Issue 31 Volume 37
FRIDAY July 31, 2009 FREE! 25¢ in bookstores & news stands
Celebrating 36 Years!
south park update p. 5
voices rising p. 21
Block party p. 29
Seattle Gay News SEATTLE’S LGBT NEWS & ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY
Schwarzenegger Ref. 71, temp. restraining order cuts AIDS services freezes public signature release Eliminates funding for viral-load testing AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli
AIDS services across the board, leaving full funding in place only for epidemic surveillance and for the drugs that suppress HIV. Although the cuts curtailed state funding for HIV-related education (an 80% cut), prevention (80% cut), counseling (70% cut), testing (70%), primary medical care (50%), home care (50%) and housing (20%), one cut stood out Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signs the $85 billion in particular: the termination of all revised California state budget on July 28, 2009 funding for the Ofby Rex Wockner fice of AIDS’ Therapeutic MoniSGN Contributing Writer toring Program. For some 35,000 working- and In an effort to balance Cali- middle-class Californians whose fornia’s budget, Gov. Arnold HIV care is paid for by the state, Schwarzenegger used line-item that program pays for viral-load vetoes July 28 to chop more than testing and drug-resistance test$50 million in funding from the ing. state Office of AIDS, including Viral-load testing is mandatory critical funding for HIV viral-load testing. Schwarzenegger decimated see aids Funding page 19
by Shaun Knittel SGN Staff Writer On July 29 U.S. District Judge Benjamin H. Settle granted a temporary restraining order requested by Protect Washington Families to stop the Secretary of State’s Office from making the names and addresses of those who signed Referendum 71 public. Judge Settle wrote that the referendum backers “have sufficiently demonstrated a reasonable likelihood of success on the merits [of their First Amendment claim] and a reasonable likelihood of irreparable harm if the names are released.” Wednesday afternoon’s ruling by the federal judge, in a case that raises questions on whether the state’s open-government laws threaten free speech, is temporary. Judge Settle set a full hearing on the matter for September 3. The Secretary of State’s Office said that while it has no statutory authority to withhold the names, it also did not plan to contest the effort to temporarily block their release. Although the state did not oppose the restraining order request, it will defend the Public Disclosure Act in court, said Assistant State
SGN exclusive – Rep. Alcee Hastings (D-FL) talks about DADT repeal
be booted out just because they are honest about whom they are.” Hastings spoke with SGN by phone on Wednesday. Asked to name who in the White House pressured him, Hastings chuckled, “Well, it was not President Obama.” “Without getting into names,” Hastings continued, “because there were many people at the table with my staff – I hate the term ‘my staff’ – let’s say the young people I work with – the White House liaison here told us ‘the time is not right.’” According to Hastings, other Congress members got the same message. “Even as a member of the Rules Committee,” he said, “I don’t have the prerogative to make my amendment ‘in order.’ I withdrew the amendment to save my colleagues from the embarrassment of having to vote me out of order in the committee.” A similar effort in the US Senate failed last week. Sen Kristen
Attorney General Jim Pharris. The coalition of religious conservative organizations, Protect Marriage Washington, sued to block release of the names on Constitutional grounds, claiming state disclosure law limits free speech, “particularly when it is reasonably probable that those exercising their First Amendment rights would be subjected to threats and harassment.”
Larry Stickney, campaign manager for Protect Marriage Washington, said, “No petition signer should have to endure the threats and harassment I endured while circulating the petition.” The campaign also said it has heard from supporters who didn’t want to sign the petition for fear of see Referendum 71 page 16
Seattle Frontrunners’ Dean Koga injured at Copenhagen games by Shaun Knittel SGN Staff Writer
Jim Buzinski
official photos
withdrew – an amendment to the 2010 Defense Department Appropriations Act which would have cut off funding to enforce the military’s Don’t Ask Don’t Tell rule. In a statement issued Tuesday, Hastings said, “Due to pressure from some of my Congressional colleagues and from the White House, I have withdrawn my amendment. I would, however, like to note Congressman Alcee Hastings (D-FL) that it is most by Mike Andrew unfortunate that we are not addressing Don’t Ask, SGN Staff Writer Don’t Tell at this time. We should Congressman Alcee Hastings not be appropriating funds to en(D-FL) introduced – and then able qualified service members to
Vote yes on Ref. 71
A member of the Seattle Frontrunners, Dean Koga, was injured from shrapnel from an explosive device that shot onto the track during competition at the World OutGames in Copenhagen, Denmark on July 28. Two athletes from Nashville, Keith Little and Sam Felker, were the first to report the incident in their blog. They said Dean Koga gets a kiss Koga’s right hand was from Italian runner Giampiero Mancinelli injured and he required stitches after fireworks shot at the treated him at the scene. Little and runner from a “Roman Candle” Felker said the large crowd of athexploded right before the start of letes and spectators “was stunned the men’s 4x200 relay at Osterbro by what can only be described as a hate crime attack.” Stadium. The biggest contingent of track Little and Felker said two unknown assailants tossed two explo- athletes competing in OutGames sive devices onto the track. Koga is the Seattle Frontrunners. They was in the starting position when said competition resumed bethe explosive detonated. Accordsee DADT page 18 ing to eyewitnesses, paramedics see outgames page 17
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Seattle Gay News
July 31, 2009
Celebrating 36 Years!
Visit us online www.sgn.org
July 31, 2009
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Deadlines Classifieds - Thursday at noon Calendar - Tuesday 6pm Display Ads: Space Reservation - Monday 5pm Ad copy (non-camera ready) - Tues. 5pm Ad copy (camera ready) - Wed. 5pm Letters to the Editor - Tuesday 5pm Obituaries - Call the SgN office All others - Tuesday 5pm
Editor In Chief George Bakan Associate Editor Tom Flint (retired) Editorial Assistant Nick Ardizzone Production William Creswell Calender Editors Mike Andrew and Rick McKinnon Travel Editor George Bakan Advertising Manager Marty Weisbrod Advertising Department Maggie Bloodstone Executive Assistant Mike Andrew Staff Writers George Bakan, Albert S. Rodriguez, Rajket Dirzhud-Rashid, Nick Ardizzone, Shaun Knittel Miryam Gordon, Tim Peter Contributing Writers
Rev. Barbara Allen, Mike Andrew, Eric Andrews-Katz, Madelyn Arnold, Maggie Bloodstone, Beau Burriola, Jessica Davis, Ron Anders, Jessica Price, Milton W. Hamlin, Nevin Jefferson, Keen News Service, Jason A. Miller, Liz Meyer, Rod Parke, Don Paulson, Scott Rice, Leslie Robinson, Richard Kennedy, Romeo San Vicente, Rex Wockner
Going home by Jennifer Vanasco SGN Contributing Writer After two years away, I’m going home. Home can mean many things to many people. Where they grew up. Where they live now. A certain circle of friends. For me and many other Lesbians, home is the Michigan Womyn’s Music Festival, which takes place over a single week in August annually. “Welcome home!” greeters say as the travelers to the Festival pull through the dusty gate in the middle of nowhere, Michigan . And home is exactly what it feels like. Michigan has risen from the woods every summer for 33 years to embrace thousands of women who have passed her gate. Volunteer workers spend a month creating stages
Classifieds Mike Andrew and Rick McKinnon Photographers Nick Ardizzone, Joseph P. Herron, Shaun Knittel, Rajket Dirzhud-Rashid National Advertising Rep. Rivendell Media (212) 242-6863 Website Designer Barry Thorsness/Digital Team Works Seattle Gay News is published weekly by JT&A, Inc. © 2008, JT&A, Inc., all rights reserved. Reprints by permission.
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.
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and community areas – and then another few weeks tearing it all down when the week is over. Part summer camp, part street fair, part music festival, Michigan is a sorority, a political war zone (over Trans-inclusion, most recently), a cruising space, a feminist workshop and a coffeehouse. It is one of the few places in the world where women don’t have to be anyone in particular or do anything in particular. We can shave or not. We can wear flannel or bow ties, lacy slips or nothing at all. Boas, body paint, Doc Martens and plaid are all equally welcome. Michigan accepts women for who we are at the time we are there. It has no expectations for us except that we will be civil to each other and recognize each other’s space and boundaries. If you want to hear music all day, you can. If you want to talk around a campfire all night, you can. If you want to take a class on raising boys or learn to swing dance or sit around all day drinking beer with friends, you can. Or you can walk in the woods. Or
read. Or stare at the sky. Michigan is home the way it is meant to be. I’ve missed it. Last summer, I was covering the Democratic National convention. The year before, I had been hired into a new job and didn’t yet have time off. Both years, I spent the week imaging myself there, picturing sleeping in my tent under a pattering of rain, eating under the Watermelon Tree, walking down the main road (called Lois Lane) while surrounded by hundreds of other women who use this one week to express their true selves. But this year, finally, I’m going back. There is something beautiful about having a place you always return to, a place you know more deeply every year. The friends I have made in Michigan know more about me than most of the friends I have made as an adult. Because they see me only once a year, they are like a growth chart penciled on the wall and marked at intervals. They’ve seen my hair color go from blonde to dark (almost black) brown to red and back to blonde. They’ve seen me in love and heartbroken. They’ve seen me anxious and afraid and centered and confident. They were there the year I scheduled every minute of my time and the year I slept for hours every afternoon. They know me – and they love me anyway. And that’s a great gift. I was 27 the first year I went to Michigan . I’m 37 now. In those 10 years, my life has changed completely. I live in a different city. The grandmother who helped raise me passed away. I had my heart broken and, after I repaired it with the help of friends and time, found my life partner. I work for a television channel, which is something I never thought I’d do. The only constants? I’m still a writer. I still have my dog Max. And Michigan is still my true home. Jennifer Vanasco is an award-winning, syndicated columnist. Follow her at Twitter. com/JenniferVanasco. E-mail her at Jennifer.Vanasco.com.
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
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Seattle Gay News
July 31, 2009
Celebrating 36 Years!
