English, Dahlkemper run close race for House seat Page 8
Lambda Car Club offers fun for antiquelovers
Local artist gets taste of the ‘Idol’
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November, 2008
Volume 1, Issue 1
Puppetry adds new dimension to local attorney’s life By Bob Howden The Community Voice
Everyone has played with puppets while growing up. Creating new “buddies” and characters with interesting personalities can be a great form of expression. For Jamestown attorney Jon Courtis, what began as a childhood interest remains an important part of his life today. As a child in his native Delaware, Courtis created his first puppet, a sock creation named Dweebie. “He would accompany my family and me on car trips and would comment on almost everything,” Courtis remembers. “Dweebie became a part of the family and entertained my brothers for hours on end.” While a student at the University of Delaware, Courtis rediscovered puppets through a friend who had a Folkmanis monkey puppet. Folkmanis creates realistic animal, fairytale and people puppets. “I was so taken with the monkey puppet that I went out and bought one. I named him Coco and he became the star of our puppet troupe,” Courtis said.
Contributed photo Attorney Jon Courtis is surrounded by just a few of his puppet friends. His troupe, Puppets R People 2, entertain both children and adults throughout the region.
Courtis’ troupe, called “Puppets R People 2,” puts on puppet shows for all occasions, including birthdays, school events and parties. He has more than 20 puppets. “Coco was the first; he is a little monkey from the Brazilian rainforests in South America. He is three years old and wears a cowboy hat. He claims to be a cow-monkey,” Courtis explains. “Dottie is the matriarch of the family. She is a dodo bird from an island in the Indian Ocean. She is usually dressed in spectacles, pearls, a kerchief and her signature red hat with the purple feathers. This month she is dressed as the Wicked Witch of the West. Gilbert is a green sea serpent from the Mediterranean Sea that just loves to laugh and tell jokes. He looks fierce but is a bit goofy and giggles a lot.” And those are just the main characters! Wait! We can’t forget Professor Who, the great horned owl. He has a very special story. “Professor Who is Dottie’s husband of 50 years and has recently come out of the closet. See Puppets
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November, 2008
The Community Voice
Erie Gay Pride introduces The Community Voice The Community Voice
With this issue, Erie Gay Pride, Inc. introduces The Community Voice, a new monthly newsletter for the regional GLBT community and friends. The Community Voice seeks to offer its readers a wide variety of news, features, reviews and entertainment items and advertising from the Erie, Jamestown, Meadville and Ashtabula areas, and 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 Four29 Media. 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 eriegaypride@gmail.com or mail them to The Community Voice, Erie Gay Pride, Inc., 707 W. 38th St., Suite 140, Erie, PA 16508. Co-Editors: Kim Young and Bob Howden.
Erie Gay
For more news and events in your community, visit eriegaypride.org Produced in association with ...
four29
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beyond. Utilizing a team of local writers and photographers, the editors will strive to fill a community need by providing interesting, well-written content in a format that will expand in the months ahead. As Erie’s official GLBT organization, Erie Gay Pride, Inc., decided to launch The Community Voice as another step to foster unity within the GLBT commu-
nity and its supporters. The Community Voice is being published in cooperation with Four29 Media and will be available in numerous locations throughout the region. Anyone who would like to submit news items for The Community Voice may do so by emailing them to content@eriecv. org. We welcome your comments, suggestions and ideas.
‘Allow me to introduce...’ the people behind the movement By Kathy Czarnecki The Community Voice
A friend and I had just finished reading Stonewall and we were discussing how different life was for those who frequented the gay bars back in the 1960s in New York. Gay bars anywhere for that matter. We went back and forth with stories we had read, commiserating with the arrests, the beatings, the comments, the fear, the estrangement from friends and family. To us, each person was one who modeled strength and conviction. Each act of defiance was one that led to the uprising at Stonewall, and to ultimately what we know today as the GLBT Movement. We had this discussion while standing near the dance floor one night as we decided to spend some time at The Zone in Erie. We looked around at the same sex couples dancing, obviously enjoying each other and, maybe not so noticeable, the freedom to do just that. My friend looked at
me, and in reference to having just read that book asked, “Do you think they get it?” “I don’t know,” I answered. “It is enough to know they are from a generation that does not have to deal with the same treatment.” I don’t know if most people would recognize the names Joan Nestle, Phyllis Lyon, Jim Fouratt or Lige Clarke, but I believe we should. They are only a few of the people who “opened the doors” for us, so to speak, ones who are calling us to step up to the plate and continue where they left off. We do that best by reading about gay and lesbian history. We do that best by learning from what they went through so, God forbid, history like that does not continue to repeat itself. We also do that best by sharing our lives today. We all have a story, and I believe they are all worth telling. There is a saying on the bulletin board in my library that reads, “The soul was not
created to be silent.” And I believe this is true most especially for those of us who are in the GLBT community. We encourage you to read Stonewall. Log on to the Gay History Month web site and meet those who were, or currently are involved in our own civil rights movement. Find at least one other person that does not know your story, your thoughts and feelings, your ideas and hopes about being gay and educate them. With the support of The Community Voice, our hope is to interview, and then introduce you to one person each month who is willing to share his/her journey with us. If we listen long enough, we eventually hear our own story. There are so many who need to share and equally as many who need to hear they are not alone in their struggles, their coming out process, or their successes. We look forward to meeting you!
