Issue 14 Volume 41
Celebrating 40 Years!
FRIDAY April 5, 2013 FREE! 25¢ in bookstores & newsstands
Seattle Gay News file photo
Cheryl Chow dies at 66
SEATTLE’S LGBT NEWS & ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY
Former Seattle councilmember came out as Lesbian last year by James Whitely SGN Staff Writer Cheryl Chow, a former Seattle City Councilmember, teacher, youth advocate, and school board member, died on Friday, March 29,
with her partner, Sarah Morningstar, and their then-four-year-old daughter, Liliana. She spoke after the proclamation was read about her difficulty displaying affection – due partly, she said, to her strict Asian upbringing. She said Sarah
SHERRY HARRIS REMEMBERS “I was so sorry to hear about Cheryl’s death,” said Sherry Harris, a former Seattle City Councilmember alongside Chow and a longtime friend. “Cheryl Chow
“I am humbled by the attention I’m receiving and thankful for the opportunities and forums to keep spreading the message of hope, acceptance, and understanding to parents and kids.” in her home. She was 66. Last year, Chow came out as a Lesbian after she was diagnosed with terminal central nervous system lymphoma. “I was afraid for over 60 years and those 60 years were wasted,” said Chow in an interview with KING-TV after she came out. Not long after, on September 17, the city declared that date “Cheryl Chow Day” and honored the former councilmember at City Hall. Chow attended in a wheelchair
had taught her how to love. “Being honored by the Seattle City Council was a wonderful experience and a great walk down memory lane. It’s hard to believe it’s been so many years,” Chow told SGN a few days after the ceremony. “I am humbled by the attention I’m receiving and thankful for the opportunities and forums to keep spreading the message of hope, acceptance, and understanding to parents and kids.”
was almost like a mentor to me. At the time [we met], I was a newbie and our offices were directly across from one another.” “I really appreciated the kind of person she was in terms of the kinds of insights she would offer, the wisdom she had, and the kind of openness she displayed,” said Harris, who is also a Lesbian. “She see chow page 6
Cheryl Chow
New hope for a HIV vaccine A majority for equality Fifty U.S. senators plus VP Biden now support same-sex marriage elicit strain-specific neutralizing
Researchers discover immune system’s ‘training manual’
thinkprogress
antibodies,” the scientists write in the current issue of the journal Nature. “However, cross-reactive neutralizing antibodies arise in approximately 20% of HIV-1-infected individuals, and details of their generation could provide a blueprint for effective vaccination.” In other words, the research shows that in some HIV patients their antibodies are able to attack and destroy many strains of HIV, not merely one as in most patients. These patients are therefore able to cope with the constant mutations The 50 senators who support same-sex marriage of HIV much better than patients whose antibodies only attack one by Mike Andrew or two strains of the virus. Sens. Claire McCaskill, Mark SGN Staff Writer Warner, Mark Begich, Jay RockHIV’S WEAK SPOT efeller, Kay Hagan, and Jon TesIn patients with so-called “crossFifty out of the 100 U.S. Sena- ter all took the occasion to declare reactive” antibodies – about 20% tors – 48 Democrats and two Re- their support for equality. of all HIV patients, according to publicans – now publicly support Sen. Bob Casey (D-PA), a dethe study – their antibodies target marriage equality. According to vout Catholic, joined the tide on parts of the virus that do not mu- Josh Israel at Think Progress, April 1. tate. “with Vice President Joe Biden “If two people of the same sex “Even though the virus mutates, the tie-breaker, this marks the first fall in love and want to marry, why and there are literally millions of time that a majority in the U.S. would our government stand in quasi-species of virus because of Senate has endorsed same-sex their way?” Casey said in a stateall these mutations, there are parts marriage.” ment to Philadelphia Gay News. the virus can’t change – otherwise The rush to join the side of equal “At a time when many Amerithe virus cannot infect. These are treatment for Gay and Lesbian cans lament a lack of commitment the vulnerable sites,” Professor couples began last month as the in our society between married Barton Haynes of Duke Universi- U.S. Supreme Court prepared to men and women, why would we hear the Prop 8 and DOMA cases see hiv page 17 on March 26 and 27. Democratic see majority page 9
ual” for combating HIV infections. The discovery may lead to the creation of an effective HIV vaccine, Researchers at Duke University the scientists said. “Current human immunodefisay they have found what they describe as the body’s “training man- ciency virus-1 (HIV-1) vaccines by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer
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Celebrating 40 Years!
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The godfather of LGBT marriage equality file photo
Mike Andrew, Miryam Gordon, Anthony Greer, Shaun Knittel, Albert Rodriguez, James Whitely
op-ed
Contributing Writers
Rev. Barbara Allen, Eric Andrews-Katz, Madelyn Arnold, Maggie Bloodstone, Beau Burriola, Jessica Davis, Ron Anders, Jessica Price, Milton W. Hamlin, Scott Wittet, Nevin Jefferson, Jason A. Miller, Liz Meyer, Rod Parke, Don Paulson, Scott Rice, Leslie Robinson, Richard Kennedy, Rex Wockner
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Publication of names, photographs or likenesses of any person, organization, event or business in this publication cannot be taken as any indication of the sexual orientation of the person, organization, event or business. Opinions expressed in bylined articles, columns, and letters are those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect the views of the staff or management of this paper. Seattle Gay News welcomes unsolicited material, including letters to the editor, but reserves the right to edit or reject material. All rights revert to authors upon publication. We assume no liability for loss or damage of materials, solicited or not. We invite feedback, please write. And please play safe. It is our policy that no money shall be refunded if you choose to cancel your subscription or ad. However, credit towards any size ad will be given for the balance owed. No exceptions.
Rev. Troy Perry
by Mark Segal Philadelphia Gay News Everyone is predicting how the U.S. Supreme Court will rule on marriage equality. Let me give you my prediction. We already won, no matter which way they rule of the some 200-plus possible rulings. Want proof the battle is over? It’s easy
to supply. If Prop. 8 were before the voters of California today or before the state legislature, we’d win. If DOMA were in Congress today, it wouldn’t make it to the president’s desk – and if, somehow, it did, the current president wouldn’t sign it. Those two days of hearings on marriage equality had some LGBT activists so enthused with premonitions of victory that they were already handing out the credit – should it go to Evan Wolfson? Andrew Sullivan? Or even actor Rob Reiner? The answer is none of the above. Each of them has added something to the battle, and each is an incredible asset to our community. But none has much of a history in the war to achieve marriage equality. Yet, if I had to vote for one of the three, it would be for Reiner, for three reasons. He really gets what this war is about. He has worked to get this issue before the public in California, so that even if the Supreme Court sends the case back to the state, marriage equality will be a fact there. And, third, he’s a Gay ally, and one we should all be proud to have speak for us, similar to those non-African-Americans who spoke up during the fight alongside Dr. Martin Lu-
ther King Jr., John Lewis, and others of the NAACP and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. But there’s someone to whom even Reiner has to take a back seat. AN UNSUNG HERO The Rev. Troy Perry, founder of Metropolitan Community Church, has been called “the godfather of Gay marriage.” Talking about the battle for or the history of marriage equality without mentioning Perry is like talking about the history of women’s rights without mentioning Gloria Steinem, Susan B. Anthony, or even Emma Goldman. Perry literally has fought this battle longer and harder than anyone. Starting in 1970, traveling across the country from one city to another, he applied for marriage licenses for the members of his church and, even under the threat of arrest, performed commitment ceremonies for same-sex couples. Most of that time, members of the LGBT community looked the other way, thinking it a fool’s mission. He and his church were ridiculed by members of our own community. Most of the first same-sex marriage applications filed in states and cities around the country came from MCC. But Troy didn’t leave it there: He practiced what he preached. After getting legally married in Canada to Phillip Ray De Blieck, he sued the state of California to recognize his marriage. His co-plaintiffs were fellow longtime LGBT marriage activists Robin Tyler and Diane Olson. That case literally set up the marriageequality issue in California and made other activists realize this issue was real. When the U.S. Supreme Court rules, it will be due to the diligence of the Rev. Troy Perry, who has fought the court as well as his own community on this issue for more than 40 years. WINNING CONVERTS In 1969, Perry held a meeting to organize his church in New York. That meeting was picketed by members of Gay Liberation Front and Gay Youth since, in the spirit of the day, it was felt that we didn’t need a Gay religion and that religion was responsible for most of the problems LGBT people faced. Troy came out and spoke with several of the picketers and explained that there were many people out there who were believers in God and, while you might not win them to your cause, he could help them and bring them forward. I was one of those picketers, and Troy and I have been friends ever since.
