look forward to working with him to repeal the Defense of Marriage Act, overturn 'Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell' and guarantee the entire American workforce is free from discrimination.”
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
GAY IE ISSUES
Finally, we know Obama's plan for gay rights!
We've been waiting for President Obama's plan for gay rights...now a new Web site reveals all:
http://www.obamasplanforgayrights.com/
Finally, we know Obama's plan for gay rights!
We've been waiting for President Obama's plan for gay rights...now a new Web site reveals all:
http://www.obamasplanforgayrights.com/
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Friday, June 12, 2009
GAY IE ISSUES
Angry about DOMA? It's time to message Obama
The Action Center at Equality California's Web site makes it fast and easy to express yourself on the issues of the day, including the Obama Administration's defense of the Defense of Marriage Act.
You can register at the Action Center and make your voice heard by sending messages to the White House or lawmakers. The Web site offers message templates that you can send or alter.
Besides messaging Obama on DOMA, you can send messages urging the governor sign the Harvey Milk Day bill or to lawmakers demanding that AIDS healthcare dollars be saved in the state budget.
Obama courted LGBT support during the campaign, but he's been disappointing as president. Now we need to hold him accountable on the issues that matter to the community.
Equality California's Web site is at http://www.eqca.org/
Angry about DOMA? It's time to message Obama
The Action Center at Equality California's Web site makes it fast and easy to express yourself on the issues of the day, including the Obama Administration's defense of the Defense of Marriage Act.You can register at the Action Center and make your voice heard by sending messages to the White House or lawmakers. The Web site offers message templates that you can send or alter.
Besides messaging Obama on DOMA, you can send messages urging the governor sign the Harvey Milk Day bill or to lawmakers demanding that AIDS healthcare dollars be saved in the state budget.
Obama courted LGBT support during the campaign, but he's been disappointing as president. Now we need to hold him accountable on the issues that matter to the community.
Equality California's Web site is at http://www.eqca.org/
Thursday, June 11, 2009
GAY IE
Chastity Bono planning sex change
Chastity Bono is taking steps to become a man, according to reports from TMZ and The Associated Press.
The sex change procedure reportedly began earlier this year and Chastity will be known as Chaz. Bono, 40, come out as a lesbian 20 years ago.
Bono has worked as an LGBT rights advocate, musician and writer. Bono wrote the memoir "Family Outing."
Bono first came to national attention as the child of entertainers Sonny and Cher, appearing on their TV show. Bono's father had a political career as mayor of Palm Springs and Republican congressman from the California district before dying in a skiing accident.
MORE: http://www.tmz.com/2009/06/11/chastity-bono-becoming-a-man-2/?ncid=AOLDSN00290000000010
Chastity Bono planning sex change
Chastity Bono is taking steps to become a man, according to reports from TMZ and The Associated Press.
The sex change procedure reportedly began earlier this year and Chastity will be known as Chaz. Bono, 40, come out as a lesbian 20 years ago.
Bono has worked as an LGBT rights advocate, musician and writer. Bono wrote the memoir "Family Outing."
Bono first came to national attention as the child of entertainers Sonny and Cher, appearing on their TV show. Bono's father had a political career as mayor of Palm Springs and Republican congressman from the California district before dying in a skiing accident.
MORE: http://www.tmz.com/2009/06/11/chastity-bono-becoming-a-man-2/?ncid=AOLDSN00290000000010
GAY IE ENTERTAINMENT
The Advocate lists the best gay blogs
Are you reading one of the best gay blogs? Well, The Advocate has a list of the Top 15 Gay(ish) blogs:
AmericaBlog.com:
Gawker.com
DListed.com
HuffingtonPost.com
Signorile.com
TowleRoad.com
PamsHouseBlend.com
WorldofWonder.net
PerezHilton.com
Rod 2.0
Slog.TheStranger.com
PinkIsTheNewBlog.com
Popnography.com
OhLaLaMag.com
GoodAsYou.org
Find The Advocate's story here: http://www.advocate.com/exclusive_detail_ektid88979.asp
The Advocate lists the best gay blogs
Are you reading one of the best gay blogs? Well, The Advocate has a list of the Top 15 Gay(ish) blogs:
AmericaBlog.com:
Gawker.com
DListed.com
HuffingtonPost.com
Signorile.com
TowleRoad.com
PamsHouseBlend.com
WorldofWonder.net
PerezHilton.com
Rod 2.0
Slog.TheStranger.com
PinkIsTheNewBlog.com
Popnography.com
OhLaLaMag.com
GoodAsYou.org
Find The Advocate's story here: http://www.advocate.com/exclusive_detail_ektid88979.asp
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
GAY IE ISSUES
Miss USA organization tells
Carrie Prejean: "You're fired!"
Carrie Prejean, who spoke against marriage equality at the Miss USA pageant, has been fired as Miss California, according to news reports.
Prejean wasn't released for her political views against same-sex marriage, but because she violated her contract by not getting clearance for some of her activities and for refusing to attend appearances for the pageant organization. Sounds like she got too big for the contest after gaining the national spotlight for her work defending traditional marriage.
You'll remember that Prejean was named runner up for Miss USA after answering celebrity blogger Perez Hilton's question about extending marriage rights. In the firestorm that followed, which included the disclosure of some topless photos, pagaent owner Donald Trump allowed her to retain her crown.
Now obviously he's changed his mind, and the host of "The Apprentice" TV show told Prejean "You're fired!" or at least gave his blessing to her dismissal.
We just wish this would all go away...but expect another round of talk show babble before Prejean's 15 minutes of fame expires.
You can find Prejean's infamous Miss USA appearance elsewhere on this blog.
Miss USA organization tells
Carrie Prejean: "You're fired!"
Carrie Prejean, who spoke against marriage equality at the Miss USA pageant, has been fired as Miss California, according to news reports.
Prejean wasn't released for her political views against same-sex marriage, but because she violated her contract by not getting clearance for some of her activities and for refusing to attend appearances for the pageant organization. Sounds like she got too big for the contest after gaining the national spotlight for her work defending traditional marriage.
You'll remember that Prejean was named runner up for Miss USA after answering celebrity blogger Perez Hilton's question about extending marriage rights. In the firestorm that followed, which included the disclosure of some topless photos, pagaent owner Donald Trump allowed her to retain her crown.
Now obviously he's changed his mind, and the host of "The Apprentice" TV show told Prejean "You're fired!" or at least gave his blessing to her dismissal.
We just wish this would all go away...but expect another round of talk show babble before Prejean's 15 minutes of fame expires.
You can find Prejean's infamous Miss USA appearance elsewhere on this blog.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
GAY IE ENTERTAINMENT
Study finds GLBT community likes blogs
This isn't exactly a news flash to anyone reading this, but gays are more likely than straight people to read blogs. That's according to a national survey conducted by Harris Interactive in May 2009.