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November, 2008
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Local singer gets a taste of ‘American Idol’ The Voice
“This is American Idol” or so it seemed to local singer/ pianist/songwriter Devin Redinger. He had hopes of becoming the next American Idol and the first Erie resident to make it to the top of the show. Redinger has been performing in the Erie area for quite some time, working to develop a name for himself. He fundraised months in advance and with the help of his supporters, he was able to make the costly trip to audition in Phoenix. The second day in Phoenix, Az., he auditioned, and from that day on, he noticed things weren’t as they seem on TV. Throughout the long audition, Redinger met many hopefuls, some of whom showed some potential and others who, well you will see on TV. During the processing, Redinger explained, people are placed in groups of 16 and audition in lines of four in front of show producers, not Randy, Paula and Simon as many are lead to believe. From his experience, Redinger said they seemed to judge almost completely on the individual’s look. In his group of 16, Redinger said the only person who made it through to the next round was a girl you could basically call tone deaf. She had piercings all over her face, purple hair, neon clothes, and that’s describing her subtlety. Redinger said, “She was totally cool and her look was fine, but she was obviously going to be made fun of on the show, and she even knew it.”
Contributed photo Area singer, pianist and songwriter Devin Redinger took his talents to Phoenix, Az., for American Idol tryouts. From that point on he didn’t feel bad about his elimination. “Many people were crying as if there lives were over, but should have obviously seen how much the show wasn’t about talent because it is exactly that, a show,” Redinger observed. Redinger is very grateful for the experience, which he said never would have been possible without his supporters. Anyone who has ever heard him sing knows it’s definitely not over for Devin Redinger. Anyone who would like to see more of Devin Redinger can view his website at myspace.com/DevinRedingerMusic, or look for his Toyota Yaris driving around with his website painted on the windows.
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November, 2008
The Community Voice
Connecticut court rules in favor of gay marriage The Connecticut Supreme Court has declared that a state statute denying same sex couples equal access to civil marriage is unconstitutional under the equal protections and due process guarantees of the state constitution. “All couples in Connecticut should enjoy the freedom to marry, and we recognize that this ruling allows thousands of committed couples to take the legal steps necessary to secure their unions and deeper their responsibilities to one another,”
said Jon Hoadley, Executive Director of the Stonewall Democrats. “This ruling is not only good for thousands of Connecticut couples, but it is good for Connecticut itself as this ruling legally stabilizes existing families and encourages others to take on the legal responsibilities of marriage.” In its ruling, the Connecticut Supreme Court cited the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in Loving vs. Virginia which overturned that state’s prohibition on interracial marriage. In that, the Connecticut Supreme Court
declared that current civil union law of Connecticut “‘entitles same sex couples to all the same rights as married couples except one, that is, the freedom to marry, a right that has long been recognized as one of the vital personal rights essential to the orderly pursuit of happiness by free men [and women]’ and ‘fundamental to our very existence and survival,’” (Loving vs. Virginia). Connecticut now joins California and Massachusetts in recognizing civil marriage for same-sex couples.
