May 2009 October 2003
EGN
Voters Guide on page 17 Erie Pride weekend pages 9-12
Erie Gay News
Ashtabula GLBT Outreach Foundation
from Dr. Jason Nadolny The newly-founded organization, The Ashtabula GLBT Outreach Foundation (AGLBTOF) in Ashtabula County, Ohio serves the Ashtabula/Lake/ Geauga areas in Ohio as one of the only organizations providing support, guidance and information to the GLBT Community. Founder, Dr. Jayson Nadolny of Conneaut feels that there is a need for support in the Ashtabula County area for not only the adults, but also for the teenage members of our society. To date, the organization has assisted teenagers in coming out, being accepted and supporting their rights within the public school system. The organization hopes to plan events and support groups shortly. For more information on the Ashtabula GLBT Outreach Foundation, visit www.geocities.com/aglbtof
Five Southern Tier Restaurants To Participate in Dining Out for Life on Tuesday, April 28, 2009
from AIDS Community Services of WNY Five Southern Tier restaurants are among 87 Western New York restaurants that will participate in the seventh annual Dining Out For Life on Tuesday, April 28. Each location will donate 25 percent or more of their profits from food sales to benefit community education about HIV/AIDS and vital services provided by AIDS Community Services (ACS) of WNY through its Southern Tier Office at 111 West 2nd Street in Jamestown NY. Participating restaurants range from fine dining to casual. Alfie’s Restaurant in Jamestown leads the way, contributing 50 percent of diners’ food checks. Those contributing at least 25 percent are Forte and Roberto’s, both in Jamestown; Ellicottville Brewing West in Fredonia; and Scallion Bistro in Lakewood. Laurie Matson, director of Southern Tier Services for AIDS Community Services, is coordinating the county’s activities for the community fundraiser.
Party-goers at Vertigo’s own new location. For more Vertigo Party photos visit http://www.myspace.com/butlervertigo Photo: Mike Mahler “The public is asked to choose a restaurant, make reservations and enjoy a great meal out with family and friends,” Laurie Matson said. “All you have to donate is your appetite.” For a list of restaurants, addresses, phone numbers, and types of food served, visit www. diningoutforlife.com or call Laurie Matson in Jamestown at (716) 664-7855. Founded in Philadelphia in 1991, Dining Out For Life is now held in 55 cities in North America, raising an annual total of $3.9 million. All funds raised in this area remain here. Subaru sponsors the event and Bank of America is the presenting sponsor.
Union City Picnic on May 30
from Tenacious Art Pimp I want you to attend the largest gathering of the LQBTQ community in the smallest place on earth! We will kick off PRIDE festivities with a family picnic on May 30, 2009 from 1-5 PM at Caflisch Park on Willow Street in Union City PA. Bring your kids to this historic event! I want to attract gays from all over the country. Let’s eliminate homophobia by gathering together and introducing ourselves to small-town folk in a community that desperately needs gays to be out, (continued on page 3)
In This Issue... Community News.............................................4 Butler County’s Rep. Metcalfe vows to fight “sinful” HB 300.........................................4 The Art of Aging in Erie..................................5 Transitions........................................................5 Calendar............................................................6 17th Annual Pride Picnic on June 13.................9 On Stage...........................................................9 Marriage briefs.................................................10 OMG 2M4M? lol!..............................................11 Petition to ban marriage between Mormons...11 Jones Pond Contest...........................................11 Infallibility........................................................12 LBT Women news............................................13 Summer Events and Places 2009......................14 Travel................................................................16 Screen................................................................16 Voters Guide.....................................................17
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Erie Gay News 1115 West 7th St. Erie PA 16502-1105 Phone: (814) 456-9833 Fax: (270)423-6217 info@eriegaynews.com www.eriegaynews.com Editors: Deb Spilko and Mike Mahler Ad Design: Mike Lipiec Deadline for next issue: Monday, May 11; this will be distributed the night of Tuesday, May 19. The Erie Gay News is published monthly as a source of news, events, information, and support for gays, lesbians, bisexuals, transgendered people (GLBTs), their families, friends, and supporters in the Erie PA area. We welcome and encourage all readers to submit timely news, comments, and opinions of interest to local GLBTs for publication in these pages. We will consider for publication any nonfiction article, blurb, or illustration graphic that upholds that spirit. Please include your contact information with any piece you submit. We will not publish any material that promotes hatred or discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identification, race, religion, age, class, physical ability, or any other reason. We do not support the exploitation of minors. Views and opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent those of the EGN staff.
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To the Zone for hosting; Bart, Bruce Shrout, C. Michael, Dale, Dennis, Erin M. M., Gary, James von Loewe, Jerry McCumber, John, Ken Loomis, Lynne Rhodes, Mark John, Michelle and Neal D for folding; Bruce Shrout, C. Michael, Dale, Erin M. M., James von Loewe, Janice Hanusik, Jerry McCumber, Johauna and Laurie Finch for distribution, Mike Lipiec for ad layout & etc and Peter for proofreading. If you’re interested in helping out, contact Michael Mahler at (814) 456-9833 or info@eriegaynews. com.
Erie Gay News - May 2009 To the Avalon for hosting, James von Loewe,
© 2009 EGN
Community News loud and proud!!! The event will take place rain, or shine. Attendees are permitted to bring kids, dogs, whatever. The more the merrier! I will provide table settings. Those attending should bring their own food and alcoholic beverages, if so desired. For more info, contact The Tenacious Art Pimp, (805) 617-8842, tenaciousartpimp@ yahoo.com or browse to http://eclecticink.org/
100+ Family Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Erie Garage Sale from Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Erie The event scheduled for Friday and Saturday, June 5 & 6, 2009 from 9AM until 1PM each day. There will be numbers at the door beginning at 8AM. We also need donations for the sale and you are welcome to drop off any evening between 6PM until 9PM, starting Sunday, May 31 through Thursday, June 4. We can use clean wearable clothing, books (except encyclopedias or condensed books), furniture, house wares, etc. Join us to assist with set up and make new friends! On the day of the sale, you can see what we have so come and shop! Grab a bite to snack on from our kitchen, buy yummy baked goods, and find yourself a bargain!!!! You can find us at 7180 New Perry Hwy (1/2 mile north from Exit 27 & I-90 or 2 ½ miles south of the Erie Zoo on Glenwood Park Avenue) Phone: 8649300 between 9 & noon if you have any questions.