The survey found 55 percent of gays and lesbians responding said they read some kind of blog, compared to 38 percent of heterosexuals. The survey didn't speculate as to why gays like blogs so much...maybe it's just that we're on the cutting edge.
What is the GLBT community reading?
--34 percent said they read news and current event blogs, compared to 22 percent of heterosexuals.
--28 percent read political blogs, compared with 14 percent of heterosexuals.
--25 percent read entertainment and pop culture blogs, compared with 15 percent of heterosexuals.
--14 percent read travel blogs, compared with 8 percent of heterosexuals.
The survey found blog reading by GLBTs is increasing, up from 51 percent in March 2008 and 32 percent in November 2006.
The survey found 55 percent of GLBTs belong to Facebook, 23 percent are on LinkedIn and 20 percent are on Twitter.
Study finds GLBT community likes blogs
This isn't exactly a news flash to anyone reading this, but gays are more likely than straight people to read blogs. That's according to a national survey conducted by Harris Interactive in May 2009.
The survey found 55 percent of gays and lesbians responding said they read some kind of blog, compared to 38 percent of heterosexuals. The survey didn't speculate as to why gays like blogs so much...maybe it's just that we're on the cutting edge.
What is the GLBT community reading?
--34 percent said they read news and current event blogs, compared to 22 percent of heterosexuals.
--28 percent read political blogs, compared with 14 percent of heterosexuals.
--25 percent read entertainment and pop culture blogs, compared with 15 percent of heterosexuals.
--14 percent read travel blogs, compared with 8 percent of heterosexuals.
The survey found blog reading by GLBTs is increasing, up from 51 percent in March 2008 and 32 percent in November 2006.
The survey found 55 percent of GLBTs belong to Facebook, 23 percent are on LinkedIn and 20 percent are on Twitter.
GAY IE ENTERTAINMENT
Adam Lambert is out, but he's no hero
He might be out there, but don't look for Adam Lambert to be an advocate for the cause.
“I’m trying to be a singer, not a civil rights leader,” the American Idol runner-up says in an interview in the new edition of Rolling Stone.
In a cover story titled "Wild Idol: The Liberation of Adam Lambert," the glam rocker says he doesn't think his fans should find the news that he's gay shocking. “I don’t think it should be a surprise for anyone to hear that I’m gay.”
During his AI run Lambert never claimed he was straight, but played coy when the gay question came up. He told Rolling Stone contributor Vanessa Grigoriadis that he wanted to wait to talk about it until he could do the interview for the magazine's story. “I’m proud of my sexuality,” Lambert said. “I embrace it. It’s just another part of me.”
Monday, June 8, 2009
GAY IE ISSUES
Media watch: PE covers latest in marriage battle
Check out this story in The Press-Enterprise about the continuing local battle for marriage equality: http://www.pe.com/localnews/inland/stories/PE_News_Local_S_gayrights07.4d093c6.html
Media watch: PE covers latest in marriage battle
Check out this story in The Press-Enterprise about the continuing local battle for marriage equality: http://www.pe.com/localnews/inland/stories/PE_News_Local_S_gayrights07.4d093c6.html
GAY IE ISSUES
New blog covers politics and policy
More evidence of the growing gay voice in the region: There’s a new blog in the IE. Big Gay Empire (gotta love that name) covers politics and policy of interest to the local gay and lesbian community. Immigration inequality, HIV prevention therapy and the continuing fight for marriage equality are among of the topics that get serious consideration.
If what you read on Big Gay Empire causes you to want to take action, there are links to gay groups as well as the White House and Congress. There are also links to some of the community’s most popular blogs (including GAY IE – thanks for the shout-out!).
Find Big Gay Empire in our list of links or at http://www.big-gayempire.blogspot.com/
New blog covers politics and policy
More evidence of the growing gay voice in the region: There’s a new blog in the IE. Big Gay Empire (gotta love that name) covers politics and policy of interest to the local gay and lesbian community. Immigration inequality, HIV prevention therapy and the continuing fight for marriage equality are among of the topics that get serious consideration.
If what you read on Big Gay Empire causes you to want to take action, there are links to gay groups as well as the White House and Congress. There are also links to some of the community’s most popular blogs (including GAY IE – thanks for the shout-out!).
Find Big Gay Empire in our list of links or at http://www.big-gayempire.blogspot.com/
Sunday, June 7, 2009
GAY IE ENTERTAINMENT
Neil Patrick Harris closes down the Tonys
Check out host Neil Patrick Harris's boffo closing number at Sunday night's Tony Awards. Set to "Tonight" from "West Side Story, sample lyrics included "This show could not be any gayer..."
The musical "Billy Elliott" won 10 awards, including honors for the three young lead actors.
Liza Minnelli, whose show "Liza's at the Palace" won a Tony for Best Theatrical Special Event, will perform on July 18 at Morongo Casino in Cabazon and Aug. 28-29 at the Hollywood Bowl.
Check out more on the awards show here: http://www.tonyawards.com/en_US/index.html
Neil Patrick Harris closes down the Tonys
Check out host Neil Patrick Harris's boffo closing number at Sunday night's Tony Awards. Set to "Tonight" from "West Side Story, sample lyrics included "This show could not be any gayer..."
The musical "Billy Elliott" won 10 awards, including honors for the three young lead actors.
Liza Minnelli, whose show "Liza's at the Palace" won a Tony for Best Theatrical Special Event, will perform on July 18 at Morongo Casino in Cabazon and Aug. 28-29 at the Hollywood Bowl.
Check out more on the awards show here: http://www.tonyawards.com/en_US/index.html
Friday, June 5, 2009
GAY IE ENTERTAINMENT
Neil Patrick a bad Tony Awards host? We doubt it
In advance of hosting the Tony Awards, Neil Patrick Harris delivered David Letterman's Top Ten list Thursday night.
The topic: Top 10 signs you've hired a bad Tony Awards host.
The Tony Awards, honoring Broadway's best, will be broadcast at 8 p.m. Sunday, June 7, on CBS.
Neil Patrick a bad Tony Awards host? We doubt it
In advance of hosting the Tony Awards, Neil Patrick Harris delivered David Letterman's Top Ten list Thursday night.
The topic: Top 10 signs you've hired a bad Tony Awards host.
The Tony Awards, honoring Broadway's best, will be broadcast at 8 p.m. Sunday, June 7, on CBS.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
GAY IE ISSUES: Marriage
“I DO” campaign is new sign for equality
“I DO” campaign is new sign for equality
Those who attended rallies protesting the Supreme Court decision on Proposition 8 carried signs that said “I DO Support the Freedom to Marry.” Now those signs, as well as bumper stickers, yard signs, buttons and T shirts are available for purchase. Items range from $3 to $15.