Book Review
Read ‘The Cottage’ with a box of tissues By Twila The Community Voice
I have found The Cottage, by Gerri Hill to be a rare find. Not in the sense of the book being hard to find, but because of all the books I have read, which have been quite a few, this one is more true to life. It’s not your typical love story. The issues are very real compared to most. This isn’t your normal woman meets woman and women fall in love story. Of course this happens but there are many obstacles that these two women face. The two main characters in the book, Jill and Carrie, are very normal by society standards; married to men and have children. Jill and Carries’ story will touch your heart like no other. This
is a book that you can sit down and read in one day. Not a long book but a real page turner. The one big thing you need to know is that when you sit down to read it make sure you have a box of tissues with you. This book will pull the heart strings more than any other book I have read and probably ever will read. I have re-read a lot of books but I can’t read this one again because it turned me into a blubbering baby. That is reason enough not to do it again. But anyway, this book is very well written and exceptionally executed so I would certainly suggest purchasing it. So sit down with you new friend Gerri Hill, and a box of tissues, and read this book. Then pass it along to all your
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friends. They say everyone needs a good cry every now and then so enjoy this story.
And to all the other bookworms out there, till the next review, read on!
The Community Voice
November, 2008
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Lambda Car Club offers activities for antique car enthusiasts Bob Howden The Community Voice
The falling leaves and the cooler weather signal an end to another busy season for the Allegheny Region of the Lambda Car Club. But even though the cars may be put away for the winter, the club activities continue. The Lambda Car Club is an international organization of gays and lesbians who own or have a deep appreciation for antique and classic vehicles. With more than 2,100 members, the club is divided into geographic regions. The Allegheny Region serves western Pennsylvania and northeastern Ohio. This year, the Allegheny Region held a variety of outings throughout the area. Members toured the Frick mansion in Pittsburgh, visited a private car collection in Akron, displayed their cars at the “Back to the 50s” show in New Castle, went to an auto restoration business near Altoona and held a picnic at Presque Isle State Park. In addition, several members participated in joint outing with other Lambda regions including the Buckeye Region (Ohio) the Michiana Region (Michigan and Indiana) and the Trillium Region (Ontario). Membership in the Lambda Car Club is open to any gay or lesbian who is interested in antique and classic vehicles. Ownership of a vehicle is not required. For more information about the Lambda Car Club, visit its
Bob Howden, Community Voice photos ABOVE: Throughout the summer months, Lambda Car Club members participate in a variety of car shows in the region. RIGHT: It’s all about big tail fins as Lambda members line up their cars to admire chrome and steel. website at www.lambdacarclub.com. You also may contact the Allegheny Region directly my emailing LCCIAllegheny@ yahoo.com.
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The Community Voice
Though much left to accomplish, LGBT people make great strides in Pennsylvania By Jake Kaskey and Andy Hoover As the election nears and as many people’s thoughts and efforts begin to be geared toward Nov. 4, we feel it is critically important to look back at the state of LGBT issues in Pennsylvania and the historic progress the LGBT community has made in Harrisburg this legislative session. In early 2007, a record number of bipartisan co-sponsors came together to introduce House Bill 1400 and Senate Bill 761, legislation to amend the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act to prohibit discrimination in employment, housing and public accommodations based upon one’s sexual orientation or gender identity and expression. Rep. Dan Frankel (D-Pittsburgh) and Rep. Chris Ross (R-Chester County) as well as Sen. Patrick Browne (R-Allentown) worked tirelessly to promote these bills to fellow legislators and enlist support across the aisle, and from every corner of the state. Local activists and organizations, such as Erie PFLAG, called and met with their officials, and as a result brought unprecedented visibility to this issue. While the bill stalled in the Senate Judiciary Committee, State Government Committee Chairwoman Babette Josephs (D-Philadelphia) committed unprecedented resources to educating her committee on the need for this legislation. Public hearings were held in Erie, Pittsburgh and Philadelphia in the fall of 2007, which brought together people of all
backgrounds to testify in support of this legislation, including representatives from the Philadelphia Bar Association, Womens Law Project, ACLU, Equality Advocates, the clergy and countless others. These hearings marked the very first time LGBT non-discrimination legislation was discussed in this setting, and brought tremendous momentum, as well as the spotlight, to an issue vitally important to LGBT people. As momentum grew to move non-discrimination legislation forward in the House, opponents introduced Senate Bill 1250, an amendment to the Pennsylvania constitution that would have defined marriage as solely between one man and one woman, as well as prohibit civil unions. Thousands of people, both LGBT and heterosexual, from every part of the state jumped into action and let their legislators know there is no place in our constitution for discrimination. As the Senate Judiciary Committee held hearings on the ill-conceived bill, hundreds of people from the LGBT community traveled to Harrisburg to rally on the steps of the Capitol Rotunda,
and in one loud voice sent a strong and clear message to our elected officials - do not harm our families. With House Leadership vocally pushing back against the bill, it was withdrawn from consideration in the Senate. Together as one community, we again stopped this discriminatory action dead in its tracks and protected same-sex and unmarried heterosexual relationships across the state. Over the course of the past two years, thousands of people have become involved in unprecedented ways - attending advocacy trainings, e-mailing and calling their legislators, rallying in the capitol and sitting down with their elected officials. Organizations committed to equality for the LGBT community came together through the Value All Families Coalition and Faith Coalition for Pennsylvania Families, and worked with legislators to promote fairness for LGBT people. Obviously, as this session ends and another lies just months ahead, there is much work to do. This summer the Pennsylvania Supreme Court struck down hate crime protec-
tions for LGBT people, and we must continue to push hard to pass protections against discrimination in the workplace and in housing; but as one community, with committed and hard-working members of the legislature, we have laid a strong foundation and built momentum to make tremendous strides in the coming year. A new legislative session brings incredible potential to improve the lives of LGBT people across this state and together, as one community, we will move forward toward full equality. Jake Kaskey is Education and Outreach Coordinator for Equality Advocates Pennsylvania and Andy Hoover is Legislative Director for American Civil Liberties Union of Pennsylvania.