In Loving Memory Of
Steve Foiles, Scott Roger Alpert, Cookie Andrews-Hunt, James Leland Moore, Randy Peters, Lee Richeson, Shaun Shelton, Jim Tully, James Arnold
Mark Segal is publisher of Philadelphia Gay News. He can be reached at mark@ epgn.com. 4
Seattle Gay News
April 5, 2013
Celebrating 40 Years!
Local news
Batter up!
ECSA’s 2013 softball season kicks off April 7 by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor The Emerald City Softball Association, one of the nation’s largest and oldest LGBTQ softball leagues, begins its 34th season this Sunday with games at two locations:
According to officials, this year’s ECSA features 33 teams in four divisions – three based on skill level and a fourth, the Masters Division, reserved for players ages 50 and older. “As of today, almost 500 players from the Seattle area are assigned to ECSA team
“As of today, almost 500 players from the Seattle area are assigned to ECSA team rosters. Our base of fans and supporters exceeds 1,350.” North SeaTac Park and Moshier Park in Burien. “Laces are tied. Gloves are oiled. Bats are stacked,” said ECSA marketing/communications director Tony Stasiek in a media release. “And on April 7 the Emerald City Softball Association begins its 2013 softball season.” Games begin at 9 a.m. at both parks and conclude around 5:30 p.m. Each game lasts about an hour. A league-sponsored postgame event is scheduled for later that afternoon at Purr (1518 11th Ave.). The public is encouraged to attend.
in 36 member cities in the U.S. and Canada, the ECSA sends its top teams to each year’s NAGAAA Gay Softball World Series. Last year, two Seattle teams took home World Series championships – the Inferno (D Division) and the Strokes (Masters Division). In August, ECSA teams will continue rosters,” said Stasiek. “Our base of fans and their long tradition of representing Seattle in supporters exceeds 1,350.” the 36th annual World Series, to be held in Washington, D.C. HUMBLE BEGINNINGS The ECSA started in 1980 in Seattle SEE YOU SUNDAY as a group of friends playing ball and has The ECSA’s regular-season play dates for grown to be a welcoming place for LGBTQ 2013 are every Sunday between April 7 and and non-LGBTQ players to partake in the June 15, except May 26. First-place teams competition and spirit of softball. It is now in each division at the conclusion of the one of the oldest and largest Gay softball regular season automatically advance to the leagues in the nation. World Series. A berth tournament to deterAs a member of the North American Gay mine non-automatic World Series teams is Amateur Athletic Alliance (NAGAAA), set for June 22-23. which represents more than 10,000 players “We are excited to be kicking off our 34th
Mary-Anna Hops 1952 – 2013
Mary-Anna Hops, beloved wife, most loving and loyal friend, extreme animal lover, avid reader, fabulous cook, lover of art and road trips with friends, mermaid spirit, and great “smokin’ buddy” (pass one around for her, boys and girls!), died February 13, 2013, from complications during a medical procedure. The daughter of Benjamin and Betty Hops, she was born July 7, 1952, in New York, raised in Los Angeles and spent her early adulthood in the San Francisco Bay Area. In 1986 she moved to Seattle and quickly became a fixture on Capitol Hill where she was a well-known travel agent. Mary-Anna loved traveling and dancing the night away at the Timberline with
friends. In 1989 she met her life partner Judy Pells, and in 1995 they moved to Vashon/Maury Island where they made a home in Dockton, collecting art, rescuing many cats and their dog, Sadie, and introducing their city friends to a whole new cast of characters. On October 26, 2008, surrounded by friends and family, Mary-Anna and Judy were married in Oakland, California. It was one of the happiest days of her life. The time she spent with Judy, her many dear friends, at the ocean with her dogs, her pets at home, reading, and eating delicious food brought her the most joy. She also enjoyed teaching her gentile/WASP friends how to make matzoh balls, blintzes, kugel, and all sorts of wonderful food from her mother‘s recipes. She is preceded in death by her mother Betty Hops, and by her godson Ryan Krug. Mary-Anna is survived by her wife Judy, father Benjamin Hops, brother Jerry Hops, dear friends Steve Schoenleber and George Asanovich, Rose Belknap and Rich Krug, Savannah Krug, Steven Sternfeld, Susan Huish, Ken Shirado, Ken Johnson, Bob Schlecht and Steve Allan, and her beloved cats MeMe, Gracie, Arlo, Tolliver, and Tulio. She leaves behind a world full of friends who feel blessed to have been part of her life, always surrounded by her light, love, and support.
season of softball. This season, we will be celebrating our principles of excellence, community, sportsmanship, and acceptance, as well as our first season in which samesex couples can be legally married in Washington state,” says Frank Pichinini, ECSA commissioner and an NAGAAA Hall of Famer. “We’ve come a long way over these 34 years, and we will embrace this progress and look forward to what the future will bring.” League sponsors this year include Absolut Vodka, Bud Light, Rein Fire Ranch and Sterling Athletics, in addition to the more than 60 local businesses that sponsor individual teams. For more information about the ECSA, visit www.emeraldcitysoftball.org or contact Stasiek at marcom@seattlegaysoftball. com.
Kenny Felks 1946 – 2013
Gary Kenneth Felks (Kenny or Papa Kenny to us) passed away on March 18, 2013. He was born on December 28, 1946, in Corinth, Mississippi, to Melvin Howard Felks and Dimple Ophelia Plaxico, and was the oldest of 10 brothers and sisters. Kenny was a Vietnam veteran, a veterinary technician, an excellent cook, and was full of humor. He always had an animal of some kind, from Pepe the parakeet to aquariums of fish to Girlie the conure to his cats Shadow, Chance, and Diva. Kenny was known in Seattle from his many years of bartending at establish-
ments including the 611, Clock, Park Bench, Marshall’s Office, Eastlake East, Tacky Tavern, Off Ramp, Foxes, Hana Teriyaki, Golden Crown, and many more. Papa Kenny was a prolific artist in pointillism, and his artwork is owned and admired by many. He freely shared his artistic talent through program design, posters, flyers, advertisements, and club logos. Kenny donated his work for fundraising and charity auctions, bringing thousands of dollars to community charities. Kenny was King IV of the United Ebony Council and designed the UEC emblem. In the Court of Seattle he ran for Emperor III and held the titles of King of Hearts VIII, Mr. Gay Seattle XI, and King of Seas Emeritus. A lifetime member of the Knights of Malta (now the Knights of Mantra), Kenny held board of director positions in the KofM, as well as club titles including Mr. Wrangler and Sir Guy. His many years of involvement in the Jet Chapter and the community will never be forgotten. A Celebration of Life for Kenny Felks will be held on Sunday, April 7, 3 p.m., at C.C. Attle’s, 1701 E. Olive Way, Seattle.
Come meet Tim and Matt and join the family.