The “I DO” signs represent a new phase in the campaign for marriage rights, replacing No on 8 paraphernalia. “I DO” seems like a more positive message, rather than the double negative of being against a measure that was opposed to marriage rights. Now that’s history and we start the new campaign.
Financial support for the “I Do” campaign and merchandise is provided by Equality California Institute and the National Center for Lesbian Rights.
INFO: at the Let California Ring Web site: http://www.supportido.com/quoti-doquot-merchandise.htmlFinaFina
GAY IE ISSUES: Marriage
Levi's shows support for equality
Manniquins at some Levi’s stores are being outfitting with white knots, a symbol demonstrating support for marriage equality.
Levi’s aren’t exactly fashion forward, but they are a classic. And appealing to the gay market is nothing new for the company that’s been honored by GLAAD for its advertising and efforts to create gay-friendly workplaces.
Levi's shows support for equality
Manniquins at some Levi’s stores are being outfitting with white knots, a symbol demonstrating support for marriage equality.
Levi’s aren’t exactly fashion forward, but they are a classic. And appealing to the gay market is nothing new for the company that’s been honored by GLAAD for its advertising and efforts to create gay-friendly workplaces.
Monday, June 1, 2009
GAY IE ISSUES: Marriage
Support from, of all people, Dick Cheney!
See former vice president Dick Cheney speak in favor of marriage equality during an appearance Monday. This coming from a conservative Republican, while President Omaba has made little progress on keeping his promises to the LGBT community. It's another example of family support -- one of Cheney's daughters is gay, a subject that in the past he's rarely talked about.
Support from, of all people, Dick Cheney!
See former vice president Dick Cheney speak in favor of marriage equality during an appearance Monday. This coming from a conservative Republican, while President Omaba has made little progress on keeping his promises to the LGBT community. It's another example of family support -- one of Cheney's daughters is gay, a subject that in the past he's rarely talked about.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
GAY IE ISSUES:
Rally in Rancho Cucamonga
protests court's Prop 8 decision
Inland Empire gays, lesbians and their allies raised their voices Tuesday night at a rally in Rancho Cucamonga to protest the California Supreme Court ruling upholding Proposition 8 banning same-sex marriage.
The crowd estimated at 400 or more stood on the four corners of Foothill and Day Creek Boulevard, one of the busiest intersections in the area near the Victoria Gardens shopping center.
“What do we want?”
“Equal rights”
“When do we want them?”
“Now”
The chant was one of several that went up from the group as they stood waving signs at passing vehicles and responding to honking horns. The crowd included many young people, some older folks, a few children and even some dogs.
One child carried a homemade sign that read “My Moms said ‘I Do.’”
The crowd was littered with red and blue signs, with the slogan “I DO support freedom to marry,” provided by the rally’s sponsors, Equality Inland Empire and Equality California. Other people carried the rainbow flag and there was at least one American flag.
The rally was one of many Day of Decision events across the state, and elsewhere in the nation, protesting the court’s decision released earlier in the day.
Protesters walked across the multiple-lane intersection to occupy all four corners of the commercial intersection.
Two Proposition 8 supporters waved signs as they walked near the crowd.
Speakers included representatives of Riverside PFLAG and a Redlands clergywoman, who expressed their sadness about the decision and their hope for the future.
But the night belonged to the protesters, who brought out electric candles and glow sticks as darkness fell and continued their chants.
“Gay, straight,
black, white
marriage is
a civil right.”
Rally in Rancho Cucamonga
protests court's Prop 8 decision
Inland Empire gays, lesbians and their allies raised their voices Tuesday night at a rally in Rancho Cucamonga to protest the California Supreme Court ruling upholding Proposition 8 banning same-sex marriage.
The crowd estimated at 400 or more stood on the four corners of Foothill and Day Creek Boulevard, one of the busiest intersections in the area near the Victoria Gardens shopping center.
“What do we want?”
“Equal rights”
“When do we want them?”
“Now”
The chant was one of several that went up from the group as they stood waving signs at passing vehicles and responding to honking horns. The crowd included many young people, some older folks, a few children and even some dogs.
One child carried a homemade sign that read “My Moms said ‘I Do.’”
The crowd was littered with red and blue signs, with the slogan “I DO support freedom to marry,” provided by the rally’s sponsors, Equality Inland Empire and Equality California. Other people carried the rainbow flag and there was at least one American flag.
The rally was one of many Day of Decision events across the state, and elsewhere in the nation, protesting the court’s decision released earlier in the day.
Protesters walked across the multiple-lane intersection to occupy all four corners of the commercial intersection.
Two Proposition 8 supporters waved signs as they walked near the crowd.
Speakers included representatives of Riverside PFLAG and a Redlands clergywoman, who expressed their sadness about the decision and their hope for the future.
But the night belonged to the protesters, who brought out electric candles and glow sticks as darkness fell and continued their chants.
“Gay, straight,
black, white
marriage is
a civil right.”
GAY IE ISSUES:
Reaction to Prop 8 decision
Here's some reaction to today's Supreme Court decision:
Back to the ballot
Today’s ruling is a miscarriage of justice. No minority group should have to defend its right to equality at the ballot. Despite today’s setback, Equality California is committed to restoring the freedom to marry. We believe, as do the majority of our members, that 2010 is the best time to return to the ballot to repeal Prop. 8. We must take full advantage of the momentum and commitment people now have to do the work required on the ground. However, we will make the final decision on when to return in collaboration with our coalition partners and allies throughout the state.
--Marc Soloman, EQCA's marriage director
Out of step
Today's decision is dramatically out of step with where the nation is heading. After decades of struggle and hard work, we are living through an unmistakable turning point in the history of our movement. In the past few weeks alone, there has been a tidal wave of momentum in favor of equality for same-sex couples—including a unanimous decision upholding marriage equality from the Iowa Supreme Court; legislative victories in Vermont and Maine; and additional victories on the horizon in New Jersey and New York. Across the country, public opinion is shifting decisively in our favor. Five states have now embraced full marriage equality for same-sex couples, and more are expected to join that list this year. It is devastating that California is no longer one of them. But rest assured: we will be again.
--Kate Kendall, National Center for Lesbian Rights
Sad day for California
This is a sad day for our state and a setback for the cause of freedom and fairness. But it's also important to keep this in perspective. Every noble struggle known to man or woman has been filled withlosses--temporary defeats that people had to endure and overcome. We must pick ourselves up and move forward, knowing that justiceu ltimately will prevail and the right to marry will one day be oursforever. Fortunately, this loss comes amidst a veritable tide of progress inmany other state supreme courts and legislatures--a tide thatcannot be turned back, no matter today's decision.