The Community Voice
November, 2008
ay cond Mond ld on the se the he s ng ti ee M th at of every mon t Congregation lis a rs ve ni U nUnitaria of Erie y erry Highwa 7180 New P 16509 Erie, PA From 7pm-9
pm
Could you use an extra 500 dollars for the upcoming holidays? Watch out for our 50/50 fund drive taking place from 11/01/2008-11/30/2008 We are selling 1,000 tickets for only $1 a ticket and on December 1st watch the PA Lottery’s daily number to see if you’ve won!!!!!
We have a new E-Mail address please update your records. PFLAG.ERIE.CRAWFORD@GMAIL.COM
Did you know th helped thousand at PFLAG has s of people thro ug out the United States and Cana h da.? It’s true we offe r support fo friends and fam r all your ily. Feel free to cont (814) 454-1392 Jo act us hn for more Information.
Membership is $25.00 per year However you don’t have join PFLAG to attend any of our meetings. Everyone is welcome to attend. Small refreshments are also served.
A Year of Change Need I say more? This is an ever critical year for all US People. The US Economy, Plunges in Wall Street, Bank Failures, people losing homes, prices at the gas pumps, and a Year for US Presidential Elections are all enveloped into the equation. Today, I read article referencing the Great Depression, depicting pictures of gloom and doom. I remembered back to a time, when there were Odd/ Even Gas Lines just to purchase fuel. Amidst all of these circumstances, continue the struggle and battle grounds for all GLBT People. People took actions over the past years to help the US continue to be a World Leader in many elements of change. The economic engine will rekindle. Households will stabilize. With all this going on, more overly important is the fact that PFLAG Needs your support to get out to the Polls and have your say this November. VOTE! Period. While we clearly realize that both political parties oppose Gay Marriage, when publically interviewed at the National Debate, another State today, passed Gay Marriage into Law. Your vote and voice can make a change and difference for our future. Last Year in October 2007, PFLAG went to Washington, D.C. during the PFLAG National Convention, made a statement, and let our voices be heard at Capitol Hill. It is time for Equality in the Year of Change, too. While you may not need PFLAG, PFLAG needs you: Gay, Bi, Lesbian, Transgendered, and Straight People. PFLAG recently received a $500,000 Endowment from PepsiCo Foundation to help "expand workplace training, support chapter-based projects and for the creation of new "Straight for Equality" outreach tools...over the course of the next two years". What do we do? PFLAG works to help make safer schools, safer communities, GLBT Inclusive Laws, equal workplaces, and more importantly: accepting & loving families with support and unconditional love for their children and family members. Please reach out to your loved ones, your straight friends, share your story, make your life real, and help PFLAG efforts too. Please contact us for more information, ways that you can help, or, preferred, join us at a monthly meeting. "Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail." ~Ralph Waldo Emerson Respectfully Submitted, Mark D. Hoovler President, PFLAG Erie & Crawford Counties PFLAG Pennsylvania State Coordinator
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The Community Voice
Voters to choose between Voters in Pennsylvania’s 3rd Congressional District are preparing to make their choice between incumbent U.S. Rep. Phil English and challenger Kathy Dahlkemper. English, 52, a seven –term Republican, who was elected to the House in 1994, is locked in a tight race with the Democratic political newcomer. A recent survey conducted for Roll Call, a newspaper that covers Capitol Hill, showed English trailing Dahlkemper 49%-45%, with a ±4% margin of error. The economy appeared to be a factor for English, with 61% of respondents to the automated SurveyUSA poll citing the economy as the top issue. The group of respondents who cited the economy as the top issue in the election favored Dahlkem-
per by a 54%-41% margin. English was elected to his se gressional District in 1994, su who was elected governor that district by five points in 2000 The poll shows Republican Cain leading Democratic rival 46 percent in the district, also English is a social conserva nomic and trade issues. In 2006, English voted for t marriage as one-man-one-wom favor of a Constitutional ban o English voted in favor of bann of Columbia. The Human Rela
Phil English Is currently serving his seventh term in the U.S. House of Representatives. Prior to his election to Congress, English was chief of staff for then Pennsylvania State Senator Melissa Hart. He served as Erie City Controller. English is a member of the House Ways and Means Committee and is the ranking Republican of the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Select Revenue Measures. He is married to Chris English, a retired educator in the Erie public school system.
