I caught the political bug while in college in 1992, seduced by the charming optimism of Bill Clinton's presidential campaign. At the time, I was interning as a radio news reporter at KQED in San Francisco. One of my assignments was to cover a Clinton visit. Although I was still a political neophyte, there was something special about this candidate. With a central theme of "change" he inspired and instilled hope - while making the future seem limitless.
Rest of Wayne's commentary:
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Scientists Study How HIV Hides in Body
By LAURAN NEERGAARD (AP Medical Writer)
From Associated PressJanuary 31, 2008 4:37 PM EST
WASHINGTON - The AIDS virus has hideouts deep in the immune system that today's drugs can't reach. Now scientists finally have discovered how HIV builds one of those fortresses - and they're exploring whether a drug already used to fight a parasite in developing countries just might hold a key to break in.
Rest of the Story:
From Associated PressJanuary 31, 2008 4:37 PM EST
WASHINGTON - The AIDS virus has hideouts deep in the immune system that today's drugs can't reach. Now scientists finally have discovered how HIV builds one of those fortresses - and they're exploring whether a drug already used to fight a parasite in developing countries just might hold a key to break in.
Rest of the Story:
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
TAKE THE PRIDE AT WORK SURVEY
Pride at Work: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Labor
"Do you have health care coverage for yourself, for your partner? Does your employer offer domestic partner benefits? Are you left out of many healthcare plans because of transgender exclusions?We need to hear your stories. We are at a moment where we could make healthcare for all a reality in America. But your stories are key to making that happen. Please take our health care survey today."
"Do you have health care coverage for yourself, for your partner? Does your employer offer domestic partner benefits? Are you left out of many healthcare plans because of transgender exclusions?We need to hear your stories. We are at a moment where we could make healthcare for all a reality in America. But your stories are key to making that happen. Please take our health care survey today."
EqSD Testifies on SB 65
Last Wednesday David Fischer with Equality South Dakota delivered testimony to the legislature about Senate Bill 65. We are proud to see that a lot of what he said was taken from Old Man's blog. Good job David and Equality South Dakota. Even though we didn't win the vote, our message got out and we had our say.
The bill is now before the House. If you wish to send a message to your representatives go to the EQSD Web Site for more information.
The bill is now before the House. If you wish to send a message to your representatives go to the EQSD Web Site for more information.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
ANOTHER MISSION UPDATE
I have visited with other residents at the Cornerstone Rescue Mission and they have corroborated what I have heard from others. The problems of discrimination, harassment and intimidation continue and are getting worse according to the people with whom I have been visiting.
Because of the consistent ranting and condemnation of Gay people by the staff member, other residents are joining in and harassing, threatening and intimidating anyone thought to be gay or not going along with the religious fundamentalism of certain staff members.
I have heard from others in the community that the Executive Director claims it is not happening or he would stop it. I think he needs to paying more attention to the day to day happenings at the Mission. All my sources who have first hand knowledge confirm that it is happening openly and is getting worse. How far will it get before some one steps in to stop the bullying? Does someone have to get hurt?
When people do not feel safe going to a place of last resort, what is left? What risks will gay people have to take to recieve shelter? It is scary to think about.
Because of the consistent ranting and condemnation of Gay people by the staff member, other residents are joining in and harassing, threatening and intimidating anyone thought to be gay or not going along with the religious fundamentalism of certain staff members.
I have heard from others in the community that the Executive Director claims it is not happening or he would stop it. I think he needs to paying more attention to the day to day happenings at the Mission. All my sources who have first hand knowledge confirm that it is happening openly and is getting worse. How far will it get before some one steps in to stop the bullying? Does someone have to get hurt?
When people do not feel safe going to a place of last resort, what is left? What risks will gay people have to take to recieve shelter? It is scary to think about.
JESSE NEEDS TO SELL:
Tan couch with matching love seat---$150.00
Tan Leather England Lazy boy----$250.00
If interested, contact The Center West, 348-3244
We will pass your contact info on to Jesse.
Tan Leather England Lazy boy----$250.00
If interested, contact The Center West, 348-3244
We will pass your contact info on to Jesse.