--Lorri L. Jean, CEO, LA Gay and Lesbian Center
Statement from GLAAD: http://glaadblog.org/2009/05/26/glaads-statement-on-prop-8-decision/
Statement from National Gay and Lesbian Task Force: http://www.thetaskforce.org/press/releases/pr_052609
Statement from Lambda Legal: http://www.lambdalegal.org/news/pr/court-upholds-prop-8-state-continues-to-regognize-18000-marriages.html
Statement from Human Rights Campaign: http://www.hrc.org/12755.htm
Statement from PFLAG: http://pflagblog.blogspot.com/2009/05/as-california-court-upholds-proposition.html
Reaction to Prop 8 decision
Here's some reaction to today's Supreme Court decision:
Back to the ballot
Today’s ruling is a miscarriage of justice. No minority group should have to defend its right to equality at the ballot. Despite today’s setback, Equality California is committed to restoring the freedom to marry. We believe, as do the majority of our members, that 2010 is the best time to return to the ballot to repeal Prop. 8. We must take full advantage of the momentum and commitment people now have to do the work required on the ground. However, we will make the final decision on when to return in collaboration with our coalition partners and allies throughout the state.
--Marc Soloman, EQCA's marriage director
Out of step
Today's decision is dramatically out of step with where the nation is heading. After decades of struggle and hard work, we are living through an unmistakable turning point in the history of our movement. In the past few weeks alone, there has been a tidal wave of momentum in favor of equality for same-sex couples—including a unanimous decision upholding marriage equality from the Iowa Supreme Court; legislative victories in Vermont and Maine; and additional victories on the horizon in New Jersey and New York. Across the country, public opinion is shifting decisively in our favor. Five states have now embraced full marriage equality for same-sex couples, and more are expected to join that list this year. It is devastating that California is no longer one of them. But rest assured: we will be again.
--Kate Kendall, National Center for Lesbian Rights
Sad day for California
This is a sad day for our state and a setback for the cause of freedom and fairness. But it's also important to keep this in perspective. Every noble struggle known to man or woman has been filled withlosses--temporary defeats that people had to endure and overcome. We must pick ourselves up and move forward, knowing that justiceu ltimately will prevail and the right to marry will one day be oursforever. Fortunately, this loss comes amidst a veritable tide of progress inmany other state supreme courts and legislatures--a tide thatcannot be turned back, no matter today's decision.
--Lorri L. Jean, CEO, LA Gay and Lesbian Center
Statement from GLAAD: http://glaadblog.org/2009/05/26/glaads-statement-on-prop-8-decision/
Statement from National Gay and Lesbian Task Force: http://www.thetaskforce.org/press/releases/pr_052609
Statement from Lambda Legal: http://www.lambdalegal.org/news/pr/court-upholds-prop-8-state-continues-to-regognize-18000-marriages.html
Statement from Human Rights Campaign: http://www.hrc.org/12755.htm
Statement from PFLAG: http://pflagblog.blogspot.com/2009/05/as-california-court-upholds-proposition.html
Thursday, May 21, 2009
GAY IE ENTERTAINMENT: 
9 reasons why Adam Lambert
didn't win American Idol
So we’ll have to wait another year for an “out” American Idol, after Kris Allen took the title over Adam Lambert for Season 8.
A lot of people are surprised and disappointed with the result. But we probably should have seen it coming for a lot of reasons, the least of them being Lambert’s sexual orientation.
1.Kris might never have ever been the underdog. American Idol isn’t exactly transparent about the voting results; the numbers are a secret. Kris was proclaimed the “underdog,” a role he played brilliantly, but for all we know he might have been leading all along.
2. Adam might have peaked too soon – he’d already been on the cover of Entertainment Weekly. Kris demonstrated improvement from week to week, and in the end seemed to be something new and different.
3.Kris is what the show is about – an amateur is discovered. Voters might have figured that with Adam’s stage experience he’s already a pro.
4. Adam’s fans were loud, his support was deep; but Kris appealed to the tween girl demo of the show, in the end, his support was broad.
5. Allison’s early departure might have signaled doom for Adam. He could gain her rock votes, but Kris had more to gain from Danny’s voters, who were probably a bigger block and had lost their singer just a week before the finale.
6. Kris’ rural background worked to his advantage. The phone company reported millions of votes from his home state of Arkansas, proof that a rural area works to get behind its own. Adam’s SoCal roots in San Diego –well, we’ve seen it all before. (A demonstration of this was the hometown visits of the finalists – Adam’s seemed flat compared to the excitement for Kris.)
7. There might have been some backlash that Adam was seen as the judge’s favorite and seemed to get extra special treatment for his arrangements and productions. (Proof of that even in the finale where Kris did one simple song with Keith Urban, while Adam glammed it up with a three-song set with KISS.) Voters to AI: We’ll decide who wins, thank you very much.
8. That last-minute Christian versus gay-guy dust up couldn’t have helped matters much. A reminder that Adam might just be a little too out there for Middle America. Kris was a safe choice; who knows what might be lurking in Adam's closet.
9. And by not directly addressing the gay question, was Adam playing it safe or appearing to be a little too private, too coy? Maybe he underestimated what the public could handle. Adam’s talent is undeniable, but he (or the AI machine) never trusted us enough to tell his story…and we love a story.
In the end, they’re both talented, attractive performers with great futures. The one question remaining: Will Adam finally answer the gay question in the upcoming round of post-finale media interviews? It’s time to come out already!
A lot of people are surprised and disappointed with the result. But we probably should have seen it coming for a lot of reasons, the least of them being Lambert’s sexual orientation.
1.Kris might never have ever been the underdog. American Idol isn’t exactly transparent about the voting results; the numbers are a secret. Kris was proclaimed the “underdog,” a role he played brilliantly, but for all we know he might have been leading all along.
2. Adam might have peaked too soon – he’d already been on the cover of Entertainment Weekly. Kris demonstrated improvement from week to week, and in the end seemed to be something new and different.
3.Kris is what the show is about – an amateur is discovered. Voters might have figured that with Adam’s stage experience he’s already a pro.
4. Adam’s fans were loud, his support was deep; but Kris appealed to the tween girl demo of the show, in the end, his support was broad.
5. Allison’s early departure might have signaled doom for Adam. He could gain her rock votes, but Kris had more to gain from Danny’s voters, who were probably a bigger block and had lost their singer just a week before the finale.
6. Kris’ rural background worked to his advantage. The phone company reported millions of votes from his home state of Arkansas, proof that a rural area works to get behind its own. Adam’s SoCal roots in San Diego –well, we’ve seen it all before. (A demonstration of this was the hometown visits of the finalists – Adam’s seemed flat compared to the excitement for Kris.)
7. There might have been some backlash that Adam was seen as the judge’s favorite and seemed to get extra special treatment for his arrangements and productions. (Proof of that even in the finale where Kris did one simple song with Keith Urban, while Adam glammed it up with a three-song set with KISS.) Voters to AI: We’ll decide who wins, thank you very much.