Business A candidates fo
With the Nov. 4 elections rapidly a Alliance is sponsoring a Candidates F running for office stand on issues of forum will be held Sunday, Oct. 26, a W. 18th St., Erie. Both Republican an federal office have been invited to att the public.
The Community Voice
November, 2008
n English and Dahlkemper
eat in the GOP-leaning 3rd Conucceeding Republican Tom Ridge, t year. President Bush carried the and by 6 points in 2004. presidential nominee John Mcl Barack Obama by 48 percent to within the poll’s error margin. ative who is a centrist on eco-
the Constitutional definition of man. In 2004, English voted in on same-sex marriage. In 1999, ning gay adoptions in the District ations Commission (HRC) has
given Congressman English a 0% rating on gay rights. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) gave Congressman English a 20% rating on civil rights issues. Dahlkemper, 50, who opposes abortion rights, is director of the Lake Erie Arboretum and owns a landscape design business with her husband. Dahlkemper says she supports civil unions. Dahlkemper said that if she is elected, she would actively seek equality for all citizens and fight to end discrimination of any kind. The 3rd district has slightly more registered Democrats than Republicans and is considered a swing district. Residents will go to the polls on Tuesday, Nov. 4.
Kathy Dahlkemper Is a civic leader and successful small business woman. For 11 years Kathy and her husband Dan have helped to grow Dahlkemper Landscape Architects & Contractors of Erie from a small family business into a thriving organization. She and her husband have five children: Aron, Gretchen, Linden, Tricia, and Nathan. Kathy was a founder and current Director of the Lake Erie Arboretum at Frontier Park (LEAF) and she has been active in other community organizations.
Alliance plans orum Oct. 26
approaching, the Erie Gay Business Forum to let voters know how those interest to the GLBT community. The at 7 p.m. at The Zone Dance Club, 133 nd Democratic candidates for state and tend. The Candidates Forum is open to
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The Community Voice
November, 2008
The Community Voice
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In your community Erie Sisters sponsor annual Lake Erie Gala
Winery tours, miniature golf, good food and of course, shopping. It is all part of the 10 annual Lake Erie Gala sponsored by the Erie Sisters, transgender support group. The Gala will take place Nov. 17-23 with the Avalon Hotel in downtown Erie serving as the host site. The event is one of the most unique and affordable transgender events in the country, using the community as its classroom and playground. Gala organizers emphasize fun, making new friends, shopping and entertainment. Although the Gala begins Monday, Nov. 17, the planned package festivities kick-off on Wednesday night with a dinner and social mixer. On Thursday, the group will tour local wineries, have lunch at a quaint haunted inn and attend an evening variety show with transgendered entertainers Friday includes a miniature golf tournament, lunch and tour of the restored Erie Union Station, a visit to a local chocolate manufacturer and an evening at a comedy club. A Glamour Fair at the Avalon Hotel will be Saturday’s highlight. The fair will feature spa services, apparel shops, wigs and other items of interest to transgendered people. This all leads up to Saturday night’s Glitter Ball. A good-bye brunch on Sunday will bring the 10 annual Lake Erie Gala to a close. For specific prices and registration information, contact the Lake Erie Gala at P.O. Box 1131, Erie, PA 16512, call (814) 746-5524 or log on to www.eriesisters.org.