FUNDAMENTALIST FANATICS CALL FOR HOLY WAR AGAINST LGBT COMMUNITY
Holy war: ‘A cause worth dying for’
If you are involved in the LGBT community across the Carolinas, chances are good that you have seen them at the NC Pride Festival in Durham, Pride Charlotte or outside the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Carolinas Gala Dinner. The “them” I refer to are the red-shirt-wearing, big-sign-carrying, loudspeaker-screaming protestors from Operation Save America (OSA). Because they are loud they get most of our attention, but they shouldn’t be our only concern.Less in-your-face but (as you will see) no less harmful is the Coalition of Conscience (CoC). On the surface, CoC’s leader Dr. Michael L. Brown seems innocent enough. In September 2007, he organized a forum asking “Can you be Gay and Christian?” that he promoted as a peaceful opportunity for discussion and dialogue.
READ MORE AT Q-NOTES
If you are involved in the LGBT community across the Carolinas, chances are good that you have seen them at the NC Pride Festival in Durham, Pride Charlotte or outside the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Carolinas Gala Dinner. The “them” I refer to are the red-shirt-wearing, big-sign-carrying, loudspeaker-screaming protestors from Operation Save America (OSA). Because they are loud they get most of our attention, but they shouldn’t be our only concern.Less in-your-face but (as you will see) no less harmful is the Coalition of Conscience (CoC). On the surface, CoC’s leader Dr. Michael L. Brown seems innocent enough. In September 2007, he organized a forum asking “Can you be Gay and Christian?” that he promoted as a peaceful opportunity for discussion and dialogue.
READ MORE AT Q-NOTES
Monday, January 28, 2008
LGBT DEMOCRATIC RESPONSE TO THE STATE OF THE UNION
By John Hoadley, National Executive Director, Stonewall Democrats
Stonewall response to Bush's State of the Union Address/
Stonewall response to Bush's State of the Union Address/
Deb Price: Military's hostile climate victimizes families of gays
The three moms talk glowingly about their sons.
One son is Darren Manzella, a decorated Army medic who, while in Iraq, provided medical services to U.S. troops and Iraqi civilians during more than 100 street patrols in Baghdad.
Then there's Barry Winchell, a private first class who had just one more test to pass before achieving his dream of being an Army helicopter pilot.
And Allen Schindler, a 22-year-old Navy radioman, who planned to go to college to pursue his passion of studying animals.
Like most parents whose children enlist in the military, these moms were proud but worried.
read more of Deb Price's column.
One son is Darren Manzella, a decorated Army medic who, while in Iraq, provided medical services to U.S. troops and Iraqi civilians during more than 100 street patrols in Baghdad.
Then there's Barry Winchell, a private first class who had just one more test to pass before achieving his dream of being an Army helicopter pilot.
And Allen Schindler, a 22-year-old Navy radioman, who planned to go to college to pursue his passion of studying animals.
Like most parents whose children enlist in the military, these moms were proud but worried.
read more of Deb Price's column.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
A President Like My Father
An interesting endorsement for Barack Obama from Caroline Kennedy:
OVER the years, I’ve been deeply moved by the people who’ve told me they wished they could feel inspired and hopeful about America the way people did when my father was president. This sense is even more profound today. That is why I am supporting a presidential candidate in the Democratic primaries, Barack Obama. Read more of this NY Times Editorial:
OVER the years, I’ve been deeply moved by the people who’ve told me they wished they could feel inspired and hopeful about America the way people did when my father was president. This sense is even more profound today. That is why I am supporting a presidential candidate in the Democratic primaries, Barack Obama. Read more of this NY Times Editorial:
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Hillary Clinton addresses gay teen suicide
by PageOneQ
Senator Hillary Clinton, during a question-and-answer session, addresses the following question submitted over the Internet:
"Considering the extraordinarily high incidence of depression and suicide among gay teenagers, what action will you, as President, take to encourage a more accepting and healthy educational experience for LGBT teens?" read more:
Senator Hillary Clinton, during a question-and-answer session, addresses the following question submitted over the Internet:
"Considering the extraordinarily high incidence of depression and suicide among gay teenagers, what action will you, as President, take to encourage a more accepting and healthy educational experience for LGBT teens?" read more:
School club fights to promote tolerance, spread awareness
Svan, Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Sunday, January 20, 2008
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan — They’ve ignored the snickers and snide remarks. When a flier was torn from the wall, they made a banner with big letters: “Ban Hate.”