Zone and Drenched Fur raise money for Bear exhibit for Erie Zoo
from Jared and the Zone The Zone and Drenched Fur raised money for the bear exhibit at the Erie Zoo. The money was raised at the UnderBear Party at the Zone on April 3 during the Drenched Fur 5 weekend. It was a quickie ten minute fundraiser and $119 will go to the bear exhibit at the Erie Zoo.
Š 2009 EGN
Erie Gay News - May 2009
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Community News DF Makes Another Splash in Erie
from Gary Snyder The first weekend in April was incredible fun for over 200 men from around the tri-state area and as far away as Florida, Arkansas and Virginia that came together for the fifth installment of Erie’s Bear Weekend called Drenched Fur. The bear community has been growing ever since it began in the 1980s and Erie, PA has helped create a place for men that appreciate themselves and each other. One of the things that has helped make Erie a destination for the bear community is the highlight of having an exclusive private event at Splash Lagoon, our local indoor water park resort. In addition to enjoying the fun wet times, the weekend included several social events at the host hotel as well as a bar crawl to Craze and The Zone. Another main event that the guys came together for was a banquet dinner on Saturday night after choosing to spend the afternoon on a winery tour, playing slots at Presque Isle Downs and Casino or seeing the sites around Erie. The Drenched Fur 5 Committee worked
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hard to bring together one of the biggest events for the GLBT community and thanks all the individuals and businesses that helped make this year a success. To find out more about Drenched Fur, you can visit our website to review photos from over the years as well as reading the history of what has happened thus far. And don’t miss out on next years’ installment of DF6 being held April 9th – 11th 2010. We’ll see you there! www.drenchedfur.com
Butler’s Rep. Metcalfe vows to fight “sinful” HB 300 Butler County Rep. Daryl Metcalfe (R-Cranberry) sounds like he may be the most anti-gay member in the Pennsylvania legislature. And he is vowing to fight against protecting people who have made “sinful choices.” Appearing in the pages of the TribuneReview April 17, Metcalf told the newspaper “I think it’s a direct attack on family values by people who just want to force their sinful choices on the rest of us” “I think for somebody to choose the lifestyle of a homosexual, that’s their choice,” he said. “This shouldn’t be considered a civil right. These individuals want special rights.” Metcalfe said he’s hopeful fellow conservatives will “boggle down” House Bill 300—which would protect GLBT people from discrimination —to keep it from being approved by the House Democratic majority. If you wish to make your feelings known to Rep. Metcalfe, you can call his district office at (724) 772-3110, or in Harrisburg at (717) 783-1707. If you want to take more direct action, you can visit the Dump Daryl Metcalfe website. (Visit www.dumpdarylmetcalfe.com ) Readers will have the chance to read intolerant and ignorant statements about immigrants, gays, guns, Muslims, and other issues, as well as how to take action against this extremist.
Erie Gay News - May 2009
© 2009 EGN
The Art of Aging in Erie Information from Independent Council on Aging Newsweek magazine recently published an article “Invisible and Overlooked” in which they speak about some of the fears and needs of gay senior citizens and how they worry about the day when they can no longer care for themselves. With no family, no partner, and when they outlive their friends, who will care for them, comfort them, what will they do, and where will they go? Often “overlooked by mainstream advocates, these seniors are more importantly, twice as likely as straights to live alone, and 10 times less likely to have a caretaker should they fall ill”. They are often lonely and wait for the phone to ring in hopes of hearing from long lost friends and family. This is a growing issue. As members of the GLBT community we need to do whatever it takes to keep active and advocacy alive here in Erie County. We need to support our aging community. We need to seek out programs, agencies and support for our growing community. One such organization that understands the diversity of our Erie County Senior population is the Independent Council on Aging (ICA). As the ICA marks its 52nd anniversary of continuous services to Erie County they found that they play a pivotal role in our community in supporting our mature adults. Ray Maholtz, President, of the ICA has made it his goal in getting the word out about the ICA. “On one hand the ICA is growing in members and on the other, our mature adult population is skyrocketing and growing at an astronomical pace. While this growth continues, we must remain focused and committed to our mission: “to improve the quality of life for mature adults while fostering a positive image of aging” regardless of their sexual orientation. The ICA is made of individuals, agencies, and professionals who provide services, suppor, and care for mature adults without bias. They host events such as their Caregiver’s Conference, Guide to Services and Senior Art Show, Sale, Reception, and Happy Hour. For more information on the ICA go to www.icaerie. org or call 814-835-7485. For a complete listing of its members and their services check out our 2008/2009 Guide to Services. © 2009 EGN
Transitions Condolences to Tim W. on the passing of his mother. Condolences to John Daly King on the passing of his kitty, CJ. Condolences to EGN volunteer Johauna on the loss of her feline friend.
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Erie Gay News - May 2009
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Calendar This calendar is also online at www.eriegaynews.com/ calendar.html Apr 22 (Wed) - LBT Women of Erie go to Dueling Pianos (JR’s Last Laugh, 1402 State St, Erie, PA) 5 PM - 9 PM. Come and laugh .. for free! Phone: (814) 4526645. Email: womynspace-owner@eriegaynews.com. Browse to http://womynoferie.wetpaint.com/. Apr 23-26 - Cleveland Leather Awareness Weekend www.clawinfo.org/ Apr 24 (Fri) - Vertigo Dance Party with DJ Rad (Vertigo, 300 E Jefferson St, Butler, PA 16001) 8 PM. 18 and over. $5 cover. BYOB. Email: vertigov@aol. com. Browse to www.myspace.com/butlervertigo. Apr 24-26 - Opening Weekend at Jones Pond Welcome Home Potluck www.jonespond.com Apr 25 (Sat) - LBT Women participate in Autism Walk (Beach 11, Presque Isle State Park, Erie, PA 16505) 10 AM - 1 PM. Some of us are walking as a community service project, and for fun and exercise too! Contact: Laurie Finch. Phone: (814) 452-6645.
