Equality Bill introduced in Pa. Senate
Experiencing Pride in Toronto
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August, 2009
Volume 1, Issue 10
Weekend GLBT conference to feature workshops, entertainment and more Special to The Community Voice
Workshops, social gatherings, entertainment and fellowship are all on the agenda for the Sept. 12-13 Rainbow Pride Connection conference to be held on the grounds of the world-renowned Chautauqua Institution in nearby Chautauqua, NY. The purpose of the two-day conference is to bring GLBT residents and supporters from the tri-state region together to learn about important issues affecting their lives, meet political leaders, share experiences, network and have fun. Activities will get underway at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, with registration, and conclude at 1 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 13. One of the social highlights of the weekend will be a Saturday evening concert by the Buffalo Gay Men’s Chorus at 8 p.m. in Lenna Hall. Tickets are $15 each. The concert will be followed by a dance featuring speed dating and speed meeting (for couples). The conference will feature a variety of workshops on topics sure to interest all GLBT people and their supporters.
The weekend GLBT conference at the Chautauqua Institution Sept. 12 and 13 will offer numerous workshops on a wide variety of topics. The Saturday workshops will run from 1-2 p.m.; 2:15-3:15 p.m. and 3:30-4:40 p.m., all in Bellinger Hall Retreat and Conference Center. Topics include: “Estate Planning, Legal Issues and Same-Sex Marriage,” “How to Start a Safe-place Program for Gays and Lesbians in Schools,” “Interpreting the Bible Regarding Homosexuality,” “Sexual Orientation vs. Sexual Identity,”
“Enhancing Communications with Your Partner,” “Developing Public Relations on Gay Issues in Your Community” and many other timely issues. Sunday’s activities will include an Ecumenical Worship Service and a panel discussion on “Building Political Power in Our Community.” During the weekend, organizers are also planning an art show featuring the works of
GLBT artists. Those interested in participating should complete the art show registration form that can be found online at www.rainbowprideconnection.net. Those interested in attending the conference must be 18 years of age or older. Child care is not available. The registration fee for the conference is $30 per person or $14 for See Workshops
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August, 2009
The Community Voice
Experiencing Pride Weekend in Toronto promotes a feeling of belonging By Kathy Czarnecki The Community Voice
If you have not had the chance to attend a Pride event in a major city, I highly recommend that you plan to do so in the next few years! Having attended Pride Toronto for the second time, I must tell you it is one of T h e
C o m m u n i t y
The Community Voice is a monthly newsletter published by Erie Gay Pride, Inc. and four29media. The newsletter is designed to present news, features and other content of interest to the Erie regional GLBT community, its supporters and friends. If you have items to submit for publication consideration, please email them to content@ eriecv.org or mail them to The Community Voice, Erie Gay Pride, Inc., P.O. Box 8027, Erie, PA 16505. CoEditors: Kim Young and Bob Howden.
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the most amazing experiences to actually be a part of the whole weekend. It was estimated that almost a million and a half people were present in a 16 block radius. There were four live stages, at least 100 vendors from all over Toronto, and there are also many local stores that are open year round on the Church Street circuit. It is actually your own personal heaven if you love to “people watch.” One of the things we loved is that we were able to walk around and just enjoy all the couples just being ‘out’ together. Who knows where they were all from, but it is a far cry from the freedom, or lack thereof, people feel in most parts of America. The welcome from the citizens of Toronto was amazing as well. The parade itself is another thing altogether. Almost three hours of non-stop music, dancing, floats, local politicians and every social service group you can think of. They all had, at the very least, a banner letting us know who they were. It was very refreshing to see so many agencies that worked with the youth of their city. It is nice to know there is a place for them to go to talk, have questions answered, make friends and just freely explore this personal chapter of their lives. It is also nice to know they can do so at such a young age, not having to carry the burden of secrecy well into their adult
years. There were many moving parts of the parade as well, and when I say moving, I mean many people were actually tearful. Several moments like this occurred during the day, and it was amazing. The roar from the crowd farther up the parade route let you know something big was on its way. As they got closer, and people saw who it was, the place went crazy. Sign after sign carried by mothers and fathers and other family members saying how much they love their gay son, daughter, sister, brother, friend. Of course I am speaking of PFLAG. And I have to tell you how moved we were by their enthusiasm, energy and most of all willingness to come out in support of their loved one. I know many people who do not have this story to share. In fact it is quite the opposite. I believe it was the reason people were responding not only with the appropriate, “Happy Pride,” but with an-
other sentiment that was even more obvious…”Thank You!” It felt good to know there were mothers and fathers out there somewhere who were willing to love their children no matter what, and we wanted to let them know that even though we were not their children, we still appreciate the presence of a parent in that capacity. I have met a few members of our local chapter of PFLAG and they too, share the enthusiasm, energy and willingness to come out in support of their gay family members. And to them, we also give a well deserved, “Thank You!” Our events may not be as big as Toronto, but their presence is no less important or meaningful. It is to me, and many others, very much appreciated. If you have a gay friend or family member, and would like to know more about the opportunities to support them in our local chapter of PFLAG, please call 814-4541392 for more information.
The Community Voice
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Marriage Equality Bill introduced in Pennsylvania Senate
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Opponent’s controversial words spark debate
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Six states and 25 countries have already decided to step into the 21st century and finally recognize the civil rights of all couples..