Web group formed to address lesbian issues
A new web group has been formed on MSN to address local and regional lesbian issues. The address is http://groups.msn. com./NorthwesternPa-lesbiansconnection and it was started by a local resident named Emma who saw a need for such a group in the community. “I have reached out to similar sites that were not local and have found no support
or fellowship,” Emma said. “Since this is not a big city, there are women who are not into the bar scene and are not able to get out and socialize. Through this group, they might be able to connect and provide support to each other.” Emma said that perhaps in the future, women from the group can set-up meeting places to fill the void left by Womynspace. “We need to grow and any women interested in joining can have a hand in building and shaping our ‘e’ community, and hopefully the NWPA area for the better.”
Historic Latonia Theater to host Costume Ball
Dancing, prizes and fun for all souls! It’s all part of the evening as the Oil City Gay Straight Alliance presents “Night of the Living La Las - A Costume Ball.” The historic Latonia Theater will be the setting for this Saturday, Nov. 1, event which is open to everyone age 18 and over. The fun begins at 8 p.m. at the theater located at 1 East First St., Oil City. Admission is just $5 and there will be a Costume Contest. Please BYOB. For more information call 814-677-1260. To learn more about The Latonia Theater and the programs being offered there, log on to their website at: www.thelatonia. com.
Business Alliance hosting monthly “Happy Hour” The Erie Gay Business Alliance has
begun hosting a monthly “Happy Hour” for members of the GLBT business community, their friends and supporters. Known as G2H2 (Gay Guy/Girl Happy Hour), the event is modeled after a similar group in Pittsburgh where professionals meet socially over happy hour at local neighborhood bars for networking opportunities. In Pittsburgh, G2H2 turned into a terrific image builder for local gay professionals. In addition, these neighborhood bars (mostly straight) in Pittsburgh actively pursue the opportunity to host this group of 300 professionals each month. These businesses have quickly learned that the demographics of this organization foster a positive (and profitable) clientele that is apt to support their gay-friendly business in the future. G2H2 is an opportunity to enhance the image of our GLBT community in the Erie region - in addition to the positive networking opportunities available for individuals. The next G2H2 gathering will be Friday, Nov. 14, at Matthew’s Trattoria, 153 E. 13th St., Erie, beginning at 5:30 p.m. If you can’t make it at 5:30, stop by when you can. G2H2 is just one of the activities being sponsored by the Erie Gay Business Alliance (EGBA), which is part of Erie Gay Pride, Inc. (EGPI). Both groups are working hard to build a sense of community among the Erie regional GLBT population and it friends. Learn more at www. eriegaypride.org.
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National News Notes . . .
California couples rush to the alter
On Election Day, Californians will go to the polls to decide whether same-sex marriage will remain legal. In the meantime, a study by the Williams Institute at the University of California, Los Angeles, has found that 3,800 gay couples are marrying each month in the state. The study estimated that 11,440 couples had married since the state Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage in May. Same-sex weddings began in California in mid-June after the court’s decision became final. By comparison, Massachusetts, which legalized same-sex marriage in 2004, has had about 10,300 same-sex ceremonies. Several California cities with large gay populations, such as Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco, have seen a marked increase in the number of marriage licenses compared with the same period last year, a trend researchers attribute to same-sex couples. Kate Kendell, the executive director of the National Center for Lesbian Rights, said the surge was due in part to the looming vote on Proposition 8, which if approved, would amend the state Constitution to outlaw same-sex marriage. “After Nov. 4, it’s possible the door to having that experience of a legally recognized marriage will be closed,” Ms. Kendell said. “And faced with that, many couples have, to some degree, rushed to get married in order to assure that they are legally recognized.” The Nov. 4 vote on Proposition 8 is being closely watched nationally. Same-sex marriage ban likely in Florida Voters in Florida appear likely
November, 2008
to pass a constitutional ban on gay-marriage when they go to the polls on Nov. 4. Amendment 2 enshrining Florida’s ban on same-sex marriage has close to the 60 percent threshold needed to pass, an Orlando Sentinel poll shows. Of the 625 registered voters surveyed, 55 percent supported the gay-marriage amendment, while 34 percent were against it. That’s largely unchanged from the 57 percent support in late August. The poll had a 4 percent margin for error. Undecided voters made up 11 percent in the poll, and MasonDixon polling director Brad Coker said experiences in other states that have considered the issue suggest that the undecided group is more likely to back the ban. “There just seems to be the trend where the undecided voters just sort of fall down on the anti-gay side,” said Coker. Circumcision link to HIV unclear In a new analysis of previous research, investigators from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said they found insufficient evidence that circumcision reduced the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections among gay and bisexual men. The study, which was published in the Oct. 8 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association, JAMA, notes that male circumcision reduces female to male transmission of HIV by 50 to 60 percent, and may also protect heterosexual men from other sexually transmitted infections (STI) such as syphilis and chlamydia. However, the extent to which men who have sex with men are protected is not well known, according to Dr. Gregorio A. Millett and colleagues of the CDC in Atlanta.