Go 1605 12th Avenue at Pine, Seattle (In liquor store parking garage.) Seattle Storm! 206-838-6027 or 206-898-4306
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April 5, 2013
Seattle Gay News
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Yee-Shin Huang / Social Outreach Seattle
Don’t tax my feet! Opponents of state ‘dance tax’ find a creative way to protest by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor Nearly 100 people protesting a decadesold state tax on dance venues danced the salsa, flamenco, tango, and other styles (including even a conga line!) up and down the steps of the state Capitol in Olympia on Monday. The protest, organized by Hallie Kuperman, owner of the Century Ballroom on Capitol Hill in Seattle, was in support of a proposal now being considered by lawmakers to do away with the so-called “opportunity to dance” tax – which, as its name implies, is levied on businesses that offer attendees the “opportunity” to dance. According to the Washington Department of Revenue, cover charges and tickets
guidelines to who and how they choose the businesses.” Department of Revenue spokesperson Mike Gowrylow said in a statement that the tax has “applied to certain recreational activities since the 1960s, and our job is to ensure that businesses comply with those laws.” WHAT WILL THEY TAX NEXT? “I work in the nightlife and my livelihood is in dancing,” said Hanks. “They are taxing a physical movement. Does this mean that they can tax yawning, or going to the bathroom? “I just want to make sure that this issue will receive as much visibility as possible because it affects just about everyone,” continued Hanks, who danced alongside the
Protesters dancing on the steps of the Capitol building in Olympia
“[The department] quietly amended language to the Taverns section of their website, but did not send out a communication to the business sector,” said Kuperman. “I am angry that we are even in this position.”
Yee-Shin Huang / Social Outreach Seattle
Century Ballroom owner and protest organizer Hallie Kuperman (r) struts her stuff on the Capitol steps.
for movies, plays, and concerts are exempt protesters on April 1. from that tax. To see video coverage of the SOSea-supported dance-in, go to www.socialoutreachDISCRIMINATION CLAIMED seattle.com/videos/event-videos. Kuperman, the most outspoken proponent “It’s a retail sales tax on an opportunity to of the repeal, says enforcement is arbitrary, dance and the Department of Revenue has targeting medium-sized clubs and taverns yet to be able to define what that means,” but not larger venues like sports stadiums, Kuperman, who acted as DJ of the event, which often host concerts where people told USA Today. dance. Century Ballroom got hit with a $200,000 The tax, which is being enforced on sev- bill for back taxes last year. She was able to eral Gay-owned and operated businesses negotiate that down to around $90,000, and on Capitol Hill, is unpopular among most since then she has nearly raised that amount people SGN has spoken to. through a series of special fundraising Daniel Hanks, director of outreach for events. But she is not a happy camper. Social Outreach Seattle (SOSea), a local so“Some places are being charged for this cial justice nonprofit that is asking people to tax for some shows and not for other shows. support the repeal bill, SB 5613, said, “The It’s completely arbitrary,” she points out. interesting part is that the only businesses In fact, Kuperman, who has owned the being targeted are ones chosen by the De- social dance club for 15 years, says tax ofpartment of Revenue, yet they don’t have ficials are being downright sneaky.
DOR: NO EXCUSES The department has countered that the businesses protesting the tax are those that weren’t doing their bookkeeping correctly and whose back taxes came to light in audits. Gowrylow said that the protest was coming from “a handful of businesses that failed to collect sales tax on cover charges they imposed on customers to enter dance venues.” “Most of their competitors were properly collecting sales tax when due, and if businesses weren’t sure whether or not they should collect the tax in a given situation, all they had to do was ask us. They didn’t,” Gowrylow continued. The text of the “dance tax” law can be found online at http://apps.leg.wa.gov/wac/ default.aspx?cite=458-20-183. The proposed tax repeal, which has sup-
port from members of both parties, has cleared a committee and is awaiting a floor vote in the Senate. Go to http://apps.leg. wa.gov/documents/billdocs/2013-14/Pdf/ Bills/Senate%20Bills/5613.pdf to read SB 5613. BAD TIMING? Supporters of repeal are facing the fact that this bill may not pass, due to a continuing shortfall in the state budget. According to official estimates, repealing the dance tax would cost more than $880,000 in the 2013-15 budget cycle. Because the repeal measure affects the budget, it will remain alive until the waning days of the legislative session. “If we win, we’ll win it toward the end,” said Senate Minority Leader Ed Murray (D43rd Dist.) of Seattle, who was at the protest and even danced with the crowd. Murray has spoke out against the tax in recent weeks. “The whole concept of taxing dance, I think, is a bit odd,” he said. “Our nightlife business, which is a vibrant part of our business community, gets unfairly hit by this tax.”
sive,” “very matter-of-fact and logical,” and “loved by everyone.” continued from cover “She would take the approach that everyone has a voice, every voice counts,” said was my closest friend and colleague during Harris. “When I would visit the family, they my tenure.” were all involved in community leadership, After hearing the news of Chow’s pass- particularly around the Asian community.” ing, SGN asked Harris to share memories of her former colleague. Harris visited Chow CHAMPIONED DOG PARKS in her home last fall and, unbeknownst to Seattle dog owners can share a little bit in her, it was the last time she’d see her former Chow’s legacy. If you’ve ever taken a pet to colleague. one of Seattle’s many off-leash areas, you “She was in good spirits. She was very can thank her for its existence. pleased to see me and she was sharing with “She chaired the Parks Department, [and] me about her life with her partner and her believe it or not, before there were off-leash daughter,” Harris told SGN. “She told the areas, there was a huge controversy about it. whole story about how they got her, the No one in the council wanted to take it on, adoption, how she was such a little hand- but she took it on,” Harris told SGN. ful.” Chow is survived by her wife and daughHarris recalled that Chow was very ex- ter, and by her brothers Brien, Edward, cited for a trip she and Sarah were planning Mark, and Shelton Chow. A memorial is beto Kauai, Hawaii, but said she doesn’t know ing planned at Town Hall for April 20. if the family was able to take the trip or not. “I’ve said a couples times recently that I “They were very busy and at that time. don’t want anyone to waste away years beCheryl had taken a very courageous stand. I ing not themselves like I did,” Chow told think it took all of her energy to be involved SGN last September. “I’ve also regretted in that, because the treatment she was under, being at many different parades, events, and I’m sure it helped her, but it was also a big policy meetings supporting LGBT youth energy zapper – it made her very tired,” said and families and not being truthful with Harris. people, especially teenagers.” Harris described Chow as “very inclu-
chow
Rich Full-Bodied Cafes Savory Homestyle Soups & Sandwiches 6
Seattle Gay News
April 5, 2013
Celebrating 40 Years!
mother jones
national news Polling the polls Do we really have a majority for marriage equality? by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer A new analysis of recent polls on marriage equality suggests that how many people say they favor same-sex marriage may be influenced by how pollsters ask the question. According to Pew Research founding director Andrew Kohut, “the percentage saying they favor legalizing same-sex marriage ranges from 49% in surveys by the Pew Research Center and Fox News, to 58% in a Washington Post/ABC News poll.” While all polls show that more respondents favor than oppose marriage equality, the nine-point gap between the Pew and WaPo polls makes the difference between a near-majority for equality and overwhelming popular support. “Over the past 10 years,” Kohut notes in a column published March 29, “the Washington Post/ABC News question has consistently found more support for Gay marriage than the Pew Research question.” BLUNT INSTRUMENT “It is not obvious what accounts for the differences in responses to these questions,” Kohut continues. “They are all fairly worded and offer respondents an equal chance to express support or opposition to same-sex marriage.” One possibility, he suggests, is that asking whether same-sex marriage should be legal or illegal gets a more positive response than asking whether the respondent personally supports or opposes same-sex marriage. All the major polls that ask the “legal/illegal” question show more than 50% for legalization of same-sex marriage, while all those
that ask the “support/oppose” question show less than 50% support, even though more people still support marriage equality than oppose it. “In effect,” Kohut theorizes, “it may be easier for a respondent to say, ‘Legalize Gay marriage’ than to say, ‘I favor legalizing it.’” But, Kohut adds, “The more important point is that while polling remains a fairly blunt instrument, it nonetheless can tell the story of an important social change that pundits and advocates might otherwise characterize in a self-serving way.” AN UNDENIABLE SHIFT Putting aside the question of how heavily the public supports marriage for Gay and Lesbian couples, the fact is that all major polls show a significant shift of public opinion in favor of equality. A Pew poll released March 20, for example, showed gains for equality in every demographic category over the 10 years Pew has polled on this issue, including selfidentified “conservative Republicans” and white evangelicals. According to a separate Pew Research analysis, “Much of the shift in support of same-sex marriage is attributable to the arrival of a large cohort of young adults – the Millennial generation – who are far more open to Gay rights than previous generations.” In fact, all major polls show overwhelming support for equality among respondents under 30 – as much as 80% in the WaPo poll and 74% in Pew’s March 20 poll. “The increase in support for same-sex marriage fueled by generational trends has been accompanied by the number of Ameri-
cans who say they have changed their minds or they have become more aware of Gays on the issue, according to our March poll,” and Lesbians. Pew states. Eighteen percent said the world had changed, they believed same-sex marriage DIVERSE INFLUENCES was inevitable or more prevalent than it had Pew’s latest poll indicates that people been, and that it doesn’t hurt anyone. Ancite a variety of reasons for changing their other 18% cited freedom to choose one’s minds about same-sex marriage. spouse, or to find love and happiness. Thirty-seven percent say they changed Eight percent cited equal rights, 5% said because they have friends, family, or ac- that only God can judge people’s conduct, quaintances who are Gay. Another 25% and 2% said Gays and Lesbians were born reported they have become older and more that way. (Respondents were allowed to tolerant, they have studied the issue more, give more than one answer.) news whip
It’s never too early Don’t look now, but pollsters are already handicapping 2016 by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer
New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie. She leads Christie by 46% to 42%, within the poll’s margin of error. The good news for Clinton is that Christie is not the favorite to win the Republican nomination. PPP shows Christie tied for third place with Jeb Bush, behind both Marco Rubio and Paul Ryan. Clinton beats Rubio by eight points, 49% to 41%, and Paul Ryan by six points, 50% to 44%. “Biden does an average of three points worse than Clinton against the Republicans,” PPP says in its analysis of the polling data, but he also beats Rubio. Biden leads Ryan and Bush, but within the poll’s margin of error, and he ties Christie. Biden’s favorability among Iowa Democrats is only slightly lower than Clinton’s, with 84% favorable and only 9% unfavorable, but this good impression is not translating into likely votes for him, at least not in this poll.
