Volume
16 No. 13 August 13,
2009Compiled & written by Mike Fitzpatrick
Top
Story:
440 Same-Sex Couples Register Their Relationships In The First Week
Statewide - August 3 marked one small step toward marriage equality for Wisconsin’s committed gay and lesbian couples as the state opened it’s domestic partner registry. However, by the end of the first day turnout statistics showed no great leap by gay partners into
county clerk’s offices around the state.Small step it may have been but it was also a historic one. By initiating the registry Wisconsin became the first state in nation with an existing ban on both marriage equality and civil unions to enact domestic partnerships. It is also first state in Midwest to legislatively enact protections for same-sex couples
‘Today is a historic day for fairness in Wisconsin,’ Fair Wisconsin Executive Director Katie Belanger said. ‘We are very grateful for the exceptional leadership of Governor Doyle, the Co-Chairs of the Joint Finance Committee Rep. Mark Pocan and Sen. Mark Miller, and the many state legislators who voted to enact this legislation that recognizes and values our state’s same-sex couples. They know that the government shouldn’t stand in the way of someone being able to care for their long-term partner.’
‘This is an important step toward ensuring that someone in a caring, committed relationship is able to care for his or her partner,’ Belanger added. ‘No one should ever have to worry about being blocked at their partner’s hospital room door, or have to make the heartbreaking decision to quit their job in order to care for a seriously ill partner. This isn’t about being gay or straight - it’s about being decent.”
Though turnout was light overall, several counties saw brief early morning rushes to register. Most notable was Dane county, which experienced first-hour lines. As they waited, some couples sang their own version of the 60’s ditty “Chapel Of Love,” substituting the original lyrics with “Goin’ to the clerk’s office and we’re gonna get registered.” About 50 couples registered in Madison during the first day.
Janice Czyscon and her long time partner, Crystal Hyslop, were in line at 5:30 AM so that they could be the first Dane County couple to register for the benefits. “I’m really, really emotional about it, Hyslop told WISC-TV. “It’s just after 29 years working so hard to get something this is just really significant.”.
Milwaukee reported twenty or so couples registered their partnerships on August 3. A few were lined up at 7:30 AM but according to County Clerk Joe Czarnezki there weren’t as many applicants as some had expected.
“I would say it was a typical Monday morning, we’re always busy on Monday morning, Czarnezki told Wisconsin Public Radio affiliate WUWM. “There were people who were in a celebratory mood, there were people who were just going about their business filling out legal documents. So I don’t see that there was anything out of the ordinary.”
In northeast Wisconsin about 50 couples tied the partnership knot: 18 in the Oshkosh area, 16 in the Appleton area, ten in Green Bay and three each in Calumet and Waupaca counties.
In Green Bay, Michael Knaapen, 22 and John Becker, 24 waited outside the Brown County clerk’s office building at 6 AM for the doors to open so they could gain their newly legalized domestic partnership rights. “We thought there would be a line and we wanted to be able to get to work on time,” Knaapen said.
In Kenosha, four couples registered the first day, with two of the four waiting at the door as the clerk’s office opened at 8 AM. Mike Brooker, 31 and T.J. Cousins, 45 were the first to register.
“It’s about time the state recognizes and stops discriminating against a group of people,” Cousins told the Associated Press.
In St. Croix County, 60 year-old Deborah Monicken and her partner Susan Kattas, 65 celebrated their silver anniversary by being the first couple to register there. The couple told the St. Paul Pioneer Press that they had been concerned that they might encounter protesters, though none were at the clerk’s office when they arrived. “I’ve always felt that Wisconsin would do well by us,” Monicken said as she fought back tears.
Rural counties throughout the state reported single digit registrations August. Some reported no registrants at all.
Also, not every couple who showed up to register were able to do so. Clerks statewide turned away about twenty couples for failure to have all the necessary documentation needed in order to register. Others learned that some counties only accept cash payments for marriage and domestic partnership applications
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 14,000 same-sex couples in Wisconsin identified themselves as in committed relationship in the 2000 Census. After some waffling on the issue, the bureau will again attempt to tally gay and lesbian couples in next year’s census.
The Wisconsin Domestic Partner Registry offers 43 of the approximately 200 benefits the state provides married couples. Opponents of the registry, such as Wisconsin Family Action (WFA), which filed a lawsuit with the state Supreme Court in late July to overturn the law, call the partnerships “mimic marriages,” while “gay marriage or bust” progressives derided the unions as “21.2% marriages.” No decision on the WFA lawsuit is expected until September when the state Supreme Court reconvenes.
Now that the first day mainstream media preoccupation with domestic partnerships has abated, gay and lesbian couples are expected to continue to register their relationships throughout August. A state survey revealed 440 couples had tied the partnership knot at week's end. 58 of the Wisconsin's 79 counties replied to the sruvey. Dane County had the most partnerships with 115 couples having registered. Milwaukee County tallied 52 couples. A number of counties reported no registrants.
Editor's Note: This is an updated version of the article that appeared in the August 13 print edition.
World & National News:
Psychologists Reject Gay “Therapy”
Toronto - The American Psychological Association declared August 5 that mental health professionals should not tell gay clients they can become straight through therapy or other treatments.
In a resolution adopted by the association’s governing council, and in an accompanying report, the association issued its most comprehensive repudiation of so-called reparative therapy, a concept espoused by a small but persistent group of therapists, often allied with religious conservatives, who maintain that gay men and lesbians can change.
No solid evidence exists that such change is likely, the resolution stated. It was adopted by a 125-to-4 vote. The association said some research suggested that efforts to produce change could be harmful, inducing depression and suicidal tendencies.
Instead of seeking such change, the association urged therapists to consider multiple options, which could include celibacy and switching churches, for helping clients live spiritually rewarding lives in instances where their sexual orientation and religious faith conflict.
The association has criticized reparative therapy in the past, but a six-member panel added weight to that position by examining 83 studies on sexual orientation change conducted since 1960. Its report was endorsed by the association’s governing council in Toronto, where the association’s annual meeting is being held this weekend.
The report breaks ground in its detailed and nuanced assessment of how therapists should deal with gay clients struggling to remain loyal to a religious faith that disapproves of homosexuality.
Highland Park, N.J psychologist Judith Glassgold, who led the panel, said she hoped the document could help calm the polarized debate between religious conservatives who believe in the possibility of changing sexual orientation and the many mental health professionals who reject that option.
“Both sides have to educate themselves better,” Glassgold said. “The religious psychotherapists have to open up their eyes to the potential positive aspects of being gay or lesbian. Secular therapists have to recognize that some people will choose their faith over their sexuality.”
Trans-Inclusive ENDA Introduced In U.S. Senate
Washington, DC - Democrat Jeff Merkley of Oregon introduced the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) in the U.S. Senate August 5. It marked the first time that a transgender-inclusive version of the bill has been introduced in the Senate. Co-sponsors of the Senate bill were Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Edward Kennedy (D-Massachusetts). An inclusive version of ENDA was introduced in the House in June.
Each co-sponsor issued remarks about the bill’s introduction. “There is no place in the workplace for employment discrimination,” lead sponsor Merkley said. “No worker in America should be fired or denied a job based on who they are. Discrimination is wrong, period. I’m proud to join Senator Kennedy, who is a civil rights legend, and Senators Collins and Snowe, both champions for equality, in taking this next step in our ongoing effort to create a more perfect union and guarantee every American, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, the right to earn a living.”
“The promise of America will never be fulfilled as long as justice is denied to even one among us,” said U.S. Senator Kennedy added. “The Employment Non-Discrimination Act brings us closer to fulfilling that promise for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender citizens.”
Senator Collins characterized the ENDA bill as catching up to policies already in place in several states and the private sector. “Similar to the current law in several states, including Maine, and the policies of many Fortune 500 companies, the Employment Non-Discrimination Act would close an important gap in federal civil rights laws by making it illegal to discriminate in employment,” she said.
The Human Rights Campaign hailed the bipartisan, historic introduction of the ENDA bill. “The introduction of an inclusive employment non-discrimination bill in the U.S. Senate is an important and historic step in ending discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity,” HRC President Joe Solmonese said. “No American, and that includes LGBT Americans, should have to worry about their livelihood being taken away from them simply for being who they are. The overwhelming majority of the American people are in favor of this legislation and now is the time for our community to visit their representatives in Congress to let them know we need this passed into law.”