8. That last-minute Christian versus gay-guy dust up couldn’t have helped matters much. A reminder that Adam might just be a little too out there for Middle America. Kris was a safe choice; who knows what might be lurking in Adam's closet.
9. And by not directly addressing the gay question, was Adam playing it safe or appearing to be a little too private, too coy? Maybe he underestimated what the public could handle. Adam’s talent is undeniable, but he (or the AI machine) never trusted us enough to tell his story…and we love a story.
In the end, they’re both talented, attractive performers with great futures. The one question remaining: Will Adam finally answer the gay question in the upcoming round of post-finale media interviews? It’s time to come out already!
GAY IE EVENTS:
Comedy Store goes gay on Friday nights
What’s so funny about being gay? Find out on Friday nights when LA lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender stand-up comics take the stage for Thank Gays It’s Friday at the Comedy Store. The show, wich opened in September, bills itself as the longest-running weekly LGBT show in Southern California.
WHEN: Midnight Fridays
WHERE: The Comedy Store, 8433 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood
ADMISSION: $10, students $7
INFO: 323-650-6268
Comedy Store goes gay on Friday nights
What’s so funny about being gay? Find out on Friday nights when LA lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender stand-up comics take the stage for Thank Gays It’s Friday at the Comedy Store. The show, wich opened in September, bills itself as the longest-running weekly LGBT show in Southern California.
WHEN: Midnight Fridays
WHERE: The Comedy Store, 8433 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood
ADMISSION: $10, students $7
INFO: 323-650-6268
Sunday, May 17, 2009
GAY IE: ISSUES
Help make Harvey Milk’s birthday a state holiday
If Harvey Milk had lived he would be 79 years old on Friday, May 22.
The effort to make the slain gay rights leader’s birthday a state holiday is in the California Assembly after the Senate approved the bill last week. Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed a similar bill last year, saying that Milk, who was a San Francisco supervisor when he was killed in 1978, should be recognized on the local level.
You can help influence the governor this time around by signing a petition at www.eqca.org/HarveyMilkDay.
Read a review of the DVD of the Oscar-winning movie “Milk” elsewhere on this blog.
Help make Harvey Milk’s birthday a state holiday
If Harvey Milk had lived he would be 79 years old on Friday, May 22.
The effort to make the slain gay rights leader’s birthday a state holiday is in the California Assembly after the Senate approved the bill last week. Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed a similar bill last year, saying that Milk, who was a San Francisco supervisor when he was killed in 1978, should be recognized on the local level.
You can help influence the governor this time around by signing a petition at www.eqca.org/HarveyMilkDay.
Read a review of the DVD of the Oscar-winning movie “Milk” elsewhere on this blog.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
GAY I E ISSUES:
EQ IE Unity Forum proves local supporters
of marriage can have an impact
Maybe the Inland Empire isn’t a gay dead zone after all.
More than 200 people attended a Unity Forum focusing on marriage rights sponsored by Equality Inland Empire Friday, May 15, at the University of Redlands.
Featured speaker Geoff Kors, executive director of Equality California, said it was the 11th in a series of town halls in the state, and the best attended. That's an indication that the IE could be a battleground in the fight for marriage rights in California.
Kors and other speakers said those attending the IE meeting could make a difference in the next battle for same-sex marriage rights by telling their stories to friends, co-workers and others to change the hearts and minds of voters. Supporters of marriage can not depend on gay strongholds like San Francisco, Los Angeles and Palm Springs to bring in the vote.
While we wait for the state Supreme Court to issue its opinion on the challenge to Prop 8, Equality California is already anticipating a ballot box rematch with opponents of same-sex marriage.
Kors announced that Equality California would open an office in the Inland Empire and staff it with four organizers to support the work of local advocates. The goal is to “win marriage back and make it real,” Kors said. He said the effort needs to produce a victory so large that opponents will not continue their fight.
Speakers expressed the need for hope Friday night, but it could be a long fight for marriage rights. Observers consider it unlikely that the Supreme Court’s decision due anytime will find a way to overturn a measure approved by the electorate.
Organizers staffing California Equality’s IE office will help with door-to-door canvas campaigns, preparing walk lists and training efforts. They will also attend public events and help build coalitions.
Ironically Friday’s town hall was conducted on the one year anniversary of the Supreme Court’s decision to allow same-sex marriage. All that changed in November when Prop 8 was approved by voters and same-sex marriages stopped.
The town hall, the first event organized by the new Equality IE, opened with a slide show of photos from IE marriages and events protesting of Prop 8.
Equality California’s new TV commercials statewide featuring couples discussing same-sex marriage rights were also screened. See one of the ads here.
EQ IE Unity Forum proves local supporters
of marriage can have an impact
Maybe the Inland Empire isn’t a gay dead zone after all.
More than 200 people attended a Unity Forum focusing on marriage rights sponsored by Equality Inland Empire Friday, May 15, at the University of Redlands.
Featured speaker Geoff Kors, executive director of Equality California, said it was the 11th in a series of town halls in the state, and the best attended. That's an indication that the IE could be a battleground in the fight for marriage rights in California.
Kors and other speakers said those attending the IE meeting could make a difference in the next battle for same-sex marriage rights by telling their stories to friends, co-workers and others to change the hearts and minds of voters. Supporters of marriage can not depend on gay strongholds like San Francisco, Los Angeles and Palm Springs to bring in the vote.
While we wait for the state Supreme Court to issue its opinion on the challenge to Prop 8, Equality California is already anticipating a ballot box rematch with opponents of same-sex marriage.
Kors announced that Equality California would open an office in the Inland Empire and staff it with four organizers to support the work of local advocates. The goal is to “win marriage back and make it real,” Kors said. He said the effort needs to produce a victory so large that opponents will not continue their fight.
Speakers expressed the need for hope Friday night, but it could be a long fight for marriage rights. Observers consider it unlikely that the Supreme Court’s decision due anytime will find a way to overturn a measure approved by the electorate.
Organizers staffing California Equality’s IE office will help with door-to-door canvas campaigns, preparing walk lists and training efforts. They will also attend public events and help build coalitions.
Ironically Friday’s town hall was conducted on the one year anniversary of the Supreme Court’s decision to allow same-sex marriage. All that changed in November when Prop 8 was approved by voters and same-sex marriages stopped.
The town hall, the first event organized by the new Equality IE, opened with a slide show of photos from IE marriages and events protesting of Prop 8.
Equality California’s new TV commercials statewide featuring couples discussing same-sex marriage rights were also screened. See one of the ads here.
Monday, May 4, 2009
GAY IE: MOVIES
Summer film preview -- 7 movies to watch for
The summer movie season is here, and film fans will be lining up for “Wolverine,” “Star Trek,” “Harry Potter” and the latest Pixar animation. But what about movies for the rest of us?
Here’s what we can look forward to:
--“Newcastle” (now playing in limited release). There’s lots of eye candy and at least one gay relationship in this coming of age story set on the surf.