The CDC analysis pooled data from 15 studies covering more than 53,500 men (at least half of whom were circumcised) to see if there were any strong links between circumcision and infections of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases among men who have sex with men. The results showed that compared to the uncircumcised, the odds of being HIV-positive were lower among the circumcised men who had sex with men but this was not statistically significant and therefore unreliable.
unintentional and are a part of teens’ vernacular. Most do not recognize the consequences, but the casual use of this language often carries over into more overt harassment. The goal of the new media campaign is to raise awareness among straight teens about the prevalence and consequences of anti-LGBT bias and behavior in America’s schools. Ultimately, the goal is to reduce and prevent the use of homophobic language in an effort to create a more positive environment for LGBT teens.
Campaign aims to educate teens A national media campaign designed to educate teens about the use of anti-gay language has been launched by the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) and The Advertising Council. The campaign coincides with the release of GLSEN’s 2007 National School Climate Survey, which found that nearly nine in ten lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) teens report having been verbally harassed in the past school year, and almost half have been physically harassed because of their sexual orientation. According to the survey, LGBT teens in the U.S. experience homophobic remarks and harassment throughout the school day, creating an atmosphere where they feel disrespected, unwanted and unsafe. The survey also found that three-quarters of LGBT teens hear slurs such as “faggot” or “dyke” frequently or often at school, and nine in ten report hearing anti-LGBT language frequently or often. Homophobic remarks such as “that’s so gay” are the most commonly heard type of biased remarks at school, the survey determined. Research shows that these slurs are often
Olympic diver proud to be gay Austrailian diver Matthew Mitcham says he’s proud but sad to have been the only openly gay athlete at the Beijing Olympics. Mitcham produced the highest-scoring dive in Olympic history to snatch the gold medal in the men’s 10m platform at the Water Cube. Mitcham admitted that being the only openly gay Olympian came as a major surprise to him. “I was actually very surprised that I was the only `out’ male at the Olympic Games,’’ he said. “It’s a little bit sad because, statistically, there should be a lot more.” The 20-year-old will be remembered equally for courageously “coming out’’ before the Games, a decision he acknowledged as vital in his stunning gold-medal display. “I don’t think it personally contributed to how well I did because it wasn’t something I was fretting about beforehand,’’ Mitcham said. “It’s always just me, I’m comfortable with myself. At least it (coming out) wasn’t a surprise to everybody else.”
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November, 2008
The Community Voice
New LGBT parent support group forming in Erie region By Will Koehler Everyone can probably remember what it was like growing up. Now looking back, some may think that trading “grown-up” issues for those they had as a child or a teen would be like taking a vacation. But children and teens who have LGBT parents have there own unique set of questions and issues to deal with. LGBT parents may be wondering how Puppets, from
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They still share a nest, but she refers to him as a chicken hawk now,” Courtis notes. Sometimes the puppets take on a personality all their own, with a little help from Courtis, of course. “The puppets create their own personalities,” he says. “I don’t have a specific character or name picked out. I just pick up the puppet and he or she introduces him or herself to me. I am sure that each puppet represents an aspect of my personality. My partner teases me that I have multiple personalities and can get away with it by playing with puppets.” Although Courtis’ partner, Wayne is not actively involved with Puppets R People 2, he does help out from time to time. “I’ve occasionally roped him into helping me when I’ve written elaborate shows that require me to have four hands. He is a good sport and life saver.” Before Courtis performs his puppet shows, he finds out about the audience’s interest or party’s theme. He can then tailor his show accordingly, if necessary.