The Employment Non-Discrimination Act would address discrimination in the workplace by making it illegal to fire, refuse to hire or refuse to promote an employee based on the person’s sexual orientation or gender identity. An inclusive ENDA was also introduced in the U.S. House on June 24 of this year. The legislation reflects the values, shared by the vast majority of Americans, that employment decisions should be based on a person’s qualifications and work ethic.
According to the recent State of the Workplace report by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, 85% of Fortune 500 companies include sexual orientation in their equal employment policies, and more than one-third also include gender identity. More than 60 companies have joined the Business Coalition for Workplace Fairness, a group of leading U.S. employers that support the Employment Non-Discrimination Act.
ENDA also is supported by a broad range of civil rights, religious, civic and professional organizations, including the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights, NAACP, AFL-CIO, Service Employees International Union, AFSCME, National Education Association, National Employment Lawyers Association, Anti-Defamation League, Religious Action Center, Unitiarian Universalist Association, United Church of Christ, American Civil Liberties Union, and many others.
Currently, federal law provides legal protection against employment discrimination on the basis of race, sex, religion, national origin, age and disability, but not sexual orientation or gender identity. In 29 states across America, it is still legal to fire someone based on his or her sexual orientation, and in 38 states, it is still legal to fire someone for being transgender.
Task Force’s “Creating Change” Seeks Presenters
Washington, DC - The 22nd National Conference on LGBT Equality: Creating Change wants you. Yes, you. We want you to teach your colleagues how to build LGBT power from the ground up. Come to Creating Change, the national gathering of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender movement sponsored by the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, and strut your stuff!
Creating Change touches down in Texas at the Dallas Sheraton Hotel, February 3 - 7, 2010, gathering together over two thousand movement stalwarts who are hungry and thirsty for new ideas, best practices, stronger skills and inspiration.
A large portion of the Creating Change Conference program is planned and presented by movement heroes just like you. Perhaps you want to lead a session to grapple with pressing immediate issues like how to win back marriage equality in California or how the right-wing is attacking LGBT families. Or maybe you have longer-term issues on your mind, like the impact of the AIDS epidemic, especially in communities of color, or building a multi-racial advocacy organization in your community. The Creating Change Conference is a chance to organize a teaching/learning session to present the lessons you’ve learned and the best practices you have developed.
Attendees at Creating Change include colleagues who are young and old; organizers and activists of color; volunteers and staff people at LGBT organizations; lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender advocates and straight allies; and leaders of campus communities. Creating Change attracts people from every corner of the United States who are working on many of the issues that you care about.
Conference presenters receive a steeply discounted registration fee and experience the deep satisfaction of building a stronger, smarter, more powerful grassroots LGBT movement.
Creating Change Conference session proposals are due on September 30, 2009. Online proposal submission and complete information can be found at www.creatingchange.org.
Gay Dads Study Seeks Volunteers
Charlottesville - Are you a gay or a bisexual dad? Would you be willing to answer several confidential questions about your life and about your family? The purpose of this study is to examine the many ways families headed by gay fathers have been created, explore how families function, and learn about the relationship between partners.
The study consists of an online survey and will take approximately 25-35 minutes of a volunteer’s time. To qualify for the study, participants must identify as male, a father, and gay, bisexual or homosexual and have at least one child of any age. The child can be biological, adopted, foster, step, or other child. Participants do not need to be the child’s legal parent to participate.
The study has been approved by the University of Virginia (IRB #2008-0407-00), and Samantha L. Tornello is working with Dr. Charlotte J. Patterson, a Professor of Psychology at the University of Virginia.
If interested in participating or want further information please contact Samantha via email at: GayDadsStudy@gmail.com. She will send a web link to access the study.
Toronto - The American Psychological Association declared August 5 that mental health professionals should not tell gay clients they can become straight through therapy or other treatments.
In a resolution adopted by the association’s governing council, and in an accompanying report, the association issued its most comprehensive repudiation of so-called reparative therapy, a concept espoused by a small but persistent group of therapists, often allied with religious conservatives, who maintain that gay men and lesbians can change.
No solid evidence exists that such change is likely, the resolution stated. It was adopted by a 125-to-4 vote. The association said some research suggested that efforts to produce change could be harmful, inducing depression and suicidal tendencies.
Instead of seeking such change, the association urged therapists to consider multiple options, which could include celibacy and switching churches, for helping clients live spiritually rewarding lives in instances where their sexual orientation and religious faith conflict.
The association has criticized reparative therapy in the past, but a six-member panel added weight to that position by examining 83 studies on sexual orientation change conducted since 1960. Its report was endorsed by the association’s governing council in Toronto, where the association’s annual meeting is being held this weekend.
The report breaks ground in its detailed and nuanced assessment of how therapists should deal with gay clients struggling to remain loyal to a religious faith that disapproves of homosexuality.
Highland Park, N.J psychologist Judith Glassgold, who led the panel, said she hoped the document could help calm the polarized debate between religious conservatives who believe in the possibility of changing sexual orientation and the many mental health professionals who reject that option.
“Both sides have to educate themselves better,” Glassgold said. “The religious psychotherapists have to open up their eyes to the potential positive aspects of being gay or lesbian. Secular therapists have to recognize that some people will choose their faith over their sexuality.”
Trans-Inclusive ENDA Introduced In U.S. Senate
Washington, DC - Democrat Jeff Merkley of Oregon introduced the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) in the U.S. Senate August 5. It marked the first time that a transgender-inclusive version of the bill has been introduced in the Senate. Co-sponsors of the Senate bill were Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Edward Kennedy (D-Massachusetts). An inclusive version of ENDA was introduced in the House in June.
Each co-sponsor issued remarks about the bill’s introduction. “There is no place in the workplace for employment discrimination,” lead sponsor Merkley said. “No worker in America should be fired or denied a job based on who they are. Discrimination is wrong, period. I’m proud to join Senator Kennedy, who is a civil rights legend, and Senators Collins and Snowe, both champions for equality, in taking this next step in our ongoing effort to create a more perfect union and guarantee every American, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, the right to earn a living.”
“The promise of America will never be fulfilled as long as justice is denied to even one among us,” said U.S. Senator Kennedy added. “The Employment Non-Discrimination Act brings us closer to fulfilling that promise for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender citizens.”
Senator Collins characterized the ENDA bill as catching up to policies already in place in several states and the private sector. “Similar to the current law in several states, including Maine, and the policies of many Fortune 500 companies, the Employment Non-Discrimination Act would close an important gap in federal civil rights laws by making it illegal to discriminate in employment,” she said.
The Human Rights Campaign hailed the bipartisan, historic introduction of the ENDA bill. “The introduction of an inclusive employment non-discrimination bill in the U.S. Senate is an important and historic step in ending discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity,” HRC President Joe Solmonese said. “No American, and that includes LGBT Americans, should have to worry about their livelihood being taken away from them simply for being who they are. The overwhelming majority of the American people are in favor of this legislation and now is the time for our community to visit their representatives in Congress to let them know we need this passed into law.”
The Employment Non-Discrimination Act would address discrimination in the workplace by making it illegal to fire, refuse to hire or refuse to promote an employee based on the person’s sexual orientation or gender identity. An inclusive ENDA was also introduced in the U.S. House on June 24 of this year. The legislation reflects the values, shared by the vast majority of Americans, that employment decisions should be based on a person’s qualifications and work ethic.
According to the recent State of the Workplace report by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, 85% of Fortune 500 companies include sexual orientation in their equal employment policies, and more than one-third also include gender identity. More than 60 companies have joined the Business Coalition for Workplace Fairness, a group of leading U.S. employers that support the Employment Non-Discrimination Act.
ENDA also is supported by a broad range of civil rights, religious, civic and professional organizations, including the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights, NAACP, AFL-CIO, Service Employees International Union, AFSCME, National Education Association, National Employment Lawyers Association, Anti-Defamation League, Religious Action Center, Unitiarian Universalist Association, United Church of Christ, American Civil Liberties Union, and many others.