Amid a controversy that put their club and motives under intense scrutiny, and a struggle to be given the same rights as other non-curricular groups in their school, they persevered.
read more:
Pacific edition, Sunday, January 20, 2008
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan — They’ve ignored the snickers and snide remarks. When a flier was torn from the wall, they made a banner with big letters: “Ban Hate.”
Amid a controversy that put their club and motives under intense scrutiny, and a struggle to be given the same rights as other non-curricular groups in their school, they persevered.
read more:
MISSION UPDATE
I just received an update from my sources at the Mission. I'm told that conditions are getting worse. Since the preaching against gays has started, the thugs and bullies are taking their cue that it is alright to harass and intimidate. People are being called "fag" and harassed and threatened. Because the preacher is a staff member, everyone is afraid to speak up for fear of retaliation from the staff.
We are also told that the "disciples group" is being referred to as the SS (Sin Seekers) by the rest of the Mission population. Will they be issued brown shirts and jack boots next? Is this supposed to be Christian? Must have a different Bible than the one I read! Those without His Love in their hearts have to resort to condemning the perceived faults of everyone else.
Once again, we have to ask if the mission, which is supported by public and community funds, is open to everyone in need, or just a private fundamentalist hate club. Does someone have to be killed or injured for the community to wake up to the injustice that is going on with our money?
We were under the impression that the Mission was supposed to be a safe place where people could go when in need. Preaching hate and intolerance and condoning harassment and discrimination doesn't lead to safety. It certainly shouldn't be condoned by our community.
I need to add that the sources at the Mission who are reporting this to me are not the Gay clients. They are scared and intimidated and afraid to speak publicly. Those reporting to me are concerned, supportive straight sources who have witnessed the abuse.
We are also told that the "disciples group" is being referred to as the SS (Sin Seekers) by the rest of the Mission population. Will they be issued brown shirts and jack boots next? Is this supposed to be Christian? Must have a different Bible than the one I read! Those without His Love in their hearts have to resort to condemning the perceived faults of everyone else.
Once again, we have to ask if the mission, which is supported by public and community funds, is open to everyone in need, or just a private fundamentalist hate club. Does someone have to be killed or injured for the community to wake up to the injustice that is going on with our money?
We were under the impression that the Mission was supposed to be a safe place where people could go when in need. Preaching hate and intolerance and condoning harassment and discrimination doesn't lead to safety. It certainly shouldn't be condoned by our community.
I need to add that the sources at the Mission who are reporting this to me are not the Gay clients. They are scared and intimidated and afraid to speak publicly. Those reporting to me are concerned, supportive straight sources who have witnessed the abuse.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
TUCKER WAGNER IS IN THE HOSPITAL
I just received word from a friend of Tucker Wagner that he is in the hospital having had a stroke. Tuck's friend asked that I post a comment here about his condition and a request that people visit and send him cards and e-mails. E-mails can be sent through the hospital e-mail system. He is at the rehab center (Behind the main hospital in room 203-2.)
Visiting hours are after 3pm on week days and afternoons on Saturday and Sunday.
Tucker Wagner
Rehab Center
room 203-2
Rapid City Regional Hospital
353 Fairmont Blvd
Rapid City, SD 57701
Sharon said that Tuck is recovering and working hard to get back to normal. His speech is affected but his mind is still sharp. Sounds a little like Tim Johnson's condition. Tuck is a great guy and a good member of our community. We wish him the best and ask that the community show him the love and support he so deserves. Keep the cards and letters coming!!
Visiting hours are after 3pm on week days and afternoons on Saturday and Sunday.
Tucker Wagner
Rehab Center
room 203-2
Rapid City Regional Hospital
353 Fairmont Blvd
Rapid City, SD 57701
Sharon said that Tuck is recovering and working hard to get back to normal. His speech is affected but his mind is still sharp. Sounds a little like Tim Johnson's condition. Tuck is a great guy and a good member of our community. We wish him the best and ask that the community show him the love and support he so deserves. Keep the cards and letters coming!!
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
IS FRED PHELPS WORKING UNDERCOVER AT THE CORNERSTONE RESCUE MISSION?
