Volume #3 Issue #8/ August, 2013

from telegraph.co.uk POPE FRANCIS REACHES OUT TO GAYS Pope Francis appears to have softened the Catholic Church’s attitude towards homosexuality and gay priests, in a remarkably candid interview given to journalists aboard the papal plane as he returned to Rome from his week-long trip to Brazil. by Nick Squires, Rio de Janeiro

In the first press conference of his four month papacy, the 76-year-old pontiff said it was not for him to judge if someone was homosexual. “If someone is gay and he searches for the Lord and has good will, who am I to judge?” Francis asked, as he returned from the first overseas trip since being elected Pope in March.

He said there should be no discrimination against gays, but also reaffirmed the Catholic Church’s universal catechism, which says that while homosexual orientation is not sinful, homosexual acts are. He was much more conciliatory than his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI, who signed a document in 2005 that said men with deep-rooted homosexual tendencies should not be priests. Cont’d on page 2 Page 2

POPE FRANCES Cont’d from page 1

The Pope was asked about long-standing claims that there is a powerful “gay lobby” within the Vatican. In June, he himself acknowledged that such a lobby existed in the Curia, the Vatican’s secretive administration. On the plane, he said the gay lobby was a problem — not so much because the people involved were homosexual, but because of the machinations that they got up to within the Vatican. “The problem is not having this orientation. The problem is lobbying by this orientation, or lobbies of greedy people, political lobbies, Masonic lobbies, so many lobbies. This is the worst problem,” he said.

He was quizzed specifically on claims that one of his trusted confidantes, a priest appointed to oversee the reform of the scandal- ridden Vatican bank, had had a series of homosexual trysts while serving as a Vatican diplomat in Uruguay and Switzerland a decade ago. The 57-year-old monsignor, who had a 15-year career as a Vatican diplomat, allegedly shocked fellow priests and nuns at the Holy See’s embassy in Montevideo by having a homosexual affair with a captain in the Swiss army, whom he had met during an earlier posting to Berne.

The Pope said he had investigated the allegations but had found nothing to back them up. He had ordered a “brief investigation but we found nothing on him,” he said during a wide-ranging question and answer session lasting nearly an hour and a half. “I have not seen anyone at the Vatican who is registered as gay on his identity card. We acknowledge that there are (gays),” he said.

There have long been claims that many clergy within the Vatican are gay. In 2011 an Italian investigative journalist, Carmelo Abbate, spent months undercover documenting a “hidden world” in which gay priests of many different nationalities visit nightclubs in Rome and pay for sex with male escorts. Abbate said there was “a culture of 'omerta’ (silence)” about the issue in his book, “Sex and the Vatican: a secret journey in the reign of the chaste.”

The book developed from an investigation conducted by Abbate in which he

used hidden cameras to film three priests attending gay nightspots in Rome and having casual sex, before donning their cassocks the next day and holding church services.

On corruption in the Holy See, the Pope referred specifically to Msgr Nunzio Scarano, a Vatican priest who has been jailed in Rome on suspicion of plotting to smuggle 20 million euros on board a private plane from Switzerland into Italy. “There are many people (in the Vatican) who are saints but there are those who are not very saintly ... and it pains me when this happens. There is this monsignor in jail. He didn’t go to jail because he resembled a saint ... these are scandals that do damage,” he said.

Msgr Scarano is alleged to have been laundering money through at least two accounts at the Vatican bank, which Francis has vowed to reform and make more transparent. The Argentinian Pope said the bank, known as the Institute Msgr Nunzio Scarano for the Works of Religion, must become “honest and transparent”. Cont’d on page 3 Page 3

POPE FRANCES Cont’d from page 2

On other key issues, the Pope said that women should be given a bigger role in the Catholic Church but refused to consider their ordination, saying the “door is closed” on the issue.

He also declined to change the Vatican’s opposition to gay marriage and abortion, saying “you know perfectly the position of the Church”.

He also showed his lighter side, making a joke when asked what he carried in a black leather bag that he carried up the steps of the Alitalia flight when he departed Rome for Rio de Janeiro last week. “The key to the atom bomb is not inside it!” he said. Instead it contained a diary, a book to read and a razor. He said he found it extraordinary that the photo of him carrying his own hand luggage had made news around the world. “I always travel with this travel bag, it’s normal.”

Asked what it was like to have another pontiff, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, living within the walls of the Vatican, a few minutes’ walk from his residence, he said it was “like having a grandfather – a wise grandfather – living at home”.

“The last time there were two or three Popes, they didn’t talk among themselves and they fought over who was the true Pope!” he said, referring to historic schisms between popes and challengers.

Although he appeared physically robust and remarkably energetic on the week-long trip to Brazil, he said he had hurt his sciatic nerve after using a bad chair in the first month after his election.”It was so painful. So painful! I wouldn’t wish it on anyone.”

He said his week-long trip to Brazil left him very tired but “did me a lot of spiritual good”.

He said he did not want to be surrounded by 'yes’ men and preferred his aides to challenge him. “I like it when someone tells me ’I don’t agree’. This is a true collaborator. When they say ’Oh, how great, how great, how great,’ that’s not useful.”

from towleroad.com PAT ROBERTSON ADMITS BEING TRANS IS TRUE AND NOT A SIN

Towleroad readers know that Pat Robertson isn't exactly known for his tolerance or open-mindedness. On the contrary, he has an extensive history of making ignorant and homophobic remarks. However, in a recent "Bring It On-Line" Q&A segment on his show, Robertson made an admission that many may find shocking.

The question came from a viewer named "David", who asked:

"I work with two people who have decided that they are females. I know what the bible says about homosexuality, but is it wrong to refer to them as females since they have had their gender status changed in the eyes of the law?" Cont’d on page 4

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PAT ROBERTSON Cont’d from page 3

Robertson's reply, in short: no. While he did call the process of transitioning "drastic" and "radical", and said that he would "question the validity" of anyone who would come out to him as trans, Robertson did admit that "there are men who are in a woman's body. It's very rare, but it's true...or a women that are in men's bodies." Such an admission from the likes of Pat Robertson would already be considered a victory. However, he also added that "I don't think there's any sin associated with that. I don't condemn somebody for doing that," before concluding that "it's not for you to decide or to judge."

Imagine that, a televangelist televising a message of (relative) tolerance.

From latinpost.com and dailymail.co.uk CARLOS VIGIL SUICIDE: TEEN TAKES OWN LIFE AFTER BULLYING, TWEETS 'I AM A LOSER, A FREAK, AND A FAG' by Stefan Lopez and Jim Reilly

Tragedy has struck Los Lunas High School in New Mexico as bullying resulted in one 17-year-old's suicide. The messages he left before his death have given those who knew Carlos Vigil insight into just how much pain he was in before he decided to take his own life.

"I'm sorry to those I offended over the years. I'm blind to see that I, as a human being, suck. I'm an individual who is doing an injustice to the world and it's time for me to leave," read a post on Vigil's Twitter account, continuing: "The kids in school are right, I am a loser, a freak, and a fag and in no way is that acceptable for people to deal with. I'm sorry for not being a person that would make people proud."

Dozens of classmates showed up at the hospital where Carlos was on life support. They said that he had just returned from a trip out of state to North Carolina where he had spoken out against school bullying. His father said he had just returned from North Carolina where he was lobbying an anti-bullying bill in their state legislature. Apparently, the reception he got on his trip was far from hospitable, and mere hours after he returned, Vigil killed himself via a still- undisclosed method. “Carlos wanted to be accepted by all, when he only needed to be accepted by himself,'”said Mr Vigil.

Carlos was going to be a senior at Valley High — a school he transferred to last year to escape bullying at Los Lunas High School. His father Ray Vigil said his son had been teased for a variety of reasons including being gay, having acne and wearing glasses. “We found out three years ago that he was going through this stuff and we've been trying to help him every day since,” Mr Vigil told KOB News. “We realize he's been going through it every day since he was in the third grade, that's a long time for a child to hold that within himself.”

His mom said it started when he was at least 8 years old. “He had this lunchbox, a smiley face lunchbox, and people thought it was the funniest lunchbox ever, and they made fun of him for it,” Jacqueline said. “They grabbed it on the school bus and just threw it on the floor and broke it. It's just little things like that.”Cont’d on page 5 Ray Vigil

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CARLOS VIGIL Cont’d from page 4

Vigil's father said that he came home as soon as he saw the post that his son had made on Twitter. Unfortunately, by that point in time it was too late for anything to be done. His family took Carlos off of life support late Sunday evening. So far they are using this tragedy as an opportunity to spread Carlos' message.

"Carlos is finally at peace! Thank you everyone for your support and prayers. Please don't forget what he wanted STOP THE BULLYING," read a tweet on his Twitter account early this morning that was written by his family.

from abqjournal.com AG: COURT SHOULD ALLOW GAY NUPTIALS by Barry Massey

New Mexico Attorney General Gary King told the state’s highest court Monday that a prohibition on same-sex marriage is unconstitutional. In written arguments filed with the court, King said the justices should invalidate the state’s ban on gay marriage if they agree to resolve the issue in a lawsuit filed by two Santa Fe men who were denied a marriage license.

King, a Democrat who plans to run for governor next year against Republican Gov. Susana Martinez, said New Mexico law effectively doesn’t allow gay marriages although there’s no statutory provision that specifically prohibits, or authorizes, gay couples to be married. “New Mexico’s guarantee of equal protection to its citizens demands that same-sex couples be permitted to enjoy the benefits of marriage in the same way and to the same extent as other New Mexico citizens,” King said in the filing.

The five-member court had asked King’s office to respond to the lawsuit. No hearing has been scheduled in the case.

The lawsuit asks the court to order Santa Fe County Clerk Geraldine Salazar to issue the two men – Alexander Hanna and Von Hudson – a marriage license. It was filed directly with the justices to try to get a speedy decision. However, the court could decide that the case should be handled differently and has to work its way through the legal system as an appeal from a lower court ruling. Cont’d on page 6

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ALLOW GAY NUPTIALS Cont’d from page 5

Yes and No

Despite urging the justices to strike down a gay marriage prohibition, King also said in his filing that the lawsuit wasn’t properly before the high court and, therefore, the justices should deny the men’s request to order the Santa Fe County clerk to issue them a marriage license. King and a lawyer for the county clerk argued that the Supreme Court doesn’t have the power to issue such an order involving a county official – only Gary King state officers, boards and commissions.

King said that if the court granted the request by the Santa Fe couple it would set a precedent that could overload the justices with requests for similar orders “concerning any dispute a party has with any local or county official,” such as county tax assessment protests and local zoning disputes.

King’s office last month issued a nonbinding legal analysis that said New Mexico doesn’t allow same-sex marriages but that the law was vulnerable to a constitutional challenge.

The lawsuit contends that denying marriage licenses to same-sex couples violates the New Mexico Constitution, including its Equal Rights Amendment, which prohibits gender-based discrimination, and provisions that guarantee due process and equal protection under the law.

After the Santa Fe men brought their case, the American Civil Liberties Union and others filed a similar lawsuit with the Supreme Court on behalf of six same-sex couples. That case also asks the justices to decide whether New Mexico recognizes same-sex marriages from other states.

Also Monday, Santa Fe city government filed an amicus brief arguing that the Supreme Court should hold that same-sex marriage is legal in New Mexico. City Attorney Geno Zamora had previously provided the Santa Fe City Council with an opinion maintain gay marriage is already legal under state statutes and the equal rights provisions of the state Constitution. from alibi.com BACK OF THE BUS Shuttle driver deems same-sex hand-holding “inappropriate” by Barron Jones

In June, the U.S. Supreme Court handed down its historic decisions overturning the Defense of Marriage Act and reinstating a California court ruling against Proposition 8. All across the nation—and right here in Albuquerque—the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community and its allies received the news enthusiastically. The widely anticipated ruling signaled the public’s growing acceptance of LGBT rights and came just days before many citizens took to the streets to celebrate gay pride. Cont’d on page 7

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BACK OF THE BUS Cont’d from page 6

That is one of the reasons a same-sex couple visiting Albuquerque was surprised at the treatment they said they received by an airport shuttle-bus operator, just two days after the historic ruling. Ronald McCoy and his partner of seven years, Christopher Bowers, said the driver ordered them to the back of the bus because they were holding hands. McCoy noted he's always had to deal with homophobia and ignorance, but in this case, the source of the bigotry is cause for alarm.