Currently, federal law provides legal protection against employment discrimination on the basis of race, sex, religion, national origin, age and disability, but not sexual orientation or gender identity. In 29 states across America, it is still legal to fire someone based on his or her sexual orientation, and in 38 states, it is still legal to fire someone for being transgender.
Task Force’s “Creating Change” Seeks Presenters
Washington, DC - The 22nd National Conference on LGBT Equality: Creating Change wants you. Yes, you. We want you to teach your colleagues how to build LGBT power from the ground up. Come to Creating Change, the national gathering of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender movement sponsored by the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, and strut your stuff!
Creating Change touches down in Texas at the Dallas Sheraton Hotel, February 3 - 7, 2010, gathering together over two thousand movement stalwarts who are hungry and thirsty for new ideas, best practices, stronger skills and inspiration.
A large portion of the Creating Change Conference program is planned and presented by movement heroes just like you. Perhaps you want to lead a session to grapple with pressing immediate issues like how to win back marriage equality in California or how the right-wing is attacking LGBT families. Or maybe you have longer-term issues on your mind, like the impact of the AIDS epidemic, especially in communities of color, or building a multi-racial advocacy organization in your community. The Creating Change Conference is a chance to organize a teaching/learning session to present the lessons you’ve learned and the best practices you have developed.
Attendees at Creating Change include colleagues who are young and old; organizers and activists of color; volunteers and staff people at LGBT organizations; lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender advocates and straight allies; and leaders of campus communities. Creating Change attracts people from every corner of the United States who are working on many of the issues that you care about.
Conference presenters receive a steeply discounted registration fee and experience the deep satisfaction of building a stronger, smarter, more powerful grassroots LGBT movement.
Creating Change Conference session proposals are due on September 30, 2009. Online proposal submission and complete information can be found at www.creatingchange.org.
Gay Dads Study Seeks Volunteers
Charlottesville - Are you a gay or a bisexual dad? Would you be willing to answer several confidential questions about your life and about your family? The purpose of this study is to examine the many ways families headed by gay fathers have been created, explore how families function, and learn about the relationship between partners.
The study consists of an online survey and will take approximately 25-35 minutes of a volunteer’s time. To qualify for the study, participants must identify as male, a father, and gay, bisexual or homosexual and have at least one child of any age. The child can be biological, adopted, foster, step, or other child. Participants do not need to be the child’s legal parent to participate.
The study has been approved by the University of Virginia (IRB #2008-0407-00), and Samantha L. Tornello is working with Dr. Charlotte J. Patterson, a Professor of Psychology at the University of Virginia.
If interested in participating or want further information please contact Samantha via email at: GayDadsStudy@gmail.com. She will send a web link to access the study.
State News:
Capitol Rotunda Commitment Ceremony Set For
August 14
Madison– Same-sex couples from across Wisconsin will have the opportunity to take part in a commitment ceremony at the state Capitol on August 14th as part of a weekend-long gay pride festival in Madison. Wisconsin Capitol Pride has organized the commitment ceremony to take place in the rotunda of the state capitol building starting at 5 PM.
The ceremony will take place less than two weeks after Wisconsin’s new domestic partnership legislation goes into effect. Starting on August 3rd, same-sex couples can register to receive some legal rights; such as hospital visitation rights and the ability to take Family Medical Leave (FMLA) to care for a loved one. Participants in the ceremony are encouraged to register their domestic partnership at the event.
“This is an important moment,” Capitol Pride co-chair Scott Willems said. “We’re encouraged to see Wisconsin’s government leaders taking steps toward affording basic rights to same-sex couples, and there’s no better place to celebrate that than right in the state capitol.”
A number of clergy from the Madison-area faith community will preside over the ceremony and other faith organizations have committed their support. Supporters include: First Congregational, First Unitarian, Fitchburg Memorial UCC, James Reeb Unitarian, Lake Edge Lutheran, Mc Farland UCC, Plymouth UCC, UW Hillel Integrity/Dignity, Sufi Movement International, First Baptist Church, Spiritual Life Ministries, Madison Jewish Council, St. Francis House, Affirmation, and Coming Out.
“While the ritual itself will be brief, the effects for all of us could be long-ranging,” ceremony organizer Derwin Leigh said. “Justice, denied for so long to those gifted by God with a gay or lesbian orientation, may find cause for renewed hope in the small step forward that the State Registry represents.”
Couples and individuals interested in attending or taking part in the commitment ceremony are asked to contact Derwin Leigh via email at: dleigh@wisconsincapitolpride.org. Several restaurants in the Capitol Square-downtown area are also taking reservations for celebratory dinners after the commitment ceremony. See the Wisconsin Capitol Pride website (www.wisconsincapitolpride.org) for a listing of the restaurants.
Wisconsin Capitol Pride invites participants in the ceremony to stay for the weekend of festivities planned on Willow Island at the Alliant Energy Center August 15 and 16. A gay pride parade around the Capitol Square will take place at 1 PM on Sunday, August 16.
The Radisson Hotel in Madison is offering rooms for a special rate of $99 per night for those staying in town for the Pride Festival. Event schedules and additional information is available at: www.wisconsincapitolpride.org.
Veteran Gay Activist Cleve Jones In Madison August 31
Madison - Veteran gay activist Cleve Jones will visit Madison Monday, August 31. Jones is scheduled to present “Why We Can’t Wait: Now is the time for a new LGBTI Civil Rights Movement” in Room 3650 of the Humanities Building on the University of Wisconsin - Madison campus, located on the corner of Park and University Aves.
Jones, best known as a protégé of gay pioneer Harvey Milk and the creator of the NAMES Project (the AIDS Memorial Quilt), is expected to promote the recently renamed National Equality March (NEM) during his presentation. On June 7 Jones called for a national march on Washington, DC on the upcoming National Coming Out Day (October 11) while speaking at a Utah Gay pride event. The speech kicked off a four-and-a-half month countdown to what some consider a controversial event that seeks to bring LGBT activists and allies from across to country to the nation’s capital.
In a July 31 statement, Jones announced further plans for NEM. “Our single demand: Equal protection in all matters governed by civil law in all 50 states,” Jones wrote. “We will continue this fight in every state, in every county, every city and every town, but we are now determined to take this fight to the federal government, to our President Barack Obama, to the Congress and the Supreme Court of the United States.”
According to earlier versions of the NEM website (www.equalityacrossamerica.org), two specific goals at the federal level are the repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act and an end to the “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” military policy.
Jones recently said that his organization has raised $150,000, which he thinks will be sufficient to underwrite the event. Jones also has indicated that the nation’s two largest LGBT civil rights groups will partner on the NEM. However, HRC spokesperson Trevor Thomas declined July 31 to comment to the Washington Blade on the matter. HRC since has endorsed the event officially. Inga Sarda-Sorensen, a Task Force spokesperson, told the paper that her organization had no plans to release a joint statement on the march and was unclear as to what Jones was referring.
Other gay civil rights organizers have been openly critical of Jones’ plans, questioning the limited amount of time to organize a mass march - the NEM website originally a goal of bringing 250,000 to washington - and expressing concern about whether sufficient practical support for such a large crowd can be put in place in time. Others were concerned that the lack of publicity for the march thus far would doom any chances for success. The official Facebook page for NEM currently lists just over 22,000 fans, less than 10% of the march’s original state goal.
A newly-formed Madison group, LGBTI Equality NOW! plans to assist Jones’ efforts by organizing charter buses to get masses of people to the march. “We would love more cosponsors for both these events, so please spread the word and get involved,” organizers asked in a recent email.
LGBTI Equality NOW! currently meets at 7:30 pm each Monday at the UW Memorial Union. Interested attendees should check the “Today In The Union” board for the meeting room number.
The new group also has scheduled a march from Library Mall on the University of Wisconsin - Madison campus to the Capitol on Friday, August 14 to support Wisconsin Capitol Pride’s mass wedding ceremony. Attendees are asked to meet at 4:30 PM on Library Mall by the fountain.
LGBTI Equality NOW! also has organized a “Full Equality Under the Law” political contingent to march in the August 16 . Organizer have asked “all individuals and groups who want a place to make some noise for equality should feel free to join us” at the Sunday march.