Although the last presidential election was only five months ago, pollsters are already sampling for the 2016 presidential race. A new PPP poll shows that former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is by far the strongest potential Democratic nominee. Clinton not only leads her possible Democratic rivals for the nomination, she also leads every Republican listed in the poll in head-to-head matchups. Among potential Democratic candidates, Clinton leads with 58%, Vice President Joe Biden comes in as a not-very-close second with 19%, Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren draws 8%, and New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo trails the field with 3%. Clinton is even stronger in Iowa, the first state that will weigh in on the 2016 presidential race, getting 68% to Biden’s 21%. No one else gets more than 2%. Clinton’s A CLINTON BOOST? favorability rating among Iowa Democrats Polling so far in advance of presidential is an astounding 90%, with only 5% having primaries and caucuses, before there are an unfavorable impression of her. any declared candidates, has to be taken Hillary Clinton with more than a grain of salt. But while it is CHRISTIE STRONGEST FOE probably not predictive of what will happen couraging potential rivals and their backers, and 508 Republicans. They also polled 313 In head-to-head matchups with possible in 2106, such a poll may help to influence and drying up their funding sources. Democrats and 326 Republicans in Iowa. Republican nominees, the one Clinton the eventual outcome by identifying Clinton For this poll, PPP sampled 800 voters, and The margin of error is 4.8 points for the nawould have the toughest time beating is as the prohibitive favorite in the race, dis- oversampled an additional 416 Democrats tional poll and 4.4 points for Iowa.
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Seattle Gay News
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aclu
Anti-bullying activist honored Student Rights Project founder receives Loyola alumni award by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor On April 4, the ACLU of Southern California (ACLU/SC) announced that James Gilliam, its deputy executive director, has been named one of Loyola Law School’s “OutLaw Alumni of the Year.” Gilliam received his law degree from Loyola in 2003 and has been one of its most active alumni. The OutLaw Alumni Award is bestowed on graduates who demonstrate, in their practice of law and public service, a deep concern for social justice and an unwavering commitment to advance the rights of the LGBT community. OutLaw is the official Gay-straight alliance at the Chicagobased law school. Since joining the ACLU/SC in 2010, Gilliam founded and now directs the LGBTQ Student Rights Project, which is dedicated to stopping unlawful bullying and harassment in California schools and creating school communities that promote safety and respect for all students.
James Gilliam
NATIONWIDE IMPACT “As a graduate of Loyola Law School, the OutLaw Alumni Award is very meaningful
to me because it provides an opportunity to highlight the advocacy the ACLU/SC has done on behalf of the LGBTQ community for almost 50 years,” said Gilliam. “We will continue our quest for equality until the LGBTQ community is afforded all the rights and protections it deserves.” OutLaw President Mieko Failey said, “The LGBTQ Student Rights Project at the ACLU/SC is not only responsible for passing legislation that positively impacts the lives of LGBTQ youth, but it also continues to grow as one of the most well-respected projects working with the LGBTQ youth in the country.” “I am proud of James’ extraordinary work on behalf of the LGBTQ community,” added Hector Villagra, executive director of the ACLU/SC. “James’ tireless and relentless efforts have not only put our LGBTQ Student Rights Project on the map, but have made a real difference in the lives of the youth who need our help.” A longtime activist in the LGBTQ community, prior to attending law school Gilliam served as executive director of the organization in Nashville, Tennessee, that produces that city’s annual Gay Pride celebration. file photo
The battle of Bisbee Arizona AG threatens to sue small town for passing civil unions by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer Arizona Attorney General Tom Horne is threatening to sue the town of Bisbee because its City Council voted on April 2 to issue civil union certificates to same-sex couples. The city ordinance, which will go into effect 30 days after passage, was adopted by a 5-2 majority. Bisbee is the first jurisdiction in Arizona to adopt such a measure. At the City Council hearing on the measure, opponents warned that same-sex relations were an “abomination,” but one Gay couple took the microphone to support the proposal. “I just have to clarify. I am not an abomination,” one of the couple said. “The love that we share together, and the life that we have built together is not an abomination. It’s strange to have to say that. It’s strange to be up here asking all of you that are married – you all have more rights than I do, and you’ll have more rights even if this passes ... “It does feel strange to be up here begging for something that’s so little ... I really just want the same rights that all of you have right now and I want all the same rights that my parents have ... This isn’t an abstract issue of Gay marriage. This is us. We’re a couple. And we love each other. And we would like you to please unanimously vote to give us just a sliver of the rights that you have.”
Bisbee city limits, and only to things within the city’s control, such as city personnel policies. Nevertheless, Attorney General Horne said it violates the state constitution, and he would sue to block it in court. “The ordinance seeks to change seven separate State statutes within the boundaries of the city, dealing with issues such as community property, inheritance of property, and appointment of personal representatives,” Horne said in a news release. “The only proper way to change a statute is through the Legislature, not through actions of the City Council. I emphasize that I am not expressing any opinion on the policy of the ordinance. My job is to enforce the laws that exist and I am obligated to respond to complaints from state legislators.”
AN INCONSISTENT STANCE Ironically, Horne appeared before the U.S. Supreme Court last year defending his state’s attempt to pre-empt federal immigration law, which the Obama Administration said could be changed by Congress and not by state legislatures. Horne also filed a federal suit last year asking the Supreme Court to reverse a Ninth Circuit decision that Arizona state employees may cover their same-sex domestic partners under their health insurance benefits. In his brief, Horne claimed that the compelling state interest in denying coverage to samesex partners is that it “furthers the State’s interest in promoting marriage.” The right-wing Center for Arizona Policy also sent Bisbee a letter threatening to bankONLY APPLIES IN CITY Bisbee City Attorney John MacKinnon rupt the town in a lawsuit. Bisbee is a former copper-mining town says the ordinance would only apply within
Arizona Attorney General Tom Horne
of about 6,000 people in the southeast corner of the state. In the early 20th century, it was the scene of bitter struggles between mine owners and the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW), an anarcho-syndicalist union. As the mining industry declined after
World War II, Bisbee lost population, but it became a tourist destination and artists’ mecca in the 1970s, and today it is rated one of the best places to retire by the AARP. In 2010 the International Real Estate Digest ranked Bisbee as the second-“quirkiest” town in the country.