“I’ve had people call me faggot. I’ve had people tell me that they hope I catch AIDS and die, but the difference was those were individuals being jerks and expressing their own bigoted, biased hate. But this was a guy operating a shuttle on behalf of the city of Albuquerque,” McCoy said.

Bill Alberti is the manager of Standard Parking, the company that operates the shuttle. He said a driver has the right to ask a customer to move if they are unruly and causing a disturbance. But even this is done with the utmost courtesy and only to promote safety for both the passengers and the driver, he said. “From what I understand, those people were just holding hands and he [the driver] just got off on the wrong foot,” Alberti said. “On an issue like this, I think he overstepped a little bit.” He added that to ensure this unfortunate incident isn’t repeated, the company will be conducting additional sensitivity and non-harassment training for all its employees.

City of Albuquerque aviation spokesman Daniel Jiron said this is the first complaint the city has received from several million customers the company has transported in the past 12 years. “This is something that absolutely should not have happened. This is our first complaint we ever received, but that is one too many,” Jiron said.

“Inappropriate Behavior”

The Alibi spoke with the shuttle driver, Mychael Jones, and he said that he asked the couple to move to the back of the bus because he didn't want the “women and children” to see the couple's “inappropriate behavior.” But when asked to explain what he defined as “inappropriate behavior,” he refused to comment.

McCoy said the fact that none of the people who witnessed this public shaming came to his defense is equally troubling. He said during their exchange with the bus driver, most passengers suddenly became engrossed in their cell phones—except for one woman who was getting on the bus as they were getting off.

Former Albuquerque resident Bernadette Aguirre was heading to catch a flight when she Amber Royster witnessed part of the exchange between the driver and the couple. She said that after overhearing some of the rude things the driver said to the couple, she couldn’t help but intervene. “Any type of discrimination needs to be stood up against and we need to do it together. We would want that if it happened to one of us,” Aguirre said.

The driver’s actions show us that we have a long way to go in our fight for true equality and that much of society is blind to their own discriminatory feelings, misguided anger and ungrounded prejudices, McCoy said.

“For every case like this, there are probably a hundred or thousand times more cases where people are subtly and covertly discriminated against. It’s not like everyone is warm and embracing, and there is this one bigot. There are several shades of gray and this is just one of the extremes,” he said. “There are an awful lot of in-betweens, and this guy was angry, scared and phobic enough that he was confident we were doing something morally wrong and he was morally right.”

Equality New Mexico Executive Director Amber Royster said the state’s oldest and largest LGBT civil rights organization applauds the Albuquerque Sunport for taking a stand against discrimination, and they hope the Sunport will do everything in their power to see that proper disciplinary action is taken. Page 8

FROM SUNDAY NIGHT OUT

Hope you all are enjoying the break and the very, very hot summer! It's almost that time again - Sunday Night Out - Albuquerque's only GLBT and straight-friendly bowling league! :)

 When: Sunday, August 4, 4:30pm  Who: All new and returning bowlers  What: Team and league meeting / Season Starts  Where: Holiday Bowl (Lomas x Pennsylvania) - In the Bar  18 week Season, begins on 8/4/13 (See schedule below)

(*League meeting 4:30pm* 1st night only) 5:50pm practice begins 6:00pm league play begins

If you have a new team, need a team, or your team roster has changed since the end of last season please Contact Gina asap. :) For info, call Gina at [email protected] or (505) 379-0069.

Looking forward to seeing everyone!

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From AVER

OUR NEXT MEETING - End of Summer Pool Party & Bar-b-que - Saturday, 10 August 2013 - 3 PM

Our Next Meeting will be hosted by Jerry Ginsberg & Steve Foster at their beautiful home off north Rio Grande Blvd in NE Albuquerque. A wet & fun Welcome is extended to all AVER, Outserve, veterans, active duty, reserve components, supporters, and spouses! Meet new members and friends, of all ages from all branches of the services.

Awards will be given to those who helped make this year and Pride such a great success. We'll have a repeat of last year's water volleyball tournament.

Tasty hot Burgers & brauts will be provided. To ensure that we have a variety of good food to enjoy, please bring potluck dishes according to your last name:

A-F Salads & veggies G-R Deserts and drinks S-Z Snacks and side dishes (chips, dip, veggies, etc)

If you have a favorite summer dish, that would be most welcome! But come regardless of whether you can bring a dish.

To share a ride from the west side call Steve Loomis at 505-301-1737 or from the east side call Ron Freeny at 505-255-6750. Please RSVP to Stephani at 505-401-4186 or email at [email protected] or to Steve Loomis at 505-301-1737 or [email protected] so we are sure we have enough food.

Directions: Jerry & Steve's home is at 2412 Rozinante NW. From I-40 go north on Rio Grande Blvd. past Indian School Rd. Turn left at the brass-lettered sign for “The Meadows on Rio Grande” on to Don Fernando Rd. Take the first left on to Rozinante Dr, then the first right on to Via Seville, then the first left on to Rozinante Dr. Go straight ahead to 2412 Rozinante, the two-story house on the left near the end of the street.

See you at the meeting!

*********************** MARK YOUR CALENDAR - The AVER Bataan Chapter planned schedule through the end of the year is:

10 Aug - End of Summer Pool Party & Bar-b-que 14 Sep - Dinner & Movie Night Out 20 - 22 Sep - AVER National Convention - Denver TBA Oct - Dinner Out & Balloon Glow 6 Nov - AVER Bataan Chapter Board Meeting 11 Nov - Veterans Day Parade 28 Nov - Thanksgiving 14 Dec - Holiday Party AVER/Outserve/GSA 25 Dec - Christmas 1 Jan - New Years Day

*********************** Cont’d on page 10

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FROM AVER Cont’d from page 9

AVER National Convention Just Around the Corner

Members of Bataan Chapter will be attending the American Veterans for Equal Rights National Convention on 19-22 September 2013 in Denver, CO. The convention is open to all AVER members and supporters. Members of Outserve/SLDN are also encouraged to attend.

Keynote speaker will be SGT Eric Alva at the formal banquet. Team/leadership building, DADT repeal Anniversary celebration and social events highlighting several Denver night spots, will be included in the convention. A video address by U.S. Army Brigadier General Tammy Smith, the first openly gay General Officer in the United States military will also be featured.

If Bataan Chapter or NM Outserve members are in need of a partial scholarship to defray the cost of attending, contact Steve Loomis at 505-301-1737. Rides will be available to share from Albuquerque to Denver.

Registration is at: http://www.aver-rmc.org/calendar/aver-natl- convention-2013/

Hotel reservations (Renaissance Stapleton - 3801 Quebec Street) must be made NLT 7 September 2013 to ensure an available room. See registration link below. 1-800-468-3571

The Denver Renaissance Hotel has offered us a special $105 per night rate for single, double, triple or quad. Valid from September 16-24, 2013 They have also provided considerable assistance in

meeting room rentals, hospitality suite and food cost so we ask that you stay at the host hotel.

REGISTRATION COSTS

Full Registration:

Thursday, September 19th 2013 thru Sunday, September 22nd 2013 -$175*

Late Registration: $190.00* per person. After September 9th, 2013 - Includes:  3 continental breakfasts  Friday lunch  Saturday banquet  Sunday brunch Cont’d on page 11 Page 11

FROM AVER Cont’d from page 10

 Access to all meetings  Coffee breaks  Hospitality suite refreshments, bar in evenings.  Shuttle bus to downtown Denver, GLBT clubs, and restaurantsSaturday evening (Banquet only) – $50*

 Late Registration: $60.00* per person. After September 9th, 2013

*Registering online adds $6.00 service fee: http://www.aver-rmc.org/calendar/aver-natl-convention- 2013/book-online/

*********************** A Busy AVER/Outserve Summer & Fall!

Los Ranchos Pride for Families - AVER provided the color guard for the National Anthem at Los Ranchos Pride and an information booth about AVER services and social activities.

Candlelight Vigil at Morningside Park - was opened by the AVER Color Guard as we recognized all those who have contributed to our community in previous years.

Great Fun Together at ABQ Pride - Hot Prides, windy Prides, this was the best Pride yet for our Vets and Gays in the Military. Young - senior, gay- straight, Veterans - active duty were all together. Our color guard leading the Pride Parade, our joint information Booth, & our history display of gays in our military each gathered attention thanks to everyone of you who made it possible.

AVER carries Pride parade banner and Outserve leads Outserve & Sandia Nat Lab GLBT Employees share Pride with Color Guard. Photos by Lucas Lisitza and Bud booth with AVER. Cordova.

*********************** Our trip to the Trinity Site at White Sands Missile Range scheduled for 5 Oct 13 is cancelled. White Sands will not open the site for the fall tour due to sequestration of funds in the Federal budget. The board will look at rescheduling the visit during April 2014. Cont’d on page 12

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FROM AVER Cont’d from page 11

*********************** MEMORIAL FOR GLBT VETS - the AVER Bataan Chapter Board approved applying to place a inclusive veterans memorial at the NM Veterans Memorial on Louisiana Blvd SE. The estate of long time AVER founding member Don Stevens and the commitment of Jerry Ginsburg and Steve Foster are donating money to substantially start the development of this memorial. The proposed design and development process will be discussed with the NM Veterans Memorial as we obtain approval. The memorial will be dedicated to all who serve their country without regard to race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation. There will be opportunity for you to have personal recognition at this monument as well, as we raise money to complete this important public project.

*********************** AVER Annual DUES are due 1 Oct 2013 for the coming year. Any dues paid now, before 1 Oct, will cover until 1 Oct 2014. Dues are:

AVER veterans Members and Auxiliary Members - $35 Active Duty, National Guard and Reserves - No charge with ID Vets over 80 Years - No Charge

Dues are payable to Treasurer Ron Freeny, at 917 Cagua Dr NE, Albuquerque, NM 87108 by check, money order or cash. Dues can also be paid online at www.aver.us

*********************** AVER Polo shirts with logo are available for $18 each. Contact Steve Loomis at email [email protected] or 505- 301-1737.

*********************** NATIONAL AVER NEWSLETTER - FORWARD OBSERVER is available at the National AVER website at: www.AVER.US to download a copy in .pdf files. CONTACT BATAAN CHAPTER - AVER at:

E-mail: [email protected] Websites: www.aver.us (national website) and go to the local chapter page www.aver- nm.org/ (local website).

HOUSING AND SERVICES FOR LGBTQ YOUTH EXPERIENCING OR AT RISK OF HOMELESSNES S

Casa Q is a new non-profit organization in Albuquerque that will soon open a house for LGBTQ youth ages 14-18 who are experiencing homelessness. There has long been talk in the community about the specific needs of our youth that may not be served by "mainstream" programs. When it opens in early 2014, the Casa Q house will have at least 6 beds for youth - and a comprehensive array of LGBTQ-friendly and specific services that will help these young people thrive.

Over 200 guests turned out for our Kickoff Party at the ABQ Marriott on June 9th. The event raised over $26,000 with gifts from 75 donors - who also made more than $20,000 in pledges for future years to ensure that services continue for our youth. Visiting dignitaries included County Commissioners Maggie Hart Stebbins and Lonnie Talbert. There was also staff from the offices of Congresswoman Michelle Lujan Grisham and Martin Heinrich.

You can learn more about Casa Q on our website at www.casaq.org. The website has info on the enormous need for services, our approach, our founding Board of Directors and our strategic plan. You can also go there to make an online donation with your credit card via PayPal. There is also a Facebook page so you can "like" Casa Q at https://www.facebook.com/CasaQNM.