State Sen. Daylin Leach has introduced Senate Bill 935 which would offer full and equal marriage rights to same-sex couples in Pennsylvania. Under the bill, Pennsylvania would also recognize same-sex marriages conducted in other states. “Six states and 25 countries have already decided to step into the 21st century and finally recognize the civil rights of all couples. Now it is Pennsylvania’s time,” said Leach, a Democrat who represents portions of Delaware and Montgomery counties. “We must end the unjust and hurtful discrimination that denies gay and lesbian Pennsylvanians the benefits we offer married couples to encourage monogamy, stability and responsible parenthood.” Senate Bill 935 would not require religious institutions to recognize any marriages that they do not wish to
511 N. Main St. Jamestown, NY 14701
sanction, but Leach said his legislation would dissolve all of the barriers to building families that gay and lesbian couples currently face. Senate Bill 935 is cosponsored by state Sens. Larry Farnese, D-Philadelphia, and Jim Ferlo, D-Allegheny/ Westmoreland/Armstrong. The chief opponent to Leach’s bill, state Sen. John Eichelberger, says he plans to introduce his own bill that will amend the Pennsylvania constitution to ban samesex marriage. Currently, Pennsylvania law defines marriage as being between a man and a woman, however, the courts could overturn that law. Eichelberger, a first term Republican from Altoona who represents a large, rural, conservative district, says that amending the constitution will ensure that gay marriage can not be passed into law. Two previous attempts
to amend the PA constitution in recent years have failed. “There’s no reason to encourage that kind of behavior in Pennsylvania,” Eichelberger said about same-sex marriage. “That’s my whole point. We don’t have any reason to change the way we do business here. There is no evidence that this will be good for our society.” During a recent samesex marriage radio debate with Sen. Leach, Sen. Eichelberger got himself into hot water by referring to GLBT people as “dysfunctional” and saying of same-sex couples that “we are allowing them to exist.” Eichelberger has also compared consenting adult
relationships to pedophilia. Eichelberger further enraged the GLBT community when a group of same-sex marriage supporters when to his Harrisburg office to seek an apology. After making the group wait for two hours, the Senator emerged for less than a minute and when asked to apologize, said, “No, I think you know my answer
to that.” He then turned his back to the group and walked back into the Senate chamber.
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The Community Voice
Book review
Will Love Bloom for Andi and C.J.?
By Twila Until Soon by Maya Indigal, is a story about ex-swimmer and grad assistant Andi Marlow. Sidelined by an injury, Andi is taking classes, teaching part-time and leading a very isolated and ordered life. Even though her friends try to play matchmaker, Andi decides that having her heart broken once was enough, and she vows to never lay it all on the line again. C.J. is a senior history major and campus women’s basketball star with an outgoing, enthusiastic personality. She is a loving person with big dreams, and her biggest dream is to find the one woman to share her life with. When C.J. and Andi literally run into each
other at a mandatory school function, they hit it off immediately. C.J. actually needs help with a paper she is writing, so Andi the English major offers her help with the paper. What starts out as an innocent assist to the struggling paper writer, starts to develop into something more. Andi starts going to basketball games to watch C.J. The assistant coach has a thing for Andi and decides to ask her out, but gets turned down. After realizing just who Andi has come to the games to watch, this coach decides to accuse her of having an affair with C.J., a student. Even though nothing has happened between the two, Andi starts to panic. But the two start spending even more time together, and suddenly C.J.
realizes that she is falling head-over-heels in love with Andi. Saying that it was fate that brought them together, C.J. puts her heart on the line for Andi, only to be rejected. It’s not that Andi doesn’t have these same feelings, but because of her past, she is terrified of being torn apart once again. C.J. is extremely hurt by Andi’s rejection, and shuts herself off from her. When Andi finally grasps that she is in love with C.J., she tries everything she can think of to win her back. As a last resort, Andi invites C.J. to a friend’s cabin for a romantic weekend. But can she get C.J. to go with her and try to work this out? You won’t know Until Soon.
For Your Reading Enjoyment:
‘The God Box’ by Alex Sanchez
Review by Hanni Wagner I glanced up. A lanky boy I’d never seen before stepped through the doorway. Tiny hoops pierced both ears and his left eyebrow—surprising for our conservative little west Texas town, where even a single earring could get a guy accused of “going gay.” His black wavy hair and cedar skin hinted he was most likely Mexican, and his cinnamon-colored eyes almost pulled me toward him. Who was he? When Manuel walks into Paul’s homeroom on the first day of their senior year, he does not understand the strange pull he feels toward this outsider, but knows he wants to befriend him. Later that day at the lunch table, when Manuel reveals that he’s gay, Paul’s no longer so sure he should. After all, Paul is a Christian and knows he shouldn’t associate with an admitted homosexual. What Paul doesn’t count on is that Manuel is also a Christian, although he is unlike any Christian that Paul has ever met. He quotes
scripture readily, but interprets the Bible in ways that make Paul question what he has been taught at church. Manuel also makes Paul question the feelings about boys that he has had his whole life, but is too ashamed to mention. Too afraid to bring up the subject with Manuel, Paul writes down his prayers to be rid of these feelings, placing them in his god box until they are answered. As the school year goes on, despite his reservations, Paul becomes closer to Manuel. While Manuel fights the backlash from attempting to start a GSA, Paul struggles with himself and his faith, as he is increasingly drawn into Manuel’s world. Eventually he realizes that what he has been taught in church may not correspond with the idea of a loving god that he would like to believe. Still, when Manuel nudges Paul closer to him, he refuses. Manuel reasons with him, “If I were you, I’d take me up on his invitation. You never know in life if you’ll get a second chance.”
JOHN E. COOPER, ESQ.