I received a disturbing phone call this morning from my sources at the Cornerstone Rescue Mission. After considering how to handle this news, I've decided that the best way is to let the public know of these concerns so they can best decide whether they wish to continue to support the Mission.
The reports I've received indicate that a staff member, a K. C. Smith who calls himself a preacher has been giving sermons about the evils of homosexuality and carrying on a campaign of harassment and intimidation against anyone who is perceived as gay or who may disagree with his hateful rants. It sounds like he's taken his material straight off the "God hates Fags" web site of the infamous Fred Phelps. We don't need a Phelps clone in this community.
According to my sources, this staff member has been publicly harassing and intimidating people about being gay. Calling them out in front of everyone asking them: "Do you like girls? Do you like girls? Do you like girls?" And interrogating new residents about whether they are heterosexual.
To make matters worse he has established a disciple's group which according to my sources is little more than a goon squad seeking out "sin." Which means harassing and intimidating anyone they perceive as gay or who might have the nerve to disagree with what Mr. Smith is advocating. Needless to say it is creating a very hostile environment at the Mission not just for gay people but for anyone who doesn't agree with Mr. Smith and his right wing fundamentalist hate mongering.
My source also tells me that a church group was doing volunteer work, helping to serve the meal, and one of those volunteers told Mr. Smith that he shouldn't be allowed to say what he was saying. Needless to say her protestations were ignored.
I'm told that complaints have been filed with the director, but nothing has been done that anyone can tell.
While Mr. Smith and his gang of goons have the right to believe as they wish, the mission receives public funds and is supported by the generosity of the whole community. I myself have helped with preparing and serving meals there and have helped with fund raisers for the Mission. Is the Mission open to everyone who is in need of the services or not? Or, is it the sole domain of right wing fundamentalists.
This entire situation needs to be investigated and if found to be true, it either needs to be corrected or the funding needs to be cut off until it is a safe and welcoming place for everyone in need. I know of many churches and civic organizations that support the Cornerstone Rescue Mission which do not follow or support the type of hateful Christianity that Mr. Smith is forcing on the Mission. I'm thinking they might think twice about supporting it if this continues. We will be watching!
The reports I've received indicate that a staff member, a K. C. Smith who calls himself a preacher has been giving sermons about the evils of homosexuality and carrying on a campaign of harassment and intimidation against anyone who is perceived as gay or who may disagree with his hateful rants. It sounds like he's taken his material straight off the "God hates Fags" web site of the infamous Fred Phelps. We don't need a Phelps clone in this community.
According to my sources, this staff member has been publicly harassing and intimidating people about being gay. Calling them out in front of everyone asking them: "Do you like girls? Do you like girls? Do you like girls?" And interrogating new residents about whether they are heterosexual.
To make matters worse he has established a disciple's group which according to my sources is little more than a goon squad seeking out "sin." Which means harassing and intimidating anyone they perceive as gay or who might have the nerve to disagree with what Mr. Smith is advocating. Needless to say it is creating a very hostile environment at the Mission not just for gay people but for anyone who doesn't agree with Mr. Smith and his right wing fundamentalist hate mongering.
My source also tells me that a church group was doing volunteer work, helping to serve the meal, and one of those volunteers told Mr. Smith that he shouldn't be allowed to say what he was saying. Needless to say her protestations were ignored.
I'm told that complaints have been filed with the director, but nothing has been done that anyone can tell.
While Mr. Smith and his gang of goons have the right to believe as they wish, the mission receives public funds and is supported by the generosity of the whole community. I myself have helped with preparing and serving meals there and have helped with fund raisers for the Mission. Is the Mission open to everyone who is in need of the services or not? Or, is it the sole domain of right wing fundamentalists.
This entire situation needs to be investigated and if found to be true, it either needs to be corrected or the funding needs to be cut off until it is a safe and welcoming place for everyone in need. I know of many churches and civic organizations that support the Cornerstone Rescue Mission which do not follow or support the type of hateful Christianity that Mr. Smith is forcing on the Mission. I'm thinking they might think twice about supporting it if this continues. We will be watching!
AL GORE SPEAKS OUT IN FAVOR OF GAY MARRIAGE
Last week Al Gore posted a video on which he comes out in favor of and gives great justification for marriage rights for lgbt people. Is he running for President? If not, why not? GO AL!!
