Equality Forum 2008 by Equality Forum 34 Parties, 14 Programs and 15 Special Events — World’s Largest Annual GLBT Civil Rights Forum in Philly The 16th annual Equality Forum to be held from Monday, April 28 to Sunday, May 4 in Philadelphia, will feature 63 programs including 34 panels, 14 parties and 15 special events. The largest annual national and international GLBT civil rights forum has no registration fee and all substantive programs are free. “In collaboration with 61 regional and international organizations, Equality Forum 2008 reflects our past and present and aspirations for equality,” said Malcolm Lazin, Executive Director of Equality Forum. Gays and Lesbians in the Muslim World is the international focus. Equality Forum 2008 includes the International Equality Dinner at the National Constitution Center. New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson will receive the 13th annual International Role Model Award. Pennsylvania Governor Edward Rendell is the Honorary Dinner Chair. Other special events include the Ninth Annual Art Exhibit all week at The University of the Arts, a retrospective of the works of internationally acclaimed photographer Duane Michals; the musical Hairspray at the Academy of Music; Conversation with Judy Shepard at the National Constitution Center; a BB“Q” party in Philly’s gayborhood; and SundayOUT!, the largest annual GLBT street festival in trendy Old City. All 63 programs can be found at www.equalityforum.com/2008. Equality Forum is a national and international GLBT civil rights organization with an educational focus. Equality Forum coordinates GLBT History Month, produces documentary films, undertakes high impact initiatives and presents annually the largest national and international GLBT civil rights forum. www.equalityforum.com
Bears at Splash Lagoon at Erie’s popular Drenched Fur event. More photos coming next month. Photo: Robert
Drenched Fur 4 Is a Splashing Success by Gary The first weekend of April was the fourth year of Erie’s premier bear run event, Drenched Fur. This year was host to a record 230 attendees, almost double last year’s run! Participants enjoyed a great weekend of activities from parties, visits to regional wineries, trips to gambling at Presque Isle Downs and Casino and also a private event at Splash Lagoon on Friday night. This year, we raised over $1,000 for the Shriners Hospital here in Erie. The money donated will be provided for the children at Shriners to create their very own BuildA-Bear animal from the company’s website. Then, staff members from the hospital will visit the Millcreek Mall store to have the stuffed animal made as requested. Estimates are that we expect to provide comforting stuffed animals for nearly 30 children over the coming months at the hospital! It goes without saying that many thank yous go out to all the volunteers, businesses and organizations that helped provide charity (continued on page 3)