Attorney at Law 305 French Street Erie, PA 16501 SSSSS Phone: (814) 455-3436 Fax: (814) 455-2680 Email: johncooperlaw@msn.com Toll Free: 866-803-0490
Soon after, Manuel has a run in with some of their school’s worst homophobes and is gravely injured. Paul realizes that Manuel may have been right—about the Bible and about not getting a second chance. Paul knows that he must begin to live life—as his true self—outside of his box, but will Manuel be there to live it with him? This thought-provoking novel takes a fresh look at two issues often at odds with one another: sexuality and religion. Written from the perspective of a 17-year-old boy coming to terms with his sexual orientation, anyone who has ever questioned their faith can identify with Paul’s struggle. Although it’s written for a teenagers, The God Box tells a story that relates to a much wider audience. The God Box is Alex Sanchez’s sixth novel. In addition to the Rainbow Boys trilogy, his works include So Hard to Say, Getting It, and Bait. He is a four-time winner of the Lambda Literary Award.
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Human Rights Campaign Web site offers important resources and information If you are looking for resources and information about a wide-variety of topics related to the GLBT community, a good place to begin is the website for the Human Rights Campaign, www.hrc.org. The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against GLBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. Based in Washington, DC, the HRC’s familiar logo (yellow equal sign on a blue background), has come to symbolize national efforts to
secure equal rights for GLBT individuals and families at the federal and state levels. This is accomplished by lobbying elected officials, mobilizing grassroots supporters, educating Americans, investing strategically to elect fair-minded officials and partnering with other GLBT organizations. But the HRC website is much more than a forum for its efforts to secure GLBT equality. It offers a wealth of resources for GLBT individuals seeking information on such topics as dealing with aging, coming out, health issues, workplace
discrimination, youth and campus activism, transgender challenges, immigration and much more. Through their website, you can connect with HRC activities almost everywhere, such as Facebook, MySpace, Twitter and YouTube. And for those interested in politics, there no better place to find out about GLBT friendly politicians than on the HRC website. There is also a complete guide to state and federal agencies as well as elected officials. From a business standpoint, each year the HRC publishes
its Best Places to Work guide rating business and industry on its GLBT workplace policies, accepting/open environment, employee benefits and public support of GLBT issues. This is a valuable resourse for anyone who would like to work for a GLBT-friendly employer, but also for consumers who wish to do business with and buy products from companies who are deemed GLBT friendly. You can access these lists directly by going to the website and clicking on the “workplace” button under “The Issues” heading. You owe it to yourself to “surf” the HRC website and read the information presented. It’s very comprehensive, informative and timely.
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The Community Voice
Uncle Pete’s Kitchen Korner:
Add Personal Taste to Oil and Garlic Pasta
Many countries have offered us excellent cuisine! This month I would like to present to you a little about the cucina povera from Italy. Most of the recipes from this peasant or humble style of cooking have few ingredients as well as being quick and simple to prepare. Such recipes can be enhanced with your own creative touches. Well-known dishes like minestrone, oil and garlic pasta, or milk pudding all are part of the cucina povera. This month, I would like to offer you my version of the oil and garlic pasta, with suggestions on how to alter it to you own personal tastes. I would like to recommend a book about cucina povera that would be great for any inspiring or experienced cook! Please enjoy and let me know what you think. Uncle Pete’s Pasta Aglio e Olio (topped with Veggies and Shrimp) This is a basic recipe for oil and garlic pasta. I have topped it with veggies and shrimp, but below one can find sugges-
tions for other toppings! Serves 4 people. Ingredients: v1 lb. of cooked shrimp v1/3 c. of olive oil v3 T. crushed garlic v1 lb. pasta (linguine or fettuccini) v1 lb. package of frozen veggies (Sicilian blend) vsalt & pepper to taste Directions: Clean shrimp, removing tails and/or veins, set aside in a bowl of cold water; add a bit of lemon juice to keep fresh. Boil water for the pasta and cook as directed on the package. Brown the garlic in olive oil cooking slowly as not to burn the garlic. Add the bag of frozen veggies to the oil and garlic; cook for only a few minutes. Drain the shrimp and add to the oil, garlic, and veggies. Season to taste. Place the cooked, drained pasta on a large serving platter and top with the oil, garlic, veggies, and shrimp mixture. Suggestions: vIf you do not like shrimp, try this
recipe with pieces of cooked chicken! vOther frozen blends could also be used: Sicilian, Italian, or Mediterranean vInstead of frozen veggies, try fresh summer veggies… or… vChopped roasted red peppers vOr… Just the oil and garlic pasta with shrimp or chicken! vThis dish is great with a nice green salad or a tomato salad! Recommended Book: Werle, Loukie. Italian Country Cooking: The Secrets of Cucina Povera. New York: Metro Books, 2007. ISBN: 978-1-43510126-5 This cookbook is excellent! It contains a wide variety of different recipes and some incredible street scenes from around Italy. Ingredients are easy to find locally and instructions are easy to follow. Each recipe has a beautiful photograph, an explanation of the dish, and the name of the dish in Italian. Let your palate be pleased! ~Uncle Pete
The Community Voice
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And The Beat Goes On…
Enjoy Pride 2009 with Pride 2009