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SATURDAY AFTERNOON, AUGUST 17 – DON'T MISS "A SWELL PARTY" CABARET AND RECEPTION

Please join us Saturday, August 17 at 3:00 p.m. for the 25th anniversary celebration of Liz Canfield's AIDS Emergency Project. Don't miss "A Swell Party" -- a new Broadway and pop music cabaret featuring Dianna Hughes, Kari Reese, Hal Simons, Robb Sisneros, Paul Roth and special guests Entourage Jazz -- followed by light refreshments from Whole Foods, El Norteño Mexican Grill, Trader Joe's, Albertson's, La Montañita Co-op, Grove Café and Market, Tully's Italian Deli and more.

Now age 90, Liz started the AIDS Emergency Project with a group of friends in 1988 to provide "last resort" financial assistance to low income New Mexicans living with HIV/AIDS. Today the Common Bond NM Emergency Project works with seven public health agencies in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Roswell, Las Cruces and Gallup to help prevent homelessness, maintain clients' utilities and provide medicines and other necessities of life not covered by any other public or private program.

We hope to see you at the Sandia Preparatory School Theater, 532 Osuna NE, east of Edith Blvd. In recognition of our 25 years of service, the suggested donation is $25.

PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD – ALL ARE WELCOME!

RSVP TODAY -- please e-mail [email protected] or call (505) 934-7262.

IF YOU'LL BE STAYING FOR THE RECEPTION, please fill out a name tag when you arrive.

IF YOU CAN'T BE THERE, we welcome your tax-deductible donation to continue our humanitarian mission. Checks payable to "Common Bond NM Emergency Project" can be mailed to: P.O. Box 8313, Albuquerque, NM 87198. You will receive a thank you letter for tax purposes.

Steve Ridlon Director, Common Bond NM Emergency Project Member, Association of Fundraising Professionals—New Mexico Chapter

Did you know that there are gay cowboys? Indeed and not just the ones in “Broke Back Mountain”. In fact, New Mexico has one of the oldest Gay Rodeo Associations in the world. If you feel you need to catch up on all things Gay Rodeo then please log on to IGRA.com. You will find lots of information about Gay Rodeo and its history.

You can also plan to attend the “22 Annual Zia Regional Gay Rodeo”. It will be Saturday and Sunday August 10-11, 2013 at the Rodeo de Santa Fe, Santa Fe New Mexico. The events begin at 9AM and run until approximately 5PM. We’d love to have you along with friends and family. It is a very fun event for all. Tickets are $15 per day or $25 for weekend and can be purchased online at: http://www.nmgra.com/New_Mexico_Gay_Rodeo_Association/Event_Tickets.html Cont’d on page 14

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GAY RODEO Cont’d from page 13

The Rodeo also needs help to put on such a great family friendly event:

 Volunteers – if you’d like a free entry into the rodeo and access to our food service, we have positions and posts that need to be staffed throughout the weekend. This posts range from security to ticket booth staff. For more information on contact our volunteer coordinator, Jeff at [email protected]. He will be happy to find a place for you.  Sponsorships – Rather you are a member of the 1% or the 99% (like most of the rest of us), there are levels of sponsorship for everyone. Please visit our Sponsorship Store at http://www.nmgra.com/New_Mexico_Gay_Rodeo_Association/Sponsorship_Store.html  Buckles – Buckles and Ribbons are awarded to the top contestants in the various rodeo events during the weekend. Please visit sponsorship store (linked above) and scroll down to see the available event buckles.  Brides and Buckles - We want to celebrate the steps gained in Marriage Equality with the striking down of Section 3 of the Federal Defense of Marriage Act by the Supreme Court. For that reason, NMGRA would like to invite NM couples (Same-sex and other sex) to make public their commitment.

So NMGRA will provide a space, minister and a Pride themed (wedding/civil union/commitment) cake for those couples who sponsor one of our Rodeo Event Buckles. A list of these available buckles are found at http://www.nmgra.com/New_Mexico_Gay_Rodeo_Association/Sponsorship_Store.html

You and yours will also be recognized during the Grand Entry ceremony (approx Noon on Saturday). For specific details regarding the Buckles for Brides fundraiser, contact Tony Carson, NMGRA Vice President, at [email protected]

Advertisement - Lastly, the major help we need is getting the word out to everyone about the Rodeo. Please share the attached flyer with everyone you feel comfortable. Please print off a few and post them in Rodeo friendly businesses.

Thanks again. If there is any questions I can answer, feel free to contact me, 505-241-9400.

Tony Carson NMGRA Vice President

LOCAL TENOR BRINGS TOGETHER SINGERS FOR CHARITABLE EVENT On August 18 and 24, 2013, professionally trained tenor Alex Charles Klebenow will collaborate with several of his friends and colleagues, and present, for the third time in as many years, a benefit concert for a non-profit organization called People Living Through Cancer (PLTC). PLTC provides much needed support, resources, referrals and information to cancer survivors, care givers, and their loved ones. The concert will feature a variety of music including selections by Gilbert & Sullivan, Cole Porter, “Oldies” music from the 1960s and ‘70s, and the New Mexico premiere of the music of Gena Branscombe (1881- 1977), a Canadian/American composer of the early 20th Century. The audience will be asked to participate throughout the program during the ever popular sing-alongs, which have become a featured attraction of these concerts. This concert is entitled, "I Shall Hold to Life" which is one of Miss Branscombe's songs to be performed on the concert, an inspiring song of hope for survival no matter the challenges of life. Alex was a working musician in Washington D.C. and New Orleans for over 20 years, before losing his home during Hurricane Katrina in August, 2005, and then relocated to Albuquerque where he continues to be involved in the musical community. Ever the active musician, he immediately began singing with Opera Southwest, and one of the local Barbershop Choruses in Albuquerque--The New Mexichords--as well as becoming choir Alex Charles Klebenow director at his church. He eventually joined the New Mexico Gay Men’s Chorus, then under the direction of Paul Barrientos, with whom he soon resumed his private vocal studies. Cont’d on page15 Page 15

LOCAL TENOR Cont’d from page14

While in Washington D.C. He appeared in productions of Washington National Opera, where he appeared with Placido Domingo, The Choral Arts Society of Washington D.C., The Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, The Lesbian and Gay Chorus of Washington, The Congressional Chorus, and numerous other operatic and choral groups. Locally, Mr. Klebenow has also appeared with the Zarzuela troop Teatro Nuevo Mexico, Quintessence: Choral Artists of the Southwest, The New Mexico Symphonic Chorus, and has sung in numerous New Mexico Philharmonic concerts including Messiah, by George Frederick Handel. In 2007, he was diagnosed with Burkitt’s Lymphoma, an extremely rare and deadly form of cancer. Despite all the odds, he survived. He says he took inspiration to “kick my cancer and return to music” from world renowned tenor Jose Carreras, who was diagnosed with Leukemia in 1987, and had to suspend his career, returning to singing in 1990, as part of “The 3 Tenors” along with Luciano Pavarotti, and Placido Domingo. People Living Through Cancer is a local 501(c)(3) non-profit which has helped many people over the past 30 years in Albuquerque, and throughout New Mexico. Besides offering numerous support groups for cancer survivors and care-givers, they offer resource referrals, one on one counseling, referrals and have the largest cancer related lending library in New Mexico. This fund raiser is an extremely important event to PLTC as all services they provide are FREE to everyone. “PLTC helped me when I was at my lowest” says Alex, “Before I knew about PLTC, I went through this [his cancer recovery] alone, I had nobody who could relate with what I was going through. I don’t want ANYBODY to have to go through what I did alone.” He now volunteers with PLTC going to health fairs, and meeting with newly diagnosed cancer patients to share his experience and his take on life. Visit PLTC on-line at PLTC.org, or call them at (505)242-3263 for more information regarding their services and programs. During the programming of this and his other concerts, Alex states that he had many “gottcha” moments of inspiration for the particular songs: “One day I was driving to the gym, and I heard “Seasons in the Sun” on the Oldies station, and the words spoke to me!” Seasons in the Sun is a song about a person who is dying, trying to find the words to say good-bye to their loved ones. He heard this song not long after a good friend of his died of cancer, and he said that he “just had to sing it”. Several other pieces which will be performed were chosen because he was moved by them while performing them with other groups, especially the song “Requiem” by Eliza Gilkyson, which was written as a memorial to the victims of the Asian tsunami. “The words and music moved me to tears the first time I sang it, and I immediately knew I had to program it on this concert,” he says. Much of the music he is programming is music to inspire people to hang-on when life gets difficult, but other selections also acknowledge the realities of illness, tragedy, and death. Joining Alex to present this concert, will be a group of professional musicians,

making up an all male quartet comprised of tenor Tom Crow, baritone Alfredo Beltran, bass Peter Tras, several instrumentalists including pianist Daniel Cummings, and a long time friend of his, mezzo-soprano Kathleen Shimeta who is the driving force behind the presentation of the music of Miss. Branscombe. Ms. Shimeta has performed at the National Gallery of Art and the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., Texas A& M University, Merkin Concert Hall in NYC, as well as numerous opera companies in the eastern U.S. She is thrilled to be performing with her dear friend, Alex. Sharing her talents for the benefit of cancer support groups means a great deal to her. Kathleen's sister is a 15 year survivor of breast cancer “and Alex being a survivor, means we are Kathleen Shimeta singing together live!” Cont’d on page 16 Page 16

LOCAL TENOR Cont’d from page15

Kathleen has recorded songs of Miss Branscombe and performs her one-woman show, "Life! Love! Song! A Visit with Gena Branscombe" across the country. Branscombe was a leader of women in music as a pianist, composer and conductor. She traveled across the country to give concerts, conduct women's choruses and gave speeches about the role of women in the classical music world. Alex says “I could not be more thrilled to have Kathy joining us for this concert, she has been my friend for 20 years, and was a life saver for me and my partner after Katrina”. There will be two performances of “I Shall Hold to Life”: Sunday August 18th at 3 p.m., at the First Unitarian Church, located at 3701 Carlisle Blvd., NE (SW corner of Carlisle and Comanche) in Albuquerque; and Saturday August 24th, at 6 p.m. at Immanuel Presbyterian Church, located at 115 Carlisle Blvd, SE (just south of Central) in Albuquerque. Admission is free with donations for PLTC appreciated at the door. For more information call PLTC at (505) 242-3263. Gena Branscombe

JUNE 29TH, 2013 WAS ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL ALBUQUERQUE PRIDEFEST FOR OUR PFLAG CHAPTER

This year's parade featured Albuquerque PFLAG as the Grand Marshall. PFLAG Board members, Priya Dolloff and Catherine Jabar cut the ribbon that started the parade. Then PFLAG'ers, riding in a special train, led two more vehicles and many walkers (carrying our banners) to show everyone that PFLAG was proud to be there. Our parade contingent included both young and old members and friends. We had folks from our Valencia County group carrying their PFLAG Valencia banners. Very special “Thank You's” to Sue, from Valencia Couty and Board member, Alexandra for providing our parade vehicles. Also, special "Thanks" to Neil Macernie, Albuquerque Pride President, for joining us for the entire pararde route. As was the case in previous years, hearing parade watchers yell "Thank You PFLAG" and "Love You PFLAG" made it a very special time.

Our PFLAG booth was once again one the most popular at Pridefest. This year we shared a twenty by twenty booth with our friends from Primetimers (Special "Thanks" to them for letting us join them and we hope to do the same next year.) Due to the efforts of members, Board members, the folks from Valencia County, and all the other energetic huggers at our booth, we set a new record for "Hugs" totaling 1,718. (All of you were fantastic!) Plus, as happens every year, our booth was constantly busy with people stopping by to thank us or seek information about PFLAG." We had twenty-five (25) sign ups to be on our mailing list for more information and monthly meeting reminders.

Again, a big "thank you" to all of you volunteers who made it a special day!!

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from abqjournal.com BASIC RIGHTS LIKE MARRIAGE DON’T BELONG AT BALLOT BOX by Amber Royster, Executive Director, Equality New Mexico

Back in January, right before we moved back home to New Mexico, my wife and I were legally married in a small but beautiful ceremony. As newlyweds, we are excited about building our future together, putting down roots, and fixing up our new Albuquerque home. We love each other and we love the state we live in. That’s why I was disappointed to read that the most widely read newspaper in our state endorses the idea that New Mexicans should vote to decide whether our marriage is legitimate just because my wife and I share the same gender.