they can help their child navigate those waters that LGBT adults find choppy and difficult. A search of the internet for resources turns up a lot of “out of print” books and support groups in a land “farfar away.” Parents may be left looking for answers, and children may feel as if they are the only ones on the planet with LGBT parents. In order to support LGBT parents and their children, a few such parents in the Erie area are looking to create a
“Recently I performed for several libraries whose summer theme was “Catch the Reading Bug.” So I adapted James and the Giant Peach, by dressing the puppets up as bugs. For example, Russell the Dragon was a dragonfly, Stinky Skunk was a stink bug, Dottie was a ladybug, and so on,” he notes. “Surprisingly, my shows do have messages; such as not to be a show off, the value of friendship, working together and accepting differences.” Most of the puppet shows Courtis stages fall into one of three categories. Standard puppet shows include a show, drawing cartoons and interacting with the kids. The second is a workshop where Courtis shows kids how to make sock puppets and give the puppets personalities. The third type of show is one tailored to adults.
support network. If you are a LGBT parent, aunt, uncle, or grandparent and would like to meet others in a supportive format, please email your interest to ErieLGBTParent@yahoo.com. The organizers would like to hear from you. Once a large enough group is identified, a “meet and greet” for the adults will be scheduled. After a few meetings, the group will plan a casual event where parents can begin to introduce their children to one another.
Courtis uses this show when he performs at nursing homes, for example. So, how does all of this fit in with the practice of law? “The driving force in my decision to become an attorney was to help people. It is very rewarding and satisfying to know that I am able to give someone peace of mind,” Courtis explains. My puppet shows allow me to be creative and have fun. I like to make people laugh and my puppets help me do that.” A graduate of Widener University School of Law, Courtis is an associate attorney with the Mayville, NY, firm of Schaack and Nelson and is licensed to practice in both New York and Pennsylvania. While Courtis loves being an attorney, puppetry will always be a passion.
“Working with puppets is very rewarding, especially when you see the excitement in the children’s eyes,” Courtis says. “My performances have enabled me to meet more people in the community, as well as supplement my income. I’ve become a mini-celebrity among my friends.” And the puppets are pretty special as well. Editor’s Note: If you are interested in scheduling Puppets R People 2, contact Jon at joncourtis@yahoo.com.
The Community Voice
Calendar of events
November, 2008
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November 2008 26
sFall candidates forum
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s‘HallowQueen’ party 3
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sIdentity meeting 10
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s‘Tuesday Morning’ lecture
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Veteran’s Day
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s Come on OUT! s McCurdy concert
Thanksgiving
Solo artist
Saturday October 25 7:30 pm Greg Koon stops at the Latonia along his East Coast Tour - Singer/songwriter/Accoustic solo. All shows $5 adults, children under 12 free. The Latonia Theater, 1 East First Street Oil City, 677-1260.
Fall Candidates Forum
Fall Candidates Forum sponsored by the Erie Gay Business Alliance, Sunday, Oct. 26, 7 p.m., The Zone, 133 W. 18th St., Erie. Public invited.
‘Hallow-Queen’ Party
“Hallow-Queen” Party, October 30, 7-10:30pm. Pouge Student Center Multipurpose Room. Sponsored by Identity. It is a costume party and celebration of the conclusion of GLBTQA month.
‘Tuesday Morning’ lecture
GLBTA Lecture Series: November 11, 4-5 pm Dr. Jerra Jenrette, Edinboro University Department of History and Anthropology, will present, “Tuesday Morning,” a program that focuses on the life and death of Mark Bingham and the exclusion of his name from news programs that focused on other heroes of flight 93 during September 11, 2001.
Come on OUT!
Come on OUT! to bowling night, 7 p.m. sharp, Tuesday, Nov. 18, Rolling Meadows Lanes, 3304 Zuck Road, Erie. Information at www. eriegaypride.org.
Great music at Oil City’s Latonia Theatre
Dennis McCurdy and the Lonesome No More band play Saturday, November 18 at the Latonia. Showtime is 7:30 and costs $5. Children under 12 free. With years of performing experience McCurdy plays with Mike Stowe and Gil Bigenho on fiddle. All are accomplished singers/ songwriters with maturity and years of performing experience. They describe their style as “old time/down home music.” Audiences enjoy a combination of bluegrass, country, folk and cowboy songs. This is a show for all ages. Don’t miss this one!!! Check them out at http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&fr iendid=41866394.
Identity meeting
Identity meetings are every Thursday in Hendricks G13 at 7 pm. All are welcome and meetings are confidential. Contact the President of Identity, Eric Hull, for more information: e124960h@edinboro.edu.
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The Community Voice
November, 2008