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Email: womynspace-owner@eriegaynews.com. Browse to http://womynoferie.wetpaint.com/. Apr 26 (Sun) - 2009 Pride Weekend meeting Community United Church, 1011 W 38th St, Erie, PA. 3 PM. Planning for the march and rally on July 25 and other events on Sunday. Volunteers and pride decorations donations are most welcome! Contact: Don. Email: eriepride@gmail.com. Browse to www. eriegaypride.org. Apr 27-May 3 - Equality Forum (Philadelphia) 50 programs, 24 panels, 8 parties 10 special guests, and PA’s largest street party. www.equalityforum.com May 1 (Fri) - G2H2 - Erie Gay Business Alliance social get together (Aoyama Japanese Steak House & Lounge, 970 Millcreek Mall, Erie, PA 16565) 6 PM - 8 PM. Gay Guy/Girl Happy Hour (G2H2) is a monthly get together for GLBT professionals and their colleagues and friends meet for networking. You can also sign up for the Erie Gay Business Alliance email list at http://lists.eriegaynews.com. Email: egbaowner@eriegaynews.com. Browse to www.facebook. com/group.php?gid=54742829807. May 2 (Sat) - Zone’s Spring Break Fiesta! 133 W 18th St, Erie, PA. -Girls & Guys Gone Wild! -Get into your Latin groove as we play a little hot salsa, drink a few cold coronas, and fiesta the night away. Try a margarita or strawberry daiquiri from our frozen drink machine! Vamos en el Zone! May 2 (Sat) - Vertigo Dance Party (Vertigo, 300 E Jefferson St, Butler, PA 16001) 8 PM. 18 and over. $5 cover. BYOB. Email: vertigov@aol.com. Browse to http://www.myspace.com/butlervertigo May 3 (Sun) - LBT Women of Erie meets Presque Isle Gallery Coffeehouse, 35 Peninsula Drv, Erie. 1
For more information, contact: Erie Office: Booker T Washington Ctr 1720 Holland St, PA 16503
814-453-5744 or 1-800-400-2437
Pa.
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Clarion Office: 15870 Route 322 Suite 2 Clarion, PA 16214
814-764-6066 or 1-800-359-2437
“GET TESTED: YOU NEED TO KNOW” EDUCATION IS THE KEY TO PREVENTION Erie Gay News - May 2009
© 2009 EGN
Calendar PM - NOTE NEW START TIME!!!. Social group for lesbian, bisexual and transgendered women. Meets the 1st Sunday of each month at Presque Isle Gallery Coffeehouse. Sign up for email list at http://lists.eriegaynews.com/ For more info, call Laurie at (814) 4526645. Email: womynspace-owner@eriegaynews.com. Browse to http://womynoferie.wetpaint.com/. May 7 (Thu) - Always Our Children meets (Nazareth Center, 517 E 12th St, Erie, PA 16503) 1 PM - 3 PM. For Catholic parents of GLBT children. First time attendees should contact the facilitator before attending at (814) 456-2091. May 8 (Fri) - Watchfire Alliance meets (Assembly Hall, Lily Dale, NY) 7 PM. Social/support group for GLBT people and their allies in Chautauqua County NY area. Contact: Bethany Robson. Phone: (716)4994817. Email: watchfirealliance@yahoo.com. May 8 (Fri) - Vertigo Dance Party 300 E Jefferson St, Butler, PA. Open mic night from 8-11 PM. 18 and over. $5 cover. BYOB. Email: vertigov@aol.com. Visit www.myspace.com/butlervertigo May 9 (Sat) - Craze Night Club: 1 Year Anniversary Celebration 1607 Raspberry St, Erie, PA.. You are invited to join Erie’s “Alternative” hotspot for a night to celebrate! Drink Specials, Give-aways, and as always the greatest music and open requests with DJ Lori and DJ Jason G. NO COVER CHARGE!!! Craze = No Cover Saturdays all Summer! Phone: (814) 456-3027. Browse to www.crazeerie.com May 11 (Mon) - Deadline for EGN May 2009 print edition This issue will be released the evening of April 21. Phone: (814) 456-9833. Email: info@eriegaynews.
© 2009 EGN
com. Browse to www.eriegaynews.com. May 11 (Mon) - Pride Picnic Meeting at Panera’s in Yorktown Plaza 2501 W 12th 7PM Info: Mike at (814)456-9833 ifno@eriegaynews.com May 11 (Mon) - PFLAG Erie/Crawford County meets Unitarian-Universalist Congregation of Erie, 7180 New Perry Highway, Erie. 7 PM - 8:30 PM. Support group for parents, friends and families of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered (GLBT) people. Phone: (814) 454-1392 (John). Email: pflag.erie.crawford@gmail.com. May 13 (Wed) - LBT Women Billiards Night at Andy’s (Andy’s Pub, 3866 Peach St, Erie, PA) 6:30 PM. Andy’s has free pool for women starting at 6:30 on Wednesdays. Contact: Laurie Finch. Phone: (814) 4526645. Email: womynspace-owner@eriegaynews.com. Browse to http://womynoferie.wetpaint.com/. May 15 (Fri) - Zone Dance Club: Former Miss Erie Showcase (Zone Dance Club, 133 W 18th St, Erie, PA 16501) 11 PM. Come visit with some of your most recent former Miss Erie’s as they party with the
Erie Gay News - May 2009
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Calendar current Miss Erie in her last show before she crowns the next Miss Erie. Phone: (814) 452-0125. Browse to www.thezonedanceclub.com. May 17 (Sun) - 2009 Pride Weekend meeting (Community United Church, 1011 W 38th St, Erie, PA 16508-2540) 3 PM. Planning for the march and rally on July 25 and other events on Sunday. Volunteers and pride decorations donations are most welcome! Contact: Don. Email: eriepride@gmail.com. Browse to http://www.eriegaypride.org. May 19 (Tue) - Erie Gay News folding/distributing work party Zone Dance Club, 133 W 18th StErie, PA. 7 PM. Help us get out the print edition of Erie Gay News. We’ll be folding and distributing the copies. 21 and over, please. It is also a great way to hang out and chat with folks! Phone: (814) 4569833. Email: info@eriegaynews.com. Browse to www. eriegaynews.com. May 22 (Fri) - Craze Night Club: Memorial Day Weekend Outdoor Patio Kick Off (Craze Night Club, 1607 Raspberry St, Erie, PA 16502) 7 PM. Doors