From an early age, I was taught that, in America, we do not put up our fundamental rights for a popular vote. In 1788, founding father John Adams warned against such a system because it would lead to a “tyranny of the majority” in which “the desires of the majority of the people are often for injustice and inhumanity against the minority.” Adams’ observation rings as true today as it did then. Just because an unfair idea is popular, doesn’t mean it should become law.

If Americans used the ballot box instead of the courts to decide our rights, public schools might still be segregated on the basis of race. States might have the power to censor the press. And criminal defendants might not have a guaranteed right to legal counsel.

Never mind that national polling consistently shows a majority of Americans supporting the freedom to marry for same-gender couples. Basic rights should never be subject to a popular vote. That's what makes them rights. They are inalienable and irrevocable.

Failure to adhere to this basic American principle has created painful periods in our history, when the rights of minority groups yielded to the opinions, the fears, or simply the whims of the majority. Thankfully, the major check we have on the self-interest of the majority is the United States Supreme Court, and less than two weeks ago they ruled in accordance with the basic constitutional principle that all citizens are equal before the law.

Because the Supreme Court struck down the core of the so-called “Defense of Marriage Act,” the federal government no longer discriminates against married same-gender couples who live in states that recognize their relationships. This was the right thing to do, just as it was the right thing to do when the Court struck down discriminatory laws that prohibited interracial marriages in 1967. Through various legal challenges currently making their way through the courts, the New Mexico State Supreme Court has the same opportunity to end relationship discrimination against gay and lesbian citizens in our state by affirming that our state constitution protects the freedom to marry of same-gender couples.

Marriage matters for same-gender couples for similar reasons as for any other couple. Like Kelly and me, same-gender couples across our state want to make a public promise of love, commitment and responsibility before their family, friends, and community, and have that commitment recognized in the state where they live. Allowing same-gender couples the freedom to marry is a matter of basic respect and fairness. Most people wouldn’t want anyone telling them they couldn’t marry the person they love. When they think about it, they don’t want to tell anyone else they can’t marry either. It’s as simple as treating others with the same respect and dignity with which you want to be treated.

New Mexico has the opportunity to be a beacon for the true meaning of equality and justice by refusing to subject basic freedoms, particularly marriage, to a popular vote. Given our state’s proud tradition of tolerance and diversity, it would be shameful for us to make the rights of minorities vulnerable to the tyranny of the majority. There is no better time for New Mexico and New Mexicans to exemplify the meaning of freedom. I hope we will rise to the occasion. Page 18

JCC OF GREATER ALBUQUERQUE ANNOUNCES 2013 NEW MEXICO

HUMANITARIAN AWARDS

David J. Simon, executive director of Jewish Community Center of Greater Albuquerque, announced today the names of seven exceptional, community-minded individuals who will be honored at the 2013 New Mexico Humanitarian Awards Dinner on Thursday, August 22, 5:30-8:30 pm at the Embassy Suites Hotel, 1000 Woodward Place, NE (I-25 & Lomas). The event Title Sponsor is French – Funerals & Cremations.

JCC established the New Mexico Humanitarian Awards program in 2008 to honor New Mexicans from diverse backgrounds who have demonstrated an exemplary spirit of humanity and selfless devotion to helping others in a local, national or international capacity. The Awards inspire the pursuit of humanitarian goals such as promoting human welfare, care and compassion, social reform, philanthropy, and (new category this year) values-based investing in the community.

“This group of winners is as diverse as they are deserving,” said JCC’s Executive Director, Dave Simon. “All of them are true humanitarians who have served our community and whose values mirror the Jewish values and ethics of tikkun olam (repairing the world) and tzedakah (charity to those in need).”

The 2013 honorees are:

Don Chalmers, owner, Don Chalmers Ford/Rio Rancho and Chalmers Capitol Ford Lincoln/Santa Fe (Special Recognition for Lifetime Achievement in philanthropy and community service).

Chalmers is known for his extensive efforts to lead and serve since establishing his Ford dealerships in New Mexico in 1996. Actively involved in Albuquerque, Rio Rancho and Santa Fe, he has particularly focused on four areas of volunteerism: education, health care, economic development and community service. Chalmers is a former member of the University of New Mexico Board of Regents and has served on and led numerous non-profit Boards, including United Way, Greater Albuquerque and Rio Rancho Chambers of Commerce, National Dance Institute, Central NM Affiliate of Susan B. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation (which he helped establish), New Mexico Commission on Higher Education, and the Albuquerque and Rio Rancho Community Foundations. His business also funds college scholarships annually

Leslie Elgood, who has just announced her retirement (taking effect in September) as president and CEO of New Mexico Community Capital (Inaugural CommonGood Investing Humanitarian Award, sponsored by Merrill Lynch/Bank of America).

This new award recognizes community leadership through “Values-Based” Investing (VBI), whose practices consider environmental, social and corporate governance criteria to generate long-term competitive financial returns as well as positive societal impact.

Since Elgood assumed the helm of New Mexico Community Capital in 2005, the nonprofit has invested nearly $12 million in ten New Mexico companies, which – in return for the investment - must meet certain hiring goals and remain in the state. This social-based approach to investing is unique in the New Mexico venture capital community. Some 500 full-time jobs have been created, 320 of which employ formerly low- and moderate- income individuals. Elgood has also developed programs to provide jobs and business opportunities in New Mexico’s Native American communities; these include pueblo youth farming initiatives, renewable energy efforts, greenhouse development, mentorships for Navajo women entrepreneurs, and direct investments in Native American-owned enterprises. Cont’d on page 19

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HUMANITARIAN AWARDS Cont’d from page 18

Robert Bowman, former Board vice chair, Metropolitan Homelessness Project, and past chair, Equality New Mexico.

A corporate communications professional, Bowman has devoted most of his community service to helping the homeless and the gay, lesbian, bi-sexual and transgendered (GLBT) communities. After the City of Albuquerque closed the winter homeless men’s shelter at the state fairgrounds, Bowman helped form the Metropolitan Homelessness Project, which converted a warehouse into a temporary men’s shelter. Under the MHP umbrella, Bowman opened the Albuquerque Opportunity Center in 2004, which offers overnight housing and respite care. MHP has also been the primary driver of the Albuquerque Heading Home Program, which identifies the most vulnerable of the homeless population and facilitates a move from the street to permanent housing.

As the Employment Non-Discrimination Law went into effect in New Mexico on July 1, 2003, a campaign was organized to repeal it. When Equality New Mexico organized a powerful effort to counteract the repeal campaign, Bowman became a volunteer and then joined EQNM’s Board in 2004. During his tenure, EQNM has promoted LGBT- positive legislation around anti-bullying, domestic partnerships, and same-sex marriage. Under his leadership and collaborating with Optimum Health, the EQNM Foundation has developed an LGBT Cultural Competency Training Curriculum; its trainers deliver the curriculum to behavioral health professionals around the state. Since 2010, the Foundation has spearheaded the Why Marriage Matters Campaign, to help the public understand and embrace the love, commitment and family elements of same-sex relationships.

Jill and Michael Montoya, founders, Los Ojos de la Familia.

An Albuquerque native and UNM graduate, Michael Montoya was offered the opportunity to purchase Custom Grading, a local excavation, grading and building-construction company in 2000. Only 27 at the time, Michael built the company, which now has over 75 employees, into one of the largest of its kind in the state. A decade later, married with three children and recognizing many unmet needs in the community, the Montoyas incorporated Los Ojos De La Familia, a non-profit charity. Starting with three high school scholarships and providing financial support to nine needy families, Los Ojos currently funds high school scholarships to approximately 15 students per semester, and offers financial aid to over 90 families. More than 100 volunteers distribute Thanksgiving and Christmas food baskets to over 200 families in Albuquerque, Los Lunas, Rio Rancho and Santa Fe.

Beverly and the late Bob White (Harold B. Albert Community Service Award, given for outstanding service to the Jewish community).

The late Bob White devoted much of his community service to Hillel, the Jewish student organization on college and university campuses throughout the U.S. His involvement began as a college student in Arizona, and continued on UNM campus after he had accepted a faculty position. He served for many years as a Hillel leader even before an official Board of Directors was organized. Bob also served on the Boards of Jewish Federation of New Mexico, Solomon Schechter Day School, and the Jewish faculty club at UNM. Together, he and Beverly were members of – and actively supported - three Albuquerque congregations: Chavurat Hamidbar (Fellowship of the Desert), B’nai Israel and Congregation Albert. Cont’d on page 20

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HUMANITARIAN AWARDS Cont’d from page 19

Some past winners of the NM Humanitarian Awards include John and Kathleen Avila, Margaret Moses Branch, Jack Holmes, Steven Paternoster, Anne Haines Yatskowitz, Monarch Properties, Assistance League of Albuquerque, New Mexico Anti-Defamation League, Dr. Larry Lubar/New Mexico Dental Foundation, and Samaritan Counseling Center’s St. Joseph’s Center for Children & Families.

Previous recipients of the Harold B. Albert Community Service Award include Harold Albert, Harold & Shirley Gardenswartz, Ruth Pollack, Joseph & Jack Grevy, Ed and Ramona Caplan, Jennie Negin & Harold Folley, Miriam Efroymson, Larry & Marcia Lubar, Meryl Manning Segel & Ron Segel, Helen Grevey and Jay Hertz, Erika Rimson & David Bernstein, Shelly and Herb Koffler, and Beverly & Sanford Rogoff.

Proceeds from the awards dinner, which includes a live auction, benefit children’s scholarships, programs and services at the JCC. The nonprofit provides activities for people of all ages and stages in life, and welcomes everyone regardless of religious affiliation.

Tickets for the event are $125 per person and $1,250 for tables of ten. Reservations must be made no later than Wednesday, August 14th by contacting Veronica Petzold at 348-4450, or [email protected].

About the JCC: The Jewish Community Center of Greater Albuquerque, founded in 2001, is a non-profit organization, open to all regardless of religious affiliation, whose mission is “to enrich our community by practicing the values of Jewish life.” The JCC has modern fitness and athletic facilities, an outdoor aquatics center, an early childhood education center, and a day-school on its 10-acre campus. The JCC runs a wide variety of community, educational and social service programs that serve people of all ages. For further information, call the JCC at 505-332-0565 or visit www.jccabq.org.

HANK WEILAND PASSES

I just wanted to pass on some very sad news. I don't know if everyone had the pleasure of meeting Hank Weiland, our local USBC chapter, President, but he passed away this morning from a heart attack. For those of you that don't know, Hank, along with Peggy's assistance, was very supportive of our league, our local tournament, and equally as supportive of our bid for IGBO 2015. CNM USBC provided us a letter of support that we submitted with our bid package, and I'm pretty sure we are still the only gay league receiving support from their local USBC chapter.

Hank was wonderful with providing us with support, encouragement, and smiles and hugs! It is definitely a sad loss for all of us on our league and tournament committee, our local USBC chapter, and his close friends and family.

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People Living Through Cancer Presents:

I Shall Hold To Life A Celebration of Life in Song

Featuring: Tom Crow • Alex Charles Klebenow Alfredo Beltran • Peter Tras

With Daniel Cummings • Makensie Reed

and Special Guest

Kathleen Shimeta

Two Performances: Sunday, August 18, 2013 Saturday, August 24, 2013 3:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. First Unitarian Church Immanuel Presbyterian Church 3701 Carlisle, NE 115 Carlisle Blvd, SE Albuquerque Albuquerque

A Concert of Operetta, The American Songbook, “Oldies”, and Inspirational Songs Music By: Gilbert and Sullivan Cole Porter and more featuring the New Mexico premier of the music of: Gena Branscombe

Free Admission Donations Appreciated to Benefit: People Living Through Cancer 501(c)(3) a non-profit organization offering free support and resources for those living with cancer: Survivors, Caregivers, Family and Friends Page 23

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RISING SUN MINISTRIES

Rising Sun Christian Community is a growing community of believers in Jesus Christ spreading the good news of God's love and desire to be in relationship with YOU!