POZSeattle, a non-profit social organization for Seattle-area HIV positive men and their friends, is pleased to be the recipient of a $1,500 grant award from the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Abbey of St. Joan. According to POZSeattle volunteer Mike McMahon, “the generous grant from the Sisters will go toward promoting and continuing our monthly POZ Socials at the Cuff Complex. The Cuff provides the bartender, music, and happy hour prices, and we pick up the tab for appetizers and décor.” The popular events, held from 6-8pm on the second Wednesday of every month, are free, and provide HIV-positive guys with a
safe and fun space to mix, mingle, and chat. The summer socials feature a BBQ on the patio complete with hamburgers, chips, and all of the fixings. If you haven’t been to a POZ Social before, or if it’s been a while since your last one, we invite you to join us on Wednesday, August 12 for our next social and BBQ. POZSeattle not only wishes to thank the Sisters, but also to everyone who supports the Sisters and their work in the community. For more information about POZSeattle or the monthly socials at the Cuff, please check out our website at www.pozseattle.org. For more information about the Sisters, see www.theabbey.org.
Seattle Police Dept.
POZSEATTLE RECEIVES DONATION FROM SISTERS
Suspect in South Park murder arrested July 24
POZSeattle
Congressman to introduce DOMA repeal Official Photo
Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-NY)
by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) is set to introduce legislation to repeal key sections of the federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA). Nadler’s bill would repeal DOMA’s Section 2, which allows states to ignore legal same-sex marriages concluded in other states, and Section 3, barring federal recognition of same-sex marriages. Nadler’s proposed legislation would require each state to accord all the rights of legal marriage to couples married in states where same-sex marriage is legal. A couple married in Massachusetts, for example, could travel to Virginia and still retain all the rights accorded to a married couple even though same-sex marriage is not legal in Virginia. It would also require the federal government to treat legal same-sex marriages in exactly the same way they treat oppositesex marriages, for the purposes of income tax, social security benefits, federally administered pensions, and all other purposes under federal law. The legislation will be formally filed after Congress returns from its August recess. “We have got to repeal DOMA and have got to make sure it accomplishes for federal purposes allowing the federal government to recognize same-sex marriages,” Nadler said, announcing his intentions at an HRC event on July 25. “The time for dumping DOMA is long overdue.” Nadler’s bill would not require federal or state recognition of civil unions or domestic partnerships, however. “No, it will not include domestic partnerships or civil unions. It is going to be just marriage,” he told the
HRC. HRC Executive Director Joe Solmonese hailed Nadler’s approach: “We ought to start it with what we would ultimately achieve: a wholesale overturning of DOMA.” Other activists were not so sure, however. The Gay website Queerty, for example, challenged Nadler’s claim that repealing Section 2 of DOMA would force states to honor legal same-sex marriages. Queerty quotes from an article by University of Pennsylvania Law Professor and marriage equality advocate Tobias B Wolff (not to be confused with novelist Tobias J A Wolff): “The states never needed DOMA in order to refuse recognition to out-of-state marriages between same-sex couples. If they are bound and determined to refuse to give any recognition to those relationships, they already have the power to do that, and repealing DOMA in its entirety will not change that fact.” At stake is the interpretation of the US Constitution’s Article IV Section 1 – the so-called “Full Faith and Credit” clause – which requires states to honor the legal actions of other states. In his article, written when the California Supreme Court issued its 2008 decision finding for marriage equality, Wolff argues that only court judgments must be honored by other states, whereas marriages historically need not be if there are “public policy” reasons not to do so. However, Wolff insists that “repealing DOMA remains vitally important … for the statute places in jeopardy all court judgments that are based upon the existence of a same-sex relationship.” DOMA is also being challenged on constitutional grounds by three lawsuits filed this year. GLAD filed Gill v OPM on March 3, challenging DOMA’s Section 3 on the basis of the 14th Amendment’s “Equal Protection” clause. Smelt v United States was filed on March 9, challenging both DOMA and California’s Prop 8. On July 8, Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley filed Commonwealth v US Department of Health and Human Services, arguing that DOMA exceeds congressional authority in violation of the 10th Amendment. While the US Supreme Court has so far declined to hear challenges to DOMA, lower federal courts have upheld it. On February 5 this year, a 9th Circuit Court judge acting as a dispute resolution official –not in his capacity as a judge – declared DOMA unconstitutional in a case involving a federal employee’s spousal benefits.
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Isaiah M.K. Kalebu
by Shaun Knittel SGN Staff Writer Seattle police arrested Isaiah M.K. Kalebu, 23, near Magnuson Park shortly after 6 p.m. July 24. The arrest happened less than 24 hours after police released his name and photograph and asked for the public’s help in finding him. In what police described as “one of the most brutal crimes they’ve seen in some time,” Kalebu is accused of entering the South Park home of a Lesbian couple and attacking the women. Teresa Butz, 39, was killed and her partner, a 36-year-old woman, was injured in the 3 a.m. July 19 attack. The victims managed to get outside after the attack, where Butz died in the street as neighbors tried to aid the women. Before she died, Butz told a neighbor, “He told us if we did what he asked us to do, he wouldn’t hurt us. He lied, he lied.” According to the slain woman’s brother, Tim Butz, his sister sacrificed herself to save her partner, who was released from Harborview Medical Center Monday. On Saturday, King County District Judge pro-tem Karli Jorgensen ordered Kalebu held on $10 million bail for investigation of first-degree murder, attempted-first degree murder, two counts of rape and one count of burglary. As word of the brutal attack spread through Seattle, homicide detectives identified a suspect early in the week, describing him as a “person of interest.” Then, late last week, the SPD announced they had probable cause to arrest Kalebu for murder. Police released a surveillance video of the suspect and a photo of Kalebu as well as a photo of his pit bull. Around 6:30 p.m. Friday night, police received a tip from a Metro Bus operator who had knowledge of Kalebu’s description. The driver contacted the Seattle Police Communications Center with a possible suspect sighting at NE 65th Street and Sandpoint Way in North Seattle. “North Precinct patrol officers saturated the area and searched for the suspect,” said Sgt. Sean Whitcomb, a spokesman for the SPD. “Officers located Kalebu and his dog in Magnuson Park.” He said Kalebu surrendered to officers without incident and was taken to Seattle Police headquarters for questioning. Ultimately, Kalebu was booked into King County Jail for investigation of murder, he said. It is reported Kalebu was with his pit bull at the time of apprehension. According to SPD, the dog has been released to the care of Seattle Animal Control. Early this week, information surfaced that the Washington State patrol crime lab matched DNA evidence from the South
July 31, 2009
Park crime scene to evidence found at a 2008 Auburn crime scene. Seattle police investigators noted that the man in the Auburn video, taken during an attempted break-in at Auburn City Hall on March 27, 2008, matched the description and police sketch of the South Park murder suspect. It’s unclear why Kalebu was trying to get inside Auburn City Hall. Currently, Kalebu is a suspect in an arson investigation, but has not been charged, said Ed Troyer, a spokesman for the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department.
A VIOLENT HISTORY Kalebu had been living with his aunt, Rachel Kalebu, 65, and her tenant, 57-year-old John Jones, in her University Place home. Earlier this month, Kalebu’s aunt asked him to leave and filed for a domesticviolence protection order. The next day someone set fire to her house, killing her and her tenant. In her protection order, Rachel Kalebu said that her nephew had “threatened to harm me many times” and had struck her. According to court records, she said he “commands me and orders me around as if I am his junior … [I] would like to have peace in my house.” In March of 2008, his mother, Denise Kalebu, contacted the King County Sheriff’s Office to report her son had threatened to kill her. She told investigators that she told her son to move out on March 29, 2008, because he wasn’t taking medication prescribed the day before to control his bipolar disorder. A doctor at Harborview Medical Center had prescribed the medication after Seattle police officers brought Kalebu to the trauma center for involuntary mental commitment. He was charged with domestic violence felony harassment and domestic violence malicious mischief in April 2008 for the alleged threats against his mother. According to court documents, when Denise Kalebu ordered her son out of the house, he said, “Enjoy your last day on earth.” The documents say she then grabbed a pair of scissors to protect herself and Kalebu responded by saying, “You’re gonna die … you’re no match for me … those scissors are no match for me or my dog.” Court documents say that when Kalebu left the house, he flashed a 6-inch knife at his mother. Deputies said they arrested Kalebu the following day when he showed up at his sister’s White Center home and threw a rock through a window. After his arrest, he was sent to Western State Hospital for a mental evaluation, where he was found competent to stand trial. That is when he moved into his aunt’s house. According to court testimony, as Kalebu’s trial date neared, his mother told King County prosecutors that she would not testify against her son. Prosecutors offered Kalebu a chance in April to plead guilty to reduced charges: two counts of misdemeanor harassment and malicious mischief. Kalebu withdrew from the plea deal in May because he didn’t want to submit the required DNA sample. Unbeknownst to Kalebu, his DNA was already on file with the state. According to King County Senior Deputy Prosecutor Scott O’Toole, during the July 25 bail hearing, the DNA found in the South Park home along with other evidence linked the man to the rape and murder scene. O’Toole requested the high bail amount and said his office may seek the death penalty for the South Park attacks. SPD officials still maintain the attacker did not know the South Park victims personally.