By DJ Sparkplug Well, I think it’s only proper to start this month’s music review by mentioning one of the best 2009 Pride CDs: Pride 2009 mixed by DJ Max Rodriguez. It’s a really great CD loaded with some awesome gay tracks. Here’s a rundown of the track listing. Jay Jay - Let The Music Play (Belmond & Parker Remix), Nightbirds – Sunchyme (Simon De Jano Mix), Carol Hahn – I Can’t Stop The Rain (Lenny B’s Classic House Slam Mix), Inaya Day – Hold Your Head Up High (Soul Avengers Vocal Mix), Evolution Allstars – Together In Electric Dreams (JS Remix), Deep Velvet Featuring Dionne Mitchel – Release Me (Lucarelli Club Mix), Edha – The Fear (Power Remix), Den J Rose – Rhythm Is A Dancer (Extended Mix), Ari L – When Love Takes Over (Ronnie Maze Club Mix), Mad8 VS Shawn Christoper – Just Another Sleepless Night (Out Of Office Remix), Love Freak – All I Need Is A Miracle (Calimocoi Club Mix). OK, now here’s the hottest and most popular track on this CD. Everyone knows the famous song from the Jerry Springer Opera, I Just Wanna F*$&*#%@ Dance. We have sure played this one a lot at the Zone. Well, this CD has the official Richard Thomas featuring Alison Jier track. And to make it even better, it’s the best mix everyone likes by Wayne G updated to an 09 Wayne G Lady Botox Mix! Oh ya, and the run time on this track is over eight minutes, so you get the full remix! This is definitely a great CD you’ll want to get to remember Pride 2009. I definitely have to give a shout out to the 10th anniversary of the
biggest annual Pride CD. Klone has released its biggest compilation ever. This one is really off the hook with great gay club music. This one is chock full of remade classics. The first track was even re-vocaled by Katrina herself with her classic summertime hit Walking On Sunshine. There are lots of other great remade classic tracks on this compilation. Kelly Wild – Gloria (Ross Alexander Definitive Mix), Diva Bliss – Crucified (Ross Alexander Retro Mix), Jason Prince and Jo Francis – Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now (Klubkidz Klub Mix), Jaymi – I Breathe Again (Northern Beat Club Mix), Samantha Fox – Touch Me 2009 (Sleazesisters Euro Mix), Luci – Call It Love (James St James Mix), Princess Paragon – I Dreamed A Dream (Slipstream Club Mix), Pimp and Jam Featuring Norman Lewis – Lock The Door (James St James Mix), Kulbkidz Featuring Sam Solace
– If I Can’t Have You (Klubkidz Extended Mix), and Pete Martime – Sexual Revolution (Sleazesisters Club Mix). This two CD compilation contains one CD of full, unmixed tracks, and a second CD that’s a non-stop party mix. It’s a great way to celebrate your Pride with this music collection. OK, now on to some of the new releases out there. About four year ago Freemasons released one of the biggest compilations of the year: Shakedown. Well, about three years later, Freemasons is releasing Shakedown 2. The reason the Shakedown was so successful was the great track listing, and Shakedown 2 follows this same path! Freemasons is comprised of two hot DJs from the UK. In 2005, Russell Small and James Wiltshire formed Freemasons while drinking down a few brews in a London pub. And the rest is history with these boys, hit after hit. This 2 CD collection has too many tracks to list them all, but I’ll list a few of the hot ones. Two of there most popular are Uninvited and Love On My Mind. A real classic is Blue Monday by New Order. They also have some great Freemasons remixes to Marvin Gaye’s Heard It Through The Grapevine, Solange’s Sandcastle Disco, Axwell and Bob Sinclair’s What A
Wonderful World, Eurhythmics’ Here Comes The Rain Again, and Sophie-Ellis Bextor’s Heartbeat. This is a mixed compilation, but each track is about six minutes or more, so you’ll hear all of the great songs in almost their full lengths. Now for a couple of other hot new tracks out there. The first one that comes to mind is one of our new favorites to play at the Zone, David Guetta featuring Kelly Rowland, When Love Takes Over. This one is really hot. Tons of great mixes out there too. You also have to check out RuPaul’s Jealous Of My Boogie. C’mon, we all love her. Richard Gray does a great cover of One More Time using Daft Punk’s vocals. Ferry Corsten featuring Maria Nayler have a great song called We Belong. I love this one, she has one great voice. Well, I’ll bring it to a close for this issue and list a few more great new releases. Knights Of The Roundtable – Rumors, remixed from the 1984 hit, Evelyn Thomas – High Energy, Eria Fachin – Savin’ Myself, Melanie Fiona – Give It To Me Right, and don’t forget Kid Kudi’s Day N Night, and Lady Gaga’s Paparazzi; all great tracks worth listening to! Definitely a lot of hot HiNrg releases out there this month, so put your headphones on and get to work checking them out!
Build a link to your community with advertising For more information on how to advertise with us, contact The Community Voice at info@eriecv.org or visit www.eriecv.org.
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The Community Voice
In your community G2H2 gathering Aug. 7 at the Sand Bar
The next G2H2 (Gay Guy/Girl Happy Hour) is Friday, Aug. 7 from 6-8 p.m. at the Sand Bar, corner of W. 8th Street and Peninsula Drive, Erie. G2H2 is modeled after similar regional groups in Cleveland and Pittsburgh where GLBT professionals, their colleagues and friends meet once a month for happy hour at a local bar for networking. It’s also a great opportunity to continue to improve the image of the local GLBT community. And it’s been great fun. More than 50 people have attended the last few G2H2 events, with the list of new participants growing each month. Please spread the word to other GLBT professionals and friends (gay and straight alike) that aren’t included on this distribution list. Those interested may also visit our G2H2 ERIE group on Facebook. Come join the fun on Aug. 7.
Come on OUT! for a pontoon boat ride
Department will host a display of artwork in the lobby of City Hall, entitled “From the Heart.” The artwork, done by the children in SafeNet’s shelter and non-residential programming, expresses how they feel about witnessing or being involved in domestic violence. Over the past few years, SafeNet has seen an increase of children coming into its emergency shelter with nothing other than the clothing on their back, leaving behind family, pets, toys and their home. Every child in SafeNet’s shelter has taken the “Hands are Not for Hitting” pledge, which stands behind the statement that “my hand will never hit or hurt any other person.” The organization is asking Erie area residents to also take this pledge along, with the many local government, corporate and business leaders. When attending the Celebrate Erie festivities, be sure to stop by Erie City Hall and view the From the Heart Children’s Art Display.