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by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Wrier You might have thought that laws banning Gay sex were struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court in the 2003 Lawrence v. Texas decision – and you’d be right. But in the Bizarro world inhabited by right-wing Republicans, the court didn’t mean exactly what it said in its ruling: that “the Texas [anti-sodomy] statute furthers no legitimate state interest which can justify its intrusion into the personal and private life of the individual.” Virginia Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli, now a candidate for the Republican nomination for governor of Virginia, lives in that world, where anti-Gay laws still have a place. Cuccinelli has filed a petition with the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, asking it to uphold Virginia’s antique “sodomy” law. Like many states with sodomy laws on the books, Virginia never bothered to repeal its law after the Supreme Court issued its ruling in Lawrence. In Virginia, the law stated that “If any person … carnally knows any male or female person by the anus or by or with the mouth, or voluntarily submits to such carnal knowledge, he or she shall be guilty of a [felony.]” DOES IT APPLY TO MINORS? In 2005 – three years after the Lawrence
latino news daily
Save our ‘sodomy’ law, Virginia AG pleads decision – Virginia charged and convicted a 47-year-old man of soliciting oral sex from a 17 year-old female under the state’s sodomy law. The state attorney general at the time, Judith Jagdmann, argued that Lawrence did not apply to cases involving minors. The defendant was convicted and appealed in federal court, arguing that sodomy laws were no longer valid. On March 12, a panel of 4th Circuit Court justices overturned the conviction by a 2-1 vote, saying that the defendant could be convicted of having sex with a minor under other state laws, but that the Lawrence decision rendered the state’s sodomy law invalid. “We are confident, however,” the panel majority wrote, “that we adhere to the Supreme Court’s holding in Lawrence by concluding that the anti-sodomy provision, prohibiting sodomy between two persons without any qualification, is facially unconstitutional.” In other words, it was not necessary to analyze the claims made in the case, since the sodomy law was obviously and in all cases – “on its face” – unconstitutional. Cuccinelli than filed his petition, asking the full 4th Circuit to review the case. “Plainly, the scope of the Supreme Court’s decision in Lawrence was not so evident that it necessarily invalidates sodomy convictions even where no expectation of prifile photo
Senator Bill Nelson
majority
The Pennsylvania senator previously backed civil unions for same-sex couples continued from cover and has spoken out against constitutional bans on same-sex marriage. He has supportwant less commitment and fewer strong ed pro-LGBT measures such as the ENDA marriages? If two people of the same sex (the Employment Non-Discrimination Act) want to raise children, why would our gov- and the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” ernment prevent them from doing so, especially when so many children have only one A LAWMAKER’S LETTER parent or none at all?” Casey’s announcement came four days af-
Virginia Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli
vacy among consenting adults is involved,” Cuccinelli wrote in his brief. “Thus, there is no basis to conclude that the state courts ‘erred so transparently that no fair-minded jurist could agree’ with their rulings.”
CASE’S FATE UNCERTAIN Since the Supreme Court said in Lawrence that adults were entitled to a reasonable expectation of privacy when having consensual sex, Cuccinelli says, that deciter openly Gay Pennsylvania State Rep. Brian Sims published an open letter to the senator, noting that he had worked to elect Casey in hopes he would support equal rights for his Gay and Lesbian constituents. “We have believed since you were sworn in that when the time was right, when it really mattered, you would be there for equality,” Sims wrote. “The time is right and we need you to be here. But your voice is silent. And I am angry.” In his statement, Casey said he had begun to reconsider his position on same-sex marriage in 2011, when the Respect for Marriage Act to repeal DOMA was first introduced in the Senate. “After much deliberation and after reviewing the legal, public policy and civilrights questions presented, I support marriage equality for same-sex couples and believe that DOMA should be repealed,” he said. Casey was soon joined by Sen. Tom Carper of Delaware, a Democrat. “As our society has changed and evolved, so too has the public’s opinion on Gay marriage – and so has mine,” Carper wrote on his Facebook page. “I pray every day for God to grant me the wisdom to do what is right. Through my prayers and conversations with my family and countless friends and Delawareans, I’ve been reminded of the power of one of my core values: the Golden Rule. It calls on us to treat others as we want to be treated. That means, to me, that all Americans ultimately should be free to marry the people they love and intend to share their lives with, regardless of their sexual orientation, and that’s why today, after a great deal of soul searching, I’m endorsing marriage equality.”
sion does not apply in circumstances when there is no expectation of privacy or where one of the parties is not a consenting adult. The circuit court is under no obligation to accept Cuccinelli’s petition and re-hear the case, but they may do so if the justices feel a need to either affirm or overrule the panel’s decision. If the entire 4th Circuit hears the case and reverses the panel, the defendant may appeal to the Supreme Court for a clarification of its Lawrence ruling. to civil marriage,” Kirk wrote on his blog. “Our time on this earth is limited – I know that better than most. Life comes down to who you love and who loves you back – government has no place in the middle.” Kirk had previously voted to repeal DADT in 2010. Evan Wolfson, founder and president of Freedom to Marry, now looks forward to a Senate vote to repeal DOMA. “With Senator Kirk’s support, the U.S. Senate is now ready to move to the right side of history in support of same-sex couples’ freedom to marry,” Wolfson said in a statement. “Just as we have seen a majority of Americans embrace the freedom to marry, so the Senate is now on the verge of a majority for marriage. As members of Congress are talking with their family, friends, colleagues, and constituents, they come to understand why marriage matters to Gay couples as to non-Gay, and speak up in support of fairness and freedom. Senator Kirk’s heartfelt words about values of treating others as we’d all want to be treated in our precious time on this planet powerfully make the case for the freedom to marry – and the need for decision-makers to end marriage discrimination in the United States.”
DEMOCRATIC HOLDOUTS On the Democratic side of the aisle, only Sens. Joe Donnelly (D-IN), Tim Johnson (D-SD), Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND), Mary Landrieu (D-LA), Joe Manchin (D-WV), Bill Nelson (D-FL), and Mark Pryor (DAR) are still not openly supporting marriage equality. Kirk and Ohio Sen. Rob Portman, who announced his support for equality on March 15, are currently the only Republican senators to endorse marriage rights for Gays and KIRK MAKES IT 50 Lesbians. The next day, Republican Sen. Mark Kirk While a majority of senators now support of Illinois became the 50th senator to come marriage equality, it remains unclear whethover to equality. Kirk, who suffered a near- er the Respect for Marriage Act will come to fatal stroke in January 2012 and only re- the Senate floor for debate, since anti-equalturned to the Senate this year, said he had ity Republicans still have more than the 41 “promised myself that I would return to the votes needed to filibuster the bill. Senate with an open mind and greater reUpdate: As this edition of SGN went to spect for others.” press, Sen. Bill Nelson (D-FL) announced “Same-sex couples should have the right his support of marriage equality.
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northwest news
ARTSWEST – NEXT FALL ArtsWest (4711 California Ave. SW) presents Next Fall, a witty and timely story of two men in a committed, long-term relationship, and the family and friends that are a part of their lives. Runs Wednesday-Sunday, March 13-April 6. Tickets: 908-0339 or www.artswest.org.
compiled by Rick McKinnon SGN Staff Writer
On Saturday, April 6, at 8 p.m., and Sunday, April 7, at 2 p.m., at McCaw Hall (321 Mercer St.), join the Seattle Men’s Chorus and special guest Leslie Jordon, for “Dancing Queen – the Music of ABBA,” a “mashup” of comedy and music from the hit rock/ pop sensation, ABBA. Tickets: $28, $38, $48, $58, and $68. 206-388-1400; www.flyinghouse.org [NOTE: Out-of-town performances will be held on Saturday, April 13, at the Admiral Theatre in Bremerton, and on Sunday, April 21, at the Washington Center for the Performing Arts in Olympia.]