For more information about LGBTI Equality NOW!, contact the group by email at: lgbtequalitynow@gmail.com or by phone at: 608 446 0273.
Editor's Note: This is an updated version of the article that appeared in the August 13 print edition.
La Crosse, Madison Pride Events Need Volunteers
La Crosse, Madison - La Crosse Pride is seeking volunteers on the following dates: Friday, August 21 for set-up; Saturday, August 22 for button sales, beer ticket sales, bartending, information booth staffing, food sales, children’s games and other tasks; and Sunday, August 23 for clean up. Please stop in the LGBT Center for the Seven Rivers Region, 303 Pearl Street to sign up. Volunteers may also call the center at: 608-784-0452 to sign up.
Madison’s Wisconsin Capitol Pride has also asked for help with their event August 15 and 16. Volunteers are still needed for set-up, tear-down, registration, admission, security, parade assistance, entertainment & stage coordination, and beverage team. Volunteers are asked to contact Steven Stafford by phone at: 608-335-1834 or
by email at: sstafford@wisconsincapitolpride.org.
Business Alliance Has Savoir Faire August 18
Madison - The Business Alliance will hold its monthly “meet and greet” mixer from 5:30 - 7:30 PM at the Savoir Faire Cards, Gifts & Wine Bar, just off the Capitol Square at 5 North Pinckney Street here on Tuesday, August 18. There is no charge to attend the event for current or prospective members.
Since 1994, the Business Alliance has served as Greater Madison’s LGBT Chamber of Commerce. The organization is open to business owners, professionals, LGBT individuals and straight allies. Business Alliance member-sponsored events welcome all current & prospective members and are held at venues that support the local LGBT community. At the mixer, introductions will follow a membership update and discussion. Also offered will be a review of upcoming events, plus time for attendees to network. The group encourages everyone to bring and exchange their business cards for a chance to win a door prize. Past winners have received valuable discount coupons and gift certificates.
No longer just a card, gift, & wine bar, Savoir Faire is has gain a reputation for being a great meeting place - either inside or outside. Savior Faire now offers a full service bar, featuring fabulous martinis.
For the mixer Savoir Faire will be pouring Marcus James Riesling and Cabernet Sauvignon along with delicious appetizers. A cash bar will also be available. Door Prizes for the mixer will include an edgy trendy aluminum bottle of delicious Think Red Portuguese wine, a set of classy ceramic golf coasters and a $25 gift certificate.
For more information, contact Scott Mickelson by phone at: 608-288-7859, or by email at: business-alliance@live.com. To learn more about the Business Alliance, visit the organization’s website at: www.madisonbusinessalliance.com. The Business Alliance is affiliated with OutReach, Inc.
7th Annual Wisconsin AIDS Ride Raises $300,236
Madison - After four days, 300 miles, over 150 riders, almost a hundred crew members and scores of volunteers, ACT 7 (AIDS
Network
Cycling Together) - the 7th Annual Wisconsin AIDS Ride - came to a wet
but welcome close here August 9. In the process the fund raiser for
AIDS Network became one of the most successful in event’s history.
Despite an early morning rain, crowds welcomed the riders and support staff at a closing ceremonies held on Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. There ACT Steering Committee Chair Shawn Waldron presented AIDS Network Executive Director Karen Dotson a check for $300,236, the second-most raised for any single ride to date. The total came close to the 2005 record of $303,500 and was a 4.5% increase over last year’s total. ACT 7 also helped push the total raised by the AIDS rides to close to a cumulative $2 million benefiting the AIDS service agency.
The ride had kicked off following an opening ceremony here August 6 at Olin Park. Well-wishers had gathered to see the riders and crew off on a four-day bike tour of South Central Wisconsin. WMTV’s Morning Show Host Christine Bellport emceed the event.
“This is a much anticipated event for all of us involved with the ride,” Dotson said at the opening ceremony. “It is the culmination of a year-long effort of literally hundreds of people. During the past six years ACT has raised over $1.6 million for our agency. I’m proud to say all of that money stays right here in our community, used to assist in providing much needed case management support, prevention, legal and client services.”
ACT 7 is produced almost entirely by the effort of volunteers. Corporate sponsors and in-kind contributions underwrite the cost of this event. The agency reports that almost every product or service consumed during the ride is donated. For additional information or to make a post-ride pledge to the event or one of the riders, visit the official website: www.actride.org.
Milwaukee LGBT Center Launches LBT Women’s Breast Health Initiative
Milwaukee - The Milwaukee LGBT Community Center recently launched a breast health initiative for lesbian, bisexual and transgender women at Milwaukee’s PrideFest. The LBT Breast Health Initiative is one of several Center-sponsored programs that provide educational and health promotion services to the Milwaukee LGBT community. The goals of the LBT Breast Health Initiative are to work within the LGBT community to promote breast health awareness through outreach to at least 2,000 people, referring at least one hundred people for breast cancer screening, and having at least 75 f those referrals receive screening.
During the Pridefest kick-off, the LBT Breast Health booth questioned 456 participants about when they last had a mammogram. A higher percentage of these participants had not had a mammogram in the last when years, when compared to Milwaukee women overall.
The Initiative will be assisted in these goals by volunteer health promoters recruited from the LBT community to teach and reach people in need of breast cancer screening.
“Our long term goal is to increase positive health outcomes in the LBT community. According to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure, nearly 100% of women diagnosed with early stage breast cancer are alive five years later.” program coordinator Claudia Kabler-Babbitt said. “LGBT people have additional barriers to health care, and some additional risks for breast cancer.”
The LBT Breast Health Initiative is partnering with many Milwaukee health and LGBT organizations. The program also provides cultural competency training for healthcare providers and staff, empowering them to better serve LGBT people who are referred to them through the Initiative.
For a referral for breast cancer screening or for more information concerning the LBT Breast Health Initiative please, contact Claudia Kabler-Babbitt by phone at: 414-292-3061, or by email at: ckb@mkelgbt.org.
The LBT Breast Health Initiative is funded through a grant from the Milwaukee Affiliate of Susan G. Komen For the Cure.
SAGE-Milwaukee Sets Rummage Sale
Milwaukee - SAGE-Milwaukee will hold a rummage sale as a fundraiser for the organization on Friday and Saturday, August 21-22 at the home of Arlene Schultz and Michaelle Schall, 3162 N. 84th St. here
SAGE Executive Director Bill Serpe has asked members and supporters to donate items to the sale. “We need your old and no longer needed ‘treasures’ because, as you know, ‘one person’s junk is another person’s treasure,’” he said. “So anything that you have that you want to get rid of, we will take it.”
Donations will be accepted at the SAGE/Milwaukee offices at 1845 N. Farwell Ave., Suite 220 we would appreciate that. Pick-up arrangements can also be made by calling SAGE at 414-224-0517. Offices are always open Monday through Friday from 9 AM. until 1 PM, except for Thursdays when the office is open until 5 PM.
Volunteers are also needed to help with pricing and on the days of the sale. Call the office at the above listed number to volunteer.
Free HIV Testing At Harmony Café During August
Appleton - ARCW will offer free rapid HIV testing at the Harmony Café here every Thursday during the month of August. Testing will be available from 3-7 PM at the café’s 233 East College Ave. location.
Rapid testing offers results in 20 minutes. The entire testing procedure takes between 30-45 minutes and participant s can can elect to have their tests done either anonymously or with name association. All tests are confidential and participants receive a copy of their test results.
For more information about local HIV testing, contact the Appleton office of ARCW at 920-733-2068 or 800-773-2068. For general questions about HIV and testing options, call the Wisconsin AIDS hotline at 800-334-AIDS.
Pride Weekend Breakfast at OutReach
Madison - Start Pride Weekend with a hot breakfast at OutReach, Madison’s LGBT Community Center. The breakfast will be held Saturday, August 15 from 8-10 AM at the Center, 600 Williamson St. Suggested donation for the meal is $5. The breakfast will be an opportunity to meet the staff, Board and volunteers of OutReach.
For more information about the breakfast, contact OutReach by phone at:608-255-8582 or by email at:steves@lgbtoutreach.org
Madison– Same-sex couples from across Wisconsin will have the opportunity to take part in a commitment ceremony at the state Capitol on August 14th as part of a weekend-long gay pride festival in Madison. Wisconsin Capitol Pride has organized the commitment ceremony to take place in the rotunda of the state capitol building starting at 5 PM.
