"Come On Out" By Sugarbeach

“Come on Out” the new single from Sugarbeach written for the Vancouver 2011 Outgames, with it’s energetic, pop/rock feel will be empowering people to join in on every level.

“We wanted to write a song that would capture the energy, spirit and importance of being an active participator in the Vancouver Outgames/Human Rights Conference and in one’s own life” says Marlee Walchuk, one half of the dynamic duo.

Barb Snelgrove, Media Director of the Vancouver 2011 Outgames states, “We are ecstatic about the tune that Sugarbeach has created for the Games, it truly represents the spirit of the Outgames and we are honored that they are part of this very special event”.

So the message is clear, “You’re better than you think/ stronger than you know/ time to stretch those wings/ you gotta go Come on Out and Play”


Listen To The Song Here

Frank Praises Israeli Prime Minister for Opposing Anti-Gay Policies

Congressman Barney Frank today released the following statement in reaction to a speech by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to a joint session of Congress on May 24th.  Frank expressed his “appreciation for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu becoming the first foreign leader in history to express opposition to anti-gay public policies from the rostrum of the U.S. House of Representatives.”

“In his speech to the joint session of Congress on Tuesday, May 24th, Prime Minister Netanyahu noted the contrast between Israel’s treatment of gay people and the harsh treatment they receive in most of the Arab world.  He appropriately noted the difference on many basic human rights issues between Israeli law, which supports these rights, and the anti-human rights approach unfortunately taken in much of the Arab world.  I am particularly grateful to him for including the treatment of gay people as an example of this difference.” 

“Indeed, during the debate on repeal of the unfair and damaging ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ policy, I noted on the floor in defense of repeal the fact that the Israeli Defense Forces, as effective a military as exists in the world, has not allowed any discrimination based on sexual orientation in its ranks.  It is of course not appropriate for foreign leaders to comment on matters of internal American policy, but it was entirely legitimate for the Prime Minister of a nation that is strongly supportive of fair treatment for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people to note this as a point in his country’s favor, as opposed to the policies of its most dedicated enemies, in appealing for support from the American public, and specifically the American Congress.  This affirmation of the importance of fair treatment for gay people is especially welcome because it is the first time any foreign leader has ever done this to a joint session of Congress.”

WORLD SCIENCE FESTIVAL EXPLORES SCIENCE OF SEXUALITY

What compelled Chaz Bono to cross the gender line?  Why does homosexuality defy evolution’s dictate for reproduction?  And how does sexual orientation develop, anyway?  Whether curious about the neurological process of arousal, or inquisitive about why humans have sex for reasons other than procreation, the World Science Festival’s first R-rated program can satisfy the desire for knowledge.

“The Origins of Orientation: Sexuality in 2011” on Sat. June 4 at 8 p.m. in New York City is an up-to-the-minute look at the latest research on sex, sexuality and gender. Despite playing a profound role in shaping identity for much of human history, the secrets of sexuality and gender have remained obscure.  Four noted scientists (in psychology, neurobiology and behavioral neuroscience) will lead an explicit and eye-opening discussion on the latest sex and gender research including:

·        the impact of hormones on a developing fetus;
·        the evolution of lesbian Macaque monkeys in Japan;
·        the Samoa fa’afafine culture in which biological males live “in the manner of women”;
·        and the current state of drugs designed to treat sexual arousal and desire disorders.

Find out more about the panelists here: http://worldsciencefestival.com/events/sexuality.  Panelists are available to talk about the program in advance; reservations for press seats are now being taken.  For interviews and RSVPs, contact media@worldsciencefestival.com or call Goodman Media International at 212-576-2700.

“The Origins of Orientation” is part of the 2011 World Science Festival, a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to making science accessible to all.  For details about all World Science Festival events from June 1-5 in New York, visit www.worldsciencefestival.com.

Governor Brown Issues Proclamation Declaring "Harvey Milk Day"

Governor Edmund G. Brown, Jr. today issued a proclamation declaring May 22, 2011, as “Harvey Milk Day" in the State of California.

The text of the proclamation is below:

PROCLAMATION BY THE GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA

In 1977, Harvey Milk was elected to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, becoming the first openly gay man in the history of the United States to be elected to public office.  This milestone achievement gave hope to millions of gays and lesbians across the country that a day would come when they could live their lives openly and honestly without fear of discrimination.

As a Supervisor, Harvey worked with others to secure passage of San Francisco’s landmark Gay Rights Ordinance. This ordinance extended employment protections to gays and lesbians in San Francisco, and it became a model for anti-discrimination legislation throughout California and the nation.

In 1978, Harvey traversed the State to campaign against Proposition 6, which was known as the Briggs Initiative.  Had it passed, Proposition 6 would have required California school districts to fire openly gay and lesbian teachers solely because of their sexual orientation.  The proposition was defeated in the November 1978 election in part because Harvey successfully appealed to Californians’ basic sense of fairness.

A few weeks after the election, Harvey and San Francisco Mayor George Moscone were shot and killed in San Francisco City Hall by a former member of the Board of Supervisors.  The tragedy and its aftermath helped further propel the burgeoning gay and lesbian civil rights movement.