First annual Ashtabula Family Picnic Aug. 22
Come on OUT! for a private pontoon boat ride on Saturday, Aug. 8 at 3 p.m. The ranger-guided tour will leave from the Graveyard Pond Pontoon Boat Landing on Presque Isle State Park. The boat landing is on the park road just past the Perry Monument. During this 90 minute tour through the park’s lagoons, you will see the flora and fauna of Presque Isle not visible from on the beaches or bike trails. This event is free, but only 18 seats are available. These will be assigned on a first come, first served basis. Don’t miss the boat! To reserve your seat, email eriegaypride@gmail.com. This event goes rain or shine so come prepared. Those attending must arrive at the boat launch at least 15 minutes prior to 3 p.m. For more information or a map of the park, visit http://www.etnextras.com/PresqueIsle. Come on Out! is sponsored by Erie Gay Pride, Inc.
On Aug. 22, Ashtabula County is holding its first annual Family Picnic, hosted by AGLBTOA (Ashtabula Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgender Outreach Alliance). This picnic will take place from 1-6 p.m. at Geneva State Park. Signs will be posted to help attendees locate the pavilion site. The picnic will feature food, fun, entertainment and a talent/karaoke show. There is also a volleyball court and horseshoe pit. Organizers ask those attending to pre-register on their website at www. ashtabulaglbt.org. Please bring your friends and family and also a dish to pass! Also bring you own serving plates and silverware. Some will be available, but not a lot.
SafeNet children to display art at Celebrate Erie
Allegheny County passes Human Relations law
Over the past few years, SafeNet has been part of the “Hands are Not for Hitting” project. During “Celebrate Erie,” Aug. 13-16, the organization’s Children’s
The Allegheny County Council voted July 1 to approve the Allegheny County Human Relations Ordinance, legislation that will ban discrimination in housing,
employment and public accommodations on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity or expression with limited exceptions. Although similar protections have been in place in Pittsburgh for over 20 years, the new ordinance marks the first time these protections will be extended to Allegheny County borders. The bill, which passed by an 8-6 vote, established a county-wide Human Relations Commission that will be responsible for investigating claims of discrimination. The ordinance was signed into law July 9 by County Executive Dan Onorato. The Coalition for the Allegheny County Human Relations Ordinance, along with many other individuals, worked with County Executive Onorato and County Council in the days before passage to modify the bill after a previous amendment was found to include an unreasonably broad loophole regarding religious exemptions. The final amended language, while explicitly stating an exemption by religious organizations, sidesteps the issue of organizations that receive tax-payer funds. This language allows for further dialogue on this particular issue. GLBT rights organizations from across the state also praised the Ordinance for its inclusive protection of transgender individuals. The Coalition for the Allegheny County Human Relations Ordinance called the new legislation “the highest standard of trans-inclusive language in the Commonwealth.” The county is now the 15th municipality in the state to grant protection to GLBT individuals. A similar ordinance has been on the books in Erie County for several years.
Stonewall Dems urge GLBT voters to eye judicial election
The Steel-City Stonewall Democrats, based in Pittsburgh, are urging GLBT voters to keep pay close attention to the Pennsylvania judicial general elections set for Nov. 3. See Community
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The Community Voice
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A clean car is a happy car!
By Eric Rogers When the weather is nice, there’s nothing better than a clean happy car. Here are a few tips to help keep your car looking in tip top shape! vTo clean upholstery in your car, use soapy water and a mild brush and vacuum up the water with a Wet-Vac. vUse Q-tips to clean the air vents and nooks in a car. You can also use makeup brushes and toothpicks to clean the small hard to reach areas. vClean your dashboard and vinyl in the car with furniture polish and a soft cloth. Buy lint-free mechanics rags to use to dust with. vUse pet stain cleaner to remove nasty odors from your Workshops, from
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vIf your wiper blades are dull, you can sharpen both sides with an emery board. In the winter time, spray your car’s door gaskets with PAM to keep them from freezing shut. vSpray PAM on your car’s grill and hood before going on a trip to keep bugs and stuff from sticking to your car. You can wash it off with shampoo and some warm water. vUse furniture polish to shine your car if you don’t have any wax. It won’t hurt the outside of your car. vTo clean hubcaps, use baking soda and a wet brush. Hose off with water. vTo remove bumper stickers, use a hot hair dryer to
H ousehold ints
car’s carpeting. vSpray room fragrance in your car after you clean it to make it smell nice. vGot a scratch on your car? Cover it with a matching crayon. Find a crayon the same color as your car and rub the crayon over the scratch. Buff off any wax residue with a soft cloth. This will even work on keyed scratches. vPour a bottle of club soda on your windshield to cut grease and grime. Squeegee it off.