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open @ 7 PM. Entertainment by Bob Bearfield, Buddy Dobson “Glowsorcerer”, DJ Lori and DJ Jason G. No Cover Charge! Phone: (814) 456-3027. Browse to www.crazeerie.com May 23 (Sat) - LBT Women of Erie go to Campbell’s Pottery Campbell Pottery Gallery and Store, 25579 Plank Rd, Cambridge Springs PA. 11 AM. Going to see Master Glass Artist, Herb Thomas, who will be there creating glass vases, paperweights and other items while you watch. Rain or shine, it is under the pavilion. Phone: (814) 452-6645. Email: womynspace-owner@eriegaynews.com. Browse to http://womynoferie.wetpaint.com/. May 24 (Sun) - Pittsburgh Memorial Day Picnic North Park Lodge, Allison PA. Tickets and info at http://pittsburghpride.org/ $20 adv/$30 door Noon6 pm May 28 (Thu) - LBT Women go to 19th Annual Wild Rib Cook Off & Music Festival (Perry Square, 6th and State St, Erie, PA) 6:30 PM - 10 PM. Mmmmmmgood food! Good Music! Contact: Laurie Finch. Phone: (814) 452-6645. Email: womynspace-owner@ eriegaynews.com. Browse to http://womynoferie. wetpaint.com/. Jun 5 (Fri) - Zone Dance Club: 10th Anniversary presentation of the Miss Erie Pageant 133 W 18th St, Erie, PA. 10 PM. Applications are available at the Zone and are due back by May 23, 2009. Contestant meeting held at the Zone on May 25 at 8 PM. Categories for this year are video/live presentation, evening gown/question and answer, and talent. The theme is “Fever” and the colors are red and black. This year we will get to meet the contestants in both male and female forms; it’s very RuPaul! Phone: (814) 452-0125. Browse to www.thezonedanceclub.com.
Erie Gay News - May 2009
© 2009 EGN
17th Annual Pride On Stage Picnic on June 13 “Cabaret” April 16-24 at Behrend by Michael Mahler Erie Gay News will once again sponsor the annual Erie Pride Picnic. The 17th Annual Erie Pride Picnic will be on Saturday, June 13 from 1 to 6 PM at the Rotary Pavilion at Presque Isle State Park, Erie, PA. This is the same location that we have used for the past few years. Food will be served from 2 to 5 PM. We will provide hot dogs, Sloppy Joes, beverages, and table setting. Please bring a dish to share. Alcohol is prohibited, as are vendor sales. However, info tables are welcome! Please contact Michael Mahler by June 6 if you will be setting up a table. Karaoke was a big hit last year, and so we are bringing it back! Thanks to DJ J-Roc for his help. Donations to support the picnic will be gratefully accepted. We encourage people to register in advance and volunteer online at http://www.eriegaynews.com/ pride/register.php. (There is also a link to register online in the right side bar of all pages at http://www. eriegaynews.com) Please see the contact info at the end of this article if you don’t have online access, or further questions. Because we believe that an important part of being a community is recognizing the greater community, participants are also asked to bring a non-perishable item for the Second Harvest Food Bank of NW PA. Friends, family, and children are most welcome! We will have games and children’s activities. There is a playground near the site. Parents are responsible for supervising their own children. We will be taking the Annual Family Portrait at 4 PM. Anyone is welcome to be included in the portrait, and it is also okay not to be in the photo. Please check in at the registration table when you arrive. If you have registered online, we will just need your name. If you don’t want to be photographed, get a red dot to put on your name tag. We will also have a table to take face photos that will appear at http://www. eriegaynews.com for those interested. The Pride Picnic has been around since 1992 and is the largest Pride event in Erie County. For more information, contact Michael Mahler at(814) 456-9833, info@eriegaynews.com, or check out the web page at http://picnic.eriegaynews.com. © 2009 EGN
ERIE, Pa. – March 31, 2009 – The Broadway stage musical “Cabaret” is the spring Studio Theatre production at Penn State Erie, The Behrend College. The show opens at 8 p.m. on Thursday, April 16, with additional evening performances on April 17 and 18 and 22-24. Set in early 1933, “Cabaret” explores the impact of growing Nazi authority on the employees and patrons of Berlin’s gone-to-seed Kit Kat Club. Written by Joe Masteroff with lyrics by Fred Ebb and music by John Kander, the stage musical won seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical and Best Featured Actor for Joel Grey, who originated the role of the Kit Kat’s Emcee on Broadway but made his indelible mark upon it in the 1972 film adaption starring Liza Minnelli as the young club singer Sally Bowles. The Studio Theatre production of “Cabaret” is directed by Chrystyna Dail, lecturer in theatre at Penn State Behrend. It is appropriate for high school students. General admission seats are $10 and go on sale Monday, April 6, at the main desk in the college’s Reed Union Building. Tickets may be reserved over the phone by calling 814-898-6242.
Coming Up
May 5 (Tue) - Cinco de Mayo: Shari Gross performs at Latino’s 1313 Parade St, Erie, PA. 6 PM - 8 PM. Phone: (814) 452-1966. Browse to www. latinosrb.com/. May 16- Bad Boys of Dance at Mercyhurst Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center. www.badboysofdance.com www.mercyhurst.edu April 24 - Impermanent Art Show/Party Studio 22, Transit Building Arts Center, 206 Seneca Street, Oil City PA. 6:30 to 9:00 PM. “Bring a piece of work to show and finger food to share. Open mike for those who dare! The event will be filmed and put on YouTube.” Jun 19-20 Melissa Etheriudge in Niagara Falls Canada in Fallsview Casino and Resort (19+ with I.D.) www.fallsviewcasinoresort.com
Erie Gay News - May 2009
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Marriage briefs Lots of recent marriage rights victories: On April 3, the Iowa Supreme Court unanimously struck down that state’s ban on same-sex marriage, and three days later, the Vermont legislature became the fourth state to allow same-sex couples to wed. New York’s Governor Patterson has announced that he will introduce legislation allowing same-sex couples in New York state to legally wed. New York already recognizes marriages that were performed in other locales where they are legal.