Harvey’s life was cut short far too soon, but his legacy of hope, tolerance, and equality lives on.

NOW THEREFORE I, EDMUND G. BROWN JR., Governor of the State of California, do hereby proclaim May 22, 2011 as “Harvey Milk Day” in the State of California.  I call on all Californians to observe the 81st anniversary of Harvey Milk’s birth with appropriate ceremonies and activities.


IN WITNESS WHEREOF I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of California to be affixed this 19th day of May 2011.


___________________________________
EDMUND G. BROWN JR.
Governor of California

Fran Drescher's New Gay Comedy Is Hillarious!

 I just viewed Fran Drescher's new pilot, "Happily Divorced" and as usual, Fran and her cast are hysterically funny.

“Happily Divorced” is inspired by Fran Drescher’s real life experience and follows Los Angeles florist Fran (played by Drescher) whose 18-year marriage ends suddenly when her husband Peter (John Michael Higgins - “Best in Show,” “A Mighty Wind”) announces he’s gay.  And if that weren’t enough, he can’t afford to move out.  They figured out how to be "Happily Divorced," but her being single and his being gay, while living under one roof, is a whole other story.  The series also features Fran’s best friend Judi (Tichina Arnold), her parents Dori and Glen (Rita Moreno and Robert Walden) and her flower delivery employee Cesar (Valente Rodriguez).

"Happily Divorced" premieres on June 15, 2011 at 10:30PM ET/PT on TV Land immediately following “Hot in Cleveland.”

Record Number of Fans Watch GLSEN, Ad Council and NBA PSA on Anti-Gay Language among Teens

New TV Spot Featuring Phoenix Suns’ Grant Hill and Jared Dudley Premiered Sunday to 11 Million Viewers

Watch PSA here behind the scenes footage below.

A record number of NBA fans watched a public service advertisement (PSA) featuring Phoenix Suns stars Grant Hill and Jared Dudley on Sunday, when Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals was the most viewed NBA game in cable history. The PSA is a joint venture between GLSEN, the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network, the Ad Council and the National Basketball Association (NBA) to support the Think Before You Speak campaign to address the use of anti-gay language among teens.

Coupon Book for GLBT Friendly Businesses Unveils at Denver PrideFest

PocketPaiges, a discounted guide to all things gay Denver, announced that it will launch its first coupon book during Denver PrideFest (June 18 and 19) at Civic Center Park.

“With so many online discount services today, we are providing a pocket-size book of coupons from GLBT friendly businesses,” said Owner Paige O’Hanlon.

Published quarterly, PocketPaiges is a new way businesses can market to the GLBT community.  With 20,000 copies distributed each issue, the book includes offers and specials targeted to the specific tastes and interests of the Colorado GLBT community.

“Our vision is to start in Colorado and expand nationally into other major cities,” finished O’Hanlon.  “With its large gay community and inclusive environment, Denver is the ideal city to launch PocketPaiges.”

A U.S. Army combat veteran, O’Hanlon is a proud member of the GLBT community and lives with her fiancée, Jennifer, and three children in Denver.

The advertising deadline is May 27; inaugural issue advertisers can take advantage of a 50% off special. To learn more, visit www.PocketPaiges.com.

Don Lemon of CNN Comes Out

 Official statement from Don Lemon of CNN:

“Today I chose to step out on faith and begin openly living my own truth. And let me say right up front that I hope many of you will be inspired to do the same thing in your daily lives. Some of the things I’ve chosen to reveal in my book Transparent were very difficult to share with even those closest to me.

There was a time when I was terrified of revealing these things to the person I love most in this world - my own mother. But when I finally mustered the courage to tell her that I had been molested as a child and that I was born gay, my life began to change in positive ways that I never imagined possible. Yet I still chose to keep those secrets hidden from the world. I, like most gay people, lived a life of fear. Fear that if some employers, co-workers, friends, neighbors and family members learned of my sexuality, I would be shunned, mocked and ostracized. It is a burden that millions of people carry with them every single day. And sadly, while the mockery and ostracizing are realized by millions of people every day, I truly believe it doesn’t have to happen and that’s why I feel compelled to share what I’ve written in Transparent.

As a journalist I believe that part of my mission is to shed light onto dark places. So, the disclosure of this information does not inhibit in any way my ability to be the professional, fair and objective journalist I have always been.

My book is dedicated to the memory of Rutgers University student Tyler Clementi, who jumped to his death from a bridge after his dorm mates streamed his private business over the Internet for the world to see. Tyler might still be with us today if more gay men and women had chosen to live proudly and openly. It is also dedicated to the millions of young, gay people who believe they are alone when dealing with their own sexual identities. You are not alone! There are people, like me and many others, who are thriving in their personal and professional lives and although we sometimes have a hard time with it ourselves, we are here to show you by example that you too can overcome any obstacle as long as you stay strong and, most of all, stay alive.”

With love and honesty,

Don Lemon
May 16, 2011

LGBT Travelers: Enter To Win A Trip To Cozumel, Mexico

For the entire month of May, Queertrip.com will be running a "Sweetstakes" sweepstakes where one lucky winner will win a free all inclusive vacation for 2 to Cozumel, Mexico at the Palace Resort on September 1 - 8, 2012 with Sweet.