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seniors (age 65+) and full-time students. Meals, accommodations and entertainment are extra. Overnight lodging is also available at Bellinger Hall. Nestled in a quiet area of the Chautauqua Institution compound, Bellinger Hall offers a relaxed and modest
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Of particular interest is the race for Pennsylvania Supreme Court, the state’s highest court. In that election, Superior Court Judge Jack Panella, a Democrat, is running against Superior Court Judge Joan Orie Melvin, a Republican, for the lone vacancy on the Supreme Court. Joan Orie Melvin is the sister of State Senator Jane Orie who is one of the major proponents of anti-equality efforts in the Pennsylvania Senate. Stonewall Democrats warn that conservatives will control the state Supreme Court if Joan Orie Melvin wins the election. According to the Stonewall Democrats, this fall’s state-wide judicial elections are key to the pursuit of progressive goals in Pennsylvania.
reactivate the adhesive, then just pull the sticker off. vTo clean the bumper, use a piece of balled-up aluminum foil. Pour some soft drink on the bumper and rub it clean with the foil. vRefresh your old air freshener in your car by dropping some of your favorite essential oil on it. Just a few drops will do it. vUse a Wet-One or a BabyWipe disposable cloth to clean the dashboard. vUse a Brillo pad to clean wheels of road grime and hose off with water. If you have any Helpful Household Hints you would like to share please email them to helpfulhints@eriecv.org.
year-round residence hall atmosphere. Comfortable accommodations for up to 250 people are complemented by adaptable meeting rooms, a spacious dining hall, pleasant common areas and a garden courtyard. There are rooms with shares baths and private baths. Accommodations may also be made at other area facilities both on and off the Chautauqua Institution
grounds. To view the complete schedule of activities and fees, go to www.rainbowprideconnection.net. You may also download a registration form as well as a schedule of events. Additional questions about the conference may be addressed by emailing gavanim@juno.com or calling Pat Collins at (716) 761-6052.
Blues and Jazz Festival Aug. 1
new GLBT monthly newsletter, can now be found online at www.eriegaypride. org. Look for the link at the bottom of the home page. If you have missed any of the back issues of The Community Voice, those may be read online as well. The Community Voice is always looking for new volunteers and writers to help the publication serve the needs of the community. If you would be interested in helping with photography, writing articles or soliciting advertising for the publication, we are anxious to hear from you. You may email us at eriegaypride@gmail.com or call us toll free at (866) 399-3169. We welcome you input and assistance. The Community Voice is published by Erie Gay Pride, Inc. in cooperation with four29 media and all advertising proceeds go to support GLBT community efforts.
The Erie Art Museum’s 17th Annual Blues & Jazz Festival scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 1 and Sunday, Aug. 2 at Frontier Park, is the largest jazz and blues event in the Erie, region. The two-day Festival presents national, regional and local musicians in a beautiful outdoor, family-friendly setting, all on one outdoor stage. The festival is free-of-charge and is held rain or shine. Spectators should bring their own blankets, lawn chairs or other seating. For more information about the Blues & Jazz Festival, go to www.erieartmuseum. org or call (814) 459-5477.
The Community Voice now available online
The Community Voice, the Erie region’s
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National News Notes . . .
Community demands answers after police raid
GLBT community leaders are demanding answers after a police raid on a Fort Worth nightclub left one man hospitalized with a head injury and prompted complaints of brutality. The recently opened Rainbow Lounge was raided in the early hours of June 28 by Fort Worth police officers and agents from the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission who said they were looking for violations of alcohol compliance laws. The incident has drawn even more attention because of its timing; it came on the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall riot in New York City, widely considered to be the start of the gay rights movement. Chad Gibson, a 26-year-old computer technician, suffered a concussion, a hairline fracture to his skull and internal bleeding after officers slammed his head into a wall and then into the floor, witnesses and family members said. Witnesses said another patron suffered broken ribs, and a third had a broken thumb. Law enforcement officials have begun an investigation into the accusations of brutality. Fort Worth’s police chief, Jeffrey W. Halstead, initially stood behind his officers, saying that patrons had provoked the scuffle by making sexual gestures toward officers. But Halstead has now backed away from that comment and has ordered an inquiry, suspended operations with the state beverage commission and promised to give police officers “multicultural training.” “Make no mistake, if our officers acted in error, this department will address the problem,” Chief Halstead said in an open letter to the community posted on the city’s Web site. The Mayor of Fort Worth has also called for a full investigation into the incident as has the administrator of the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission. According to witnesses at the scene, the police officers entered the bar without announcing themselves. Earlier in the night, they had visited two other bars looking for violations of alcohol compliance laws. Those bars do not cater to gay patrons, and the officers had made nine arrests at those establishments on public intoxication charges, officials said.
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“They were hyped up,” one witness said of the officers in the Rainbow Lounge raid. “They came in charged and ready for a fight. They were just telling people they were drunk or asking them if they were drunk, and, if they mouthed off, arresting them.” More than 20 people were taken out of the bar for questioning, handcuffed with plastic ties and, in some cases, were forced to lie face down in the parking lot, witnesses said. Five were eventually booked on charges of public drunkenness, the police said. In a statement released hours after the raid, police said that two of those arrested had made “sexually explicit movements” toward the officers. Another was arrested after he grabbed a state agent’s groin, the statement said. Several witnesses dispute that account, saying they had not seen anyone harass the officers. The raid prompted protests on the steps of the Tarrant County Courthouse and calls from government, business leaders and churches for an independent investigation.