More commentary about Gore on Huffington Post. Why Al Gore is not President.
More commentary about Gore on Huffington Post. Why Al Gore is not President.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
UNITARIAN UNIVERSALISTS SUPPORT LGBT COMMUNITY
Nick and Dinah from Deadwood sent me a link to the Unitarian Universalist's
web site for LGBT concerns. The UU is very supportive of LGBT concerns and rights. We have many friends here in the Hills who are part of the UU congregations.
web site for LGBT concerns. The UU is very supportive of LGBT concerns and rights. We have many friends here in the Hills who are part of the UU congregations.
ACTOR HEATH LEDGER HAS DIED
I just heard that Actor Heath Ledger star of Brokeback Mountain has been found dead. His housekeeper found him dead this morning in his apartment.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
ROSIE NEEDS TO SELL HER CAR
Hi Mike:
I need to sell my car and I thought she would be happier with a liberal member driving her as this is what she is used to. I thought maybe you could blog this?
2003 Suzuki SX Aerio
only 50,600 miles, loaded, Hot red, warranty to 100K, 6 disc CD with a superior sound system, AT, front wheel drive and great gas mileage.
If anyone is interested contact me at The Center West and I will pass on your contact info to Rosie!
THE CENTER WEST
605-348-3244
thecenterwest@yahoo.com
I need to sell my car and I thought she would be happier with a liberal member driving her as this is what she is used to. I thought maybe you could blog this?
2003 Suzuki SX Aerio
only 50,600 miles, loaded, Hot red, warranty to 100K, 6 disc CD with a superior sound system, AT, front wheel drive and great gas mileage.
If anyone is interested contact me at The Center West and I will pass on your contact info to Rosie!
THE CENTER WEST
605-348-3244
thecenterwest@yahoo.com
Saturday, January 19, 2008
NEW LIBRARY SYSTEM
Patti is currently installing a new system for our library at The Center West. We will be able to list the materials on line through our web site. We are asking anyone who has books checked out or who has books to donate to please get them to The Center West right away so we can get them catalogued and listed. Thanks everyone for your support.
Mike Coats, Director
Mike Coats, Director
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Research Study for Gay, Bisexual and Questioning Men
(I am just passing this on.)
I am a gay researcher conducting an empirical study examining attitudes, feelings, and experiences associated with being a gay, bisexual, or questioning man. If you are a man who is at least 18 years old and has experienced same-sex attraction, I would greatly appreciate your participation in this study.
The survey is anonymous, and takes about 35 minutes to complete. As an incentive to participate, all participants will be given the chance to enter a participant raffle awarding $100 each to three randomly selected participants.
For those interested in participating in this study, click on the following hypertext link (or cut and paste it into your browser). http://d993.psysurvey.com/ This will take you to the consent form and questionnaire.
Dawn M. Szymanski, Ph.D., University of Tennessee
I am a gay researcher conducting an empirical study examining attitudes, feelings, and experiences associated with being a gay, bisexual, or questioning man. If you are a man who is at least 18 years old and has experienced same-sex attraction, I would greatly appreciate your participation in this study.
The survey is anonymous, and takes about 35 minutes to complete. As an incentive to participate, all participants will be given the chance to enter a participant raffle awarding $100 each to three randomly selected participants.
For those interested in participating in this study, click on the following hypertext link (or cut and paste it into your browser). http://d993.psysurvey.com/ This will take you to the consent form and questionnaire.
Dawn M. Szymanski, Ph.D., University of Tennessee
Introducing Rainbow Rumpus
I would like to make everyone aware of a new web site I've discovered for children with LGBT parents. From what I've seen it is pretty good. Give us some feed back on what you think. It is called Rainbow Rumpus.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
ANOTHER REASON TO PRACTICE SAFE SEX AND HYGENE
SinceI first posted this there has been a lot of concern and controversy about the findings and the resulting targeting of the Gay community by distorting these findings. Please read the following: http://select.nytimes.com/mem/tnt.html?_r=2&emc=tnt&tntget=2008/01/20/us/20castro.html&tntemail0=y&oref=slogin
You can also go to The Box Turtle Bulletin for more information.
No mater the controversy, it is still important to practise safe sex always!!