The ceremony will take place less than two weeks after Wisconsin’s new domestic partnership legislation goes into effect. Starting on August 3rd, same-sex couples can register to receive some legal rights; such as hospital visitation rights and the ability to take Family Medical Leave (FMLA) to care for a loved one. Participants in the ceremony are encouraged to register their domestic partnership at the event.
“This is an important moment,” Capitol Pride co-chair Scott Willems said. “We’re encouraged to see Wisconsin’s government leaders taking steps toward affording basic rights to same-sex couples, and there’s no better place to celebrate that than right in the state capitol.”
A number of clergy from the Madison-area faith community will preside over the ceremony and other faith organizations have committed their support. Supporters include: First Congregational, First Unitarian, Fitchburg Memorial UCC, James Reeb Unitarian, Lake Edge Lutheran, Mc Farland UCC, Plymouth UCC, UW Hillel Integrity/Dignity, Sufi Movement International, First Baptist Church, Spiritual Life Ministries, Madison Jewish Council, St. Francis House, Affirmation, and Coming Out.
“While the ritual itself will be brief, the effects for all of us could be long-ranging,” ceremony organizer Derwin Leigh said. “Justice, denied for so long to those gifted by God with a gay or lesbian orientation, may find cause for renewed hope in the small step forward that the State Registry represents.”
Couples and individuals interested in attending or taking part in the commitment ceremony are asked to contact Derwin Leigh via email at: dleigh@wisconsincapitolpride.org. Several restaurants in the Capitol Square-downtown area are also taking reservations for celebratory dinners after the commitment ceremony. See the Wisconsin Capitol Pride website (www.wisconsincapitolpride.org) for a listing of the restaurants.
Wisconsin Capitol Pride invites participants in the ceremony to stay for the weekend of festivities planned on Willow Island at the Alliant Energy Center August 15 and 16. A gay pride parade around the Capitol Square will take place at 1 PM on Sunday, August 16.
The Radisson Hotel in Madison is offering rooms for a special rate of $99 per night for those staying in town for the Pride Festival. Event schedules and additional information is available at: www.wisconsincapitolpride.org.
Veteran Gay Activist Cleve Jones In Madison August 31
Madison - Veteran gay activist Cleve Jones will visit Madison Monday, August 31. Jones is scheduled to present “Why We Can’t Wait: Now is the time for a new LGBTI Civil Rights Movement” in Room 3650 of the Humanities Building on the University of Wisconsin - Madison campus, located on the corner of Park and University Aves.
Jones, best known as a protégé of gay pioneer Harvey Milk and the creator of the NAMES Project (the AIDS Memorial Quilt), is expected to promote the recently renamed National Equality March (NEM) during his presentation. On June 7 Jones called for a national march on Washington, DC on the upcoming National Coming Out Day (October 11) while speaking at a Utah Gay pride event. The speech kicked off a four-and-a-half month countdown to what some consider a controversial event that seeks to bring LGBT activists and allies from across to country to the nation’s capital.
In a July 31 statement, Jones announced further plans for NEM. “Our single demand: Equal protection in all matters governed by civil law in all 50 states,” Jones wrote. “We will continue this fight in every state, in every county, every city and every town, but we are now determined to take this fight to the federal government, to our President Barack Obama, to the Congress and the Supreme Court of the United States.”
According to earlier versions of the NEM website (www.equalityacrossamerica.org), two specific goals at the federal level are the repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act and an end to the “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” military policy.
Jones recently said that his organization has raised $150,000, which he thinks will be sufficient to underwrite the event. Jones also has indicated that the nation’s two largest LGBT civil rights groups will partner on the NEM. However, HRC spokesperson Trevor Thomas declined July 31 to comment to the Washington Blade on the matter. HRC since has endorsed the event officially. Inga Sarda-Sorensen, a Task Force spokesperson, told the paper that her organization had no plans to release a joint statement on the march and was unclear as to what Jones was referring.
Other gay civil rights organizers have been openly critical of Jones’ plans, questioning the limited amount of time to organize a mass march - the NEM website originally a goal of bringing 250,000 to washington - and expressing concern about whether sufficient practical support for such a large crowd can be put in place in time. Others were concerned that the lack of publicity for the march thus far would doom any chances for success. The official Facebook page for NEM currently lists just over 22,000 fans, less than 10% of the march’s original state goal.
A newly-formed Madison group, LGBTI Equality NOW! plans to assist Jones’ efforts by organizing charter buses to get masses of people to the march. “We would love more cosponsors for both these events, so please spread the word and get involved,” organizers asked in a recent email.
LGBTI Equality NOW! currently meets at 7:30 pm each Monday at the UW Memorial Union. Interested attendees should check the “Today In The Union” board for the meeting room number.
The new group also has scheduled a march from Library Mall on the University of Wisconsin - Madison campus to the Capitol on Friday, August 14 to support Wisconsin Capitol Pride’s mass wedding ceremony. Attendees are asked to meet at 4:30 PM on Library Mall by the fountain.
LGBTI Equality NOW! also has organized a “Full Equality Under the Law” political contingent to march in the August 16 . Organizer have asked “all individuals and groups who want a place to make some noise for equality should feel free to join us” at the Sunday march.
For more information about LGBTI Equality NOW!, contact the group by email at: lgbtequalitynow@gmail.com or by phone at: 608 446 0273.
Editor's Note: This is an updated version of the article that appeared in the August 13 print edition.
La Crosse, Madison Pride Events Need Volunteers
La Crosse, Madison - La Crosse Pride is seeking volunteers on the following dates: Friday, August 21 for set-up; Saturday, August 22 for button sales, beer ticket sales, bartending, information booth staffing, food sales, children’s games and other tasks; and Sunday, August 23 for clean up. Please stop in the LGBT Center for the Seven Rivers Region, 303 Pearl Street to sign up. Volunteers may also call the center at: 608-784-0452 to sign up.
Madison’s Wisconsin Capitol Pride has also asked for help with their event August 15 and 16. Volunteers are still needed for set-up, tear-down, registration, admission, security, parade assistance, entertainment & stage coordination, and beverage team. Volunteers are asked to contact Steven Stafford by phone at: 608-335-1834 or
by email at: sstafford@wisconsincapitolpride.org.
Business Alliance Has Savoir Faire August 18
Madison - The Business Alliance will hold its monthly “meet and greet” mixer from 5:30 - 7:30 PM at the Savoir Faire Cards, Gifts & Wine Bar, just off the Capitol Square at 5 North Pinckney Street here on Tuesday, August 18. There is no charge to attend the event for current or prospective members.
Since 1994, the Business Alliance has served as Greater Madison’s LGBT Chamber of Commerce. The organization is open to business owners, professionals, LGBT individuals and straight allies. Business Alliance member-sponsored events welcome all current & prospective members and are held at venues that support the local LGBT community. At the mixer, introductions will follow a membership update and discussion. Also offered will be a review of upcoming events, plus time for attendees to network. The group encourages everyone to bring and exchange their business cards for a chance to win a door prize. Past winners have received valuable discount coupons and gift certificates.
No longer just a card, gift, & wine bar, Savoir Faire is has gain a reputation for being a great meeting place - either inside or outside. Savior Faire now offers a full service bar, featuring fabulous martinis.
For the mixer Savoir Faire will be pouring Marcus James Riesling and Cabernet Sauvignon along with delicious appetizers. A cash bar will also be available. Door Prizes for the mixer will include an edgy trendy aluminum bottle of delicious Think Red Portuguese wine, a set of classy ceramic golf coasters and a $25 gift certificate.
For more information, contact Scott Mickelson by phone at: 608-288-7859, or by email at: business-alliance@live.com. To learn more about the Business Alliance, visit the organization’s website at: www.madisonbusinessalliance.com. The Business Alliance is affiliated with OutReach, Inc.