Cleveland makes pitch to host 2014 Gay Games
Since March, when Cleveland was named a finalist for the international Gay Games, local organizers have lined up endorsements and honed their pitch. The Cleveland Synergy Foundation, formed last year to attract the games, is preparing a major welcome for a site selection committee’s arrival on July 30. Organizers have set a community celebration for July 31 on the plaza of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum with musical acts, the North Coast Men’s Chorus and a crowd of thousands. “We are going to blow them away,” said W. Douglas Anderson, a co-founder of the Synergy Foundation along with Brian Tavolier. The pair say the Gay Games would help to promote Northeast Ohio in the nation’s gay community, while boosting the region culturally and economically. In 2006, the Gay Games drew 11,500 participants and thousands of spectators to Chicago, injecting tens of millions of dollars into the local economy. The 2010 games are expected to draw people from some 70 nations to Cologne, Germany. Soon after Anderson and Tavolier
launched their effort last fall to attract the games to Cleveland, civic backers have stepped forward. The games have been endorsed by Cleveland and Akron city governments and by the visitors’ bureaus of both cities. Continental Airlines leads a growing list of corporate sponsors. In its pitch for Gay Games IX, Northeast Ohio is offering downtown sports venues in both Cleveland and Akron, gatherings in Cleveland’s new convention center, sailing on Lake Erie, opening and closing ceremonies at Cleveland Browns Stadium, and golf matches at Firestone Country Club. Promoters are also trumpeting Cleveland’s domestic-partner registry, the region’s affordable hotels and local experience hosting major Olympic-style events, like the International Children’s Games in 2004. The Federation of Gay Games will announce its decision in September.
Joint Chiefs chairman calls for ‘measured’ approach to gay policy
The nation’s top military officer has advised President Barack Obama to move “in a measured way” in changing the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy that bans gays from serving openly in the military. “It’s very clear what President Obama’s intent here is. He intends to see this law change,” Adm. Mike Mullen, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said recently on CNN’s State of the Union program. As a presidential candidate, Obama pledged to end “Don’t ask, don’t tell,” but as president, he has not said when or how he will take steps to do so, drawing criticism from gay rights activists and others. “I’ve had conversations with him about that. What I’ve discussed in terms of the future is I think we need to move in a measured way,” Mullen said. He added that he has discussed with his staff what steps might be taken to implement a change in the policy. Defense Secretary Robert Gates said recently that he has lawyers studying ways the law might be selectively enforced as part of an effort to find “a more humane way” to See Nation
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The Community Voice
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apply the law until it is changed.
Is Senate finally Moving on “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell?”
Democratic Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid has said he would support a measure being considered by some senators that would put an 18-month moratorium on investigations and discharges of gay soldiers in the military. Such a move is being considered as a possible amendment to the Department of Defense reauthorization bill. But Sen. Reid added that his preference would be to permanently suspend discharges. “We’re having trouble getting people into the military and I don’t think that we should turn down anybody that’s willing to fight for our country, certainly [not] based on sexual orientation.” Reid’s comments give support to New York Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand who is considering amending the DOD legislation to suspend investigations of soldiers suspected to be gay -- thereby stopping discharges of soldiers under the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy -- until the end of the 111th Congress. A spokesman for Gillibrand said the New York Democrat “wholeheartedly supports” full repeal of the military’s gay ban. “This is one avenue she would consider pursuing if there is sufficient support,” said Matt Canter. “We are encouraging Senator Gillibrand to explore her options and to reach out to the other senators in the process,” said Aubrey Sarvis, executive director of Servicemembers Legal Defense Network, an organization that lobbies for repeal of the military’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy. While Sarvis admitted the strategy is a “long shot,” he noted that several other senators are also mulling the concept. “What’s important here is that
August, 2009
we have a small core group that’s considering doing this,” he said. Sen. Carl Levin of Michigan, the Senate Armed Services Committee chairman, and Rep. Ike Skelton of Missouri, chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, have both said they won’t take action on full repeal until they’ve conferred with Defense secretary Bob Gates, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the undersecretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, who has yet to be nominated and will be charged with managing “don’t ask, don’t tell.”
P.M.’s wife joins London gay pride parade
London’s annual gay pride parade attracted a new participant this year - the wife of British Prime Minister Gordon Brown. Sarah Brown joined thousands of revelers in the annual march, holding a red, white and pink version of the Union Jack as the noisy parade wound through the city center before a rally and concert in Trafalgar Square. Everyone from drag queens to firefighters and soldiers in uniform joined the parade, organized by lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender groups. Earlier, organizers met the Browns outside 10 Downing St., the Prime Minister’s official residence. The prime minister said Britain had made “massive strides towards equality,” including the introduction of civil partnerships for gay couples. While these partnerships have the same legal status as marriage, some GLBT leaders want the word marriage to apply to both gay and straight couples.
Resignation puts new face on immigration law
When the mayor of San Angelo, TX resigned from office recently, he offered an explana-
tion that stunned the 90,000 residents of his city: He was in love with a man who was an illegal immigrant and had gone to Mexico. Mayor J.W. Lown said he and his partner had to move because there was no legal way for them to remain together in the United States. “It wasn’t a decision that any U.S. citizen should have to make,” Lown said in an interview from Mexico. “I left a home. I left a ranch. I left a promising political career.” His local prominence and his run for the border on the day he was supposed to be sworn in for a fourth term caused jaws to drop, but it also became a high-profile example of the thousands of Americans who face a similar choice — separate or move abroad — because they can’t secure green cards for their partners like heterosexual spouses can. An estimated 36,000 Americans are in this situation, said U.S. Rep. Jerrold Nadler, D-N.Y., citing information from the advocacy group Immigration Equality. Bills have been introduced in Congress to treat same-sex partners like heterosexual spouses for the purposes of immigration but are likely to face a strong fight, both from gay marriage opponents and anti-immigration groups. The 1996 Defense of Marriage Act prevents immigration officials from recognizing gay marriages, even from states where they are now legal. Before his resignation, Lown was considered a political rising star. The 32-year-old Republican, first elected at age 26, won his fourth term with about 89 percent of the vote. During his tenure, Lown transformed the $600-a-year, part-time job from a mostly ceremonial position to a hands-on office. He actively appeared at thousands of community functions and went to Washington to lobby for the West Texas town — spending his own money
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after a few residents complained about taxpayers footing the bill. Lown’s sexuality never really came up. Some people didn’t know. Lown’s godfather, Mario Castillo, said most who knew didn’t care.