Seattle Gay News
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rests. The protesters in Salt Lake City and San Diego also spoke out against the Mormons’ strong financial support for California’s Proposition 8, via which voters amended the state constitution to re-ban same-sex marriage. The Yes on 8 campaign has said that as much as half of the $40 million it raised came from Mormons. The protest in San Diego started more than half an hour late, leaving some 25 media people wondering if they’d been duped by the Empowering Spirits Foundation that called the action. But the protesters eventually trickled in and the kissing began. “We’re standing up in support of the two individuals arrested [but] our main purpose is to be out here to try to garner some type of dialogue with the Mormon church,” said foundation Executive Director A. Latham Staples. “The kiss-in is to establish that what these two individuals were doing up in Salt Lake City – Matt Aune and Derek Jones – kissing in public – should be tolerated,” Staples said. There did not appear to be any official church presence at the event, and local Mormon officials made no comment on the protest. IML bans barebacking depictions, materials The Leather Market at the annual International Mr. Leather events in Chicago will have a ban on anything related to barebacking, IML founder Chuck Renslow announced July 16. “The executive committee of International Mr. Leather has decided that it will no longer allow participation in the IML
July 31, 2009
rex wockner
Kiss-ins spread beyond Salt Lake temple Thirty Gays, Lesbians and friends staged a kiss-in at the San Diego Mormon temple July 22 in solidarity with a Gay couple who were arrested in Salt Lake City July 9 for kissing on Main Street Plaza. Salt Lake City sold the plaza to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 10 years ago, in a move that still irks some Salt Lakers. The precise location of the kiss was a former public easement that the city gave to the church in a controversial landswap deal in 2003. After gaining control of the former public property, the church prohibited pedestrians from smoking, protesting and sunbathing, and banned “offensive, indecent, obscene, lewd or disorderly speech, dress or conduct.” The Utah couple – Matt Aune, 28, and Derek Jones, 25 – were charged with trespassing by Salt Lake City police officers after LDS security guards called the cops. The guards handcuffed both men, after allegedly forcing Jones to the ground. Aune said he suffered a bruised and swollen wrist. “They targeted us,” Aune told The Salt Lake Tribune. “We weren’t doing anything inappropriate or illegal, or anything most people would consider inappropriate for any other couple.” The LDS church claims the couple didn’t just kiss, but “engaged in passionate kissing, groping, profane and lewd language, and had obviously been using alcohol.” Aune acknowledged to the Tribune that he was “very pissed” after being handcuffed and “unleashed a flurry of profanities.” More than 200 people have gathered for two kiss-ins on Main Street Plaza since the incident. There have been no further ar-
by Rex Wockner SGN Contributing Writer
Gay activists gathered outside the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego on July 16 to kick off year two of the Gay boycott of the mammoth downtown twin towers.
Leather Market by any entity which promotes barebacking or distributes/sells any merchandise tending to promote or advocate barebacking,” Renslow said. “This restriction will also apply to distribution of gifts, postcards or any other information via our facilities.” “The CDC and local health officials inform us that new infections are on the rise,” he said. “And, while we have had some success developing medications that might make infection more manageable, that accomplishment comes at a price. Not having experienced the deaths – the loss of loved ones – which preceded these medications, we have an entire generation who may not fully appreciate or comprehend the severity of the situation. Too many in our community believe HIV/AIDS is curable or manageable. Too few understand that HIV/AIDS infections dominate life. We believe that it is our duty to inform and educate.”
seed money to get Proposition 8 on the ballot. The resulting constitutional amendment re-banned same-sex marriage in California. Manchester has cited his Roman Catholic faith in opposing same-sex marriage. Activists claim the boycott has cost the hotel $7 million, a figure that cannot be independently verified.
Author E. Lynn Harris dies Author E. Lynn Harris, who wrote bestsellers about black Gay life, died July 24 at a hotel in Beverly Hills. He was 54. The cause of death was not reported. At press time, an autopsy was planned. Harris wrote 11 novels – including Invisible Life, Just As I Am, If This World Were Mine, and Basketball Jones – and a memoir, What Becomes of the Brokenhearted. “His pioneering novels and powerful memoir about the black Gay experience touched and inspired millions of lives, and he was a gifted storyteller whose books Boycott of San Diego hotel brought delight and encouragement to readenters second year ers everywhere,” said Alison Rich, director Gay activists gathered outside the Man- of publicity at Harris’ publisher, Doubleday. chester Grand Hyatt San Diego on July 16 “Lynn was a warm and generous person, to kick off year two of the Gay boycott of beloved by friends, fans and booksellers the mammoth downtown twin towers. alike.” The boycott was launched after owner Doug Manchester gave $125,000 in early With assistance from Bill Kelley
Celebrating 36 Years!
INTERNATIONAL
NEWS
by Rex Wockner SGN Contributing Writer file photo
Åsa Andersson (r) and Alexandra Ejnerstam were one of the first couples to marry when Sweden's law allowing same-sex marriage came into force May 1.
No stay on Indian ruling that legalized Gay sex India’s Supreme Court on July 20 refused a request to stay the recent Delhi High Court ruling that decriminalized Gay sex nationwide, legalizing 17 percent of the world’s Gay population. The court said it wanted to wait to officially hear what the government thinks of the ruling – and gave the government eight weeks to reveal its hand in cases that have been filed seeking to overturn the decision. Appearing before the court for the federal government, Attorney General Goolam E. Vahanvati argued against a stay, saying the ruling is not problematic because it only applies to consenting adults. The forceful and poetic July 2 High Court ruling “read down” Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code so that it no longer applies to the activities of consenting adults. The section bans “carnal intercourse against the order of nature with any man, woman or animal” under penalty of 10 years to life in prison. The court smashed 377’s application to Gay people in myriad ways, finding it violated a constitutional guarantee of equality under the law, a constitutional ban on discrimination based on sex, and constitutional promises of personal liberty and protection of life. The High Court said: “The criminalization of homosexuality condemns in perpetuity a sizable section of society and forces them to live their lives in the shadow of harassment, exploitation, humiliation, cruel and degrading treatment at the hands of the law enforcement machinery. ... Section 377 IPC grossly violates their right to privacy and liberty. ...” “Section 377 IPC targets the homosexual community as a class and is motivated by an animus towards this vulnerable class of people. ... It has no other purpose than to crimi-
nalize conduct which fails to conform with the moral or religious views of a section of society. The discrimination severely affects the rights and interests of homosexuals and deeply impairs their dignity. ...” “We hold that sexual orientation is a ground analogous to sex and that discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation is not permitted. ... ‘[R]ight to personal liberty’ and ‘right to equality’ are fundamental human rights which belong to individuals simply by virtue of their humanity. ... A Bill of Rights does not ‘confer’ fundamental human rights. It confirms their existence and accords them protection.”
Swedish Lesbians more likely to marry than Gay men Statistics Sweden reported July 21 that 37 Lesbian couples and 11 Gay male couples have married since same-sex marriage became legal on May 1. The agency also reported that in the past 10 years, the number of children being raised by couples who took advantage of the nation’s civil-union law has increased from about 70 to 749. Forty-three of the kids have two dads and 706 have two moms. “It’s easier for female same-sex couples to have children,” a spokesperson for the national gay group RFSL told Svenska Dagbladet newspaper. RFSL’s former initials are now its full name.
sexual orientation; • Same-sex couples can marry in five nations (Belgium, Netherlands, Norway, Spain and Sweden) and can enter into civil unions in 13 nations and two territories; • Nine countries let Gay couples adopt children together, 11 allow second-parent adoption, and 10 provide insemination services to Lesbian couples; • Two countries (Greece and Cyprus) and two territories (Gibraltar and Guernsey) have unequal age-of-consent laws for male-male sex, one territory (North Cyprus) still bans Gay-male sex, and eight nations banned Gay pride or other public Gay events over the past 10 years – Belarus, Latvia, Lithuania, Macedonia, Moldova, Poland, Russia ILGA-Europe and Ukraine. maps Euro equality JPEGs of the two-sided map can be downThe European Region of the International loaded at tinyurl.com/ilga-m-1 and tinyurl. Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex com/ilga-m-2. Association (aka ILGA-Europe) has created a map of the legal situation for European U.S. Gay magazine LGBs. intercepted “The Rainbow Europe map reflects legal by Belarus customs advances such as protection from discrimiPride, the annual magazine of the U.S.nation, recognition of LGB families and based InterPride organization, has been parenting rights, inclusion of sexual orien- intercepted by customs officials in Minsk, tation in hate speech/crime legislation,” the GayBelarus.by reported July 22. group said. “The map also highlights the Officials said the magazines, sent to the ‘darker’ corners of Rainbow Europe, where organization GayBelarus, were taken into there is still criminalization of consenting custody because GayBelarus is not legally same-sex acts, unequal age of consent and registered and the magazines were not inwhere Pride events have been banned dur- tended for the personal use of the final reing last 10 years.” cipient, Sergey Androsenko. Among the findings: GayBelarus said the “rigid” process for • Two countries ban anti-Gay registering is “complicated” and that nudiscrimination in their constitutions -merous entities have been thwarted, includPortugal and Sweden; ing political parties, trade unions and activ• Thirteen countries and one territory ist groups. have laws banning anti-Gay Belarusian President Alexander Lukashdiscrimination in employment only, enko reportedly said last year, “The weapon while 25 countries and five territories of the most destructive forces is in the hands ban such discrimination in both of mass media, so they should be supervised employment and access to goods by the government,” according to GayBeand services; larus’ translation. • Fifteen countries have hate-crime/speech laws that cover With assistance from Bill Kelley
Outer Hebrides see first Gay union Scotland’s Outer Hebrides islands saw their first Gay civil union July 20 when children’s TV host Andrew Robertson tied the knot with partner Craig Atkins at a registry office in Stornoway. The couple then slipped out a back entrance to avoid reporters. The civil-partnership law has been in effect since 2003. Robertson works for the BBC and Atkins is the marketing manager for Stornoway’s An Lanntair art center.