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The Swedish Parliament has overwhelmingly voted in favor of allowing same-sex couples to legally wed. “Parliament on Wednesday adopted the bill on a gender-neutral marriage law,” parliament said in a statement. Civil unions granting gays and lesbians the same legal status as married couples have been allowed under Swedish law since 1995. Sweden joins the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain,
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The District of Columbia Council unanimously voted April 7 to recognize same-sex marriages performed legally in other jurisdictions. The District joins New York in recognizing same-sex marriages but without actually allowing them to be performed within their precincts. Recognition is widely seen as a step closer to granting gays and lesbians the right to marry. Congress has the option of overriding that vote, so the issue os same-sex marriage could end up on the the federal level this year.
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Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY) on March 22 reversed a previous stance by announcing that he now supports same-sex marriage and the repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act (federal ban on same-sex marriage). The Senator’s office issued the following statement: “It’s time. Equality is something that has always been a hallmark of America and no group should be deprived of it. New York, which has always been at the forefront on issues of equality, is appropriately poised to take a lead on this issue.” Schumer originally voted “yes” on the Defense of Marriage Act, and he has been on the record supporting “civil unions.”
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The state of Washington has passed an “everything but marriage” bill that grants same-sex couples all the rights and benefits the state offers married couples.
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Erie Gay News - May 2009
© 2009 EGN
OMG 2M4M? lol!
Jones Pond Contest
The anti-gay National Organizationfor Marriage has launched a new campaign called “Two Million for Marriage.” In an attempt to be cool, the clueless organization nicknamed the project 2M4M. The problem for NOM is that the acronym is already in use in gay male personals. Perhaps worse for NOM, a pro-gay marriage group (Two Men for Marriage) managed to seize the www.2M4M.org domain.And if you go to http://twitter.com/2m4m, you get the pro-gaymarriage group, not NOM. EGN has posted a couple of funny videos about this from Huffington Post and from Stephen Colbert.
Petition to ban marriage between Mormons The Universal Life Church has initiated a national petition drive to ban marriage between Mormons. Mormon funding and organizing of Prop 8 helped to make the California marriage ban to win at the polls last November. According to a post on the Church’s blog, “We don’t have the money or resources to organize a millionperson march on Washington, but we can pay to deliver a million signatures. Please let us hear from you today. Either download the petition and get 19 friends to sign with you, or contact us if you can volunteer to help organize the petition drive in your community.” To read the accompanying article and download a petition, visit http://universalfreechurch.ning.com
Win 2 nights free camping for 1 person, a $38 value from Jones Pond Campground and RV Park in Angelica NY! This does not include membership. To enter the contest, fill out the form at http://www.eriegaynews.com from May 1 through May 22. Jones Pond Campground and RV Park is a gay owned, members only, adult male (21+), clothing optional, gay camping facility. We offer over 100 acres for sunning, hiking, swimming, socializing or just getting away from everyday life. Nestled in the beautiful rolling hills of the Genesee Valley in Western New York State, Jones Pond is a quiet and relaxing place to enjoy nature, while enjoying the company of other campers. Whether you’re roughing it in a tent in the woods or taking it easy in one of our seasonal rentals, everyone here can choose to spend some quiet time alone or participate in our many social activities. At Jones Pond, it’s all about being yourself. Check out their web site at http://www. jonespond.com
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814-459-4775
It takes more than a ribbon to stop AIDS... It takes YOU! © 2009 EGN
Erie Gay News - May 2009
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Infallibility By Rev. Richard A. Moyer Pastor, Community United Church A friend of mine, who had been a Protestant all his life, converted to Roman Catholicism. I didn’t think much about it. I’ve known other people who have done the same. I have a friend who was raised in the church and later converted to the Jewish faith. My friend who became Catholic wrote me long letters explaining his decision. It was almost as if he was trying to convince me that he had done the right thing. Then, one day, I unexpectedly encountered him in a restaurant. He was still concerned about my reaction to his recent decision. He asked me if there was anything about the Roman Catholic Church that would prevent me from converting if I had the opportunity to do so. Since I always want to be on good terms with my Catholic friends and neighbors, I was somewhat uncomfortable with his question. But I felt compelled to respond. I told him that I’d probably have an issue with papal infallibility. His response was swift. He told me that I really didn’t understand the Catholic teachings about the pope being infallible. I’m sure he was right. My opinions about the pope are much more informed by Protestant prejudice than by Catholic dogma. So, I was interested in a recent article that appeared in the Erie Times News. The article was written Come on out to the
Erie Pride Picnic! 1:00-6:00 PM
Saturday June 13 Rotary Pavilion Presque Isle State Park This is a family and friends event. Bring covered dish Refreshments and sloppy Joes provided Info (814)456-9833 info@eriegaynews.com 12
by James F. Drane, a retired professor from Edinboro University. The title of the article was “Pope Learning from Mistakes?” Among his disagreements with the current Pope, Drane listed Pope Benedict’s view on the AIDS crisis. He ends the article by stating that the “Pope is human… and like every other human being he is fallible.” No one should assume, however, that the discussion about infallibility exists only within the Roman Catholic Church. In the Protestant church there have been those who think that the teachings of Jerry Falwell, Billy Graham, Benny Hinn, or whomever, are next to infallible. They hang on every word they say, and they quote them as though the very voice of God is speaking. I’ve been involved in the church long enough to know that the church and its spokespersons are far from infallible. The church has made too many mistakes, and has been too often inconsistent in its proclamations and decrees. This is particularly true when, through the years, the church has misquoted, misrepresented and misinterpreted the biblical teachings about homosexuality. And, in doing so, the church has elevated the “sin” of homosexuality to the level of “the worst of the worst.” To make matters even worse, the result has been that the church, in its harsh judgement has created and perpetuated prejudice and harm against people who are gay. I know that the religious denomination to which I belong, the United Church of Christ, is far from infallible. I know, all too well, the weakness of our church. But I am pleased with the fact that we settled the gay issue more than 30 years ago. It was then, at our General Synod, that we made a bold deliberate proclamation that being openly gay will never exclude a person from full participation in the life and ministry of our denomination. No one will ever convince me that there’s any fallacy in a statement like that! The Community United Church is an open and affirming congregation and is is a member of United Church of Christ and Church of the Brethren denomination. . It is located at 1011 W38th St. in Erie. Services are Sunday at 11am. (814) 864-4429. The pastor is Richard A. Moyer and his assistant is Dr. Richard McCarty.