Church declares gays eligible for ministry
In a vote that is expected to upset world Anglican leaders, Episcopalians have declared gays and lesbians eligible for “any ordained ministry.” Episcopalians caused an uproar in 2003 by consecrating the first openly gay bishop, V. Gene Robinson of New Hampshire. Since then, Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams, the Anglican spiritual leader, has struggled to prevent a permanent Anglican split. Leaders of the Episcopal Church, the Anglican province in the United States, insisted they were still committed to membership in the Anglican Communion. Some Anglican leaders, however, predicted the vote would break their fellowship. “God has called and may call” gays in committed relationships to “any ordained ministry” in the church, the resolution says. Lay people voted 78-21 and clergy voted 77-19 to approve the measure. The House of Bishops had earlier voted 99-45 to adopt the statement. In the debates, delegates said they worried about the reaction of other Anglicans, but felt a duty to vote yes. “I personally believe we had to do this,” said John Cheek, a delegate from the Diocese of Western Massachusetts, based in Springfield. “It’s the way we see the Gospel.” Last month, breakaway Episcopal conservatives and other like-minded traditionalists formed a rival national province to the Episcopal Church called the Anglican Church in North America.
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Area events Aug 1
vErie Art Museum Blues and Jazz Festival, Frontier Park, Erie. The twoday Festival presents national, regional and local musicians in a beautiful outdoor, family-friendly setting. Go to www.erieartmuseum.org for information. vThe Wedding Singer, 7:30 p.m. (Aug. 1, 6, 7, 8, 12, 13, 14, 15), 2 p.m. (Aug. 9, 16), Erie Playhouse, 13 W. 10th St., Erie. Based on the hit movie starring Adam Sandler, this Broadway blockbuster is among the most ingenious musical adaptations, featuring a brand new score that captures the “pop sound” of the 80s. Call (814) 454-2852 for ticket information.
Aug 3
vJohn Legend in concert, 7:30 p.m., Amphitheatre at Sandcastle, 1000 Sandcastle Dr., Pittsburgh. For ticket information go to www.ticketsnow. com.
Aug 4
vAmerican Idol winner David Cook in concert, 8 p.m., Mr. Small’s Theatre, 400 Lincoln Ave., Pittsburgh. For ticket information, call (412)
821-4447.
Aug 6
vColdplay in concert, 7:30 p.m. Time Warner Cable Amphitheater at Tower City, Cleveland. For ticket information go to www.ticketsnow.com.
Aug 7
vG2H2 (Gay Guy/Girl Happy Hour), 6-8 p.m., The Sand Bar, W. 8th St. and Peninsula Dr., Erie. v6th Annual Key West Phest, Liberty Park, Erie. Entertainment begins at 4:30 p.m. Aug. 7, and 12:30 p.m. Aug. 8. For information go to www. presqueislephc.com.
Aug 10
vPFLAG of Erie and Crawford Counties, 7 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Erie, 7180 Perry Highway, Erie. For information call (814) 454-1392 or go to pflag.erie. crawford@gmail.com.
ings all in the heart of the downtown Erie. The event closes on Sunday evening with an awesome Zambelli Fireworks display over Erie’s Bayfront at Dobbins Landing. For more information, visit www.celebrateerie.com. Through Aug. 16.
Aug 16
vComedian/Singer Jamie Foxx in concert, 7:30 p.m., Wolstein Center at Cleveland State University, Cleveland. For ticket information call (216) 687-9292. vBrooks & Dunn in concert, 8 p.m., Erie County Fair and Expo, Hamburg, NY. For ticket information call (716) 649-3900 or go to http://tickets.zvents.com.
Aug 20
vKeith Urban – Escape Together World Tour, 7:30 p.m. Mellon Arena, Pittsburgh. For ticket information go to www.ticketmaster.com.
vKathy Griffin, 8 p.m., State Theater, Playhouse Square, Cleveland. Catch double Emmy award winning Kathy Griffin live in her true element. Catch double Emmy award winner Kathy Griffin live in her true element. For ticket information call (216) 7718403.
vCelebrate Erie! Erie’s premier downtown festival offers food, music, art, crafts, culinary, and cultural offer-
vKeith Urban – Escape Together World Tour, 7:30 p.m. Quicken Loans Arena, Cleveland. For ticket informa-
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tion go to www.ticketmaster.com.
Aug 22
vFirst Annual Ashtabula County Family Picnic, 1-6 p.m., Geneva State Park, follow signs to pavilion. Bring a dish to pass and your own place setting. Pre-register at www.ashtabulaglbt.org. vAmerican Idols Live! Tour 2009, 7 p.m. Mellon Arena, Pittsburgh, featuring top 10 finalists Adam Lambert, Allison Iraheta, Anoop Desai, Danny Gokey, Kris Allen, Lil Rounds, Matt Giraud, Megan Joy, Michael Sarver and Scott MacIntyre. For ticket information go to www.ticketmaster.com.
Aug 23
vAmerican Idols Live! Tour 2009, 7 p.m., Wolstein Center at Cleveland State University, Cleveland, featuring top 10 finalists Adam Lambert, Allison Iraheta, Anoop Desai, Danny Gokey, Kris Allen, Lil Rounds, Matt Giraud, Megan Joy, Michael Sarver and Scott MacIntyre. For ticket information go to www.ticketmaster.com.
Aug 27
vJonas Brothers World Tour, 8 p.m. Quicken Loans Arena, Cleveland. For ticket information go to www. ticketmaster.com.