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2013 FUN BOWL SCHEDULE $15 per person

(3 games and shoe rental included) May 18 - Holiday Bowl, 10 am June 15 - Location TBD July 13 - Leisure Bowl, 6pm w/Karaoke to Follow August 3 - Santa Ana Starlight Lanes, 10am September 7 - Santa Ana Starlight Lanes, 10am September 13, 14, 15 - VI Annual TART Tournament Santa Ana Starlight Lanes See our website for more details: www.beepbeepbowl.org Or Facebook at: facebook.com/AbqRT

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National News from nytimes.com & joemygod.com AFTER 37 YEARS OF TRYING TO CHANGE PEOPLE’S SEXUAL ORIENTATION, GROUP IS TO DISBAND by Ian Lovett

For 37 years, Exodus International was the leading beacon of the “ex gay” movement, which maintained that gay men and lesbians could change their sexual orientation through prayer and psychotherapy.

But on the opening night of the group’s 38th annual conference, Exodus International announced that the organization would disband, amid growing skepticism among its top officials and board members that sexual attractions can be changed.

For the past year, the group’s president, Alan Chambers, has been increasingly vocal in proclaiming that therapy could not change a person’s sexual orientation. In a statement posted Wednesday on the group’s Web site, he cited a recent letter he had written to gay men and lesbians.

“I am sorry for the pain and hurt many of you have experienced,” he said in the letter. “I am sorry that some of you spent years working through the shame and guilt you felt when your attractions didn’t change. I am sorry we promoted sexual orientation change efforts and reparative theories about sexual orientation that stigmatized parents.”

In an interview on Thursday on the campus of Concordia University Irvine, Mr. Chambers said that he believed Exodus International had helped many Christians with same-sex attractions, including himself. Alan and Leslie Chambers But, he added: “Any good we could do in the future would be greatly overshadowed by the real stories of trauma and real stories of shame. So we decided, we can’t do anything but close this down. We can’t just change our name or change our mission.”

Ex-Gay Movement Faces Unsure Future

The closing of Exodus International signals a major upheaval for the ex-gay movement, which has been the target of increasing criticism.

Professional associations have denounced its focus on reparative therapy to “cure” homosexuality as not only ineffective but potentially harmful. At the same time, polls have shown a rising number of Americans are more accepting of homosexuality and approving of gay marriage. Last year, California banned gay conversion therapies for minors, although a legal challenge is pending.

Still, as Exodus has backed away from efforts to cure homosexuality, other conservative Christian groups have moved to fill the void, and have continued to assert that homosexuality is not innate but an immoral choice. Aaron Bitzer

Since last year, when Mr. Chambers — who gave up same-sex relationships to marry a woman — announced that he no longer believed homosexuality could be cured, Exodus’s fund-raising has dwindled, officials conceded. Some affiliated ministries and churches have also cut ties with the organization. Cont’d on page 31

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EXODUS DISBANDS Cont’d from page 30

The Restored Hope Network, which was founded last year after Mr. Chambers’ announcement, will hold its own conference this weekend in Oklahoma, competing with the annual Exodus conference. Andrew Comiskey, a Restored Hope board member, wrote on Twitter, “How merciful of God to shut down Exodus, which under Alan Chambers leadership had completely veered off the course of its mission.” The Restored Hope Network did not respond to requests for comment.

Aaron Bitzer, a plaintiff in the lawsuit challenging California’s ban on gay conversion therapy, said that Exodus’ closing would do nothing to diminish his faith that such treatment can work, as he said it had for him. A Christian who said he had been attracted to men all his life, he still hoped to one day marry a woman.

“Will the orientation change completely? I don’t know,” Mr. Bitzer, 36, said. “I don’t think any organization should ever promise 100 percent change. But I have noticed changes in myself. I am satisfied with what I’ve experienced so far with reparative therapy.” Andy Comiskey Exodus officials said they did not know exactly when the organization would be shut down. The board members plan to start a new ministry whose doors will be open to everyone, including openly gay members, Mr. Chambers said. They are setting up a Web site called reducefear.org.

A Fond Good-bye

Many gay rights advocates applauded Exodus’s closing, as well as Mr. Chambers’ apology to gays and lesbians. “This is an earthquake that changes everything,” said Wayne Besen, director of Truth Wins Out, a group that rebuts what it considers misinformation about gay men and lesbians. “This is like McDonald’s shutting down and saying they reject hamburgers. It really highlights the futility of trying to change your sexuality.”

Yet Mr. Besen remained critical of the views expressed by Mr. Chambers, who has said he still believes that acting on homosexual desires is not condoned by Scripture. Mr. Chambers said he would not push his personal belief on others, but several other Exodus officials, at least, shared his view.

And Dan Savage tweeted, “There have also been suicides. Alan’s work destroyed people. Sorry is a nice, I guess, but it won’t raise the dead.”

Rev. Nancy Wilson, moderator of the Metropolitan Community Churches, issued a statement as well. "For decades, Exodus International has been synonymous with the idea that people need to be ‘cured’ or ‘healed’ of homosexuality. This week’s historic apology from Exodus leader, Alan Chambers, for the harm done to LGBT people by Exodus is encouraging. Sadly, nothing will bring back the lives lost to suicide based on pseudo-psychology and corrupt theology. Any apology for past suicides, lost years and damage to families is only as good as real actions to counter the lies spread throughout the world by past Exodus action.

"What is needed is true repentance and a conversion to truth telling. The Rev. Nancy Wilson theology of condemnation must be replaced with a theology of grace in the service of God’s good creation—including LGBT people. The trail of emotional, psychological and spiritual damage must be mitigated by evangelistic outreach around the world where the lives of LGBT people hang in the balance at the hands of religious and political leaders who would shed their blood, rape their bodies, and crucify their spirits for their own careers." Cont’d on page 32 Page 32

EXODUS DISBANDS Cont’d from page 31

Julie Rodgers, 27, and part of an Exodus member ministry, said she came to Exodus 10 years ago, hoping to rid herself of same-sex attractions. Speaking on the lawn of the Concordia University campus where she was one of about 250 attending the Exodus conference, she said she no longer believed her attractions could be changed, nor was she willing to date women. “Right now, that means a call to singleness,” she said. “In the future, I’ll trust the Lord.”

from towleroad.com Julie Rodgers DAN SAVAGE: WHY I'M BOYCOTTING RUSSIAN VODKA

In an article posted to the Slog blog, Dan Savage addressed the recent spate of human rights abuses against LGBT individuals in Russia, arguing these offenses have become so egregious as to warrant action by members and allies of the LGBT community. Savage echoed the calls of others such as Harvey Fierstein who in a recent op-ed implored, "Can we allow this war against human rights to go unanswered?" The answer, according to Savage, is an emphatic and resounding, "no." However, assuming something should be done, what's the best course of action? There has been some debate as to how supporters of LGBT rights should go about responding to the violence and hate in Russia. Ruminating on a potential boycott of the 2014 Winter Olympics being held in Sochi, Russia, Savage points to Patrick Burke, co-founder of the You Can Play Project, and his rejoinder to the question of an Olympic boycott:

"In 1968, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar refused to play in the Olympics as a protest against the Dan Savage treatment of blacks in America. The same year, Tommie Smith and John Carlos stood on a medal stand, gloved fists in the air, as a protest against the treatment of blacks in America. History remembers the athletes who showed up.... To send the strongest possible message of support to the LGBT community, we must send our athletes—those who are LGBT, those who are LGBT-supportive, those with LGBT family members or friends. Let them show that champions stand strong with their teammates and training partners. Send our openly LGBT and “publicly pro-gay” athletes and let them compete. Let them win. Show the world that there are elite LGBT athletes who are not afraid to be themselves, on and off the playing field. That the majority of the world’s finest athletes support their LGBT teammates, coaches, and opponents by treating them as equals in competition."

However, irrespective of the Olympics, Savage suggests a boycott of Russian vodka is a more effective and immediate way to stand up to Russia's thugish anti-gay actions, giving momentum to previous calls for a boycott. Savage writes,

"There is something we can do right here, right now, in Seattle and other US cities to show our solidarity with Russian queers and their allies and to help to draw international attention to the persecution of gay men, lesbians, bisexuals, trans people, and straight allies in Putin's increasingly fascistic Russia: DUMP RUSSIAN VODKA.

Here is a list of Russian vodkas currently available in the US:

 Dovgan  Gold Symphony  Standart Cont’d on page 33

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BOYCOTT RUSSIAN VODKA Cont’d from page 32

 Hrenovuha,  Kauffman  Kubanskaya  Moskovskaya  Narodnaya  Pyatizvyozdnaya  Putinka  Rodnik  Ruskova  Russian Standard  Shustov  Starka  Stolnaya  Youri Dolgoruki

The two best known Russian vodkas? Russian Standard and Stolichnaya.

If you drink a Russian Vodka like Stoli, Russian Standard, or any of the other brands listed above, switch to another brand from another country, or even a local brand from a local distillery. Stoli is the iconic Russian Vodka and it's returning to Russian ownership in 2014. Other brands like Russian Standard should also be boycotted. Do not drink Russian vodka. Do not buy Russian vodka. Ask your bartender at your favorite bar—gay or otherwise—to DUMP STOLI and DUMP RUSSIAN VODKA."

Savage also makes sure to point out that, despite what their wikipedia page might suggest, Stoli is in fact a Russian owned company and therefore a worthy target of the boycott.

Some have already begun to join the boycott. The Windy City Times reports that Sidetrack, one of Chicago's biggest gay bars, has stopped serving Stoli and other Russian vodkas. Another bar in Chicago, The Call, has joined the boycott as well.

MEANWHILE—STOLI RESPONDS TO BOYCOTT

In response to the boycott organized by Queer Nation to dump Russian vodkas in protest of Russia's anti-gay laws (see the letter below), Stolichnaya's parent company the SPI Group released a statement pledging their support to the LGBT community:

We fully support and endorse your objectives to fight against prejudice in Russia. In the past decade, SPI has been actively advocating in favor of freedom, tolerance and openness in society, standing very passionately on the side of the LGBT community and will continue to support any effective initiative in that direction.

FURTHERMORE—SAVAGE RESPONDS TO STOLI

Dan Savage is pleased that this has gotten their attention, but notes that the gesture is not good enough:

SPI is a Russian corporation, Stoli is a Russian vodka. And while it's nice that SPI is willing to market to homos who are lucky enough to live in Austria, the US, and South Africa, what has SPI done in Russia? Cont’d on page 34 Page 34

BOYCOTT RUSSIAN VODKA Cont’d from page 33

Dan also points out that one of the commenters over at Joe.My.God. makes a very astute observation:

So is the CEO of Stoli now subject to arrest and incarceration in Russia for writing this pro-gay letter?

Food for thought. Even though the CEO and company are based in Luxembourg, the company's owner Yuri Scheffler lives in Russia and the company's production process involves Russia, while this letter openly condemns the Russian government and explicitly supports homosexuality, thus making it "propaganda" under Russian law.

FINALLY:

Responding to the arguments that Dan Savage, Queer Nation, and others have made to continue the boycott despite the SPI Group's statement pledging their support to the LGBT community, Scott Shackford with the libertarian magazine Reason says that there is a 'big Western bias' that is being left out of the equation.

“Unfortunately, it doesn't seem that the boycotters quite get it. Stoli sent out an open letter Thursday, declaring its support for gay rights, mentioning its history of activity within the gay community in America and other countries. But, Dan Savage posted, this isn't enough. What are they doing about the suffering of gays in Russia? Scheffler (SPI Group's CEO) is one of Russia's richest men!

There's a big Western bias in this argument, assuming that Russia's corporatism is like America's or Europe's corporatism. Because Scheffler's rich, he must have some sort of government influence! There must be something he can do! No doubt there are certainly similarities, but you simply can't ignore Russia's deeply nationalist streak and how closely it's flirting with autocracy. It doesn't take that much research to see how difficult a position Scheffler is in. Russia wants his company.”

Shackford goes on to detail how, back in 2002, police ransacked the SPI headquarters in Moscow in an attempt to renationalize the Russian assets of the company. Scheffler himself is wanted for 'questioning' for allegedly threatening the director of the parts of the Russian company that were renationalized.