--“Little Ashes” (opening May 8 in limited release). Robert Pattinson (“Twilight”) stars as artist Salvador Dali in this film that explores Dali’s relationship with Spanish writer Federico Garcia Lorca (Javier Beltran). Directed by Paul Morrison.
--“Outrage” (opening May 8 in limited release). Closeted politicians are exposed in this documentary directed by Kirby Dick.
--“The Art of Being Straight” (opens June 5). A group of friends in Los Angeles deal with issues of sexual attraction.
--“Bruno” (opens July 10). Sacha Baron Cohen brings his gay Austrian fashion reporter alter ego Bruno to the big screen in the most anticipated gay-themed movie of the summer. After Cohen’s politically incorrect “Borat” three years ago, it’s difficult to know if this will be good or bad…or perhaps so bad it’s good. Unlike most of the other movies on this list, look for “Bruno” at a theater near you, at least if the film can be edited from its initial NC-17 rating to an R.
--“Humpday” (opening July 10). Mark Duplass and Joshua Leonard play former college roommates who say they’re not gay, but they’re stressed out after making a drunken dare to perform in an erotic film. Written and directed by Lynn Shelton.
--“Taking Woodstock” (opening Aug. 14). Directed by Ang Lee (“Brokeback Mountain”), this movie is based on the memoir of Elliot Tiber, who organized the famous music festival. Tiber’s book is described as sexually graphic, but the movie downplays Tiber’s homosexuality. Demetri Martin stars as Tiber. Costarring Imelda Staunton, Livev Shreiber and Emile Hirsch.
And here's something to look forward to: the Jim Carrey-Ewan McGregror prison romance, "I Love You Phillip Morris," has a distributor and is scheduled to open Valentine's Day, Feb. 14, 2010.
Summer film preview -- 7 movies to watch for
The summer movie season is here, and film fans will be lining up for “Wolverine,” “Star Trek,” “Harry Potter” and the latest Pixar animation. But what about movies for the rest of us?
Here’s what we can look forward to:
--“Newcastle” (now playing in limited release). There’s lots of eye candy and at least one gay relationship in this coming of age story set on the surf.
--“Little Ashes” (opening May 8 in limited release). Robert Pattinson (“Twilight”) stars as artist Salvador Dali in this film that explores Dali’s relationship with Spanish writer Federico Garcia Lorca (Javier Beltran). Directed by Paul Morrison.
--“Outrage” (opening May 8 in limited release). Closeted politicians are exposed in this documentary directed by Kirby Dick.
--“The Art of Being Straight” (opens June 5). A group of friends in Los Angeles deal with issues of sexual attraction.
--“Bruno” (opens July 10). Sacha Baron Cohen brings his gay Austrian fashion reporter alter ego Bruno to the big screen in the most anticipated gay-themed movie of the summer. After Cohen’s politically incorrect “Borat” three years ago, it’s difficult to know if this will be good or bad…or perhaps so bad it’s good. Unlike most of the other movies on this list, look for “Bruno” at a theater near you, at least if the film can be edited from its initial NC-17 rating to an R.
--“Humpday” (opening July 10). Mark Duplass and Joshua Leonard play former college roommates who say they’re not gay, but they’re stressed out after making a drunken dare to perform in an erotic film. Written and directed by Lynn Shelton.
--“Taking Woodstock” (opening Aug. 14). Directed by Ang Lee (“Brokeback Mountain”), this movie is based on the memoir of Elliot Tiber, who organized the famous music festival. Tiber’s book is described as sexually graphic, but the movie downplays Tiber’s homosexuality. Demetri Martin stars as Tiber. Costarring Imelda Staunton, Livev Shreiber and Emile Hirsch.
And here's something to look forward to: the Jim Carrey-Ewan McGregror prison romance, "I Love You Phillip Morris," has a distributor and is scheduled to open Valentine's Day, Feb. 14, 2010.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Monday, April 20, 2009
GAY IE ISSUES:
Same-sex marriage question
may have determined Miss USA outcome
Miss California Carrie Prejean, of San Diego, says her answer to a question about same-sex marriage rights may have cost her the Miss USA crown. Celebrity blogger and pageant judge Perez Hilton posed the question Sunday during the contest's finals in Las Vegas. Prejean finished as first runner up to Miss North Carolina. Watch her answer Hilton's question about whether marriage rights be extended to gays.
Same-sex marriage question
may have determined Miss USA outcome
Miss California Carrie Prejean, of San Diego, says her answer to a question about same-sex marriage rights may have cost her the Miss USA crown. Celebrity blogger and pageant judge Perez Hilton posed the question Sunday during the contest's finals in Las Vegas. Prejean finished as first runner up to Miss North Carolina. Watch her answer Hilton's question about whether marriage rights be extended to gays.
Monday, April 13, 2009
GAY IE TV:
Coming out stories on Showtime
Showtime, the cable TV network known for “The L Word” and “Queer As Folk,” is casting for a documentary series about gays and lesbians coming out to family and friends. The network’s Web site says the show, titled “Way Out,” hopes to help the people profiled and enlighten viewers. The network is looking for gays and lesbians who have made the decision to come out and are willing to share the journey.
For more information, including how to apply, visit http://www.wayoutdocumentary.com/
Coming out stories on Showtime
Showtime, the cable TV network known for “The L Word” and “Queer As Folk,” is casting for a documentary series about gays and lesbians coming out to family and friends. The network’s Web site says the show, titled “Way Out,” hopes to help the people profiled and enlighten viewers. The network is looking for gays and lesbians who have made the decision to come out and are willing to share the journey.
For more information, including how to apply, visit http://www.wayoutdocumentary.com/
GAY IE CLUBS:
Micky's is back; Metro Q opens in the OC
Micky's has reopened in West Hollywood. The club closed after a fire in August 2007. Now the go-go boys are back, along with a bigger bar, DJs and a new restaurant. Micky's is at 8857 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollwood.
INFO: www.mickys.com
Metro Q bar and restaurant opened at the end of March at Beach Boulevard and Garfield Avenue. Business partners Ida Vallez and Scott Forst opened the bar, apparently the first in the city, according to a report in the Orange County Register. The establishment features a jukebox, 50-inch plasma TVs and free wireless internet. The menu includes burgers, tri-tip, salmon, coconut fried shrimp and meatloaf. Metro Q helps fill the gap for a gay bar in Orange County after the Boom Boom Room closed in 2007. Since Metro Q is also a restaurant, patrons under the age of 21 are allowed.
Looking for a club closer to home? Here’s a list of gay bars in the Inland Empire:
RIVERSIDE
The Menagerie
Dance floor, karaoke, video and smoking patio.
WHERE: 3581 University Ave.
PHONE: 951-788-8000
IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD: Located near downtown Riverside. Back to the Grind coffeeshop is next door.