Drug resistent staph found to be passed in Gay sex. (By Amanda Beck, Rueters)
San Francisco: A deadly drug resistant strain of deadly bacteria has moved beyond the borders of US hospitals and is being transmitted among Gay men during sex researchers have found. read more
Monday, January 14, 2008
NEW FINDINGS ABOUT METH USE AND HIV INFECTION
MAPP-SD has just posted some new information about research into Meth=Amphetamine use and the risk for HIV. It isn't just about an increase in risky behaviors. There are other factors that increase the risk of contracting HIV. As if we needed any more reasons not to use Meth!
Sunday, January 13, 2008
COMMENTS ON SENATE BILL 65
Senate bill 65 would add an additional penalty to the existing crime of intentionally exposing someone to HIV/AIDS. While it is already a crime in South Dakota to knowingly infect someone with HIV/AIDS, this bill would also require them to register as a sex offender.
An initial gut reaction is to say "why not?" No one should be allowed to intentionally expose someone else to harm. However, there are some unintended consequences to the criminalizing of HIV and Aids. Appealing to the emotional "hang em high" mentality may win votes but doesn't solve the problem. Indeed, it is making it worse.
First, it stigmatizes those who have AIDS even more than they already are by giving the public perception that all AIDS patients are somehow evil people.
Secondly, it creates a reason not to get tested and to know one's HIV status. The comment I heard recently; "If I don't know my HIV status, they can't charge me with a crime."
Thirdly, it costs the state of South Dakota money that is badly needed for HIV and AIDS prevention. South Dakota spends none of its own money on HIV prevention. All of the funds come from the Center For Disease Control (CDC). This money is dispensed according to the rates of infection in any given state.
South Dakota doesn't have anonymous testing. All HIV positive cases get reported to the Dept. of Health which does follow up on each case. Since HIV/AIDS has been criminalized here, a lot of people have been reluctant to get tested because they do not know the ramifications of engaging in sexual activity even if that activity would be regarded as safe. If it fails and the person gets HIV, are they liable. How do they know?
As a result a lot of people are going out of state to get tested. If they test positive, that gets figured into that states HIV infection rate not South Dakota's. Consequently, South Dakota gets less money because our rates are artificially calculated low. As a result there is less money for HIV/AIDS prevention and education and the cycle keeps going.
Add to this the fact that there is no prevention education in the schools and the stage is set for a major outbreak. Whenever, I start working with a new client especially one of the youth group members, I am amazed at the lack of information and understanding they have about HIV and AIDS.
If South Dakota and our legislators really want to prevent AIDS and not just cater to the "If it feels good, it must be evil" crowd, then they need to start investing in real education and prevention activities which address the real situations and behaviors in which people especially our youth are involved. The "abstinence only" approach being advocated by the "horrors of sex" religious fanatics has been proven to be ineffectual and unrealistic.
I find it interesting that we are finding new and novel ways to put people into prison at the same time certain legislators want to close down colleges. Turn them into prisons?
An initial gut reaction is to say "why not?" No one should be allowed to intentionally expose someone else to harm. However, there are some unintended consequences to the criminalizing of HIV and Aids. Appealing to the emotional "hang em high" mentality may win votes but doesn't solve the problem. Indeed, it is making it worse.
First, it stigmatizes those who have AIDS even more than they already are by giving the public perception that all AIDS patients are somehow evil people.
Secondly, it creates a reason not to get tested and to know one's HIV status. The comment I heard recently; "If I don't know my HIV status, they can't charge me with a crime."
Thirdly, it costs the state of South Dakota money that is badly needed for HIV and AIDS prevention. South Dakota spends none of its own money on HIV prevention. All of the funds come from the Center For Disease Control (CDC). This money is dispensed according to the rates of infection in any given state.
South Dakota doesn't have anonymous testing. All HIV positive cases get reported to the Dept. of Health which does follow up on each case. Since HIV/AIDS has been criminalized here, a lot of people have been reluctant to get tested because they do not know the ramifications of engaging in sexual activity even if that activity would be regarded as safe. If it fails and the person gets HIV, are they liable. How do they know?
As a result a lot of people are going out of state to get tested. If they test positive, that gets figured into that states HIV infection rate not South Dakota's. Consequently, South Dakota gets less money because our rates are artificially calculated low. As a result there is less money for HIV/AIDS prevention and education and the cycle keeps going.