“What's sad about this effort is that if Russia succeeds in getting its hands back on Stoli, then a boycott actually makes sense. But the consequence will be that a powerful businessman who does support the gay community will lose his company. Boycotting Stoli now is a very bad idea. Scheffler is an ally who the gay and lesbian community needs to work with, not Scott Shackford alienate. From a Western perspective it may be hard to realize that an incredibly rich person like Scheffler has the potential to be a victim of Russia's authoritarian regime like its gay citizens or members of Pussy Riot, but it's extremely important not to look at the nature of power and influence there the way we do here.”

In related news, The Guardian points out that even Russia's own gay rights activists are saying the boycott is misguided:

"They mixed everything up. Stolichnaya isn't Russian," Said the lawyer Nikolai Alekseev, head of the Moscow Pride organizing committee.

Still, SPI Group isn't the only vodka company with ties to Russia. Russian Standard vodka, unlike Stolichnaya, is actually produced in Russia and owned by the Russian oligarch Roustam Tariko. The company has yet to comment publicly about the boycott. Cont’d on page 35

Page 35

The manager of The Fountainhead Pub in Vancouver dumps out a bottle of Russian vodka

BOYCOTT RUSSIAN VODKA Cont’d from page 34

LAST BUT NOT LEAST—

Prompted by Dan Savage's recent op-ed urging people to boycott Russian vodka, gay bars in the United States and elsewhere around the world have started banning Stolichnaya and other Russian vodkas. The goal of the boycott is to bring attention to the recent LGBT human rights violations in that country.

So far, bars in NYC, LA, Miami, Vancouver, Toronto, London, San Francisco, Seattle, Chicago, San Diego and Sydney have all participated in the ban. In the photo above, the manager of The Fountainhead Pub in Vancouver dumps out a bottle of Russian vodka.

An article in the LA Times reports on the growing campaign:

West Hollywood bars join a growing number of U.S. gay bars boycotting Stoli. Numerous Chicago bars have boycotted the vodka and other Russian products, according to the Windy City Times, a Chicago newspaper that focuses on the gay and lesbian community.

“Consumer action, for a long time, has been a part of any activism,” Art Johnston, the co-owner of the gay bar Sidetrack Chicago, said in an interview with the Los Angeles Times.

Sidetrack--in Chicago’s Boystown neighborhood, an LGBT hub–stopped selling Stoli earlier this week, Johnston said. The spaces on the bar where Stoli vodka bottles would sit remain empty so people will ask what used to be there, he said.

“I’m hopeful people will talk about this,” Johnston said. “Either the lives of gay and lesbian people in Russia mean something, or they don’t. Clearly, to us, they mean something.”

[Ed Note: Finding one’s core values and knowing the right thing to do in a situation like this can get confusing. But if you’re ordering something with vodka in it…]

Page 36

Luxembourg, July 25, 2013

An Open Letter from the CEO of Stolichnaya Vodka to the LGBT community.

The recent dreadful actions taken by the Russian Government limiting the rights of the LGBT community and the passionate reaction of the community have prompted me to write this letter to you.

I want to stress that Stoli firmly opposes such attitude and actions. Indeed, as a company that encourages transparency and fairness, we are upset and angry. Stolichnaya Vodka has always been, and continues to be a fervent supporter and friend to the LGBT community. We also thank the community for having adopted Stoli as their vodka of preference.

In the US, the brand’s commitment to the LGBT community has been ongoing for years. Among the best examples, I can cite the series produced by Stoli in 2006 called “Be Real: Stories from Queer America” which featured short documentaries on real life stories depicting the challenges and accomplishments of the LGBT community in the United States (http://www.logotv.com/shows/dyn/be_real_series/series.jhtml )

Stoli is very proud of its current exclusive national partnership with Gaycities.com and Queerty.com in search of the Most Original Stoli Guy. This is a fantastic program that started as a local initiative in Colorado and became a national platform. Previous national initiatives included serving as the official vodka of the Miami Gay Pride Week as well as ongoing events with focus on Pride month.

Some great examples from other parts of the world are the support to the Durban Gay Pride, in South Africa (http://ww w.durbanpride.org), the Pride Parade in Vienna, in cooperation with HOSI and CT, the largest LGBT communities in Austria and the Tel Aviv Pride Parade, taking place this weekend.

This letter also gives me the opportunity to clear some of the confusion surrounding the Stolichnaya brand, based on facts found online that often inaccurately link our company to the Russian Government. The Russian government has no ownership interest or control over the Stoli brand that is privately owned by SPI Group, headquartered in Luxembourg in the heart of Western Europe.

Stoli’s production process involves both Russia and Latvia. Stoli is made from Russian ingredients (wheat, rye and raw alcohol) blended with pure artesian well water at our historic distillery and bottling facility Latvijas Balzams (www.lb.lv) in Riga, Latvia (formerly part of the Russian Empire and then of the Soviet Union). Latvijas Balzams did not recently become part of the Stoli heritage, but has been one of its main production and bottling facilities since 1948. This has allowed the brand to deliver the outstanding quality it is recognized for consistently across the years. What changed in the last years is politics, with Latvia becoming an independent state part of the EU.

We fully support and endorse your objectives to fight against prejudice in Russia. In the past decade, SPI has been actively advocating in favor of freedom, tolerance and openness in society, standing very passionately on the side of the LGBT community and will continue to support any effective initiative in that direction.

Sincerely yours Val Mendeleev Chief Executive Officer SPI Group

Page 37

Left: A child shows off his favorite nightgown. Right: Throughout the weekend, campers apply, remove, and reapply makeup, and wardrobe changes are constant. from slate.com A BOYS' CAMP TO REDEFINE GENDER by David Rosenberg Over the past three years, photographer Lindsay Morris has been documenting a four-day camp for gender nonconforming boys and their parents.

The camp, “You Are You” (the name has been changed to protect the privacy of the children and is also the name of Morris’ series), is for “Parents who don’t have a gender-confirming 3- year-old who wants to wear high heels and prefers to go down the pink aisle in K-Mart and not that nasty dark boys’ aisle,” Morris said with a laugh.

It is also a place for both parents and children to feel protected in an environment that encourages free expression. “[The kids] don’t have to look over their shoulders, and they can let down their guard. Those are four days when none of that matters, and they are surrounded Parents play a big role in organizing camp activities. Here, a child by family members who support them,” Morris awaits his turn for the fashion show. said. Cont’d on page 38

Page 38

CAMP TO REDEFINE GENDER Cont’d from page37

Morris has stated that her photographic goal for the project is “to represent the spirit of these boys as they shine.” Some of the ways in which the kids shine is through the talent and fashion shows at camp that are popular and for which the campers come well-prepared.

“Some practice for the talent show all year, and others create their own gowns with their mothers or friends of the family,” Morris said. “The focus and enthusiasm is really pretty incredible. Also, it can be very emotional for the parents, especially the families who are new to camp and are experiencing this kind of group acceptance for the very first time.”

Although it is unknown if the kids at the camp will eventually identify as gay or transgender—or even if the way gender and sexuality are defined throughout society will evolve—the camp allows the kids to look at themselves in a completely different way. “They get enough questioning in their daily lives, so it’s a great place for them to express themselves as they feel. … I feel we hear so many of the sad stories and how LGBT kids are disproportionately affected by bullying, depression, and suicide, and it hangs a heavy cloud over them and kind of dooms them from the beginning. I’m saying this is a new story. This is not a tragedy.” Cont’d on page 39

Page 39

Left: Taking a portrait during a rare still moment. Right: Wearing a tea towel to simulate long hair.

CAMP TO REDEFINE GENDER Cont’d from page 38

Morris hopes to eventually publish a book of her work and also launch a large multimedia show that travels the country and the world to show a new face of LGBT youth. The children featured here and in Morris’ project are photographed with the permission of the their parents. Her ultimate goal is to start a foundation that raises money to help underwrite the cost of camp for kids unable to attend. She also hopes to add even more dimension to the project, concentrating on producing more portraiture and documenting the transition the kids experience upon arrival to the camp.

“I would really love to follow the kids into adulthood and see what kind of relationships they develop,” Morris said. “I want to witness the evolution, knowing from where they started and see how life is going to play out for them—hopefully happily—and I think they’re going to have a better transition into adulthood than the generation proceeding them.”

Page 40

from towleroad.com MEET GROUNDSWELL, THE SECRET RIGHT WING GROUP THAT WANTS TO WAGE A '30 FRONT WAR' WITH DEMOCRATS AND OTHER REPUBLICANS

Mother Jones broke the story, after obtaining documents about the covert group. Groundswell, which is comprised of high-profile hyper-Conservatives such as Ginni Thomas (wife of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas), former UN ambassador John Bolton, and former FL congressman Allen West, seeks to "fundamentally transform the nation." They have begun holding weekly secret meetings in the offices of Judicial Watch, where they "cook up battle plans for their ongoing fights against the Obama administration, congressional Democrats, progressive outfits, and the From left: Frank Gaffney; Ginni Thomas; Allen West Republican establishment and 'clueless' GOP congressional leaders."

The group also includes certain congressional aides and journalists. While Groundswell is, by no means, the only group that meets to discuss strategies for legislation and PR, the clandestine nature of the group does raise questions about what exactly the group has to hide. In the exposé, Mother Jones noted that...

"Though members have been encouraged to zap out tweets with a #GSW hashtag, a message circulated to members of its Google group noted that the role of certain advocates should be kept 'off of the Google group for OPSEC [operational security] reasons.' This 'will avoid any potential for bad press for someone if a communication item is leaked,' the message explained."

Did we mention that one of the group's core members has a spouse that's a member of the Supreme Court? Just making sure...

An internal document describes the origins of this coalition:

"Groundswell evolved out of conversations among conservative leaders after the November elections. This is the eighth meeting. Now others are asking to be included. Growth needs to be strategic; it should be made up of senior level people willing to collaborate. It is important to keep a balance of social conservatives, national security conservatives, and constitutional conservatives. Outreach has occurred to incorporate groups with extensive reach: Heritage, Heritage Action, FreedomWorks, AFP [Americans for Prosperity], FRC [Family Research Council] and the NRA, among others…Our country is in peril. This is a critical moment needing critical leadership. We want to protect the strategic collaboration occurring at Groundswell and build on it. Please be careful about bringing guests and clear them ahead of time."

Note the inclusion of anti-gay groups such as Heritage and the FRC. Thus, it isn't all that surprising that many of the internal documents released concern the group's strategies for opposing marriage equality. One mocked Republican Party chairman Reince Priebus, saying that he “is sending messages to the party… If we were all gay illegal aliens, the party likes us." Cont’d on page 41

Page 41

MEET GROUNDSWELL Cont’d from page 40

Mother Jones' expose proves rather extensive. Those interested in reading it in its entirety can do so here: http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2013/07/groundswell- rightwing-group-ginni-thomas?slide=2

For those wishing for a more concise list of highlights, Queerty was kind enough to oblige:

"Other memorable quotes from the group’s memos: Reince Priebus

 'We’re failing the propaganda battle with minorities.'  'Conservatives are so busy dealing with issues like immigration, gay marriage and boy scouts there is little time left to focus on other issues. These are the very issues the Left wants to avoid but we need to magnify.'  'We are in a real war; most conservatives are not prepared to fight.'  'We need to be more clever than the Left on this… Something amusing and easy for LIVs [low- information voters] to understand.'  'We must reclaim the language and put ‘a face’ on our messages; tell stories. Write articles on 4th grade level!'

If Americans ever needed an example of how the GOP really feels about them, these memos are it."

Perhaps, if these hyper-conservatives make a genuine effort to fix the nation's education system, then they wouldn't need to "write articles on [a] 4th grade level"...

from advocate.com OP-ED: THE MOST IGNORED LGBT ISSUE Domestic violence affects more LGBT couples than most people think. by Anthony Armstrong

Within the wide scope of LGBT youth services offered at the Florida-based Zebra Coalition, and in many social service organizations, one of the most challenging and critical issues faced by young clients and their case management team is LGBT domestic violence. With so many social and legal issues that the modern day LGBT movement takes on, one of the most ignored is the inter-relationship violence that occurs in many LGBT couples. Even more overlooked is the lack of public policy, law entitlements and resources available to properly treat the issue and its root causes.