POZ SEATTLE – “SPRING FLING” On Wednesday, April 10, from 6-8 p.m., at The Cuff Complex (1533 13th Ave. at E. Pine St.,), join POZSeattle for their “Spring Fling” social. Meet in the downstairs bar for light snacks, socializing, catching-up with old friends, making new ones, and a whole lot of fun. Light Spring fare will be provided, plus they will have an Egg Hunt with Special Surprizes, so bring your Baskets. This event is FREE (except for the cost of beverages) and is for all HIV-Positive men and their friends, regardless of age, shape, size, or color. www.pozseattle.org.
EMERALD CITY SOFTBALL ASSOCIATION OPENING DAY On Sunday, April 7, from 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., at North SeaTac Park (13735 24th Ave. S., SeaTac) and Moshier Park (430 S. 156th Pl., Burien), Seattle’s LGBTQ softball league kicks off its 34th season with games all day in two locations. See our 33 teams in action. The ECSA season runs Sun2013 LIVING PINK PAGEANT days, April 7 through June 9 (except MemoOn Saturday, April 6, cocktails & light rial Day Weekend), and Saturday, June 15. hors d’ouevres at 6 p.m., pageant at 7 p.m., www.emeraldcitysoftball.org. at the Greater Tacoma Convention & Trade Center (1500 Broadway, Tacoma) join MiSEATTLE OUT & PROUD – chelle Millman (from KIRO-TV), at the PRIDE IDOL fundraising pageant and $10 art raffle to On Sunday, April 7, doors at 6:30 p.m. benefit the Carol Milgard First Look Vouch- with community karaoke, contest at 8 p.m., er Program. Come celebrate and commemo- at Neighbours (1509 Broadway), join Seatrate those warriors and survivors of breast tle Out & Proud and your host Robby Turncancer. Tickets: $25-adults; $10 youth. er for Seattle’s Pride Idol competition. Each www.LeCherProductions.com week talented local amateur singers will compete to become Seattle Out & Proud’s SISTER SPIT 2013 Pride Idol. Registration is first come, On Saturday, April 6, at 8 p.m., Richard first serve – maximum 10 contestants per Hugo House (1634 11th Ave., just north of week; $20 registration fee; prizes to be deE. Pine St.) presents Sister Spit, a Lesbian- termined. The contest will be held Sundays, feminist spoken word and performance art April 7, 14, 21 and 28, May 5, 12, June 2 collective based in San Francisco. Tickets: (Wild Card) and June 9 (Final). Seattle Out $20-general admission; $15-Hugo House & Proud organizes Seattle’s annual Pride members. 206-322-7030; www.hugohouse. Parade in downtown Seattle. Winner will org. perform at the Parade Pre-Show and on the Pride Idol Float on Sunday, June 30. Visit SEATTLE MEN’S CHORUS – www.seattlepride.org for complete details “DANCING QUEEN – and a directory of karaoke songs to choose THE MUSIC OF ABBA” from or bring your own music.
SEATTLE GAY & LESBIAN BOOK CLUB – THE GALLERY The Seattle Gay & Lesbian Book Club meets every Wednesday from 6-7:15 p.m., at Seattle Area Support Groups Community Center (303 17th Ave. E. at E. Thomas St.). In April, the club is reading The Gallery by John Horne Burns. One of the first novels to describe the psychological reality of the Second World War and achieve fame was John Horne Burns’ The Gallery, written when he was thirty and published a year after he was discharged in 1947. Burns died six years later of alcoholism. Though he left behind two other failed novels and an unfinished fourth, The Gallery, is still in print 66 year later and still highly regarded. Taking place in Naples after the war, with a cast including both Americans and Italians, both straight and Gay, it’s an interconnected story sequence linked by the Galleria Umberto, a meeting place for Gay hustlers. All GLBTQ folks are welcome to participate in this FREE book club. For more information visit http://faculty.washington. edu/swittet/SGLBookClub/.
MOISTURE FESTIVAL MARCH 21-APRIL 14 www.moisturefestival.org NW VINTAGE WEDDING FAIR On Saturday, April 6, from 12 noon-4 p.m. (VIP entry 11 a.m.-12 noon), at The Fremont Abbey (4272 Fremont Ave. N.), over 25 vintage-inspired vendors will be showcasing their wedding and special event accessories, jewelry, vintage apparel, paper goods, floral work, vintage decor rentals and more. www.thevintageweddingfair. com; 206-832-6063.
16 Seattle Gay News
April 5, 2013
KINK LINCS CONFERENCE APRIL 12-14 Kink LINCS is a Leadership and Community Building Symposium being held in the heart of downtown Seattle. If you are part of a Leather, BDSM, Kink, Fetish, Poly, Swing or other sex positive commu-
nity and are interested in developing your leadership, teamwork, communication, and/ or involvement in your specific community, Kink LINCS is the place to come together and share common ground, network with and learn from each other, as well as share experiences, techniques and knowledge with the objective of “Forging Strong Communities.” www.kinklincs. org. LANGSTON HUGHES AFRICAN AMERICAN FILM FESTIVAL APRIL 13-21 www.langstoninstitute.org IMPERIAL COURT OF SEATTLE – IMPERIAL PRINCE & PRINCESS BALL AND INVESTITURES 2013 On Saturday, April 13, door at 5 p.m., ball at 6 p.m., at R Place (619 E. Pine St. at Boylston Ave.) the Imperial Court of Seattle along with Imperial Prince 38 David Link Lake and Imperial Princess 36 Donna Tella Howe invite the community to Imperial Prince and Princess Ball and Investitures 2013, “A Year of Power, Pride and Marriage Equality.” Cover $20 at the door. www. facebook.com/ISCSORE THREE DOLLAR BILL CINEMA – THE BIRDCAGE ANNUAL DINNER & AUCTION On Saturday, April 13, at 6 p.m., at Sodo Park by Herban Feast (3200 1st Ave. S.), Three Dollar Bill Cinema hosts The Birdcage Annual Dinner and Auction. “Drag” yourself and your friends to what is sure to be one of Seattle’s most fun evening of song, dance, frivolity - all in support of Three Dollar Bill Cinema’s mission to enrich, strengthen and connect diverse communities by supporting and exhibiting LGBT film. Enjoy silent and live auctions, appetizers, luxurious family-style dinner, hosted wine and some cinematic surprises. Tickets: $115 for Three Dollar Bill Cinema members, $135 for non-members; VIP upgrades for an additional $30. 206-323-4274; www.threedollarbillcinema.org
Celebrating 40 Years!
health and medicine
It’s sneezin’ season Experts tell how to manage your seasonal allergies
your symptoms and doing your part to keep your community safer at the same time. Ask your pharmacist about Nexafed HCl tablets, the next-generation PSE that provides the same effective relief from nasal congestion for most people as standard PSEs, but with technology that disrupts the extraction and
toes, can help reduce your body’s reaction to pollen. Or, try loading up on salmon and walnuts, as omega-3 fatty acids are thought to alleviate itchy eyes and a runny nose. If you have questions or doubts about which medications may be best for you, talk with your pharmacist. And if symptoms
Certain foods have allergy-fighting properties. For example, quercetin, found in oranges, broccoli, and sweet potatoes, can help reduce your body’s reaction to pollen. Or, try loading up on salmon and walnuts, as omega-3 fatty acids are thought to alleviate itchy eyes and a runny nose. conversion of pseudoephedrine into meth. Over-the-counter eye drops that are specifically designed to treat allergy symptoms can be found in any drug store and can be very effective at reliving redness and washing away allergens. Also consider using an air purifier or humidifier in your house to help clear the air of possible irritants. EATING FOR RELIEF According to experts, certain foods you may already be enjoying have allergyfighting properties. For example, quercetin, found in oranges, broccoli, and sweet pota-
A CONSTANT BATTLE When someone is infected with HIV, their body produces antibodies to attack it. But the virus mutates and evades the offensive, so the body produces new antibodies that the virus then evades and the war goes on. Through regular genetic analyses of both the immune system and the virus, research-
ers could piece together each of the steps that culminated in the production of CH103, giving them what they call “a training manual for the immune system.” “What we were able to do was map out the arms race of both virus and antibody, and in doing so we have now a map,” Haynes said. “This is the first time we’ve been able to see the actual road map.” The challenge now is to re-create the steps and see if that could lead to a viable vaccine, Haynes added. It would almost certainly need to be a vaccine combining multiple “Achilles’ heels,” in the same way that HIV therapies are a combination of drug treatments, Haynes believes. “This paper is really interesting,” Dr. Sarah Joseph, who tests HIV vaccines for Britain’s Medical Research Council told the BBC. “Some people do make antibodies that neutralize a lot of HIV virus, bit it is not of use to them as they produce it way too late.” She said harnessing these antibodies “could be a big deal” and there was “even talk about mass-producing antibodies and infusing people with them” – in other words, using these antibodies as an HIV vaccine.