7th Annual Wisconsin AIDS Ride Raises $300,236
Madison - After four days, 300 miles, over 150 riders, almost a hundred crew members and scores of volunteers, ACT 7 (AIDS
Network
Cycling Together) - the 7th Annual Wisconsin AIDS Ride - came to a wet
but welcome close here August 9. In the process the fund raiser for
AIDS Network became one of the most successful in event’s history.Despite an early morning rain, crowds welcomed the riders and support staff at a closing ceremonies held on Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. There ACT Steering Committee Chair Shawn Waldron presented AIDS Network Executive Director Karen Dotson a check for $300,236, the second-most raised for any single ride to date. The total came close to the 2005 record of $303,500 and was a 4.5% increase over last year’s total. ACT 7 also helped push the total raised by the AIDS rides to close to a cumulative $2 million benefiting the AIDS service agency.
The ride had kicked off following an opening ceremony here August 6 at Olin Park. Well-wishers had gathered to see the riders and crew off on a four-day bike tour of South Central Wisconsin. WMTV’s Morning Show Host Christine Bellport emceed the event.
“This is a much anticipated event for all of us involved with the ride,” Dotson said at the opening ceremony. “It is the culmination of a year-long effort of literally hundreds of people. During the past six years ACT has raised over $1.6 million for our agency. I’m proud to say all of that money stays right here in our community, used to assist in providing much needed case management support, prevention, legal and client services.”
ACT 7 is produced almost entirely by the effort of volunteers. Corporate sponsors and in-kind contributions underwrite the cost of this event. The agency reports that almost every product or service consumed during the ride is donated. For additional information or to make a post-ride pledge to the event or one of the riders, visit the official website: www.actride.org.
Milwaukee LGBT Center Launches LBT Women’s Breast Health Initiative
Milwaukee - The Milwaukee LGBT Community Center recently launched a breast health initiative for lesbian, bisexual and transgender women at Milwaukee’s PrideFest. The LBT Breast Health Initiative is one of several Center-sponsored programs that provide educational and health promotion services to the Milwaukee LGBT community. The goals of the LBT Breast Health Initiative are to work within the LGBT community to promote breast health awareness through outreach to at least 2,000 people, referring at least one hundred people for breast cancer screening, and having at least 75 f those referrals receive screening.
During the Pridefest kick-off, the LBT Breast Health booth questioned 456 participants about when they last had a mammogram. A higher percentage of these participants had not had a mammogram in the last when years, when compared to Milwaukee women overall.
The Initiative will be assisted in these goals by volunteer health promoters recruited from the LBT community to teach and reach people in need of breast cancer screening.
“Our long term goal is to increase positive health outcomes in the LBT community. According to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure, nearly 100% of women diagnosed with early stage breast cancer are alive five years later.” program coordinator Claudia Kabler-Babbitt said. “LGBT people have additional barriers to health care, and some additional risks for breast cancer.”
The LBT Breast Health Initiative is partnering with many Milwaukee health and LGBT organizations. The program also provides cultural competency training for healthcare providers and staff, empowering them to better serve LGBT people who are referred to them through the Initiative.
For a referral for breast cancer screening or for more information concerning the LBT Breast Health Initiative please, contact Claudia Kabler-Babbitt by phone at: 414-292-3061, or by email at: ckb@mkelgbt.org.
The LBT Breast Health Initiative is funded through a grant from the Milwaukee Affiliate of Susan G. Komen For the Cure.
SAGE-Milwaukee Sets Rummage Sale
Milwaukee - SAGE-Milwaukee will hold a rummage sale as a fundraiser for the organization on Friday and Saturday, August 21-22 at the home of Arlene Schultz and Michaelle Schall, 3162 N. 84th St. here
SAGE Executive Director Bill Serpe has asked members and supporters to donate items to the sale. “We need your old and no longer needed ‘treasures’ because, as you know, ‘one person’s junk is another person’s treasure,’” he said. “So anything that you have that you want to get rid of, we will take it.”
Donations will be accepted at the SAGE/Milwaukee offices at 1845 N. Farwell Ave., Suite 220 we would appreciate that. Pick-up arrangements can also be made by calling SAGE at 414-224-0517. Offices are always open Monday through Friday from 9 AM. until 1 PM, except for Thursdays when the office is open until 5 PM.
Volunteers are also needed to help with pricing and on the days of the sale. Call the office at the above listed number to volunteer.
Free HIV Testing At Harmony Café During August
Appleton - ARCW will offer free rapid HIV testing at the Harmony Café here every Thursday during the month of August. Testing will be available from 3-7 PM at the café’s 233 East College Ave. location.
Rapid testing offers results in 20 minutes. The entire testing procedure takes between 30-45 minutes and participant s can can elect to have their tests done either anonymously or with name association. All tests are confidential and participants receive a copy of their test results.
For more information about local HIV testing, contact the Appleton office of ARCW at 920-733-2068 or 800-773-2068. For general questions about HIV and testing options, call the Wisconsin AIDS hotline at 800-334-AIDS.
Pride Weekend Breakfast at OutReach
Madison - Start Pride Weekend with a hot breakfast at OutReach, Madison’s LGBT Community Center. The breakfast will be held Saturday, August 15 from 8-10 AM at the Center, 600 Williamson St. Suggested donation for the meal is $5. The breakfast will be an opportunity to meet the staff, Board and volunteers of OutReach.
For more information about the breakfast, contact OutReach by phone at:608-255-8582 or by email at:steves@lgbtoutreach.org
Arts & Entertainment:
Wisconsin Capitol Pride Begins August 15
Madison - Thirteen months after Madison’s last “back to basics” pride event drew just hundreds, organizers of the new Wisconsin Capitol Pride hope to rejuvenate the city’s gay pride with a two-day series of events that mimics the former MAGIC picnic and Madison
Pride
in their scope, and comes just weeks after the first significant LGBT
community political and cultural victory - the establishment of a
statewide same-sex domestic partnership registry.
The festival kicks off at 2 PM Saturday, August 15 at the Alliant Energy Center on Willow Island and offers two stages of entertainment. Following the 3 PM Welcome ceremony, main stage attractions will include the Ms. WCP Presentation at 3:45, and a Latino drag show at 4 PM. Singer Ann Christopher follows at 5 PM and Madison’s gay choral group Perfect Harmony takes the stage at 6.
The gay “Texas-BBQ flavored” humor of nationally-known lesbian comedian Vickie Shaw at 7 PM has been billed at the festival’s headline event. However, Madison’s chart-topping home town rappers God-Des & She may challenge the comic with an evening-ending concert at 8 PM.
The Dance Stage will offer DJs from 2-5:30 PM and after 6:30 along with two special events: “Dancing with The Queens” at 5 PM and an hour-long drag show beginning at 5:30.
Following the 1 PM pride parade around the Capitol Square, Wisconsin Capitol Pride will again offer two stages of entertainment. On the Main Stage menu is a 2:45 PM magic show, followed by a drag show at 3:30. Entertainers Lynette’s Enchanted, Earthling Invasion and the Kingtown Rockers will each follow with shows between 4:30 and 6 PM. The Dance Stage will offer family dancing and sing-a-longs throughout the afternoon.
In addition to entertainment, vendors and organizations will be offering merchandise and information both days at the festival. Area bars, including Club 5, Woof’s and the recently-opened Plan B are also offering events on days before, during and after the pride festival.
Full details about Wisconsin Capitol Pride, the pride parade and ancillary events can be found on the festival’s website: www.wisconsincapitolpride.org
Chippewa Valley LGBT Community Center Sets Pride Events
Eau Claire - The LGBT Center of the Chippewa Valley has announced several events that will occur during the Chippewa Valley Pride 2009.
On Friday, August 14 from 7-10 PM, the Community Center will hold an open house featuring tours, free food and prizes given away each half hour. There is no
admission
charge. Also on Friday, August 14 from 7-9 PM. free confidential rapid
HIV testing will be offered. ARCW-Eau Claire prevention specialist Erin
McLaughlin will conduct the tests. For more information, contact Erin
by phone at: 715-836-7710, Ext 110.
On Saturday, August 15, from 11 AM - %PM it’s the main event of the weekend: the Chippewa Valley Pride Picnic at the Riverview Island Pavilion. Share your LGBT Pride with the community. Food (including vegetarian options), beverages, volleyball, paddle boat rides, vendors, LGBT organizational exhibits and fun are on the “gay agenda.”