A young gay male reached out for help to the Zebra Coalition recently in need of emergency shelter and help to get away from his physically and emotionally abusive boyfriend. Fortunately, the Coalition was able to provide him with a safe place to stay, case management and counseling to be able to live independently and in a safe environment. Cont’d on page 42

Page 42

THE MOST IGNORED LGBT ISSUE Cont’d from page 41

The sad reality of this example however is that if there was not a safe bed and counseling available at the Coalition, this young man would have had nowhere else to go and nowhere to escape his abusive partner. Accessible and effective housing options for abused LGBT individuals are few and far between.

It is estimated that one in three same-sex relationships are involved in a form of relationship violence whether physical, emotional, or psychological. The urgency of this issue is highlighted by the ratio that one in four heterosexual women is the victim of domestic violence. Regardless of gender, ethnicity, race, or any other demographic factor,

domestic violence in any capacity is an awful and unnecessary thing that no one should have to endure. While no one within the scope of victims is at any sort of “advantage,” LGBT individuals are unarguably at a disadvantage when it comes to available resources.

Current laws and social service guidelines do not allow for the effective prevention, intervention and treatment of LGBT domestic violence and its’ lasting effects. As in heterosexual relationships, the “abuser” in LBGT relationships has often times themselves been abused, whether by a former partner, parent or other figure in their past. A lack of open dialog about past abuse, affordable and available counseling and the perceived shame of being victims are often barriers for abusers to not receive proper prevention and treatment messaging in order to successfully break the cycle of abuse.

Safe and emergency based housing for men who are victims of domestic abuse and violence is virtually non- existent. This is just one of the many reasons why gay men may be reluctant to report abuse or feel they even have options to escape their abuser. Being the victim of abuse can case a severe sense of isolation brought on by feelings of guilt or embarrassment that they are somehow responsible for the treatment they are subjected to. Additionally, gay victims may be reluctant to file reports to law enforcement over threats by their abuser to “out” them to family members or co-workers who may be unaware of their sexual orientation. If the victim is not out to family, co-workers or even friends they may feel there is nowhere for them to turn and no one to talk to; their sense of isolation may intensify and cause depression and anxiety to set in.

Gay victims may also hesitate to formally report violence to police because a perceived lack (and actual lack in some cases) of proper training for officers to intervene and effectively deal with LGBT domestic violence. Studies of LGBT domestic violence show that same-sex couples are more apt to fight back than their heterosexual counterparts. Upon hearing of a physical defense from the victim, police often times view the violence as mutual and overlook the history of abuse and control that exists within the same-sex relationship and simply do nothing to prevent further abuse from occurring. Police may also have a lack of resources to refer victims and couples to due to a lack of exposure to culturally appropriate services available to the LGBT community.

State by state laws that define various rights and protections for LGBT citizens also make it difficult to understand victims’ rights. LGBT couples that live in states with little-to-no formalized recognition of same sex couples may find it difficult to report abusive partners for fear of losing the roof over their head, access to joint bank accounts or other shared physical assets. In extreme and perhaps the saddest of cases, unfavorable child adoption laws may interfere with resolution to domestic violence. In states where adoption laws do not allow for both same-sex parents to be listed legally as parents, the abuser may hold children as emotional collateral against the victim in doing what is right and best for them. Cont’d on page43 Page 43

THE MOST IGNORED LGBT ISSUE Cont’d from page 42

To bring this issue of LGBT domestic violence out of the shadows, growing acceptance and assimilation of LGBT individuals and couples must continue. Acceptance of LGBT individuals within families, schools, workplaces and communities will attribute to pro-LGBT attitudes and ideally reflect within local, state and federal laws. Through more inclusive and equal laws LGBT victims of domestic abuse will have additional protections and in time greater resources in which services and housing options will be available. Greater conversations and open dialog is also necessary within the LGBT community regarding prevention and intervention practices to keep victims safe.

ANTHONY ARMSTRONG is the development manager and grant writer for the Center For Drug Free Living Inc., the largest AIDS service organization in central Florida. Armstrong is also a founding board member of the Zebra Coalition, one of the first full continuum of care housing programs for LGBT youth in the United States.

from nytimes.com

In broader ways, the end of the Defense of Marriage Act’s ban on federal benefits for same-sex spouses will strengthen the gay-marriage cause nationally by highlighting inconsistencies

and unfairness among the states, said Fred Sainz, a vice president of the Human Rights Campaign in Washington.

Wednesday’s rulings, he said, will shine a light on the “two Americas: one in which legally married gay couples live and the other in which unmarried gay families live,” with basic protections still out of reach.

Add California to the “Gay marriage is legal” column. Page 44

from articles.philly.com ANOTHER REASON BACKERS SAY PA. SHOULD LEGALIZE GAY MARRIAGE: $$$ by Jeff Gammage

In Pennsylvania, backers of same-sex marriage say people who don't like the idea would at least like this: Millions of dollars in new revenue that would flow from taxes and fees, and the millions more in new spending at wedding- related businesses across the state. "What Pennsylvanians need to clearly understand," said Ted Martin, executive director of Equality Pennsylvania, a gay-advocacy group, "is that by being so insular, by being so provincial, we are losing money." While the Corbett administration prepares to defend the state ban on gay marriage in court - without help from Attorney General Kathleen Kane, who says she can't ethically support the prohibition - other states gain. In New York City, officials say the first full year of legal same-sex marriage brought $16 million in direct revenue to the city, among $259 million in economic impact for hotels, restaurants, caterers, and wedding suppliers. The 8,200 same-sex marriage licenses issued between July 2011 and 2012 represented more than 10 percent of 75,000 total licenses. For those gay weddings, 200,000 guests traveled to the five boroughs from outside the city, booking 235,000 hotel-room nights at an average daily rate of $275, according to a study released by Mayor Michael Bloomberg and City Council Speaker Christine Quinn. Other states see similar windfalls - or watch them pass, according to the Williams Institute, an arm of the UCLA Law School that studies gender-identity law and Ted Martin policy. It found:  In Washington state, same-sex marriage should generate $88 million during the next three years, including $5 million in additional tax revenue in the first year.  Texas loses out on about $60 million a year in wedding-related revenue, due to its ban on gay marriage.  Maryland same-sex couples will spend an estimated $63 million on weddings in the next three years. "It's big," said Lee Badgett, the institute research director and a professor of economics at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. "Many couples who want to get married, it's a special day, so they spend lots of money. They invite friends and family, and they spend lots of money."

“Change Can Happen” The debate in Pennsylvania erupted, first when the ACLU filed a federal suit in Harrisburg to overturn the state law that defines marriage as between one man and one woman. Then, at a noisy, crowded news conference in Philadelphia, Kane said she could not support the state ban - drawing denunciations from GOP leaders who accused her of abdicating her duty. Cont’d on page 45

Kathleen Kane Page 45

$$$ Cont’d from page44

The ACLU suit came less than two weeks after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a federal law that limited marriage to heterosexuals, a ruling that galvanized the same-sex-marriage movement. "People can actually see that change can happen," said Temple University's Jason Del Gandio, who studies advocacy.

Economically, Pennsylvania could become the hole in the doughnut, surrounded by same-sex jurisdictions including Delaware, Maryland, New York, and Washington, D.C., up the coast to Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Rhode Island. Two-year-old Evan plays with his dads, Kevin Yoder, right, and New Jersey does not allow same-sex Harvey Hurdle at their Philadelphia home. marriage, and Pennsylvania's ban extends to disallow recognition of marriages performed in other places. Couples here say they are leaving to spend wedding dollars elsewhere. After 25 years together, Philadelphia health-care consultant Harvey Hurdle and architect Kevin Yoder got married in May - in Washington. Tired of waiting for Pennsylvania to act, they took a 10-person party down I-95 for a two- day celebration.

Hurdle estimates they spent $5,000 to $6,000 on hotel rooms, meals, flowers, and photos, "all money that flowed to the District of Columbia instead of Philadelphia." "We had a small family wedding. We might have had a bigger event in Philadelphia," said Hurdle, who with Yoder is raising a 6-year-old son, Evan Hurdle-Yoder. Others said the same. "If I was married in Pennsylvania, I would have had a big party," said Maureen Hennessey, who in 2011 legally married another Philadelphia woman in Massachusetts. She and her spouse, Mary Beth McIntyre, would have liked to have had a reception at the Valley Green Inn, the 1850s landmark on the Wissahickon Creek. Instead, they spent a week in Provincetown, Mass. McIntyre died from cancer in May after 29 years with Hennessey, a plaintiff in the federal suit. Today, more Pennsylvanians say gay people should be allowed to wed. A March poll by Franklin and Marshall College found 52 percent of voters in favor and 41 percent opposed. Cont’d on page 46

Mary Beth McIntyre (l) & Maureen Hennessey Page 46

$$$ Cont’d from page 45

Legislative bills to legalize same-sex marriage have gone nowhere. And Gov. Corbett favors a permanent ban through an amendment to the state constitution. In Philadelphia, 9,716 marriage licenses were sold last year at $80 each. That's $777,280 in income. It's unclear how many same-sex couples might choose to marry here, as government leaders have worked on making the city gay-friendly. The city scored 109 - higher than perfect because of bonus points - in a national evaluation of municipal laws and policies toward gays, conducted by the Human Rights Campaign, the Washington-based group that seeks equal rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people. "Philadelphia is a bit of a different story than Pennsylvania. We want to make that distinction," said Meryl Levitz, president and CEO of the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corp. The corporation takes no position on same-sex marriage, though this year marks a decade for its campaign "Philadelphia: Get your history straight and your nightlife gay." Meryl Levitz Martin, of Equality Pennsylvania, said people should support same-sex marriage because it's the right thing to do. And they should know the state would gain financially. "When marriage in New York became legal, I said Pennsylvanians should go to New York and celebrate," he said, "and they should copy their receipts and send them to their legislators."

from glaad.org EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA ELECTS FIRST OPENLY GAY BISHOP by Ross Murray

In a historic move, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) has elected its first-ever openly gay bishop. The Rev. Dr. R. Guy Erwin has been elected to a six-year term to the Southwest California Synod, which encompasses the greater Los Angeles area. GLAAD is working with Dr. Erwin and LGBT advocacy organizations within the Lutheran Church to bring media attention to this historic election for the denomination.

This is a significant step for the ELCA, who, until 2009, had banned clergy in same-gender relationships. Prior to 2009, hundreds of gay and lesbian clergy were forced out of congregations or served under secrecy. Hundreds of seminary students were not granted ordination, simply for being gay. Many left the denomination to more welcoming denominations or to join a The Rev. Dr. R. Guy Erwin roster of Lutheran pastors who refused to comply with the policy.

Dr. Erwin is a native of Oklahoma and an active member of the Osage Tribe of Indians. Dr. Erwin also sits on the board of Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries, which expands ministry opportunities for publicly-identified LGBTQ people called to leadership in the Lutheran church as ordained pastors and rostered lay leaders.

"I know that many will see my election as a significant milestone for both LGBT people and Native Americans, and I pray that I can be a positive representation for both communities," said Erwin about his election. "There was a time when I believed that I would not be able to serve as a pastor in the ELCA. Our church has now recognized the God- given gifts and abilities that LGBT people can bring to the denomination." Cont’d on page 47

Page 47

FIRST OPENLY GAY BISHOP Cont’d from page 46

Because he is openly gay and partnered, Dr. Erwin did not seek ordination in the ELCA when he was completing seminary. Instead, he completed a PhD in Lutheran history and spent most of his career as a teacher of Lutheran history. He met his partner Rob Flynn while he was studying for this PhD at Yale University. He and Rob are members of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church in North Hollywood, CA.

He is currently Professor of Religion and History, holder of the Gerhard & Olga J. Belgum Chair in Lutheran Confessional Theology at California Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks, California, a seat he has held since 2000. Following the policy change allowing clergy in same-gender relationships, Dr. Erwin was ordained on May 11, 2011.