Erie Gay News - May 2009
© 2009 EGN
LBT Women news by Laurie Finch Wow, we have had a busy few weeks! Our trip to Claytopia was really fun. Attending the painting party were Robin and Barb, Johauna, Zoe, and Janice and myself. None of us there were experienced, so we had lots to learn, but it was really a good time, and very relaxing to just sit there, paint and chat, and you should see our treasures! We even decided that we are going to go again, because there were lots more who wanted to go, but couldn’t because of other commitments. Besides, we really had so much fun that we do want to go again! A big thanks to Robin for researching and organizing the event. Then, as a group, we attended the “Vagina Monologues” at Allegheny College in Meadville. It was being done as a part of the nationwide V-Day Campaign, which promotes creative events to bring awareness of violence against women and girls. By 2008 the V-Day movement had raised over $60 million for it’s causes. The college students performing the monologues really did a great job, and it was a very moving experience! The following night we attended a performance by the Renaissance City Women’s Choir out of Pittsburgh. It was held at Edinboro University as the closing event of their Woman’s History Month. It was also sponsored by the President’s Commission on the Status of Women and the President’s Commission on the Status of Gay Men, Lesbians, Bisexuals, Transgender People and Allies, and the Edinboro Music department. All I can say is WOW! These women were awesome! They performed all types of music and every selection was superb! It was really hard to keep still in my seat especially for some of the more popular songs. I’ll go to see them perform again if and when I get the opportunity! We had a bunch of new faces at our meeting today, which is always good because now we have five new friends, Sue, Melody, Misty, Stacie and Barb. It was also good to see familiar faces. We had 11 attend total and discussed upcoming events which will include, The Erie Summer Festival of the Arts and Eight Great Tuesdays at Liberty Park, The Greek Fest, Discover Presque Isle Days, the Blues and Jazz Fest at Frontier Park, Celebrate Erie 2009, The North East Wine Festival, and Fall Fest at Peak n Peek. Other suggestions were canoeing or kayaking in the Lagoons, © 2009 EGN
Putt Putt Golf, a Casino Night, dinner or brunch on the Victorian Princess, horseback riding, hiking at Asbury Woods, attending a show at the Playhouse, going to the Erie Zoo, Waldemeer, and perhaps spending a day at the beach. Anyone who has any other ideas or who would like to organize and event, feel free to e-mail me at LFinch003@neo.rr.com The best part of today’s meeting was the performances by Tom Goss and Jeremiah Clark! These DC based gay singer / songwriters put on a great show. They were very personable guys and willing to pose for pics, sign CD’s they had for sale, or just chat. For more info on Tom Goss you can go to www.tomgossmusic. com or check out the article on him and Jeremy in Erie Gay News or online at www.eriegaynews.com We have also decided to set up some kind of an LBT Women of Erie information table at the Pride Picnic in June. Sunday, May 3rd is our next LBT Women’s meeting and it will be held at 1 PM at Presque Isle Gallery and Coffeehouse. Note the new time. Some of the girls requested an earlier meeting time, so they could get on to other things planned for the day. So from now on all our meetings will be at 1PM. Check the calendar in this issue for other LBT Women events. So, join us, and make a new friend or two....we are here simply to have fun, and support each other, so please feel free to join us! Check us out online at http://womynoferie.wetpaint. com/ Links to our new Myspace and Facebook pages are at the that site on the home page.
EGN
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CALENDAR LISTINGS
! e e r F e r A
All listing entries must be received by the 15th of the month.
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Summer Events and Places 2009 Compiled by Deb Spilko
Retreats & Resorts
Pride Celebrations
For information on other Pride celebrations around the country, visit www.interpride.org/ Jun 6-7 - Buffalo Pride www.pride-buffalo.org Jun 8-14 - Pittsburgh Pridefest http://pittsburghpride.org Jun 13-21 - Hamilton Pride www.hamiltonpride. com Jun 13 - ERIE PRIDE PICNIC Rotary Pavilion, Presque Isle State Park, Erie, PA. Browse to http:// picnic.eriegaynews.com Jun 19-28 - Pride Toronto www.pridetoronto.com Jun 20 Cleveland Pride www.clevelandpride.org Jul 25 - Erie Gay Pride March/Rally March down State Street to Perry Square, www.eriegaypride.org Jul 17-19 Rochester Pride www.gayalliance.org Jul 24-26- Central PA Pride Fest www.harrisburgpride.org Aug 6-9 - Cleveland Black Gay and Proud www. bgpcleveland.com
GET WET at the pond. Just 2 1/2 hours from Erie in Western NY!
Dunes Resort Sautgatuck MI “The Midwest’s Largest Gay & Lesbian Resort.” www.dunesresort.com Easton Mountain Retreat Center. Near Albany NY. Interfaith spiritual community of men who love men, offering wide variety of programs. www.eastonmountain.com Provincetown, MA www.provincetowntourismoffice. org/ and www.ptown.org Rainbow Mountain Resort “The gay, lesbian & transgender resort, restaurant, and nightclub, located in the Pocono Mountains.” www.rainbowmountain.com Rehoboth Beach Delaware. http://rehoboth.gaycities.com
Campgrounds
Some campgrounds in our region. If you have any questions at all about their target clientele, make certain to call ahead. For more camping info, visit http://gaycampers.com and www. campgayusa.com Camp Davis Boyers, PA (724) 637-2402. www.campdaviscampground.com Campit Saugatuck MI. http://campitresort.com CampOut For women. Near Richmond VA. www. campoutva.com Cedars Campground. Near Hamilton, Ontario Canada. www.cedarscampground.com Circle JJ Ranch Scio, OH www.circlejjranch.com Freedom Valley New London Ohio. www.freedomvalleycampground.com Jones Pond Campground & RV Park Angelica, NY. www.jonespond.com The Point (Vittoria, Ontario) www.get-tothepoint. com
Kids & Families A Members-Only, Adult Male (21+), Clothing Optional, Gay Campground on 117 acres! Call or visit our web site for info & events!