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Seattle Gay News
7
the Ram off of well-paved road, being that the wedding that I was going to was on the side of a mountain. I had to drive on 20 miles of washboard gravel roads. The shift-on-thefly 4WD worked great, cause I was running late and if you’ve ever driven a truck with an empty bed on windy washboard roads, the back end tends to hop around and slide. So, after a few fun slides, I switched it to 4WD high and just flew along. Okay, for an MSRP of $46,980, what do you get? The 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Quad Cab 4X4 is well equipped with a base price of $41,090; popular optional equipment is reasonably priced. Here’s a look at some of my favorites:
2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Laramie Quad 4x4 by J.T. Hills SGN Contributing Writer
Top • Stunning new exterior and interior design • Excellent ride quality • Luxury features typically found in high-end sedans Bottom • Uconnect phone doesn’t work as seamlessly as it should • Park assist works fine, rear back-up camera would be better • High entry step-up For the 1994 model year, Dodge boldly redesigned the Ram and tripled their market share. The Quad Cab was added for the 1998 model year and then the Ram
was redesigned for 2002. Completely redesigned for 2009, the Dodge Ram 1500 half-ton pickup still retains its aggressive style, but now with a more sophisticated aerodynamic design. The new Ram design features a body-mounted grille, a front air dam integrated with the front bumper, and a rear spoiler integrated with the rear tailgate. There’s also a new multilink mounting design for the rear axle and rear coil springs with forward-facing shock absorber brackets that save 40 lbs. over the previous leafspring design. After spending a week with the 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Laramie Quad Cab 4X4, I’ve assimilated, corrugated, encapsulated, conjugated, and insinuated my own observations, and here they are: The 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Quad 4X4 is big and butch
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Seattle Gay News
July 31, 2009
There’s something about a big 4x4 pickup truck with a 390 hp 5.7-liter V-8 Hemi that gets 13 mpg city and 18 mpg highway that screams road trip. Well, actually, I had a wedding to go to: my sister’s, who decided to get married on the side of a mountain in what seemed like the farthest reaches of this state, so the Ram 1500 was perfect. Once you get past the sheer size of the Ram 1500 – it seamed to dwarf my housemate’s half ton 4wd GMC – and its striking exterior design and climb up inside of it, the Dodge has a sophisticated, car-like interior. The 1500 has all the bells and whistles of a luxury sedan, with room for a laptop in the armrest and a 115-volt power outlet, to boot. Some of my favorite features were the excellent nine-speaker Alpine sound system, the cool Sirius TV backseat option, and the helpful Sirius traffic, but I thought the Acura real-time traffic is a much better application with the navigation. The Uconnect phone system has probably the clearest reception (on the receiver end) of any system I’ve ever used. The person I was talking to couldn’t tell the difference between when I was using the handset or the hands-free. One thing that was annoying, though, was that when you got out of the truck and switched to your handset phone and then got back into the truck to switch to hands free, the Uconnect had issues connecting to the phone. Another thing that got to be a little much after a while was the that I picked my 80-year-old grandmother up, and I had to go buy a stepstool so she could get in and out of the cab. Order the Ram with running boards. Out on the freeway, the Dodge Ram 1500 has a pretty comfortable ride for a full-size 4wd truck. It handles like a big truck you would tow a boat with. It is what it is. I did like the view of the road, though, and the fact that you can barrel down on a Suburban and literally look down on them. The Ram is a great motivator for slow drivers to move out of the fast lane. I did have a chance to take
Technical Features • 5.7-liter 390 hp V-8 HEMI • Five-speed automatic transmission • 26-gallon fuel tank • Electronic shift-on-the-fly part-time transfer case • 3.55 axle ratio • 205MM heavy-duty front axle • Heavy-duty engine cooling • Remote start engine • 20” chrome-clad wheels Safety Features • Advance multi-stage front airbags • Supplemental side curtain front and rear airbags • Electronic stability control • Anti-lock four-wheel disc brakes • Tire pressure monitoring system Interior Features • Dual zone climate control • Uconnect phone • 506-watt Alpine Surround with nine speakers and sub-woofer • Steering wheel mounted controls • 115-volt auxiliary power outlet • Headed front seats • Power memory 10-way driver’s/eight-way passenger front seats • Heated steering wheel • Rear power sliding window • Sirius Satellite radio • Steering wheel with audio controls • Power adjustable pedals Optional Features • Leather trim bucket seats, floor mounted shift lever, ventilated front seats ($250) • Customer Preferred package 28H: ParkSense park assist, electric shift-on-demand transfer case, dual rear exhaust ($795) • Protection group: tow hooks, transfer case skid plate ($150) • 3.92 axle ratio, anti-spin differential rear axle ($375) • 32-gallon fuel tank ($75) •Uconnect GPS, Sirius Traffic with one-year service ($945) • Class IV receiver hitch ($335) • Under rail box bed liner ($245) • Uconnect studios- video entertainment system with Sirius backseat TV ($1,695) • Destination charge ($900)
Celebrating 36 Years!
NORTHWEST
NEWS
compiled by Rick McKinnon SGN Staff Writer
CAMP TEN TREES STILL HAS OPENINGS FOR BOTH CAMPERS & VOLUNTEER STAFFERS THIS SUMMER Camp Ten Trees offers a loving and engaging residential summer camp program for LGBTQA youth (ages 13-17) and for children/youth of LGBT and/or non-traditional families (ages 8-17). Camper spots are still available, and volunteer staffers are still needed, for this summer’s camp sessions. 2009 Camp Ten Trees Sessions are: August 16-22 – LGBTQA Youth (ages 1317); August 23-29 – Children and Youth (ages 8-17) from LGBT and/or non-traditional families. To register for camp, apply to volunteer, or learn more about Camp Ten Trees.visit www.camptentrees.org; info@ camptentrees.org; 206-288-9568.
QLAW FOUNDATION LEGAL CLINIC COMMITTEE Have you read about the new GLBT Legal Clinic put on by the QLaw Foundation? It’s a monthly clinic under the umbrella of the King County Neighborhood Legal Clinic Program to provide free one-on-one legal advice and information for members of the GLBT community. If you are interested in joining the committee to help run the legal clinic, create materials for legal clinic clients, and explore possibilities to improve and expand the Legal Clinic, we would love to have you join our committee. The Legal Clinic Committee is having a retreat on Saturday, August 1, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. We also have meetings on the first Tuesday of each month at 6:15 p.m. Please email clinic@q-law.org for more information on joining the committee.
THE MARYS PROJECT… STRANGE, SENSUAL, SUBLIME On Friday, July 31, at 7:30 p.m., Seattle Butoh artist Joan Laage presents The Marys Project…strange, sensual, sublime at the Good Shepherd Center Chapel, 4649 Sunnyside Ave. N. Laage writes: “I’ve been fascinated by the ‘cult’ of Mary in its many forms and incarnations and intrigued by pilgrimages and passion plays for many years. After learning about the black Madonna phenomenon and visiting the most famous black Madonna while living in Poland, I created the solo Every Baby is Jesus. For The Marys Project I invited local Butoh performers to explore the ‘cult’ of Mary and female ‘incarnations/goddesses’ through history and across cultures.” The piece will be performed by Sheri Brown, Mary Cutrera, Maureen Freehill, Diana Garcia-Snyder, Joan Laage and Helen Thorsen with music by In The Deep Museum. Tickets are $10$15. For information or reservations email davidthornbrugh@hotmail.com or call 206729-2054.
MPOWERMENT HOSTS “QUEERS AT PLAY IN THE PARK” FREE PICNIC FOR QUEER YOUTH On Saturday, August 1, from 1-5 p.m., MPowerment hosts “Queers at Play in the Park,” a FREE picnic for Queer youth, ages 22 and under, at the Cal Anderson Shelter House, Cal Anderson Park, 11th Ave. & E. Olive St., with food, music and HIV testing. For more information, visit www.youthmpower.org or call 206-957-1725.
RADICAL WOMEN PRESENTS THE EDUCATION OF SHELBY KNOX On Friday, July 31, at 7:30 p.m., Radical Women presents The Education of Shelby Knox, a documentary that looks at the life of 15-year-old Shelby Knox as she begins organizing for sex education as the answer to soaring teen pregnancy at her high school in Lubbock, Texas. Her Southern Baptist assumptions are challenged as she meets resistance from her family, friends and pastor and forges alliances with Queer students. The documentary will be shown at New Freeway Hall, 5018 Rainier Ave. S. Door donation, $5; snack plates and desserts, $3-$5. Doors open at 7 p.m. For more information, rides, childcare, call 722-6057 or 722-2453. Everyone welcome. Wheelchair accessible. www.RadicalWomen.org. THREE DOLLAR BILL PRESENTS “UNDER THE STARS, THE EIGHTIES STRIKE BACK!” OUTDOOR CINEMA IN CAL ANDERSON PARK This summer Three Dollar Bill Outdoor Cinema presents a slate of three fun and campy films from 1980, the premiere year of the decade that made sexual power plays, alien encounters and shameless success all the rage. The films are Friday, July 17 – Little Darlings; Friday, July 31 – Flash Gordon; Friday, August 21 – 9 to 5. The FREE screenings will be shown at sunset (around 8:30-9 p.m.) at the southeast corner of Cal Anderson Park, near the park’s shelter house off 11th Ave. & E. Olive St. Snacks and beverages will be available for purchase on-site with proceeds benefiting Three Dollar Bill Cinema’s non-profit efforts to produce and promote Queer-friendly film events in the Pacific Northwest. Three Dollar Bill Cinema produces the annual Seattle Lesbian & Gay Film Festival. www.threedollarbillcinema.org.
VANCOUVER, BC PRIDE Vancouver, BC Dyke March and Festival – Saturday, August 1. March begins at noon at McSpadden Park, E. 5th Ave. & Victoria Dr. Free music festival follows at Grandview Park, 1657 Charles St. at Commercial Dr. www.vancouverdykemarch. com. Vancouver, BC Pride Parade & Sunset Beach Festival – Sunday, August 2. Pride Parade begins at noon from Robson and Thurlow and heads west down the hill to Denman, then follows Denman to Pacific and Beach, ending at the Sunset Beach Festival which begins at 11 a.m. www.vancouverpride.ca.