Sweet takes lesbians on fabulous, affordable vacations all over the world where they combine debauchery and do-goodery for loads of meaningful glee.

Enter today for your chance to win. Once you've signed up and entered the "Sweetstakes", you will have the opportunity to invite friends to enter. For every friend that you invite that enters our sweepstakes, you will earn an extra entry. Limit 6 per day.

In addition to the grand prize, there are gift certificates in the amounts of $50 and $25 valid for use with Queertrip.com towards your next trip.

To enter, click here.

At Queertrip.com, it's the way you travel!

Navy Weddings Comes and Goes......

 "Opponents of equal rights for LGBT people scored a temporary victory yesterday when they successfully pressured the Navy to suspend plans to allow chaplains to perform marriages for same-sex couples, when allowed by state law, in military chapels.  Gay and lesbian tax dollars sustain the salaries of military chaplains and the upkeep of military chapels, but the politics of the moment overwhelmed the Navy's assessment of its own best interests.

The head chaplain of the U.S. Navy told his clergy in a memo that same-sex weddings will be allowed to be performed on naval bases.

An April 13 memo from Adm. Mark Tidd gave chaplains the green light to marry homosexual couples or perform civil-union ceremonies at Navy installations once the ban on homosexuals in the military is lifted.

"Consistent with the tenets of his or her religious organization, a chaplain may officiate a same-sex, civil marriage: if it is conducted in accordance with a state that permits same-sex marriage or union," said the memo.

The Navy Times reported Tuesday the only caveat is the chaplain must be authorized to conduct wedding ceremonies by the state where the knot is being tied.

A Navy spokeswoman told the Times chaplains will not be obligated to marry gay couples if it conflicts with their particular faith.

Some conservatives, however, contended Tidd's memo clashed with the federal Defense of Marriage Act, which limits nuptials to heterosexual couples.

"While a state may legalize same-sex marriage, federal property and federal employees, like Navy chaplains, should not be used to perform marriages that are not recognized by federal law," said Rep. Todd Akin, R-Mo., chairman of the House Armed Services sea power subcommittee.

Interview With Scott Gatz, New Owner of Queerty

Scott Gatz, CEO of Gaycities.com has plans to acquire the assets of Queerty.com after the previous owner, David Hauslaib shut it down following disagreements with the site's contracted operators. Scott discusses with Echelon how it all came about and what we can look forward to on the new Queerty.

How did your acquisition of Queerty come about?

We were all avid readers of Queerty here at GayCities, and we were saddened to see the site shuttered. As soon as we heard that Queerty was going to close (Sunday, April 17), I reached out to David Hauslib (the founder of Jossip Initiatives, the owner of Queerty) to see if there was any way to keep it going. After about a week of conversation, GayCities offered to buy certain assets of Queerty, David quickly agreed, and we started planning for it's relaunch which is happening today.

What was the impetus for acquiring the site?

As a company, GayCities brings together a community of people to connect and share the best of what's happening everywhere. While the GayCities site and mobile apps focus on the people, places and events in your town and site, Queerty will allow us to cover the whole spectrum of gay life.    Queerty comes with a thriving and engaged community which pairs nicely with GayCities' own community. And, from a business side, the combination of GayCities and Queerty reaches well over 1 million monthly visitors which is attractive to businesses who support the site's operations through advertising.

What will this mean for gaycities?

GayCities is going full steam ahead. GayCities has been hitting record traffic levels in the last few weeks. We expect to share GayCities content on Queerty and introduce Queerty's users to all the great stuff that GayCities has to offer. From a business side, GayCities sales team will be able to sell more comprehensive advertising deals across both sites and audiences.


Will you be making any changes to queerty? if so, how?

We're dedicated to maintaining the original, creative and entertaining voice of Queerty. We will be bringing back some of Queerty's top writers and adding some new voices and editorial features as well. We'll build upon today's Queerty, using GayCities' expertise in social experiences and user generated content. Chris Bull, our Editorial Director, and his content team have make GayCities the place that has entertaining, reliable, accurate, up-to-date info about cities worldwide. Now he'll apply his expertise to Queerty's content to make it the place for LGBTs to turn. We’re also bringing back key Queerty writers including Daniel Villareal, who will post daily from Dallas, while adding a bunch of our own stars such as Matt Baume, Dan Tracer, Oscar Raymundo, Dan Renzi, Scott Wallis, Jeff Katz and GayCities New York City editor Jeffrey James Keyes.


Some say that this business model is now growing outdated. do you agree? If not why?

There’s always a place for unique voices on the internet and Queerty’s voice has enabled it to grow at a time when other media are in decline or closing.   Both GayCities and Queerty are creating vibrant online and mobile communities.  We see these communities as the future of the internet and mobile technologies. 

From a business perspective, we can help advertisers reach a valuable demographic.    LGBT consumers have over $800 billion spending power and we are often more loyal and we often spend more than our straight counterparts.    GayCities & Queerty will help advertisers reach over 1,000,000 unique visitors each month.