Add to this the fact that there is no prevention education in the schools and the stage is set for a major outbreak. Whenever, I start working with a new client especially one of the youth group members, I am amazed at the lack of information and understanding they have about HIV and AIDS.
If South Dakota and our legislators really want to prevent AIDS and not just cater to the "If it feels good, it must be evil" crowd, then they need to start investing in real education and prevention activities which address the real situations and behaviors in which people especially our youth are involved. The "abstinence only" approach being advocated by the "horrors of sex" religious fanatics has been proven to be ineffectual and unrealistic.
I find it interesting that we are finding new and novel ways to put people into prison at the same time certain legislators want to close down colleges. Turn them into prisons?
Today In History: A Spunky ONE And The U.S. Post Office
The Box Turtle Bulletin has a piece on the anniversary of an important legal decision that laid the groundwork and made it possible for the LGBT Media to exist.
"Today marks a very important milestone in LGBT history. Fifty years ago today, on January 13, 1958, the U.S. Supreme Court delivered its first ever pro-gay ruling in ONE Inc. v. Olesen, a landmark decision that allowed a magazine for gays and lesbians to be sent through the U.S. mail." Read more:
"Today marks a very important milestone in LGBT history. Fifty years ago today, on January 13, 1958, the U.S. Supreme Court delivered its first ever pro-gay ruling in ONE Inc. v. Olesen, a landmark decision that allowed a magazine for gays and lesbians to be sent through the U.S. mail." Read more:
Thursday, January 10, 2008
So cool and So Funny and So Logical
Received this from Ace Lundon and think it is great. I debated which blog to post it to and decided to post it on the main one.
Thanks Ace!!
01) Being gay is not natural. Real Americans always reject unnatural things like eyeglasses, polyester, and air conditioning.
02) Gay marriage will encourage people to be gay, in the same way that hanging around tall people will make you tall.
03) Legalizing gay marriage will open the door to all kinds of crazy behavior. People may even wish to marry their pets because a dog has legal standing and can sign a marriage contract.
04) Straight marriage has been around a long time and hasn't changed at all; women are still property, blacks still can't marry whites, and divorce is still illegal.
05) Straight marriage will be less meaningful if gay marriage were allowed; the sanctity of Britany Spears' 55-hour just-for-fun marriage would be destroyed.
06) Straight marriages are valid because they produce children. Gay couples, infertile couples, and old people shouldn't be allowed to marry because our orphanages aren't full yet, and the world needs more children.
07) Obviously gay parents will raise gay children, since straight parents only raise straight children.
08) Gay marriage is not supported by religion. In a theocracy like ours, the values of one religion are imposed on the entire country. That's why we have only one religion in America.
09) Children can never succeed without a male and a female role model at home. That's why we as a society expressly forbid single parents to raise children.
10) Gay marriage will change the foundation of society; we could never adapt to new social norms. Just like we haven't adapted to cars, the service-sector economy, or longer life spans.
Thanks Ace!!
01) Being gay is not natural. Real Americans always reject unnatural things like eyeglasses, polyester, and air conditioning.
02) Gay marriage will encourage people to be gay, in the same way that hanging around tall people will make you tall.
03) Legalizing gay marriage will open the door to all kinds of crazy behavior. People may even wish to marry their pets because a dog has legal standing and can sign a marriage contract.
04) Straight marriage has been around a long time and hasn't changed at all; women are still property, blacks still can't marry whites, and divorce is still illegal.
05) Straight marriage will be less meaningful if gay marriage were allowed; the sanctity of Britany Spears' 55-hour just-for-fun marriage would be destroyed.
06) Straight marriages are valid because they produce children. Gay couples, infertile couples, and old people shouldn't be allowed to marry because our orphanages aren't full yet, and the world needs more children.
07) Obviously gay parents will raise gay children, since straight parents only raise straight children.
08) Gay marriage is not supported by religion. In a theocracy like ours, the values of one religion are imposed on the entire country. That's why we have only one religion in America.
09) Children can never succeed without a male and a female role model at home. That's why we as a society expressly forbid single parents to raise children.
10) Gay marriage will change the foundation of society; we could never adapt to new social norms. Just like we haven't adapted to cars, the service-sector economy, or longer life spans.