DJs spinning dance music, performances and tours of the sculpture park at this special late-night event. The first 100 guests at Remix the night of the event get in free. As a co-host for this evening’s party, OUT for Sustainability members get in for $5 – just mention that you are a member of OUT for Sustainability to receive the discounted rate. MEN OF ALL COLORS & CULTURES TOGETHER HOSTS AUGUST POTLUCK SOCIAL On Saturday, August 8, starting at 5 p.m., Men of All Colors & Cultures Together (MACCT) will be hosting their August Potluck Social at a location near Discovery Park. For more information including location/directions, call 206-923-8313 or email macctseattle@yahoo.com. MACCT is a Gay/Bisexual multi-racial, multi-cultural organization committed to fostering supportive environments wherein racial and cultural barriers can be overcome and the goal of human equality realized. HOT SUMMER BURLESQUE 101 STUDENT GRADUATION RECITAL On Saturday, August 8, Miss Indigo Blue’s Academy of Burlesque presents a hot summer Burlesque 101 Student Graduation Recital, at 7 p.m. (18+) and 9 p.m. (21+), at the Oddfellows Hall Building, 915 E. Pine St., West Hall on 2nd Fl. A brand new crop of naughty students will be ready to amuse, tease and titillate you with a hot summer Tassel Ceremony unlike any other. Attendees are encouraged to bring confetti and flowers for their favorite students. As is customary, prizes will be raffled off, including tickets to upcoming shows, previously-worn undergarments and other authentic burlesque memorabilia. Tickets are $10 when purchased from any student, $12 at brownpapertickets.com/event/76382 and $15 at the door. Food and beverage service will be provided by The Tin Table. This event is wheelchair accessible – call 206-478-9475 for front seating. Miss Indigo Blue’s Academy of Burlesque will be moving to West Hall on September 1. For more information about this show and for information about upcoming classes, phone 206-478-9475 or email academy@twirlygirl.net.
EMERALD CITY SOFTBALL ASSOCIATION FALL BALL LEAGUE Emerald City Softball Association is sponsoring Fallball ’09, an ECSA Open Division softball league for men and women QUEER ALLY COALITION of all skill levels. Play dates will be August SPONSORS WEEKLY 9 and 23, September 13, 20 and 27, and OcCOMMUNITY ORGANIZING tober 4. For complete details, visit www. MEETINGS The Queer Ally Coalition sponsors week- emeraldcitysoftball.org. ly Community Organizing Meetings on NORTHWEST NETWORK Tuesdays, at 7:30 p.m., at Cascade People’s HOSTS FIRST ANNUAL Center, 309 Pontius Ave. N. The Queer Ally SUMMER SPECTACULAR Coalition is a grassroots democratic alliance The Northwest Network is excited to of LGBT people and allies committed to the fight for Queer rights, culture, and libera- host their first annual Summer Spectacular on Sunday, August 9, from 2-6 p.m., at tion. Seward Park, 5902 Lake Washington Blvd. S., Shelter Site #3. The Summer Spectacular SEATTLE GAY & LESBIAN BOOK CLUB AT DUNSHEE HOUSE celebrates the work of the Northwest NetThe Seattle Gay & Lesbian Book Club work of Bisexual, Trans, Lesbian and Gay meets every Wednesday at 6 p.m. at Dun- Survivors of Abuse. Bring friends, partners, shee House, 303 17th Ave. E. at E. Thomas co-workers, and the whole family to this St. The following titles will be discussed: all-ages event. Build community with other August – A Fairly Honourable Defeat by supporters and have a fabulous time while Iris Murdoch; September – The Thief’s Jour- enjoying a fabulous BBQ and field games. nal by Jean Genet; October – Wild Dogs by Win delicious cakes at the cakewalk and exHelen Humphreys; November – The Gifts citing items in the silent auction and raffle. of the Body by Rebecca Brown; December Beat your friends in a hula-hooping con– Death in Venice by Thomas Mann. All test! Hang out in the summer sun at Seward GLBTQ folks in the community are wel- Park and have a blast. Tickets are $35 for come to participate in this free book club. adults and $12 for youth 18 and under. Buy The reading list is chosen and the discussion tickets at www.brownpapertickets.com/ facilitated by Nick DiMartino, published event/67409 or make checks payable to The novelist and playwright, currently a book Northwest Network and mail to: The Northreviewer for ShelfAwareness.com, and a 30- west Network, PO Box 18436, Seattle, WA year employee of University Book Store. 98118. For more information, call 206-568For more information, email nickdimartin@ 7777, email maria@nwnetwork.org or visit earthlink.net or contact Dunshee House at www.nwnetwork.org. 206-322-2437. QUEER ALLY COALITION HOSTS BIWEEKLY OUT FOR SUSTAINABILITY LGBT HISTORY STUDY GROUP CO-HOSTS SAM REMIX PARTY As part of their ongoing efforts to educate AT OLYMPIC SCULPTURE PARK On Friday, August 7, from 8 p.m.-mid- the LGBT and allied community about the night, join OUT for Sustainability at the history of the LGBT struggle in this counOlympic Sculpture Park, 2901 Western Ave. try, the Queer Ally Coalition is hosting a seat Broad St., for the SAM Remix party, with ries of study groups around the book, Gay
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July 31, 2009
Power: An American Revolution by David Eisenbach. The group will meet Sundays, August 9 and 23, and September 6 at 7 p.m., at Kaladi Brothers, 511 E. Pike St. The group will adopt the following format: 10 minute summary, 10 questions, discussion. The explosion of Gay visibility following the street rebellion at the Stonewall Inn in 1969 brought tens of thousands of Lesbians and Gay men out of the closets and into headline news around the world for the first time. Never before had so many Gay people at one time stepped into the spotlight of mainstream American politics, culture, and entertainment. More than any city, New York became the center of the new “Gay Power” movement, and served as the focal point for Gay protest and politics for the next decade. Gay Power chronicles the tumultuous first wave of the modern Gay rights movement. From the first ever Gay student group launched at Columbia University in 1965 to the Gay Liberation Front, the Gay Activist Alliance, and the vanguard organizations that emerged from the Stonewall Riots, the author draws on archival material and firsthand accounts from individuals who built the movement. Unlike their predecessors, this new generation of Lesbians and Gay men spoke as a community, established political clout with elected officials, appeared openly in the media, demanded equal rights with heterosexuals, and pioneered protest tactics. This book presents a complex portrait of the birth of the modern Gay rights movement. GAY CITY HOSTS “EDEN: A GARDEN PARTY” On Thursday, August 13, enjoy hors d’ouevres, cocktails, good company and a stunning view of Puget Sound at “Eden: A Garden Party” – Gay City’s annual summer soiree fundraiser. “The flower boys return with all their sinful surprises.” RSVP required. Please email peter@gaycity.org or call 206-388-1711. SEATTLE HOSTS NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF LGBTQ ASIAN AMERICANS, SOUTH ASIANS & PACIFIC ISLANDERS Seattle will be host to a national conference for LGBTQ Asian American, South Asians and Pacific Islander on the weekend of August 14-16 at the University of Washington. Titled “Transgress, Transform, Transcend,” the conference will showcase the diversity of the LGBTQ Asian Pacific Islander experience and will expand the capacity and ability of LGBT Asian Pacific Islander activists and communities to organize. Conference organizers have lined up four keynote speakers and over 50 workshops, panel discussions, caucuses, and cultural performances, which will address a wide array of topics and issues. The event’s many programs will provide attendees opportunities to network and to expand their knowledge and skills in advocacy and community building. Registration fee is $100, with a reduced rate of $75 for presenters and people with limited income. Some scholarships are available to assist attendees pay for the cost of conference registration. Registration is available online at www.nqapia. org/nc-2009.html. SAME LOVE SAME RIGHTS LGBTQ WEDDING & FAMILY EXPO RETURNS On Sunday, August 16, from 12:30-3:30 p.m., the Rainbow Wedding Network presents their Same Love Same Rights LGBTQ Wedding & Family Expo at Waterways Cruises and Events’ Lakeside Event Center, 2501 N. Northlake Way. With the stunning Seattle skyline as a backdrop, Seattle-area same-sex couples, singles, and their friends and families will have the opportunity to meet with dozens of Gay-friendly businesses in the wedding industry and related markets. Guests will have the opportunity to tour Waterways Cruises luxurious yachts as well as enjoy vendor samples, helpful planning tips, and giveaways.Whether planning a ceremony, expanding their families, or looking to becoming homeowners, this FREE event offers something for everyone. www.SameLoveSameR ights.com.
Seattle Gay News
9
SIXTH ANNUAL
2009 VANCOUVER
Celebrating our fourth season of baroque chamber music
August -,
DYKE MARCH
PRIDE WOMEN VISIBILITY CELEBRATION FAMILY
SATURDAY AUGUST 1ST MARCH BEGINS McSpadden Park
5th Ave. & Victoria Dr., Vancouver, BC
12:00 PM
FREE MUSIC FESTIVAL TO FOLLOW Grandview Park
Featuring Ian Howell, counter-tenor, in programs celebrating Handel and Purcell on beautiful Whidbey Island. Come for the day or stay for the weekend!
www.whidbeyislandmusicfestival.org
10 Seattle Gay News
July 31, 2009
EVERYONE WELCOME
WWW.VANCOUVERDYKEMARCH.COM
Celebrating 36 Years!
all photos by Tim Peter
Q-Squared hosted its annual summer picnic on Sunday, July 26, at Woodland Park. Q-Squared provides opportunities for Gay/Bi/Trans men to meet several times a year and learn to interact with each other in healthy environments. Their biggest event of the year is CAMP (Come And Meet People), held each Labor Day weekend in the rural, mountainous regions of the state. For more information, people can go to www.qsquared.org.
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July 31, 2009
Seattle Gay News 11
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12 Seattle Gay News
July 31, 2009
Celebrating 36 Years!
TulCasSeaGayNws 7-09.ai
1
7/1/09
3:18 PM
Visit us online www.sgn.org
July 31, 2009
Seattle Gay News 13
+++
queersinattheplay park
saturday august 1st cal anderson shelter house capitol hill seattle, wa a free picnic for queer youth ages 22 and under 1:00pm - 5:00pm
food music hiv testing
+++
for more information visit youthmpower.org or call 206 957 1725
14 Seattle Gay News
July 31, 2009
Celebrating 36 Years!