VIP Nightclub
An age 18 and over club featuring dancing, pool, karaoke, drag shows and drink specials. Patio.
HOURS: 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. daily
WHERE: 3673 Merrill Ave.
PHONE: 951-784-2370
INFO: http://www.vip-nightclub.com/
IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD: Close to the Riverside Plaza shopping center, which has a movie theater and restaurants.
SAN BERNARDINO
The Lark
Drink specials, music, video, pool, games, patio and karaoke. Dance floor on back bar features country and western, ‘80s and hip-hop nights. Smoking patio, Internet jukebox, free Wi-Fi. Happy hour 3-7 p.m. every day.
WHERE: 917 Inland Center Drive
HOURS: 2 p.m.-2 a.m. Friday, Saturday, Sunday 6 p.m.-2 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
PHONE: (909) 884-8770
INFO: http://www.the-lark.com/
UPLAND
Oasis Nightclub
Dancing to hip-hop, trance, old school and Spanish. Birthday club, drink specials. Talent club at 10 p.m. Thursdays. Drag Idol 10 week contest at 10 p.m. Sundays through May 24 with finals on May 31.
21 and over Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. 18 and over Thursday and Sunday.
HOURS: 6 p.m.-2 a.m. Wednesday-Saturday, 8 p.m.-2 p.m. Sunday. Dinner 6-10 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 6-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 8-11 p.m. Sunday.
WHERE: 1386 E. Foothill Blvd.
ADMISSION: Cover charge
PHONE: 909-920-9590
INFO: http://www.oasis-nightclub.com/
MURRIETA
Club Escape
Sidelines Sports Bar and Grill becomes Club Escape for an evening once a month with DJs, male and female go-go dancers, drink specials, pool.
WHEN: 7:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. on the first Wednesday of each month
WHERE: 24910 Washington Ave.
ADMISSION: $3
Micky's is back; Metro Q opens in the OC
Micky's has reopened in West Hollywood. The club closed after a fire in August 2007. Now the go-go boys are back, along with a bigger bar, DJs and a new restaurant. Micky's is at 8857 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollwood.
INFO: www.mickys.com
Metro Q bar and restaurant opened at the end of March at Beach Boulevard and Garfield Avenue. Business partners Ida Vallez and Scott Forst opened the bar, apparently the first in the city, according to a report in the Orange County Register. The establishment features a jukebox, 50-inch plasma TVs and free wireless internet. The menu includes burgers, tri-tip, salmon, coconut fried shrimp and meatloaf. Metro Q helps fill the gap for a gay bar in Orange County after the Boom Boom Room closed in 2007. Since Metro Q is also a restaurant, patrons under the age of 21 are allowed.
Looking for a club closer to home? Here’s a list of gay bars in the Inland Empire:
RIVERSIDE
The Menagerie
Dance floor, karaoke, video and smoking patio.
WHERE: 3581 University Ave.
PHONE: 951-788-8000
IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD: Located near downtown Riverside. Back to the Grind coffeeshop is next door.
VIP Nightclub
An age 18 and over club featuring dancing, pool, karaoke, drag shows and drink specials. Patio.
HOURS: 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. daily
WHERE: 3673 Merrill Ave.
PHONE: 951-784-2370
INFO: http://www.vip-nightclub.com/
IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD: Close to the Riverside Plaza shopping center, which has a movie theater and restaurants.
SAN BERNARDINO
The Lark
Drink specials, music, video, pool, games, patio and karaoke. Dance floor on back bar features country and western, ‘80s and hip-hop nights. Smoking patio, Internet jukebox, free Wi-Fi. Happy hour 3-7 p.m. every day.
WHERE: 917 Inland Center Drive
HOURS: 2 p.m.-2 a.m. Friday, Saturday, Sunday 6 p.m.-2 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
PHONE: (909) 884-8770
INFO: http://www.the-lark.com/
UPLAND
Oasis Nightclub
Dancing to hip-hop, trance, old school and Spanish. Birthday club, drink specials. Talent club at 10 p.m. Thursdays. Drag Idol 10 week contest at 10 p.m. Sundays through May 24 with finals on May 31.
21 and over Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. 18 and over Thursday and Sunday.
HOURS: 6 p.m.-2 a.m. Wednesday-Saturday, 8 p.m.-2 p.m. Sunday. Dinner 6-10 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 6-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 8-11 p.m. Sunday.
WHERE: 1386 E. Foothill Blvd.
ADMISSION: Cover charge
PHONE: 909-920-9590
INFO: http://www.oasis-nightclub.com/
MURRIETA
Club Escape
Sidelines Sports Bar and Grill becomes Club Escape for an evening once a month with DJs, male and female go-go dancers, drink specials, pool.
WHEN: 7:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. on the first Wednesday of each month
WHERE: 24910 Washington Ave.
ADMISSION: $3
GAY IE WEB SITE:
www.jocc.org
The Web site for the Jeffery Owens Community Center in Riverside is back after being down for a redesign.
WHAT YOU’LL FIND: This is the place to go for information about the community center that serves the Inland Empire, including the JOCC Youth Group. You can sign up to join center committees, see photos from past events or find resource lists. There’s also information on the center’s speakers bureau. A calendar of events on the site will be useful, but there’s little on it just yet.
**SEND US A NOTE: Do you have a favorite Web site. Tell us about it by sending a note to gayinlandempire.com
www.jocc.org
The Web site for the Jeffery Owens Community Center in Riverside is back after being down for a redesign.
WHAT YOU’LL FIND: This is the place to go for information about the community center that serves the Inland Empire, including the JOCC Youth Group. You can sign up to join center committees, see photos from past events or find resource lists. There’s also information on the center’s speakers bureau. A calendar of events on the site will be useful, but there’s little on it just yet.
**SEND US A NOTE: Do you have a favorite Web site. Tell us about it by sending a note to gayinlandempire.com
GAY IE ENTERTAINMENT:
"Milk" on DVD
“Milk,” the Harvey Milk biopic featuring Sean Penn’s Academy Award winning performance as the gay rights leader, is worth a second look now that it’s out on video, or a first look if you didn’t find the movie in theaters late last year.
Penn disappears into the role of the San Francisco supervisor, who was assassinated in 1978 by fellow supervisor Dan White, played by Josh Brolin, also nominated for an Oscar. I’m among those who, as Penn says himself, sometimes finds the actor difficult to appreciate, but I was won over by his performance here. He deserved the awards season honors.
The movie’s screenwriter, Dustin Lance Black, won an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. The film was also nominated for eight awards, including Best Picture and and Best Director, Gus Van Sant.
The movie is particularly relevant as it follow’s Milk’s efforts against a statewide proposition that would allow firing gay teachers.