585-567-8100 JonesPond.com 14
Many of the destinations listed in this article have space or events for kids and families, but below are some places and events specifically for them. COLAGE www.colage.org Family Pride Coalition www.familypride.org • Organizes events like Family week Aug 1-8 in Provincetown. Mountain Meadow Camp (S. New Jersey) www. mountainmeadow.org R Family Vacations Rosie O’Donnell’s family vacations. www.rfamilyvacations.com
Erie Gay News - May 2009
© 2009 EGN
Summer Events and Places 2009 Women’s Festivals
May 22-24 Virginia Women’s Music Festival www. campoutva.com Jun 11-14 Womongathering: Festival of Women’s Spirituality (near Carbondale PA) www.womongathering.com Jul 2-5 - National Women’s Music Festival (Wisconsin) www.wiaonline.org Jul 4 Kickback www.campoutva.com Aug 4-9 - Michigan Womyns Festival (W. Michigan) www.michfest.com Aug 21-23 - Twin Oaks Women’s Gathering (Louisa VA) http://twinoaks.org/community/women/index. html Aug 29 - Sep 1 - Wild Western Women’s Weekend (Virgina) www.campoutva.com Sep 11-13 Sisterspace Weekend (Maryland) www. sisterspace.org Sep 19-20 - Ohio Lesbian Festival (near Columbus OH) from 11 AM - 11 PM www.ohiolba.org
Friendly faces at last year’s Erie Pride Picnic. This year’s picnic will be held June 13 at Presque Isle..
Miscellaneous
Apr 27-May 3- Equality Forum in Philadelphia Big variety of events: Panels, parties, festivals, art, films, religious activities, food (dinner, dining out, brunch. barbeque), theater, and much more. Visit www.equalityforum.com May 24 - Memorial Day Picnic Pittsbugh GLBT Community Memorial Day weekend picnic, North Park Lodge, Allison PA. Order tickets at http://pittsburghpride.org/ Jun 4-7 - One Mighty Weekend In Orlando. www. onemightyweekend.com Jun 12-20 - Toronto Queer West Fest “Our main point is to show that there is a real and strong alternative to traditional Pride Festivals.” http://gaywest.905host. net Jun 13 - GIFT Cruise Aboard the Goodtime III. www.clevelandgift.org Jun 13-14 - Allentown Art Festival Arts and historic preservation event held in Buffalo’s gay neighborhood. www.allentownartfestival.com Date TBA Pittsburgh Boat Cruise. Usually around the July 4 weekend.
© 2009 EGN
INFORMING
GAYELLOW PAGES Informorming
the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Since 1973
Accomodations, bars, business and not-for-profit resources Separate WOMEN’S and ETHNIC/MULTICULTURAL sections USA/CANADA: $25 by first class mail. All states and providences, national headquarters of organizations, mail order companies, etc. The whole book is now online in Acrobat Reader format. www.gayellowpages.com/online.htm Also available as a no frills CD in PDF format. Find us at Gay-Friendly stores like Body Launguage, Cleveland, OH 216-251-3330 Rainbow Pride Gift Shop, Buffalo, NY 716-855-0222 and many others at http//gayellowpages.com/2buy.htm For an application to be listed (no charge), current editions, and prices, mailing lables, etc. please send a self-addressed stamped envelope to Renaissance House, PO Box 533-EGN, Village Station, New York, NY 10014 646-213-0263 or email gypages@gmail.com
http://gayellowpages.com
Erie Gay News - May 2009
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Screen
Travel US-Canada border-crossing changes start June 1 As of June 1, 2009, Americans returning home via land and sea from any foreign destination will need to show a passport or other secure travel document. This includes those traveling to Canada. Travelers who do not have the appropriate documents may be delayed while Customs and Border Protection officers attempt to verify their citizenship and identity. They will also be given an informational sheet explaining the new procedures. The intent of this transition is to raise awareness of the change, educate travelers, and allow ample time for travelers to obtain the necessary documents. For information on what you will need for crossing the border, visit www.getyouhome.gov
HIV COUNSELING & TESTING
Check out links to movie trailers on the online version of this article! Clickable links at the online version of this article.
VIDEO
Between Love & Goodbye (2008) “Well-made and absorbing tale! Performances are first-rate, and Jon Fordham’s cinematography glows.” Kevin Thomas, Los Angeles Times www.lovegoodbye.com TLA Finding Me (2007) A fresh, new “indie” film about a young gay black man’s journey of self-discovery, affirmation and love. www.thanks4findingme.com TLA Lavender Limelight (1999) From Go Fish to Paris is Burning to The Watermelon Woman, Lavender Limelight: Lesbians in Film goes behind the scenes to reveal America’s most successful lesbian directors http://firstrunfeatures.com. 5/19 First Run Lilies (1996) Emotionally intense, suspense-laden tale of love, betrayal and revenge in which one man’s past comes back to haunt him and another man’s past comes to bring him freedom. 5/26 Wolfe Mulligans (2008) www.mulligansthemovie.com Wolfe Sole Journey (2008) Sole Journey tells an inspiring and true story of courageous families confronting the anti-LGBT rhetoric and political policy-making of the fundamentalist mega-organization Focus on the Family. 5/19 First Run Features The Ultimate Boy Box (2009) TLA
Free•Confidential Walk-In Clinic No Appointment Necessary
Erie County Department of Health 606 West 2nd Street Corner of 2nd and Cherry
HIV Testing Hours: Tuesday 9:30 AM - 1:00 PM STD Testing Hours: Monday 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM Wednesday 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM Thursday 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Erie Office - Outreach Services 814-451-6700 Corry Office 814-663-3891 16
When Tyler Davidson brings home his college buddy Chase for the summer holidays, a secret is revealed that threatens to tear his perfect family apart in Mulligans, now on DVD.
Erie Gay News - May 2009
© 2009 EGN
PPP VOTERS Candidates for Erie County Executive, Erie County Council, Erie City Mayor, Erie City Council, Harborcreek Township Supervisor and Millcreek Township Supervisor were asked about their positions on GLBT issues. Their responses appear on the next few pages.