Visit us online www.sgn.org
July 31, 2009
Seattle Gay News 15
MCC Seattle installs new associate pastor Rev. Michelle Carmody was installed as the associate pastor of Metropolitan Community Church (MCC) Seattle July 26. MCC Seattle is the oldest congregation founded by and for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning (LGBTQ) community in the Pacific Northwest. “Rev. Carmody brings to our congregation a greater ability to meet the needs of our Gay, Lesbian, Transgender and Bisexual community,” said Rev. Ray Neal, the senior pastor at MCC Seattle. “Her presence is a statement in itself that we want to be a church for all of God’s rainbow creation proclaiming that God loves everyone exactly the way God created them.” Rev. Carmody has been with the Universal Fellowship of Metropolitan Community Churches since 1980 in Vancouver, BC, Canada. She was licensed as MCC Clergy in 1987 and Ordained in 1995. Rev. Carmody has pastored MCC churches in Ashland/ Medford, Oregon and Everett, Washington. From 1997 to 2003 she was a volunteer member of the staff of MCC Seattle. Since
shaun Knittel
by Shaun Knittel SGN Staff Writer
Samarya Center fundraiser a success
then, Rev. Carmody has been conducting inter-faith and personal ministry in the Everett, Washington area. Additionally, she’s worked with people with disabilities and the elderly since 1975. Carmody is a certified hypnotherapist with a small private practice. She lives in Everett, Washington with Carol Detrick, her partner of 18 years. “There is no one outside of God’s love,” said Rev. Carmody. “MCC is here to bring that love and healing to anyone who will accept it.” Rev. Carmody said she believes strongly in the inherent worth of all people, the oneness of all creation, and the need for the church to address the issues of justice and equality for everyone, as well as healing the Sun Sal-u-thon in Cal Anderson Park wounds that we have inflicted on each other by Shaun Knittel in the name of God. nity class every Saturday. The center also MCC Seattle will celebrate its 37th anni- SGN Staff Writer offers specialized classes in yoga for grief versary August 23. MCC Seattle currently and loss, for those living with chronic pain, Sun Sal-u-thon meets at 12:30 p.m. Sunday afternoons in depression and anxiety. July 18 the Chapel of Temple de Hirsch Sinai, 1441 Integrated Movement Therapy (IMT) Cal Anderson Park 16th Ave, in the Capitol Hill neighborhood. was developed at The Samarya Center. AcThe Samarya Center, Seattle’s only non- cording to the Samarya officials, IMT is a For more information about MCC Seattle profit yoga and wellness center, held its sec- yoga-based therapy provided to adults and go to www.mccseattle.org. ond annual summer fundraising event at Cal children living with a range of disorders and Anderson Park July 18. The Sun Sal-u-thon is provided on-site at the Center, at Baileygave participants a chance to practice “sun Boushay House and at the VA Hospital Sesalutations” from 11 a.m. to noon in support attle. of The Samarya Center’s unique programs. The Samarya Center is internationally Servicing Participants had to registers in advance and recognized for its innovative and holistic all brands, gather pledges, or sign up on the day of the approach to treatment of adults and children event, to practice yoga with other supportive living with physical, mental, developmenMMI & Factory members of the community. tal, emotional and cognitive issues, as well trained techs For a $25 minimum donation, the Samarya as those living with grief and loss or indiCenter invited all levels of yoga experience viduals in hospice care. The organization is p. 206-244-4111 committed to bringing low-cost yoga and 20+ years experience and ability. f. 206-244-4110 All proceeds went to support The Samarya yoga therapy to all, with particular emphasis 10840 Myers Way S, Seattle, WA 98168 Center’s commitment to provide sliding- on providing a place in which members of southendmotorcycle.com scale yoga and yoga therapy to all. The Sa- the LGBT community can feel welcomed marya Center is a 501(c)(3) organization and and safe. is funded entirely by the community. For more information, visit The Samarya The Samarya Center offers a free commu- Center website at www.samarycenter.org.
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TAKE OUR SURVEY AND referendum 71
WIN! WIN! WIN!
continued from cover
reprisals, while some supporters claim they had already been subjected to threats and harassment for their involvement in the referendum. “That points to the need for an exception in the state public disclosure law,” Protect Marriage Washington attorney Stephen Pidgeon told the court July 29. The main organizer of the petition-publicizing effort, Brian Murphy of WhoSigned. Org said Wednesday’s temporary restraining order disappointed him. “All this information belongs to the public,” he said. “We should not have to ask for
1. Visit www.gaycitytv.org 2. Watch video clips of gay & bi guys from Seattle 3. Answer questions from our brief online survey at www.gaycitysurvey.org 4. You are entered to win... A $50 gift card to El Gaucho, or A super-gay prize package that includes books, a T shirt, and a special surprise from Babeland! GAY CITY TV uses the internet to bring ideas and people together. We interview guys, asking their opinions on a wide range of topics about gay life. The result....video clips you can watch at: www.gaycitytv.org
16 Seattle Gay News
July 31, 2009
it to be made public or wait for a court decision.” Murphy said worries about harassment are overblown. Although it can’t control what people do with petition information once it’s posted online, the group’s goal is confrontation without hostility. The petition information is a public record under state law. Director of knowthyneighbor.org, Tom Lang, who planned to post the names on his website said he was “intensely disappointed Washington failed to defend its own public disclosure law in court.” The signatures in question are printed on more than 9,000 petition sheets Protect Marriage Washington submitted to the secretary of state July 25. The coalition submitted 138,500 signatures and need at least 120,577 to be valid for the referendum to qualify. If the signatures are deemed valid, Referendum 71 will be on a November statewide ballot set for public vote on whether to approve or reject a new state law, Senate Bill 5688, expanding the rights for registered same-sex couples. It has been reported that Referendum 71 backers have said they don’t have faith in the state to fairly validate the 138,500 signatures, but it was unclear how they might address that concern. An actual hand-count of the signatures to determine their validity began July 29.
Versatile Painting Company
Interiors Exteriors
Faux finishes Murals
Over 22 years experience 206-755-5723 Visit our website at web.mac.com/tedobey Celebrating 36 Years!
outgames continued from cover
cause the athletes were determined not to let the incident succeed in stopping the OutGames. According to reports, Copenhagen police were called to the scene and were searching the premises when two more devices exploded on the track. Shortly thereafter, the police arrested a suspect who was seen fleeing from a nearby church tower where it is believed the attack was launched. Police are still searching for a second suspect. “The container hit the ground and everyone yelled to run,” said Koga, who was in his running lane and then headed for the infield area. “That's when I felt the impact” from the shrapnel that ricocheted off the ground and into the top part of his right hand. “I felt a sting and there was blood flowing down from the [relay] baton I was holding.” Koga went on to compete in the relay run July 29. Little and Felker said locals told them Denmark, which is known worldwide for its openness and diversity, has been plagued
recently by increased hate crimes and violence aimed at Gays and Lesbians. Copenhagen police say in order for an attack to be considered a hate crime, it has to be proven that the attacker was motivated by sexual orientation, religion or race. In Copenhagen, hate crimes are considered aggravating circumstances and can result in longer jail terms. According to police, hate crimes against LGBT persons in the city are often committed by men under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and perpetrators are not restricted to any one social group. NOT OUTGAMES’ FIRST ATTACK The attack comes days after another antiGay incident in the city. Three athletes from England, Sweden and Norway were attacked July 26 by two men, aged 28 and 33, as they returned to their hotel after participating in the opening ceremony for the World OutGames at Town Hill Square. Witnesses say the two men yelled “homo pig” and then attacked the athletes. The three were treated at a hospital for their injuries and released. According to Copenhagen Police spokesman Henrik Vedel, the attackers are believed to have been under the influence of alcohol and drugs. The two suspects told police they
couldn’t remember the attack. Vedel said the two men would remain in custody for the duration of the OutGames, which end next week. “This was an example of what homosexuals around the world risk if they are exposed,” said Uffe Elbaek, director of the Copenhagen World OutGames. “It shows why an event such as World OutGames is necessary.” He said the police have been working closely with OutGames organizers to prevent hate crimes during the nine-day event. As part of their strategy, he said, stations in the city were issued guidelines about how to handle hate crimes. On July 28, the Federation of Gay Games issued a statement condemning the attacks. “Our thoughts are with the runner injured by the explosive devices at Track Stadium today and the people who were attacked Sunday,” the statement read. “We extend our full support to all the participants at the OutGames.” The statement went on to say Copenhagen has a reputation as one of the most LGBTfriendly places on earth and that “even there, we are reminded that our community still faces those that would deny us our basic human rights, even the freedom to run in a
track meet in safety.” The Federation of Gay Games said, “We will not be discouraged; rather, we will run, swim, jump, throw, grapple, volley and perform at events like the Gay Games and OutGames, celebrating our right to love who we want.” The 2009 World OutGames brings together LGBT athletes from around the world to compete in a number of Olympic-style sports competitions over the course of nine days, July 25-August 2. There are tournaments in 38 different sports disciplines and competitors at all skills levels.