Following the picnic on Saturday evening the Center’s popular Saturday Night At The Movies offers a movie marathon. Doors are set to open at 6:45 PM, with movies showing at 7 and 9 PM respectively. On the August 15 bill are “Saved” and “Latter Days.”
“Saved” is the story of the fanatic and wealthy Hilary Faye and Mary. The girls are best friends, but their friendship ends when Mary gets pregnant, after having sex with her gay boy-friend trying to “save” him. In “Latter Days,” a promiscuous gay party animal falls for a young Mormon missionary, leading to crisis, cliché, and catastrophe.
Discussion to follow the movie for those interested. Admission & popcorn are free. Beverages and movie snacks are also available to purchase.
On Sunday, August 16, the Center will sponsor an Ice Cream Social and Pontoon Boat Ride. Come and have fun on the Chippewa River by enjoying a refreshing sundae followed with an hour long pontoon boat ride on the river. Cost is $10 per person or $100 to reserve the boat for you and up to nine of your friends. All funds go to support the LGBT Community Center. Reservations are required.
Three cruises will be offered: Participants for the first cruise should arrive between Noon and 12:20 PM for ice cream social in the yard. The boat will depart at 12:45 PM and return at 1:45. the second and third cruises will follow a similar schedule and begin at 2 and 4 PM respectively.
The 4 PM cruise has already sold out. To place a reservation for one of the earlier cruises, send an email to: lgbtcommunitycenter@yahoo.com or call 715-552-LGBT. Please state the number of tickets needed and state shift preferences. Directions to the event and all other pertinent information are sent with reservation confirmations.
La Crosse Pride Fest To Run August 22
La Crosse - La Crosse’s annual Pride Fest will be held on Saturday, August 22 at the Southside Oktoberfest grounds in downtown La Crosse at the corner of La Crosse and Second Streets. This year’s theme is “Your Rights, Our Rights, Human Rights.”
Admission to the festival will be by an admission button. Buttons are now on sale for $5 each and will be available for $7 at the gate on the day of the event. Children 12 and under are free.
The day-long festivities will begin with the 3rd Annual Motorcycle Pride Ride. Registration for the ride begins at 10 AM Saturday morning at the festival grounds.
The festival officially will open at Noon. Activities will include sales and information booths, a free children’s activities area, karaoke, a talent show put on by GALAXY youth, an Euchre tournament and food and beverage sales. The evening’s entertainment will feature Alisha Leafgreen with AJent Orange, Ronnie Nyles & Tina, and “A Show of Hometown Pride” drag show featuring the show cast of Illusions. For more information, visit the La Crosse Pride Fest website at: www.lacrossepride.us Information is also available by contact the festival by email at: pride@7riverslgbt.org or by phone at: 608-784-0452.
Milwaukee’s Queer Program Announces August Guests
Milwaukee - Meighan Bentz, program coordinator for the Anti-Violence Program (Victim Advocate Outreach) at the Milwaukee LGBT COmmunity Center, will be a guest on The Queer Program, on MIlwaukee Time-Warner Cable Channel 96 on Monday, August 17, from 6:30-7:30 PM. Meighan will discuss the recent National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP) 2008 Hate Violence Report and Milwaukee’s 64% increase in violence reports from 2007.
Rev, Wendy Woodruff, Senior Pastor at MIlwaukee Metropolitan Community Church, will appear as a guest on Monday, August 24th.
The Queer Program has been heightening the visibility of Milwaukee & Wisconsin’s queer communities since October, 1992 on Milwaukee Community Media (MCM) Time Warner Cable public access Channel 96. The Queer Program, co-hosted by Michael Lisowski and Infamous D, broadcasts live on Mondays at 6:30 PM and replays Fridays at midnight and Saturdays at 10 PM. The Queer Program is produced by Gay People’s Union. Funding is provided by Gay People’s Union & The G/L Community Trust. Past support has also come from Cream City Foundation.
Want to be a guest for your 15 minutes of fame? Promote your event or organization? Have an event you’d like us to cover? Please contact The Queer Program by email at: queerprgrm@aol.com, by U. S. mail at: PO Box 090441, Milwaukee, WI 53209, or by phone at: 414-265-8500.
Art Show Offers Portraits of Wisconsin Same-Sex Couples
Racine - With the registration of domestic partnerships becoming the law throughout Wisconsin recently, it is appropriate that the LGBT Center of SE Wisconsin unveiled its newest gallery exhibition, “Shall Not Be Recognized: Portraits of 30 Same-Sex Couples.” The exhibition opened August 3 and will run through September at the LGBT Center, 1456 Junction Avenue in Uptown Racine.
In 2006, voters in the state of Wisconsin approved an amendment to the state constitution banning legal recognition of same-sex unions: “Only a marriage between one man and one woman shall be valid or recognized as a marriage in this state. A legal status identical or substantially similar to that of marriage for unmarried individuals shall not be valid or recognized in this state.”
“The battleground surrounding legal recognition for same-sex people in committed and often long-term relationships has been grabbing headlines from coast to coast,” LGBT Center Director Dr. Bruce Joffe said. “Lost in the debate, however, have been the voices of same-sex couples, themselves.”
Created by photographer Jeff Pearcy and author Will Fellows, “Shall Not Be Recognized” features compelling portraits of 30 local couples whose love and commitment to each other are considered by some to be unworthy of recognition.
The exhibit is funded, in part, by a special grant from the Racine Arts Council. More information can be found on the Center’s website at: www.lgbtsewisc.org.
Benefit Talent Show At NAGAAAFest September 2
Milwaukee - SSBL will sponsor its 20th Annual Talent Show during the NAGAAAFest World Series week on Wednesday, September 2 at 8 PM at the Pabst Theatre, 144 E Wells St. Special guests at the event will be Mimi Marks, returning to Milwaukee as the #1 Female Impersonator, and Ginger Grant from the Baton Lounge in Chicago. Emceeing the event will be co-hosts Bubba D Liscious, Selma Sue and Dear Ruthie.
The talent show will benefit local AIDS charities. In 25 events over the last twenty years, SSBL has raised over $175,000 for these charities.
Madison Gay Hockey Recruiting New Members
Madison - Recruiting for the Madison Gay Hockey Association (MGHA) recruiting has begun. The league is currently accepting new player interest forms for the 2009-2010 hockey season. MGHA will officially kickoff the season with a skills clinic designed for new players on Sunday, September 13. The first official game night will be Sunday, October 18.
The Madison Gay Hockey Association is an adult developmental ice hockey league for members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning and Allied (LGBTQA) community. MGHA provides opportunities to learn and teach ice hockey in a safe, supportive and fun environment. The Association aspires to the highest standards of sportsmanship and promote integration within the LGBTQA and wider Madison Communities.
For more information about the MGHA, visit the association’s website at: www.madisongayhockey.org
Madison - Thirteen months after Madison’s last “back to basics” pride event drew just hundreds, organizers of the new Wisconsin Capitol Pride hope to rejuvenate the city’s gay pride with a two-day series of events that mimics the former MAGIC picnic and Madison
Pride
in their scope, and comes just weeks after the first significant LGBT
community political and cultural victory - the establishment of a
statewide same-sex domestic partnership registry.The festival kicks off at 2 PM Saturday, August 15 at the Alliant Energy Center on Willow Island and offers two stages of entertainment. Following the 3 PM Welcome ceremony, main stage attractions will include the Ms. WCP Presentation at 3:45, and a Latino drag show at 4 PM. Singer Ann Christopher follows at 5 PM and Madison’s gay choral group Perfect Harmony takes the stage at 6.
The gay “Texas-BBQ flavored” humor of nationally-known lesbian comedian Vickie Shaw at 7 PM has been billed at the festival’s headline event. However, Madison’s chart-topping home town rappers God-Des & She may challenge the comic with an evening-ending concert at 8 PM.
The Dance Stage will offer DJs from 2-5:30 PM and after 6:30 along with two special events: “Dancing with The Queens” at 5 PM and an hour-long drag show beginning at 5:30.
Following the 1 PM pride parade around the Capitol Square, Wisconsin Capitol Pride will again offer two stages of entertainment. On the Main Stage menu is a 2:45 PM magic show, followed by a drag show at 3:30. Entertainers Lynette’s Enchanted, Earthling Invasion and the Kingtown Rockers will each follow with shows between 4:30 and 6 PM. The Dance Stage will offer family dancing and sing-a-longs throughout the afternoon.