“All kinds of diverse leaders are called to positions in the church – and the Lutheran church is blessed with many committed LGBTQ pastors, whose callings can now be fully recognized," said Amalia Vagts, executive director of Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries. "This church has come a long way in 4 years. More and more people are realizing all the time that LGBTQ people have important ministry gifts, including the gifts to lead the church as a bishop. We are thrilled to see such a wonderful leader from the LGBTQ community called to the position of bishop at this time in history.”

“Pastor Erwin is an eminent scholar and church leader. He is a teacher at heart and was an excellent pastor long before he was ordained in 2011. In many ways his election is simply the logical and appropriate next step for our denomination following the 2009 elimination of policies precluding pastors in committed same-gender relationships,” said Emily Eastwood, executive director of ReconcilingWorks. “In other ways, Pastor Erwin’s election marks a new and brighter day for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Lutherans as one of our own has been chosen not in spite of being gay, but because he is truly gifted and skilled for the office.”

"This is such an important step for both LGBT people of faith and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Dr. Erwin's fellow Lutherans recognize that LGBT people have the gifts for ministry and trust him to be a leader within the church," said Ross Murray, director of news and faith initiatives at GLAAD. "His election demonstrates the rising tide of Christians who accept, love, and embrace LGBT people in our communities."

Page 48

Regular Meetings/Services Around the State

Support

Fierce Pride - A statewide organization run by and for LGBTQ folks to advocate for our health. New members are welcome. We design campaigns to reach people at Pride events and have fun doing it! Contact: [email protected] Monthly meetings in Albuquerque.

LGBTQ Al-Anon Meeting-Albuquerque: Every Saturday morning at 10:30am at the Desert Club, 4305 Mesa Grande SE (Betw. Zuni and Central, one block West of Washington) For info, call (505) 262-2177 or www.nmal-anon.org.

LGBT Overeaters Anonymous-Albuquerque: Every Tuesday at 7pm. MCC, 1103 Texas NE. All are welcome to attend.

N’MPower-Albuquerque: Every night M-F at 7:30pm at 107 Jefferson NE. For info, call (505) 232-2990. For a monthly calendar, email [email protected].

Native GLBT Support Group: Every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month from 7-9pm at First Nations Community HealthSource Conference Room, 5608 Zuni Rd., Albuquerque. For info, call (505) 262-6554.

rd PFLAG-Albuquerque: 3 Tuesday of the month at 7pm at First Congregational UCC. 2801 Lomas NE. www.pflagabq.org.

PFLAG-Farmington: 3rd Sunday at 1 pm at the Unitarian Church, 219 N.Orchard.

PFLAG-Gallup: 3rd Thursday at 6:00pm to 8:00pm.The Rainbow Center, 216 West Maloney, Gallup, NM. LGBTQ, Families, Friends, and Allies welcome!!

PFLAG-Taos: Usually the 1st Sunday of every month at 1335 Gusdorf Rd, Suite R, Taos at 5pm. For info, call (575) 779 7264. www.pflagtaos.org.

Santa Fe HRA and Pride: 1st Sunday of the month at 11am. For more info, call (505) 692- 9061. www.santafehra.org

Transgender Resource Center of New Mexico-Albuquerque/Gallup/Las Cruces: For info, www.tgrcnm.org or contact Adrien Lawyer at (505) 440-3402.

Albuquerque: LGBTQI Grief and Loss Group – 2nd Thursday of every month. 5:30-6:30. Going through a difficult period of life? Is your world not what it looked like you wanted it to be tomorrow? This is a safe space to share and heal. Rainbow Friends Support Group – 3rd Monday, 7-9 PM. Open to all transgender, transsexual, or gender nonconforming people and their SOFFAs. At Young Women United, 120 Morningside NE, ABQ Trans Youth Support Group – Every Sunday, 5-7pm. An 18 and Under TG Youth Group (with possible exceptions being made on a case by case basis). At Young Women United, 120 Morningside NE, ABQ. For info, contact Seth at [email protected]. ABQ FTM Group – 3rd Friday, 6:30 pm. Details are posted on the yahoo group: ABQ FTM Yahoo Group. Transgender New Mexico Support Group – Every Friday, 7:30pm. For info, contact Shannon at [email protected]. Cont’d on page 49

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Support, cont’d

Gallup: GLBT Support Group of Gallup – For info, contact Jeremy at (505) 713-2828.

Las Cruces: Southern New Mexico Trans Support Group – Every 4th Friday, 6:00PM. At the Las Cruces GLBTQ Center at 1210 N. Main St., Las Cruces.

UNM Queer-Straight Alliance-Albuquerque: Meets bi-weekly on Wednesday evenings from 7:00p-9:00p on the third floor of the Student Union Building during regular fall and spring semesters. All community members regardless of enrollment, registration, or degree

status are welcome! For outside events, updates, and to keep in touch, please 'Like' our Facebook page (www.facebook.com/UNMQSA) or send an email to [email protected] to receive regular updates to your inbox.

Albuquerque Center for Peace and Justice: Please check calendar at www.abqpeaceandjustice.org

HIV/STD/Hepatitis Resource Guide: The State of New Mexico provides a variety of free infectious disease services in all of the five public health regions of the state. You can find free HIV testing (conventional with a 2-week wait for results or rapid where you get results on the spot), HIV care and support services, STD testing and treatment, hepatitis testing and vaccines and harm reduction/syringe exchange wherever you live. The online HIV/STD/Hepatitis Resource Guide allows you to search for the service you want - and in the city, county of region where you live or work. The website is located at www.nmhivguide.org. The HIV Prevention Program of the New Mexico Department of Health has launched a version of the guide for smart phones. From your phone, you can search for resources by entering m.nmhivguide.org.

Casa Q: Casa Q is a new non-profit organization in Albuquerque that will soon open a house for LGBTQ youth ages 14-18 who are experiencing homelessness. When it opens in early 2014, the Casa Q house will have at least 6 beds for youth - and a comprehensive array of LGBTQ-friendly and specific services that will help these young people thrive. You can learn more about Casa Q on our website at www.casaq.org. The website has info on the enormous need for services, our approach, our founding Board of Directors and our strategic plan. You can also go there to make an online donation with your credit card via PayPal. There is also a Facebook page so you can "like" Casa Q at https://www.facebook.com/CasaQNM.

U21 (under 21 only group)–Albuquerque: Every Friday night at 7 PM at Metropolitan Community Church of Albuquerque, 1103 Texas NE (1 block north of Lomas Blvd & 4

blocks west of Wyoming Blvd.). If you know a GLBTQ person under 21, tell them to sign up for U/21 emails. Have them contact us at [email protected].

Las Cruces GLBTQ Center: The Center is located at 1210 Main St. and offers various programs. Schedule can change, so call to verify time and day: (575) 635-4902. www.gaynewmexico.org. The New Mexico GLBTQ Center in Las Cruces is currently undergoing a change in management, as well as structure of activities and events. Once we have the correct and updated info on our groups and events, we will be sure to send them to you.

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POSITIVE LIVING: Support Group for Men with HIV/AIDS Wednesdays, 4-5:30 pm, at the office of Susan S. Turner LISW,12836 Lomas Blvd. NE, Suite B, Albuquerque, NM 87112. Discussion, mutual support, and guided meditation to gain strength, inspiration, and new coping skills. Call 275-

0203 to sign up. Confidentiality strictly respected.

Rainbow-Naatsiilid Center-Gallup: The Center is located at 105 Dean Street. Contact the Center about its programming at [email protected] or call (505) 726-4519.

Free HIV Testing-Gallup: Monday to Thursday. 8:00am to 4:00pm. Navajo AIDS Network,Inc.- Gallup Office, 101 East Hill Avenue, 505 8639.

Social

ABQmen on Facebook: A gay men's social group in Albuquerque and Santa Fe, largely the guys who wouldn't normally go out to the bars. 60-90 guys come out each month for the events. We meet 3rd Thursday of the month 6-9PM, and 1st Sunday for brunch 11AM-1PM at various locations. Check out the ABQmen Facebook page to see what we're all about. Contact info is [email protected].

4 Corners GLAD Happy Hour-Durango, CO: Every Friday at 5:30pm at Lost th Dog Bar and Saloon, 12 and Main, Durango, CO. For info, call (970) 385- 7202.

New Mexico Leather League (NMLL)-Albuquerque: General Meeting is every third Saturday of the month from 2-5 PM at I-Hop, Wyoming and Paseo Del Norte.

Prime Timers-Albuquerque: 2nd Sunday of each month at 3 pm at Sidewinders Bar, 8900 Central SE. The organization is open to all men, 21 years and older. For more info, go to http://primetimersww.org/primetimersnm/

U21 (under 21 only group)–Albuquerque: Every Friday night at 7 PM at Metropolitan Community Church of Albuquerque, 1103 Texas NE (1 block north of Lomas Blvd & 4 blocks west of Wyoming Blvd.). If you know a GLBTQ person under 21, tell them to sign up for U/21 emails. Have them contact us at [email protected].

NMLL General Meeting-Albuquerque: 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm. Every month on the third Saturday.

Wilde Bunch Square Dance Club-Albuquerque: New Mexico's only GLBTQQ square dance club, The Wilde Bunch, is starting a new class, and it's scheduled for Monday, 7 January 2013, from 7-9 pm. The group also offers a free open house the first Monday of every month from 7-9 pm. All classes are held at the Albuquerque Square Dance Center, 4909-15 Hawkins NE. For more info, please call 505.410or visit www.wildebunch.org

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Social, cont’d

The Albuquerque Leather Daddys and Albuquerque Boys of Leather present: GEAR NIGHT 3rd Saturday of every month. We're looking for folks with: Leather/latex pants, vests, shirts, skin gear, uniforms, jackets, boots, New Mexico biker gear, gloves, harnesses, collars, pup gear, cuffs, ...armbands, jocks, Community Voice is a monthly newsletter jeans, man smells, hoods, sports gear, cigars... get the idea? We’re NOT looking for: Cologne, deodorant, sweaters, khakis, suits, slacks, dress whose editor takes no responsibility for the shirts, flip-flops, polo shirts, tennis shoes, loafers.... ahhhh... now you get accuracy of the the idea. Just come as you are and we will show you a good time. Cover information that appears starts at 9 pm, we'll be there all evening! herein. Sunday Night Out If you wish to submit an Sunday night, 6pm, Hollywood Bowl, 7515 Lomas Blvd. NE, ABQ. Weekly article, want to be listed fee: $16, Yearly fee: $21. For more information, contact Gina Belluso, in the Regular Meetings [email protected]. around the State, have an upcoming event, or Twisted Sistas have a comment, please A true, community-oriented women's motorcycle club for Albuquerque, and send your submission to: newslettereditor@nmcom all of New Mexico! We are welcoming of all sizes, styles, shapes, makes and models of motorcycles, and riders of all experience levels. We would munityvoice.info. If you wish to subscribe, send like to invite all women motorcyclists to get involved with us, come ride with your request to: us, and get to know us. We meet on the second Friday of every month at subscribe@nmcommunit various locations. Look for us on Facebook at Twisted Sistas MC to find yvoice.info. meeting locations and ride schedules.

In order to appear in the following month’s Media newsletter, all articles and lisitings must be submitted no later than the 15th of the previous "LISTEN UP” month. All submissions KTAO...101.9 FM, Taos. Thursday night at 7:00 PM. Focus on youth. must include a contact person and phone number and/or email Religious address for verification purposes. Please include date, time, location and Metropolitan Community Church-Albuquerque: Every Sunday at 10:30am at contact information for all 1103 Texas St. NE. For more info, call (505) 268-5252. www.mccabq.com upcoming events and activities. St. Michael & All Angels Episcopal Church-Albuquerque: Eucharist every Sunday at 7:30, 9 & 11:15am and 5pm. For more info, call (505) 345-8147. www.all-angels.com

St. Paul Lutheran Church: Sunday Services: 8am and 10:30am. Summer Service: 9:15am only (June-August). Education Hour: 9:15am (Sept.-May) 1100 Indian School Rd. NE. For more info, call (505) 242-5942. www.stpaulabq.org.

Deadline for September Issue: August 15th

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