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July 31, 2009
Seattle Gay News 17
Navy charges sailor with Provost murder
proceeding. The death of the Gay sailor became a media sensation after Gay-rights leaders and some of Provost’s family and friends voiced concerns that he may have been killed because of his sexual orientation.
by Shaun Knittel SGN Staff Writer
continued from cover
On July 23, Navy prosecutors charged 32-year-old Petty Officer 2nd Class Jonathan Campos with fatally shooting and burning Gay Seaman August Provost during an arson attack against the compound of Assault Craft Unit 5 at Camp Pendleton on June 30, said Capt. Matt Brown, a spokesman for Navy Region Southwest. Navy officials said the murder was a part of a crime spree not related to the victim’s sexual orientation. Brown again stressed that there’s no evidence of a hate crime or gang-related activity. “It is essential to remember the Navy lost a well-respected sailor standing guard at his assigned post,” Brown said during a July 23 news conference at the San Diego Naval Base. The accused faces 16 charges, including murder, arson, unlawful entry, and theft of military property and wrongful possession of a firearm. In addition, Campos is charged with soliciting a civilian in San Diego to murder another sailor the day after Provost was killed. According to Brown, the two sailors served in the 500-member assault craft unit and although it is likely they had met before, there’s no evidence to suggest they knew each other well. He said Campos had served with the unit for most of the past two years, while Provost, who joined the Navy in March 2008, joined the unit in September of last year. Navy officials say Campos was on a crime
spree that began in May. They accuse him of using hallucinogenic mushrooms several times between May 1 and June 2. They say on June 13, he allegedly broke into the off-base home of a fellow service member in San Diego where he stole an Xbox computer-game system, jewelry and a .45 caliber Kimber pistol – the same weapon used to kill Provost. Then, on June 20, Campos was arrested for driving under the influence and was facing administrative punishment from Navy commanders. “At the time,” Brown said, “The Navy had not linked Campos to the home burglary.” Seaman Provost took his post at a guard shack along the driveway to the assault craft unit’s entrance at 11:30 p.m. on June 30. Navy officials allege that sometime before 3:30 a.m., Campos approached the guard shack and shot Provost several times. They say he then stole Provost’s 9mm Beretta service pistol. Campos then allegedly set fire to the shack, with Provost’s body still inside, using gasoline and a lighter. Brown said Campos set the fire “to destroy evidence.” He said Campos is also accused of planning to set fire to one of the unit’s landing craft, but he never made it into the compound. According to Brown, Campos was arrested July 1 after he failed to show up for work. Brown did not specify why Campos became a suspect. Navy officials say Campos is being held at the Miramar Naval Consolidated Brig. The Navy has yet to announce a date for Campos’ pretrial hearing, known as an Article 32
dadt
Gillibrand (D-NY) had proposed to add an 18-month moratorium on Don’t Ask Don’t Tell to the Senate version of the defense appropriations bill, but dropped the plan when she found she lacked the 60 votes necessary to advance the measure. The Military Readiness Enhancement Act – a stand-alone bill to repeal Don’t Ask Don’t Tell and introduce a policy of nondiscrimination – has been introduced in the US House of Representatives, but not yet in the Senate. The main sponsor is Iraq war veteran Rep Patrick Murphy (D-PA). The bill now has 170 co-sponsors, including Hastings. The same legislation was introduced in 2005 and 2007, but it failed to advance out of the House Armed Services Committee. Hastings’ amendment was intended to facilitate passage of the repeal, by attaching it to a must-pass appropriations bill. “I hope when you write your article you take into consideration one thing,” Hastings told SGN. “Something I care very deeply about. These soldiers we’re forcibly separating? Many, many of them have been critical mission specialists. Fifty-nine have been Arabic linguists. Nine have been Farsi specialists.” “This has negative impacts on national security,” Hastings insists. “I’m a member of the Intelligence Committee. I’ve advocated for language experts long before 9/11!” In June, Hastings was one of 77 members of the House who wrote to President
Re fees t duced hr Sept ough . 30
Obama, urging him to suspend investigations and discharges under Don’t Ask Don’t Tell. Among the other signers were key Democratic leaders Majority Whip James Clyburn (D-SC), Judiciary Committee Chairman John Conyers (D-MI) and Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schulz (D-FL). “This makes me angry,” Hastings says. “I have yet to receive a response. I’m elected by the same number of people as everyone else around here. I deserve the courtesy of a response. It’s as bad as George Bush!” Asked if he believes there is commitment on the part of Democratic congressional leaders to repeal Don’t Ask Don’t Tell, Hastings says, “There’s sentiment to do so. I wouldn’t use the word you used. I haven’t heard there’s a commitment.” Asked when he sees the repeal coming, Hastings answers, “Next year. Next year, if it’s going to be done by law. But the President doesn’t need any cover. President Obama is the Commander in Chief. He can direct that they don’t exercise the policy any more.” “All the polling data shows [repeal] is no problem. So why is there a problem?” Hastings asks. Rep Hastings was elected to Congress in 1992. He is currently a Senior Democratic Whip and is considered an ally of Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA). He sits on the powerful Rules Committee and on the House Select Committee on Intelligence. “I have some credibility on this,” Hastings says. “I’ve advocated for civil rights and civil liberties for a long time. A long time.” Don’t Ask Don’t Tell was adopted by Congress in 1993, after President Clinton tried but failed to reverse the long-standing ban on military service by Gay men and Lesbians. At that time, Hastings voted to delete the Don’t Ask Don’t Tell provisions from the defense appropriations bill. General Colin Powell, then Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and one of the main opponents of allowing open Gays and Lesbians to serve in the armed forces, has recently called for a “review” of the policy. Powell’s successor as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, General John Shalikashvili, has gone even further, calling for an outright repeal of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell. The current Chairman Adm. Mike Mullin said in his 2007 Senate confirmation hearing that since Congress made the rule, Congress would be the appropriate body to change it. “I’d love to have Congress make its own decisions,” Mullin concluded.
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18 Seattle Gay News
July 31, 2009
Celebrating 36 Years!
aids funding continued from cover
in HIV care, as it is the only way to determine if a particular HIV drug cocktail is working in a given patient. Drug-resistance testing comes into play when a drug cocktail that had been working stops working in a given patient. The two types of testing together guide a doctor in getting a patient on a new drug cocktail so the patient’s viral load again becomes undetectable. Patients whose viral load is undetectable are very unlikely to develop deadly HIVrelated opportunistic infections, and they are dramatically less infectious than those whose virus is not suppressed. The Swiss government has said that an HIV-positive individual whose viral load has been undetectable for six months in a row is essentially unable to transmit HIV sexually. “These were extraordinarily difficult cuts to make and they are cuts that will have consequences,” said Al Lundeen, spokesman for the California Department of Public Health. “More people will become infected.” Office of AIDS Chief Michelle Roland, a doctor who treats HIV patients herself, said that state funding of the Therapeutic Monitoring Program made up only 50 percent of its funding, with the rest coming from the federal government, so not everyone will lose access to the two critical types of testing. She also expressed hope that counties would somehow be able to come up with some funding for the tests. “We’ll have half of the resources that we have now, so it’s not quite as dire as no one will have access, but there will definitely be fewer services for people to access,” Roland said in an interview. She added: “A population that is less successfully virally suppressed is more likely to transmit. We may see an increase in the HIV rate as a result.” Roland also said the massive reduction in funding for ordinary HIV testing (to see
if one has the virus) means “there will be fewer people who know their status,” which also will increase HIV transmission. In the final analysis, if some California HIV patients lose access to viral-load testing, they could get sick and die, despite receiving HIV drugs paid for by the state. And, in the interim, they would be much more infectious if, for example, a condom broke during sex.
grams.” “With the stroke of a pen, he has crippled the Office of AIDS, striking a totally devastating cut to a state-funded infrastructure that took more than two decades to build,” the caucus said. “Given that the governor has chosen to eliminate support for HIV/AIDS early intervention, treatment, education and prevention programs, we wonder how many new HIV infections the governor has projected FUNDING CUTS for this year and next, and whether he really “BEYOND IMMORAL” thought through the additional costs, in both Equality California called Schwarzeneg- fiscal and human terms, these cuts will have ger’s elimination of monitoring testing “be- on people across this state.” yond immoral” and “amazingly stupid.” Los Angeles’ AIDS Healthcare Founda“To leave hundreds of millions of dol- tion, the U.S.’ largest AIDS organization, lars in reserve by cutting an entire program that no one will argue isn’t saving lives is beyond absurd, immoral and unethical,” Executive Director Geoff Kors said in an interview. “The governor needs to announce that he’s going to free some money from his reserves to restore the $8 million needed to fund this program. To pay for people’s medicine knowing that the medicine has to be monitored through testing to make sure it’s working, and then to deny those same people the testing, makes one question if the governor and his staff really understood what they were doing or if they are just playing politics with people’s lives to punish the Legislature for not giving him everything he wanted. It’s amazingly stupid.” San Diego blogger Mike Tidmus, who has AIDS and frequently writes about HIV issues, said Schwarzenegger’s move also doesn’t make sense economically. “If someone loses access to viral-load testing and their virus becomes active again, they’re going to develop an opportunistic infection and end up in an emergency room or hospital bed, costing the state more money,” Tidmus said in an interview. The California Legislature’s LGBT Caucus said it was “outraged by the governor’s line-item vetoes to eliminate state funds that support critical HIV/AIDS-related pro-
said Schwarzenegger’s “heartless act is not only deadly, but guaranteed to cost California taxpayers millions more in the future.” “With HIV testing programs sidelined and the state’s ability to prevent new infections stymied, new infections in California will increase – each new infection can mean up to $600,000 dollars in lifetime health care costs,” said AHF President Michael Weinstein. “A 100% cut to the Therapeutic Monitoring Program is the definition of pennywise and pound-foolish – with the ability to monitor the effectiveness of lifesaving AIDS drugs hampered, the state’s already cash-strapped AIDS Drug Assistance Program will only end up spending more for drugs.”
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July 31, 2009
Seattle Gay News 19
Out.com, July 20.
file photo
by Rex Wockner SGN Contributing Writer “[I]t’s nice to be able to type the word ‘fucking’ and just hit publish. I need the sort of valve so many others have discovered on the great grassy bloglands of the new frontier – a quasi-space of my own to write whatever else I’m not being paid to write. We’ll see how it goes. I have no idea if my employer even allows me to blog. I think I’m just supposed to take it easy on tales of internecine warfare in the Post newsroom and that I should not, like, endorse candidates for public office and that sort of thing. I can only hope this blog brings trouble, because trouble means it’s being read.” –Openly Gay Washington Post reporter Hank Stuever in his first blog post, July 14. hankstuever.com/blog “I’m basically in support [of same-sex marriage]. ... I think all these states that do it should do it. ... I personally support people doing what they want to do. I think it’s wrong for someone to stop someone else from doing that [getting married].” –Former U.S. President Bill Clinton after he addressed the Campus Progress National Conference in Washington, D.C., July 8, according to a July 14 article at thenation. com.