Extras with the DVD include interviews with members of the ensemble cast, Emile Hirch, Diego Luna and James Franco. But an interview with Penn is missing on the extra reel. Other extras include three deleted scenes, interviews with people who worked with Milk and a feature on how street marches were recreated for the film
One of the notable devices in the movie is how historical footage was used. As a companion to “Milk,” see the documentary “The Times of Harvey Milk.” Putting the films side-by-side, viewers will notice that the attention to detail in “Milk” is obvious, right down to what Penn/Milk wore to the Pride parade.
BOX OFFICE: “Milk” made less than $32 million domestically in its 19 week theatrical run – its widest release was in about 880 theaters. It ranks No. 12 on Box Office Mojo’s list of the top 100 gay films released since 1980. (Check the complete list at http://www.boxofficemojo.com/genres/chart/?id=gay.htm)
RUNNING TIME: 2 hours, 9 minutes.
"Milk" on DVD
“Milk,” the Harvey Milk biopic featuring Sean Penn’s Academy Award winning performance as the gay rights leader, is worth a second look now that it’s out on video, or a first look if you didn’t find the movie in theaters late last year.
Penn disappears into the role of the San Francisco supervisor, who was assassinated in 1978 by fellow supervisor Dan White, played by Josh Brolin, also nominated for an Oscar. I’m among those who, as Penn says himself, sometimes finds the actor difficult to appreciate, but I was won over by his performance here. He deserved the awards season honors.
The movie’s screenwriter, Dustin Lance Black, won an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. The film was also nominated for eight awards, including Best Picture and and Best Director, Gus Van Sant.
The movie is particularly relevant as it follow’s Milk’s efforts against a statewide proposition that would allow firing gay teachers.
Extras with the DVD include interviews with members of the ensemble cast, Emile Hirch, Diego Luna and James Franco. But an interview with Penn is missing on the extra reel. Other extras include three deleted scenes, interviews with people who worked with Milk and a feature on how street marches were recreated for the film
One of the notable devices in the movie is how historical footage was used. As a companion to “Milk,” see the documentary “The Times of Harvey Milk.” Putting the films side-by-side, viewers will notice that the attention to detail in “Milk” is obvious, right down to what Penn/Milk wore to the Pride parade.
BOX OFFICE: “Milk” made less than $32 million domestically in its 19 week theatrical run – its widest release was in about 880 theaters. It ranks No. 12 on Box Office Mojo’s list of the top 100 gay films released since 1980. (Check the complete list at http://www.boxofficemojo.com/genres/chart/?id=gay.htm)
RUNNING TIME: 2 hours, 9 minutes.
GAY IE MOVIES:
“I Love You Man”
A movie about a man searching for a new best friend to act as best man at his wedding sounds like it could turn gay pretty fast, but Paul Rudd and Jason Segel play things pretty straight in this bromance comedy. The gay element comes courtesy Andy Samberg (Saturday Night Life) who plays Rudd’s gay brother Robby. He sets up Rudd on “man dates” and gives him advice on the pursuit (no dinners – after one guy got the wrong idea). But there’s more to Robbie who gets along with, no, is adored by his father and attracts married men at the gym where he’s a personal trainer. I want to see a whole movie about this guy. By the way, an interview with Samberg made the cover of the March Out magazine. Find the article here: http://www.out.com/detail.asp?page=1&id=24726
RUDD’S EARLIER WORK: Speaking of Paul Rudd, the publicity for “I Love You Man” rarely mentioned the actor’s role in the movie “The Object of My Affection.” Rudd played a conflicted gay man torn between wanting to help his pregnant gal pal (played by Jennifer Aniston) and his desire to live his real life. The 1998 movie was based on a book by Stephen McCauley. It’s worth a look…or a read, as are McCauley’s other novels, “Easy Way Out,” “True Enough,” “The Man of the House” and “Alternatives to Sex.”
“I Love You Man”
A movie about a man searching for a new best friend to act as best man at his wedding sounds like it could turn gay pretty fast, but Paul Rudd and Jason Segel play things pretty straight in this bromance comedy. The gay element comes courtesy Andy Samberg (Saturday Night Life) who plays Rudd’s gay brother Robby. He sets up Rudd on “man dates” and gives him advice on the pursuit (no dinners – after one guy got the wrong idea). But there’s more to Robbie who gets along with, no, is adored by his father and attracts married men at the gym where he’s a personal trainer. I want to see a whole movie about this guy. By the way, an interview with Samberg made the cover of the March Out magazine. Find the article here: http://www.out.com/detail.asp?page=1&id=24726
RUDD’S EARLIER WORK: Speaking of Paul Rudd, the publicity for “I Love You Man” rarely mentioned the actor’s role in the movie “The Object of My Affection.” Rudd played a conflicted gay man torn between wanting to help his pregnant gal pal (played by Jennifer Aniston) and his desire to live his real life. The 1998 movie was based on a book by Stephen McCauley. It’s worth a look…or a read, as are McCauley’s other novels, “Easy Way Out,” “True Enough,” “The Man of the House” and “Alternatives to Sex.”
GAY IE TV:
Luke and Noah
on "As the World Turns”
Noah Mayer and Luke Snyder are “Nuke” or “Loah” the gay super couple on the daytime soap “As the World Turns” (CBS). College students in the fictional Oakdale, Ill., Luke met Noah a couple years back during a summer internship at the local TV station, and just like their straight counterparts on daytime TV it’s been a rocky road to romance. Noah had to come out of the closet, admit his feelings for Luke and then get detoured by by a green card marriage. Fans were delighted when Luke and Noah finally locked lips, then frustrated when there was a drought in displays of affection, counting down the days between kisses. But once “Nuke” started kissing again they can’t seem to stop and they finally hooked up this spring. The couple is planning to move in together, but not before dealing with housing discrimination, a possible hate crime, a homophobic biological father and…well, you get the picture.
“As the World Turns” airs from 1 to 2 p.m. weekdays on CBS. But you don’t have to stay home or even you’re your TIVO to catch Luke and Noah. Find their story episodes (more than 300 video clips) at http://www.lukeandnoahfans.com/
GAY IE BOOKSHELF:
“Overflowing of Friendship”
It’s nothing new that friendship can turn into something more judging by the title of the book “The Overflowing of Friendship: Love Between Men and the Creation of the American Republic.” It’s the latest work by former UC-Riverside history professor Richard Godbeer. The book, released in January, explores loving and sentimental male friendships in the 18th Century. Godbeer, who specializes in gender studies in colonial America, now teaches at the University of Miami in Florida.
“Overflowing of Friendship”
It’s nothing new that friendship can turn into something more judging by the title of the book “The Overflowing of Friendship: Love Between Men and the Creation of the American Republic.” It’s the latest work by former UC-Riverside history professor Richard Godbeer. The book, released in January, explores loving and sentimental male friendships in the 18th Century. Godbeer, who specializes in gender studies in colonial America, now teaches at the University of Miami in Florida.
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