April 5, 2013
Seattle Gay News 17
hiv
continued from cover
It’s the time of year once again when we welcome beautiful flowers and warm temperatures. Unfortunately, for many of us, spring also means itchy, watery eyes, sneezing fits, and nasal congestion. These days, pollen from plants and flowers typically are released earlier in the year than in the past, causing longer allergy seasons, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, which noted that 2012 was one of the worst such seasons on record. While there is no cure-all for seasonal allergies, popular over-the-counter (OTC) medications can provide relief for the most common symptoms. These guidelines can help you better deal with seasonal allergies.
GESUNDHEIT! Popular OTC antihistamines can provide relief from sneezing, runny noses, and irritated, watery eyes by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical in the body that triggers congestion and upper respiratory discomfort. All stuffed up? Decongestants like pseudoephedrine (PSE) relieve a stuffy nose by narrowing the blood vessels in nasal passages so you can breathe more easily. PSEs are now located behind the pharmacy counter because they are an ingredient that can be used to make methamphetamine. Rest assured though, PSE has been safely used for decades. If you’re congested, consider treating
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worsen or last for more than two weeks, be sure to see your doctor. Rest assured, relief for seasonal allergy symptoms does exist! Visit your local drugstore or the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America’s website (www.aafa.org) for more information on how to treat seasonal allergies. You can check the daily pollen level in your area at the National Allergy Bureau’s website (www.aaaai.org/global/ nab-pollen-counts.aspx). There’s no reason you have to miss out on the warm weather and all the fun outdoor activities this time of year has to offer. – StatePoint Media
ty’s Human Vaccine Institute told the BBC. The research team’s study is based on an HIV patient in Africa who had a rapid diagnosis, only about four weeks after being infected with the virus. Because the individual was diagnosed very early on, doctors were able to observe the entire progress of the infection. This patient was eventually able to produce an antibody called CH103 that could neutralize 55% of HIV samples. But it was not produced in one easy step, researchers said. Instead it was the product of a “war” between the immune system and HIV, each trying to out-evolve the other.
international news
Irish bishops threaten ‘strike’ if Gay marriage passes by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer In a formal submission to Ireland’s Constitutional Convention, the country’s Catholic bishops have warned that church clerics would no longer marry anyone if marriage rights are extended to Gay and Lesbian couples. According to the Irish Examiner newspaper, the bishops submitted a 10-page docu-
ment to the convention, saying their priests would continue to perform religious wedding ceremonies in church but would no longer comply with civil laws that require clergy to “solemnize” marriages. Irish law requires that for a marriage to be legally recognized, it must be “solemnized” and documented by someone listed on the official “register of solemnizers.” About 4,300 of the 5,600 people listed in the register are Catholic priests, the newspaper says.
CHURCH, STATE CONNECTED “It is important to note that in Ireland, the Church and State cooperate closely in the solemnization of marriages,” the bishops said in their submission. “Any change to the definition of marriage would create great difficulties, and in the light of this, if there were two totally different definitions of marriage, the Church could no longer carry out the civil element,” they warned. According to the Catholic Communications Office, there were nearly 20,000 marriages in Ireland in 2011, with more than 14,000 people attending Catholic marriage preparation courses. Seventy percent of Irish marriages are solemnized by Catholic priests, they added. Ireland’s Gay and Lesbian Equality Net-
work (GLEN) said they respect freedom of religion and do not want to force priests to solemnize same-sex marriages. BLASPHEMY: NOT A CRIME? The Constitutional Convention was convened last year to consider possible revisions to the Irish Constitution, including extending marriage rights to Gay and Lesbian couples. Other suggested amendments would reduce the term of the Irish president to five years, reduce the voting age to 17, and remove the crime of “blasphemy” from Irish law codes. The bishops’ submission is one of more than 1,000 the convention has received on the issue of same-sex marriage. GLEN said submissions were running about three to one in favor of marriage equality.
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Uruguay passes full marriage equality law
a law where everyone shares the same rights and obligations,” said Federico Graña, a member of the ruling Frente Amplio coalition and a member of the Black Sheep Collective, a Gay rights group that presented the bill’s first draft. “This is an issue of liberty, of people’s choice and justice,” said Sen. Rafael Michelini. “Liberty because the state should not meddle in who you should marry; justice because if you marry abroad with someone of the same sex and later return to Uruguay, your marriage should be recognized.” According to the English-language Buenos Aires Herald, “The Roman Catholic Church opposes the proposal, but the Church has little political influence in secular Uruguay, which became the first Latin American country to legalize abortion last year.” “Uruguayan senators made the right decision by allowing same-sex couples to marry,” said Boris Dittrich, advocacy director of the LGBT Rights Program at Human Rights Watch. “Final approval will enable Gays and Lesbians in Uruguay to marry the person they love and will strengthen the fundamental rights of everyone in Uruguay to equality and non-discrimination.”
AP / Matilde Campodonico
of Uruguay and their government for moving forward into a future in which all loving and committed couples can share in the freedom to marry and the meaning and protections marriage brings to families,” the group said in a statement. “Uruguay’s vote today to move past civil union to marriage itself, Argentina’s enactment of the freedom to marry in 2010, and the Mexico Supreme Court’s unanimous ruling last month in favor of the freedom to marry – citing the U.S. Supreme Court cases of Brown v. Board of Education and Loving v. Virginia – all are inspirations and examples decision-makers here in the United States, including our Supreme Court justices, should swiftly follow to get the U.S. where it needs to be.” Mujica advocated marriage equality in his 2009 presidential campaign. Since taking office in 2010, he has lived on his wife’s farm rather than in the presidential palace, and has donated 90% of his government salary to charity. Labeled “the world’s poorest president,” Mujica lists his net worth as $1,000, the value of his Volkswagen bug. The Tupamaros, named after the 18thcentury Inca leader Tupac Amaru (who also lent his name to the late rapper Tupac Shakur), are no longer active, but in the ACTIVISTS WELCOME MOVE 1960s and early 1970s they waged a guerrilAn activist outside Uruguay Parliament on December 11, 2012 The U.S.-based group Freedom to Marry la war against a right-wing Uruguayan govby Mike Andrew passed a new marriage law in 2010. also congratulated Uruguay on passage of ernment. In 1974, a joint U.S.-Latin AmeriIn addition to allowing Gay and Lesbian the bill. can counterinsurgency offensive broke up SGN Staff Writer couples to marry, the measure will allow “Freedom to Marry applauds the people the group. Uruguay’s Senate approved marriage them to adopt children. It also eliminates equality by an overwhelming 28-2 major- the words “husband” and “wife” in marity on April 2. A similar bill was approved riage contracts, and substitutes the words by the country’s lower house of Congress “contracting parties.” Under the legislation, couples – same-sex in December, and the Senate version will now go back to the lower house for final ap- or opposite-sex – may also decide for themselves how their children arrange their surproval. Uruguayan President José Mujica, a for- names. In most Spanish-speaking countries, mer Tupamaro guerrilla, favors equality and children customarily bear the surnames of has promised to sign the bill once Congress both parents, with the father’s family name has completed action on it. At that point, first. Uruguay will become the 12th country to EQUAL RIGHTS FOR ALL legalize same-sex marriage and the second “It goes beyond homosexuality, it’s about in Latin America, after Argentina, which
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l Jesse’s a n our J
Remembering Robbie A homophobic pastor revives interest in a forgotten Gay hero e.o. hoppé
world.” So far, so good. But then Swanson’s rant gets weird. According to the radio preacher, “About 100 years ago, you had three homosexuals in the world, as far as anybody really knew. There was a Canadian named Robert Ross, an Englishman [actually an Irishman] named Oscar Wilde, [and] an American named Walt Whitman. They led the charge in the early 1900s [not exactly – Whitman died in 1892 and Wilde in 1900] and wound up in and out of the prison system and in court and so forth for a period of time. And again, there were only about three that anybody knew of and it was hardly anything that was mentioned among the established world at that time – that is, in Europe, Canada, and America. But you did have those three men, as far as history bears out. Robert Ross, Oscar Wilde, and Walt Whitman were well-known for some level of homosexual activity, although they could not call themselves homosexuals at that time.” Though Swanson’s radio rant is ridiculous even by conservative Christian standards, it reminds us of an early pioneer who is remembered, if at all, for his relationship with others. Unlike Whitman and Wilde, who almost everyone today knows, very few are acquainted with Robert Baldwin Ross (1869-1918), affectionately known as “Robbie.” Also unlike Whitman and Wilde, Ross was openly Gay for most of his life, which caused him many problems.