David Boies
“Does it sound campy to say I love Gay men?” –Meghan McCain, John’s daughter, to Out.com, July 20. “My mom was always for Gay marriage, but I think me being so vocal about it has made her want to be more vocal about it. She texted me: ‘Gay marriage passed in Maine!!’” –Meghan McCain, John’s daughter, to
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such unions until at least 2012.” –So says The New York Times, July 26.
“[Gay equality is] my generation’s civil rights movement.” “I expected having watched the protests –Meghan McCain, John’s daughter, to and the real pain that the LGBT community Out.com, July 20. had experienced that there would be some real measurable remorse in the electorate. “I just loathe homophobia. It’s just dis- But if you look at the poll numbers since gusting and animal and stupid and it’s just November, they really haven’t moved at thick people who can’t get their head around all.” it and are just scared. ... I grew up around –Marc Solomon, marriage director for Gay people entirely. I was the only child in Equality California, to The New York Times, my class who had any experience of homo- July 26. sexuality or anything like that.” –Harry Potter star Daniel Radcliffe to “Forget the slick pharmaceutical ads that, Britain’s Attitude magazine, July 23. since the mid-‘90s, have conveyed the frequently erroneous message that living with “It is difficult to the point of impossibility AIDS or HIV is all about bicycling through to envision two love-struck heterosexuals the California Wine Country or climbing a contemplating marriage to decide against mountain peak or enjoying an ocean cruise it because Gays and Lesbians also have the with your shirtless, buff buddies. For some right to marry; it is equally hard to envision perhaps it is, but, for many of us living with a couple whose marriage is troubled basing any degree or stage of HIV infection, it is a the decision of whether to divorce on wheth- medical, emotional and psychological roller er their Gay neighbors are married or living coaster with downs you don’t even want to in a domestic partnership.” imagine. ... [F]or many of us, it’s still all –Lawyer David Boies writing about his about basic survival: Can I pay my rent? and Ted Olson’s bold lawsuit seeking to Will I have enough for groceries at the end have Prop 8 struck down as a violation of of the month? If I tell him I’m positive, will the U.S. Constitution, in The Wall Street he simply walk away?” Journal, July 20. –Blogger Mike Tidmus (miketidmus. com), July 19. “Countries as Catholic as Spain, as different as Sweden and South Africa, and as near “The Chico’s [Tacos] case [where five as Canada have embraced Gay and Lesbian Gay men were ejected from the restaurant marriage without any noticeable effect – ex- after two of them kissed] may seem small cept the increase in human happiness and in comparison with the struggles of John social stability that comes from permitting Lewis and Martin Luther King Jr., but pubpeople to marry for love. Connecticut, Iowa, lic fallout evoked familiar imagery. A place Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and of public accommodation. A dining room Vermont ... have individually repealed their counter. Threats of boycott. A picket line. bans on same-sex marriage as inconsistent A subjugated class. City Rep. Steve Ortega with a decent respect for human rights and went so far as to describe Gay equality as a rational view of the communal value of ‘the civil-rights issue of our time.’ A lawyer marriage for all individuals.” with the American Civil Liberties Union –Lawyer David Boies writing about his in Austin said negative reaction to the Gay and Ted Olson’s bold lawsuit seeking to kiss was reminiscent of the era when signs have Prop 8 struck down as a violation of posted in West Texas restaurants read ‘No the U.S. Constitution, in The Wall Street Mexicans, no dogs.’” Journal, July 20. –The El Paso Times news section, July 26. “The argument in favor of Proposition 8 ultimately comes down to no more than the “I have, apparently, hit the Facebook tautological assertion that a marriage is be- friend limit. They allow no more.” tween a man and a woman. But a slogan is –Frequently Gay-themed San Francisco not a substitute for constitutional analysis. Chronicle columnist Mark Morford on his Law is about justice, not bumper stickers.” Facebook page July 15. Morford has 4,999 –Lawyer David Boies writing about his “friends.” and Ted Olson’s bold lawsuit seeking to have Prop 8 struck down as a violation of “I think it [the Episcopal Church] will the U.S. Constitution, in The Wall Street hold [together]. Now that we’ve done the, Journal, July 20. quote, unthinkable, the church won’t look much different than before. Opponents of “Someday at some point my dissent marriage equality predict the end of Western [against upholding Prop 8] will be the ma- civilization as we know it if Gay couples are jority view in California. I think that’s where allowed to marry. And then when it comes, the law is headed. Equal protection is either there’s no big whoop.” equal or it’s not. It’s not the kind of thing –Gay New Hampshire Episcopal Bishop you can chip away at.” Gene Robinson to The New York Times, –California Supreme Court Justice Carlos July 16. In mid-July, the church decided Moreno to The Recorder, July 27. Moreno that open Gays and Lesbians – celibate or was the lone vote against Prop 8. not – can be priests and bishops, granted local dioceses the option to bless same-sex “Discouraged by stubborn poll numbers marriages and civil unions, and launched and pessimistic political consultants, ma- a project to create official liturgies for the jor financial backers of same-sex marriage blessings. are cautioning Gay rights groups to delay a campaign to overturn California’s ban on With assistance from Bill Kelley
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20 Seattle Gay News
July 31, 2009
Celebrating 36 Years!
rajkhet dirzhud-rashid
Body aches, mean people, and traffic by Rajkhet Dirzhud-Rashid SGN A&E Writer Oh, my dears, it’s been such an up-anddown couple of weeks, this one should name herself “The Twister” or something, as I feel like a roller coaster ride. Still, with my darling one (who showed me a new part of himself that broke my heart with joy the other day) as my ever-present foundation, things aren’t as bad as they could be. Actually, it’s more tedious these days than downright bad. First, yay to those folks in a certain government office who not only untangled the mess left by my money manager, but also put my finances back in the black so that me and my slave were able to enjoy seeing Harry Potter and the Half-blood Prince for that one’s birthday a couple of weeks ago. So you might see me smiling as well as limping due to a flush money situation and some unknown pain that started plaguing me out of the blue and which is sending this one back to Western medicine for some answers this week. And big props to The Divine Que and her laser for making it so I was able to limp to the wifi café (having finally dealt my piece o’ crap computer a merciful death last night) and thus give you an update on all things interesting and yummy. Hopefully, by the time you’re reading this, not only will I have an answer to this troubling ache, but a cure, and I’ll not be limping. Also, hopefully someone with more sense than the current incumbent will be running for mayor (no, I’m not fooled by all these photo ops, folks), and will kick him to the curb come November. And if you’re not already planning to vote in the primary on August 18, first, shame on you, and then, do it, do it now, or then. Just think of how long you’re waiting in traffic now or how long you waited with me and a bunch of angry riders a couple of weeks ago because of that expensive boondoggle that is our new transit system. Word from a couple of my fave Metro drivers (not the mean ones who leave me waiting at bus stops after I’ve run nearly two blocks to chase them down, or the ones who’re always in bad moods and slam their passengers around as “punishment” while they drive) is that this new system is so sure to fail, Metro’s already asking drivers to work as backup when they do fail. Also, who the hell wants to go to Tukwila anyway, when they could take a freaking bus, cheaper, and go truly where they want to go? Yeah, these are things that should be on your mind when you’re choosing our next mayor, and some City Council folks, too. And before I’m done with the ranting part of this column, let me just say to my pharmacists: guys, it’s not my fault my whole healthcare system is a mess, and to make me pay by denying me at least meds until my doc calls you is just plain shameful of you. Guess you never meant to keep that Hippocratic Oath, now, did you? To think I was praising you a few weeks ago, ha! Let’s all hope these guys get a conscience and the rest of the “mean trend” hitting Seattle of late melts away to a trend of compassion and understanding for others. Not holding my breath, though. So, what else besides being thrilled to the point of near fainting by my lover/slave/ kitty-toy has this one been up to lately? Well, besides riding our “forked-up” transit system and playing obstacle course around construction sites, this one did try some new stuff I’ll share with you now. Top of my list? One of two new “go-to” fragrances for “summer me,” who likes light, breezy fragrances, instead of the heavier ones for fall. My new AuraCacia Aromatherapy Body Mist in patchouli/sweet orange that I picked up at Madison Market is one I’ll keep wearing into fall, trust me, and one I
even sprayed my slave (in her Trans gear) with and we both loved the effect. Also loving Caudalie’s Moisturizing Cream-Mask for face and eyes that I got a sample of at my fave cosmetics place, Sephora (where my honey bunny and I are getting makeovers soon, dahlings). Makes you look sweetly, divinely gorgeous with or without foundation. Honey wears Shisheido, while this one is happy with a brush of CoverGirl MicroMinerals powder over a little moisturizer for a natural glow. And lastly, for now and later, to get your hair in shape from a summer of abusing it in the pool or at the beach, do try Phyto’s Dry Program for hair. Includes shampoo, conditioner and a wonderful daily hydrating cream to keep your locks (be they dreaded or not) looking hella hot and touchable. So, that’s what’s delish for you little red cherries for now. Oh, and this one happened to glance at a TV Guide and found out that my fave show, Fringe, and a new Dollhouse episode are coming in fall. Yippee! Now if only they’d bring back Moonlight or Flashpoint (which I’m not sure about yet), this one would be happy. And big honking hugs to Mr. Craig
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Coffeeshop cutie
Ferguson for keeping me tickled with his puppets during this trying time. Me, I like the unicorn best, but the monkey’s cute, too, so there’s my vote for ya, dahlin’. That’s it for me, honey angels, and remember: be safe out there, and my heart goes out to those who lost a good friend and partner when Teresa Butz left this world. Glad the bad guy who did it’s in jail now, though, and I hope he gets a hundred years. Time to take
back the streets, folks, to keep women and girls from getting killed, abused or attacked, and time we let society know we do matter, so someone, let’s get this going, ‘kay? ‘Kay. Be more tolerant, more loving, and drive less, and vote, vote, vote in the primary for someone new, and let’s stop trashing our planet, including our local lawns and trees with beer cans and other stuff, right? Peace out, kiss kiss, buhbye!
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July 31, 2009
Seattle Gay News 21
22 Seattle Gay News
July 31, 2009
Celebrating 36 Years!
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July 31, 2009
Seattle Gay News 23