In addition to entertainment, vendors and organizations will be offering merchandise and information both days at the festival. Area bars, including Club 5, Woof’s and the recently-opened Plan B are also offering events on days before, during and after the pride festival.
Full details about Wisconsin Capitol Pride, the pride parade and ancillary events can be found on the festival’s website: www.wisconsincapitolpride.org
Chippewa Valley LGBT Community Center Sets Pride Events
Eau Claire - The LGBT Center of the Chippewa Valley has announced several events that will occur during the Chippewa Valley Pride 2009.
On Friday, August 14 from 7-10 PM, the Community Center will hold an open house featuring tours, free food and prizes given away each half hour. There is no
admission
charge. Also on Friday, August 14 from 7-9 PM. free confidential rapid
HIV testing will be offered. ARCW-Eau Claire prevention specialist Erin
McLaughlin will conduct the tests. For more information, contact Erin
by phone at: 715-836-7710, Ext 110.On Saturday, August 15, from 11 AM - %PM it’s the main event of the weekend: the Chippewa Valley Pride Picnic at the Riverview Island Pavilion. Share your LGBT Pride with the community. Food (including vegetarian options), beverages, volleyball, paddle boat rides, vendors, LGBT organizational exhibits and fun are on the “gay agenda.”
Following the picnic on Saturday evening the Center’s popular Saturday Night At The Movies offers a movie marathon. Doors are set to open at 6:45 PM, with movies showing at 7 and 9 PM respectively. On the August 15 bill are “Saved” and “Latter Days.”
“Saved” is the story of the fanatic and wealthy Hilary Faye and Mary. The girls are best friends, but their friendship ends when Mary gets pregnant, after having sex with her gay boy-friend trying to “save” him. In “Latter Days,” a promiscuous gay party animal falls for a young Mormon missionary, leading to crisis, cliché, and catastrophe.
Discussion to follow the movie for those interested. Admission & popcorn are free. Beverages and movie snacks are also available to purchase.
On Sunday, August 16, the Center will sponsor an Ice Cream Social and Pontoon Boat Ride. Come and have fun on the Chippewa River by enjoying a refreshing sundae followed with an hour long pontoon boat ride on the river. Cost is $10 per person or $100 to reserve the boat for you and up to nine of your friends. All funds go to support the LGBT Community Center. Reservations are required.
Three cruises will be offered: Participants for the first cruise should arrive between Noon and 12:20 PM for ice cream social in the yard. The boat will depart at 12:45 PM and return at 1:45. the second and third cruises will follow a similar schedule and begin at 2 and 4 PM respectively.
The 4 PM cruise has already sold out. To place a reservation for one of the earlier cruises, send an email to: lgbtcommunitycenter@yahoo.com or call 715-552-LGBT. Please state the number of tickets needed and state shift preferences. Directions to the event and all other pertinent information are sent with reservation confirmations.
La Crosse Pride Fest To Run August 22
La Crosse - La Crosse’s annual Pride Fest will be held on Saturday, August 22 at the Southside Oktoberfest grounds in downtown La Crosse at the corner of La Crosse and Second Streets. This year’s theme is “Your Rights, Our Rights, Human Rights.”
Admission to the festival will be by an admission button. Buttons are now on sale for $5 each and will be available for $7 at the gate on the day of the event. Children 12 and under are free.
The day-long festivities will begin with the 3rd Annual Motorcycle Pride Ride. Registration for the ride begins at 10 AM Saturday morning at the festival grounds.
The festival officially will open at Noon. Activities will include sales and information booths, a free children’s activities area, karaoke, a talent show put on by GALAXY youth, an Euchre tournament and food and beverage sales. The evening’s entertainment will feature Alisha Leafgreen with AJent Orange, Ronnie Nyles & Tina, and “A Show of Hometown Pride” drag show featuring the show cast of Illusions. For more information, visit the La Crosse Pride Fest website at: www.lacrossepride.us Information is also available by contact the festival by email at: pride@7riverslgbt.org or by phone at: 608-784-0452.
Milwaukee’s Queer Program Announces August Guests
Milwaukee - Meighan Bentz, program coordinator for the Anti-Violence Program (Victim Advocate Outreach) at the Milwaukee LGBT COmmunity Center, will be a guest on The Queer Program, on MIlwaukee Time-Warner Cable Channel 96 on Monday, August 17, from 6:30-7:30 PM. Meighan will discuss the recent National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP) 2008 Hate Violence Report and Milwaukee’s 64% increase in violence reports from 2007.
Rev, Wendy Woodruff, Senior Pastor at MIlwaukee Metropolitan Community Church, will appear as a guest on Monday, August 24th.
The Queer Program has been heightening the visibility of Milwaukee & Wisconsin’s queer communities since October, 1992 on Milwaukee Community Media (MCM) Time Warner Cable public access Channel 96. The Queer Program, co-hosted by Michael Lisowski and Infamous D, broadcasts live on Mondays at 6:30 PM and replays Fridays at midnight and Saturdays at 10 PM. The Queer Program is produced by Gay People’s Union. Funding is provided by Gay People’s Union & The G/L Community Trust. Past support has also come from Cream City Foundation.
Want to be a guest for your 15 minutes of fame? Promote your event or organization? Have an event you’d like us to cover? Please contact The Queer Program by email at: queerprgrm@aol.com, by U. S. mail at: PO Box 090441, Milwaukee, WI 53209, or by phone at: 414-265-8500.
Art Show Offers Portraits of Wisconsin Same-Sex Couples
Racine - With the registration of domestic partnerships becoming the law throughout Wisconsin recently, it is appropriate that the LGBT Center of SE Wisconsin unveiled its newest gallery exhibition, “Shall Not Be Recognized: Portraits of 30 Same-Sex Couples.” The exhibition opened August 3 and will run through September at the LGBT Center, 1456 Junction Avenue in Uptown Racine.
In 2006, voters in the state of Wisconsin approved an amendment to the state constitution banning legal recognition of same-sex unions: “Only a marriage between one man and one woman shall be valid or recognized as a marriage in this state. A legal status identical or substantially similar to that of marriage for unmarried individuals shall not be valid or recognized in this state.”
“The battleground surrounding legal recognition for same-sex people in committed and often long-term relationships has been grabbing headlines from coast to coast,” LGBT Center Director Dr. Bruce Joffe said. “Lost in the debate, however, have been the voices of same-sex couples, themselves.”
Created by photographer Jeff Pearcy and author Will Fellows, “Shall Not Be Recognized” features compelling portraits of 30 local couples whose love and commitment to each other are considered by some to be unworthy of recognition.
The exhibit is funded, in part, by a special grant from the Racine Arts Council. More information can be found on the Center’s website at: www.lgbtsewisc.org.
Benefit Talent Show At NAGAAAFest September 2
Milwaukee - SSBL will sponsor its 20th Annual Talent Show during the NAGAAAFest World Series week on Wednesday, September 2 at 8 PM at the Pabst Theatre, 144 E Wells St. Special guests at the event will be Mimi Marks, returning to Milwaukee as the #1 Female Impersonator, and Ginger Grant from the Baton Lounge in Chicago. Emceeing the event will be co-hosts Bubba D Liscious, Selma Sue and Dear Ruthie.
The talent show will benefit local AIDS charities. In 25 events over the last twenty years, SSBL has raised over $175,000 for these charities.
Madison Gay Hockey Recruiting New Members
Madison - Recruiting for the Madison Gay Hockey Association (MGHA) recruiting has begun. The league is currently accepting new player interest forms for the 2009-2010 hockey season. MGHA will officially kickoff the season with a skills clinic designed for new players on Sunday, September 13. The first official game night will be Sunday, October 18.
The Madison Gay Hockey Association is an adult developmental ice hockey league for members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning and Allied (LGBTQA) community. MGHA provides opportunities to learn and teach ice hockey in a safe, supportive and fun environment. The Association aspires to the highest standards of sportsmanship and promote integration within the LGBTQA and wider Madison Communities.
For more information about the MGHA, visit the association’s website at: www.madisongayhockey.org