Robert Ross
by Jesse Monteagudo SGN Contributing Writer Leave it to a Bible thumper to remind us of an unjustly forgotten Gay pioneer. Pastor Kevin Swanson is director of Generations with Vision, a ministry whose goal is to strengthen homeschooling families like his own. Swanson also hosts a daily radio show, “Generations Radio,” which his website describes as “the world’s largest homeschooling and Biblical worldview program.” On a recent episode, Swanson denounced a bill that established civil unions for same-sex couples in his home state of Colorado, giving us his own interpretation of Gay history – which, if anything, shows us how flawed the homeschooling movement really is. Lamenting that “this is not the first time society’s had to deal with this kind of issue,” Swanson goes on to complain that homosexuality “is probably more widespread than it has ever been in the history of the
him to drop out of Cambridge and move to London where he became a journalist. There he met Wilde, who was then heterosexually married. The Canadian became the Irishman’s first male lover and later his best friend, proving once again that a common sexual orientation often transcends boundaries. Among other services, Ross introduced his friend to London’s Gay underground. But sexual acts between men were illegal in England at the time, and being Gay was often dangerous. Ross himself got in trouble when he had a relationship with a 16-year-old boy, who went on to tell his parents. Fortunately for Ross, the boy’s parents were persuaded not to go to the police. In 1895 Wilde made the fatal mistake of suing the Marquess of Queensberry, who called Wilde a “sodomite” for his relationship with the Marquess’s son, Lord Alfred Douglas. Wilde’s suit exposed his Gay activities, and he was jailed for “gross indecency.” Though Ross left England for his own safety, he quickly returned. Unlike most of Wilde’s other so-called friends (including Douglas), Ross was loyal to the writer in his hour of need, giving him both financial and emotional support. Ross was with Wilde when he died in 1900 and became his literary executor. In 1908 Ross produced the definitive edition of Wilde’s works. He also commissioned sculptor Jacob Epstein to build a tomb for Wilde at the Père Lachaise Cemetery in Paris, the last resting place for many celebrities from
Honoré de Balzac to Gertrude Stein. Ross also befriended Wilde’s sons, Vyvyan and Cyril. BETRAYAL AND DEATH Ross’s open Gayness continued to give him trouble. Because of his friendship and loyalty to Wilde, Ross won the enmity of Wilde’s jealous lover Douglas. Lord Alfred, who after Wilde’s death repudiated his youthful homosexuality, tried to have Ross arrested and tried for homosexual conduct. In 1918, the last year of the First World War, Noel Pemberton Billing, a right-wing member of Parliament, published an article, “The Cult of the Clitoris,” in which he accused Ross and his circle of friends of leading a cadre of 47,000 homosexuals who betrayed Great Britain to the Germans. Though not much came out of this stupid allegation, it proved embarrassing for Ross and his friends. Ross died suddenly on October 5, 1918, just before the war ended. In 1950, on the 50th anniversary of Wilde’s death, Ross’s ashes were added to Wilde’s tomb in Père Lachaise Cemetery, where they are ignored by the throngs who visit the great writer’s gravesite. For more information about Ross, I recommend the biography by Jonathan Fryer titled Robbie Ross: Oscar Wilde’s Devoted Friend. Read it and thank the Rev. Swanson for inadvertently restoring the memory of a great Gay hero.
MEETING MR. WILDE Ross was born in Toronto to a prominent family that helped lead Canada for much of the 19th century. In 1888 Ross moved to England, where he studied at King’s College in Cambridge. As an out Gay man, Ross was the victim of bullying, which led
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A cry for help?
be held in any way accountable for its message.” “So, do I agree with everything that that guy said and the way he said it in the article, no. But he gives a lot of statistics on the results of the health and mental and physical health of the lifestyle and what it causes.” Yes, yes he does. Lots of “statistics” speto back up such a wild claim before I post it to Facebook and defend it as gospel.” But cifically conjured to appeal to people who not Agema. Joseph’s “fact” sheet also included these gems: “Homosexuals account for half the murders in large cities,” and “Fifty percent of suicides can be attributed to homosexuals,” both citing the same unverifiable source. Most reasonable people, even those who oppose marriage equality, would not believe such alarming stats without sound support. The only people who’d believe such utter bullshit are people who want it to be true. Agema is, unabashedly, one of those people.
RNC’s Dave Agema is in serious need of intervention by D’Anne Witkowski SGN Contributing Writer Facebook’s ever-changing privacy settings can be confusing, but you might want to click the “Only Me” setting if you’re about to post something batshit crazy on your wall and are a figure of any public significance. Or, if you’re Republican National Committeeman Dave Agema, you can post a foaming-at-the-mouth anti-Gay screed for lots of people to see, complain that the criticism you’ve received as a result is unfair, and then reaffirm that you actually believe
already believe terrible things about Gays and Lesbians. Thinking people are not the target audience here. Which is why I think posting this was actually a cry for help. Coming out as stupid can be very difficult, but the kind of ignorance Agema embraces is most certainly a lifestyle choice.
Most reasonable people, even those who oppose marriage equality, would not believe such alarming stats without sound support. The only people who’d believe such utter bullshit are people who want it to be true. Agema is, unabashedly, one of those people. the crazy shit you posted. Agema used to be a state representative in Michigan. He was insanely anti-Gay then, which is clearly a dream he’s still pursuing. And so it was that Agema found himself posting an article titled “Everyone Should Know These Statistics on Homosexuals” by one Frank Joseph, M.D., who may or may not be a real person. Regardless, whoever did write this had quite the imagination. OUTDATED INFO But wait, you say, the article has footnotes! It must all be true! Except the most recent source Joseph uses is from 1994, and the majority are from the late ’70s and early ’80s. For example, Joseph’s claim that “78 percent of homosexuals are affected by STDs” cites a source from 1982. Someone with even the most basic research skills would look at that number and say, “Huh. Seventy-eight percent sounds pretty high and 1982 was a long time ago. I’d better see if any more current information exists
“The suicide rates and the murder rates, the diseases, and the fact that they die younger and so fourth, it’s all in there,” Agema told WWMT-TV. “I not only believe it but it’s substantiated by several different articles and studies. That’s just a fact.” BLAMING THE SOURCE And that, ladies and gentlemen, is how “facts” are made: anything that is included in “several different articles and studies” must be true – especially if someone with M.D. after his name has posted it to the Internet, which we all know is the official home of the truth. Republicans and Democrats alike have been calling on Agema to resign for posting such dumbfuckery to Facebook, but Agema has no intentions to do so – and furthermore, he thinks this is all much ado about nothing. “They quoted as what somebody else said and attributed it to me; I didn’t say that,” Agema said. In other words, “Just because I posted it to Facebook doesn’t mean I should
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