Erie County Executive
Not Responding: Anthony Buzz Andrezeski (D), Gill Rocco (R)
ANTI-DISCRIMINATION Do you support HB 300, which would amend the Pennsylvania Human Relations statute to include as protected categories real or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity/expression? If you do support HB 300, what would you be willing to do as an office-holder to promote its passage? Mark Divecchio (D-Incumbent) [from the editors: Mark Divecchio did not provide a statement, but did send over materials regarding his early and long time support of passage of the Erie County Human Relations Commission ordinance that included sexual orientation and gender identity/expression that was enacted in 2002. Has always voted in favor of the ordinance and helped reactivate the Erie County HRC after it had been defunded by previous Erie County Executive Rick Schenker.] Barry Grossman (D) I support HB 300 absolutely— 100%— totally. I would lobby state legislators to support it. Mike Kerner (R) As County Executive, I will be in no position to support or oppose this measure. I believe it is inappropriate to comment on it as a candidate.
© 2009 EGN
GUIDE PPP
OTHER What else would you like to let gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered (GLBT) voters, and their families, friends and supporter concerned about GLBT issues know about you? Barry Grossman (D) I am totally and completely committed to constructing a society that welcomes & cherishes the rights of all human beings. At my restaurant, Mi Scuzi, we presently have white, black, Latino, Korean and gay and/or lesbian employees. I would have it no other way. As a person of Jewish ancestry, I am keenly aware of discrimination and all of the horrors that it has wrought. Discrimination against GLBT is America’s last bastion of legal intolerance. We must firmly and finally include our GLBT friends in the promise of America that “all men (i.e. people) are created equal -- entitled to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” Mike Kerner (R) As County Executive, I will uphold my oath to enforce and comply with all laws of the commonwealth, to the best of my ability.
Erie County Council ANTI-DISCRIMINATION Do you support HB 300, which would amend the Pennsylvania Human Relations statute to include as protected categories real or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity/expression? If you do support HB 300, what would you be willing to do as an office-holder to promote its
Erie Gay News - May 2009
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PPP VOTERS passage? OTHER What else would you like to let gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered (GLBT) voters, and their families, friends and supporter concerned about GLBT issues know about you?
County Council District 2 Not Responding: Kevin Allen (D), Renee Venditti (D)
Anti Discimination
Joe Giles (D-Incumbent) Yes. I have always supported this legislation and will continue to do so. David J Pamula (D) Yes. I would work with other Council members to pass a resolution to support HB 300.
Other
Joe Giles (D-Incumbent) Throughout my many years of public service, I have played a strong leadership role in the revitalization of the Human Relations Commission for Erie County. I have taken on the role of chairing efforts to review and expand the policy of Erie County to include sexual orientation. This important policy was completed and approved in 2002. This involved many hours of work and many meetings with people in our community. As chair of council, I made it a point to meet with HUD officials in Washington DC to secure a 3 year grant to expand the role and authority of our local HRC to include housing discrimination issues. This is the first full year of the grant. We are optomistic that federal funding will continue for the next two years. This is an important step in the development of a quality program emphasizing equal treatment under the law for all people.
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GUIDE PPP
David J Pamula (D) I would like Erie County government to promote human rights and learn to live within its budget. As taxpayers, we live on a budget and the county must learn to control its spending.
County Council District 4 Not Responding: Dan Desrochers (R)
Anti Discimination
Ronald Whitey Cleaver (D-Incumbent) Yes --- The bill sponsored by Rep. Dan Farnkel has my full support. The bill being on the state level needs support from our local elected officials which means contacting our State Reps to vote in favor.
Other
Ronald Whitey Cleaver (D-Incumbent) I will protect their rights when the need arises.
County Council District 6 Not Responding: Michael G Amidon (R), Ebert G Beeman (R), Edward D Mattio (R), Greg Lucas (R), Gerald D Price, Jr (D), Scott D Rose (D)
Anti Discimination
Frank Stefano (R) I do not believe in discrimination in any form whether it be religious, sexual orientation, gender, or ethnicity. I respect everyone’s views and beliefs, whether I agree with those views and beliefs or not. You have to respect everyone’s opinion. You can gain something from listening to others. I support the current legislation that is in the county, and am waiting to hear the final form of HB 300 before making a decision to support it.
Erie Gay News - May 2009
© 2009 EGN
PPP VOTERS GUIDE PPP victim of prejudice in any situation at any time in Erie City Mayor aour community, because of their sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. Not Responding: Jack Anderson (R)
Anti Discimination
Joe Sinnott (D-Incumbent) I do support this bill because I support any legislation that would serve to protect specific targets from hate crimes. The need for protected classes seems to be an evolving concept so there is sometimes need to expand this definition. Because this is a state issue, I do not have any direct influence on the issue but would support it by writing letters to state representatives and encouraging their passage of the bill.
Erie City Council
Not Responding: Tim Butler (R), Adrian Ewing (D), Waydell Johnson (D), Curtis Jones (D-Incumbent), Joseph V Schember, JR (D-Incumbent), John Steiner (D), James N Thompson (D-Incumbent), Jim Winarski (D)
Anti Discimination
John Tretter (D) Yes, I do support HB 300. If I am elected to City Council, I would propose that the Council pass a resolution in support of HB 300 encouraging it’s passage in the legislature.
Other
John Tretter (D) I would like my voters to be reminded that we are all human beings and we all live in the United States of America, which means we all have our essential freedoms that were granted by the constitution. I have no issues with the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered people of my community. Each and every one of us has the freedom to choose any kind of orientation that we prefer. I believe that no one should ever be © 2009 EGN
Millcreek Twp. Supervisor Not Responding: Richard Figaski (D), Larry Curtis (R), Michael Daugherty (R)
Anti Discimination
Sue Weber (R) I have never discriminated against anyone due to their sexual orientation. I have friends who are GLBT and it really offends me when people make jokes about those subjects. One of my dearest friends is gay. During my previous service as township supervisor, I never based my decisions on the spending of township funds--whose street got paved, who received police protection, etc. on sexual orientation of the residents/homeowners involved. Everyone is a taxpayer and deserves to be treated equally.
Other
Sue Weber (R) I’m known as a champion of the underdog and that certainly includes people suffering from discrimination.
Harborcreek Twp. Supervisor Not Responding: James J Dolak (D), Tim May (R), Tom Miller (D), Curt Smith (D), Cindy Williams (D)
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