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
FUNDAMENTALIST ANTI-TRUTH SQUAD AT IT AGAIN
I don't know if anyone else caught the Good, Bad and Ugly piece by Keith Rhudy today in the Rapid City Journal. It gave new meaning to the ugly part. When truth becomes relative to one's political agendas, we are all in trouble.
Rhudy once again made the claim that Barack Obama had a Muslim education. A claim that has been disproven many times. But there is always some who will bring it up hoping that other bigots will buy their bull. Going to school with Muslims doesn't make someone a Muslim. Rhudy I'm sure went to school with some smart people. But, that certainly didn't make him intelligent. And I thought bearing false witness was forbidden by the Ten Commandments. But, then, I guess when you've been "born again," you are above the rules.
Even if he was a Muslim, so what. This idea that we have to turn control of this country over to a bunch of fundamentalist Christian extremeists who have no regard for truth, justice or personal freedom is absurd and certainly not what our founding fathers had in mind.
Rhudy once again made the claim that Barack Obama had a Muslim education. A claim that has been disproven many times. But there is always some who will bring it up hoping that other bigots will buy their bull. Going to school with Muslims doesn't make someone a Muslim. Rhudy I'm sure went to school with some smart people. But, that certainly didn't make him intelligent. And I thought bearing false witness was forbidden by the Ten Commandments. But, then, I guess when you've been "born again," you are above the rules.
Even if he was a Muslim, so what. This idea that we have to turn control of this country over to a bunch of fundamentalist Christian extremeists who have no regard for truth, justice or personal freedom is absurd and certainly not what our founding fathers had in mind.
RON PAUL'S CLOSET
It seems that Ron Paul who has been running for President as a Republican has a History of Racism and Homophobia. Box Turtle Bulletin has posted some interesting findings from Ron's past. The New Republic Writer James Kirchic has some interesting findings as well. Is it really necessary these days to be a racist and a bigot to survive in the Republican party? I guess catering to the fundamentalist fringe will do that to you.
Monday, January 7, 2008
MORE ON HUCKABEE'S EXTREMIST CONNECTIONS
Continuing our exposing of Mike Huckabee's extremist connections, the Box Turtle Bulletin give some good background information about his associates and views. This man is dangerous to the country.
Saturday, January 5, 2008
Huckabee Cavorts With Dangerous and Delusional Extremists
Once again Wayne Besen questions the extreme agenda of Huckabee and the extremists with whom he associates. Very interesting and informative reading. As I have said before, Huckabee is dangerous.
MILITARY GETTING SOFT ON DADT?
Interview with SLDN's Cholene Espinoza on the 60 Minutes 'Military Soft On DADT?' piece at Pam's House Blend
Very interesting. As a gay veteran, I know first hand the tradgedy and stupidity of DADT. WE need to repeal it now!
Very interesting. As a gay veteran, I know first hand the tradgedy and stupidity of DADT. WE need to repeal it now!
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Surviving Suicide and the Ex-Gay Tragedy
Eric describes his experience as a suicide survivor and his experience with the Ex-Gay movement.
Happy New Year
Some fantastic wishes for New Years; http://www.squirtsplace.com/swf/HappyNewYear.swf
http://www.jacquielawson.com/viewcard.asp?code=QJ35127968
http://www.jacquielawson.com/viewcard.asp?code=QJ35127968
SAME SEX MARRIAGE CAN'T BE A STATE ISSUE
A lot of people especially the candidates for President have claimed that same sex marriage should be a states rights issue and the federal government should stay out of it. By the way, the same argument was made about slavery.
The Washington Post has a great article on why it can't be a states rights issue. The real inequities are exposed when there is a divorce.
The Washington Post has a great article on why it can't be a states rights issue. The real inequities are exposed when there is a divorce.
KEVN INTERVIEW
Just to let everyone know that yesterday I did an interview for KEVN Fox News here in Rapid City about discrimination here in Rapid City. Although the interview was positive, they do an hour interview then cut it down to 2 minutes of sound bites. So much of what I said and would have liked to have been included, wasn't.
But it was a positive piece and gave us some good, positive exposure, so I am pleased with it.
But it was a positive piece and gave us some good, positive exposure, so I am pleased with it.
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