PERSONAL FINANCE EXPERT SUZE ORMAN TO BE HONORED AT HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN NATIONAL DINNER by: Rachel Balick, OIA Newswire
Best-selling Author and Personal Finance Expert Suze Orman to be Honored at Human Rights Campaign National Gala Dinner Orman is recipient of 2008 National Equality Award
WASHINGTON–The Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender civil rights group, today announced that best-selling author, Emmy Award-winning television host, and personal finance expert Suze Orman will be honored with the 2008 National Equality Award at the organization's Twelfth Annual National Dinner in Washington D.C. on October 4th. Orman was named one of TIME Magazine's 100 Most Influential People in the World in 2008. As a nationally-recognized figure, Suze is raising the profile of LGBT Americans and educating the world about the financial hardships LGBT families face because of inequities in our country's federal laws.
"Suze Orman is someone whose commonsense financial advice has been heard by people across the nation and the globe—both LGBT and straight," said HRC President Joe Solmonese. "That this advice comes from an open lesbian bridges the divide between LGBT and heterosexual communities and proves that, no matter our sexual orientation or gender identity, we all share the same concerns about paying our bills, feeding and clothing our children, and buying homes. HRC is pleased to recognize her achievements by presenting her with the 2008 National Equality Award."
Orman has written, co-produced, and hosted six PBS specials based on her New York Times bestselling books, and is the single most successful fundraiser in the history of public television. She has won dozens of awards, including two Daytime Emmy Awards in the category of Outstanding Service Show Host for her PBS specials. Orman is a contributing editor to "O" at Home as well as "O", The Oprah Magazine in the United States as well as the South African edition. She has a syndicated column called Women & Money, writes a bi-weekly column, Money Matters, on Yahoo! Finance, and a bi-monthly column for the Costco Connection. Orman hosts the extremely popular and award-winning Suze Orman Show, which airs every Saturday night on CNBC and on XM & Sirius radio, and also hosts the Financial Freedom Hour on QVC television.
“Suze has earned her place as America’s favorite and most trusted personal finance expert, believing money has no race, sex, politics and religion,” continued Solmonese.
Past National Equality Award recipients include House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, tennis legend Billie Jean King, musician and activist Cyndi Lauper, actress Jessica Lange, Bishop Gene Robinson, and director Steven Spielberg.
The National Dinner will be held in the Grand Ballroom of Washington's Convention Center. More than 3,000 are expected to attend the event, which will be chaired by Janet Carter and Jackson Palmer. Along with Orman's award presentation, the dinner will also feature political speakers, a silent auction and entertainment.
WHAT: Human Rights Campaign Twelfth Annual National Dinner
WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 4, 2008, 7:00 p.m. (EST)
WHERE: Washington Convention Center, Grand Ballroom, 801 Mt. Vernon Place NW, Washington, D.C.
Ticket Info: Tickets for the event may be reserved online at www.boxofficetickets.com or www.hrcnationaldinner.org. To reserve tickets by phone, call Box Office Tickets at 800/494-8497.
Credentialing: Media pre-registration required. To receive credentials for the dinner, please contact Rachel Balick at rachel.balick@hrc.org. The Human Rights Campaign is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against GLBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. [8/6/08]
PATTERN OF SEVERE ANTI-LGBT VIOLENCE NATIONWIDE New York –the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP) reports a recent rash of at least 13 brutal and violent hate crimes that have occurred throughout the country on the heels of the murder of 15 year-old Lawrence King in Los Angeles and the brutal beating of Duanna Johnson, both in February of 2008. NCAVP reports that these hate crimes may indicate a frightening trend of increases in both the number and severity of anti-LGBT violence. NCAVP continues to be humbled by the strength and the dignity of these victims and survivors, and their loved ones. > Full Story. [8/5/08]
HRC APPLAUDS MASSACHUSETTS GOVERNOR FOR REPEALING 1913 LAW Human Rights Campaign Applauds Massachusetts Governor for Repealing 1913 Law Same-sex couples from any state now able to marry in Massachusetts
WASHINGTON – The Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, applauded today Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick for signing legislation into law to repeal a 1913 law that prevented many out-of-state same-sex couples from marrying in Massachusetts. On Tuesday, the Massachusetts House of Representatives voted 118-35 to repeal the 1913 law that prevented many out-of-state same-sex couples from marrying in Massachusetts. Earlier this month, the State Senate also voted to repeal the 1913 law. Same-sex couples from any state will now be able to marry in Massachusetts, although their marriage may not be recognized by their home state.
“We applaud Governor Patrick and the state legislature, MassEquality, and GLAD for repealing this antiquated and discriminatory law,” said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. “Recognizing that the fundamental right to marry knows no borders, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has indicated that it will not bar gay and lesbian couples from marrying there just because their home states have discriminatory marriage laws.”
Massachusetts has recognized marriage equality under state law since the landmark Goodridge v. Dept. of Public Health decision in 2003, and gay and lesbian couples have been marrying in the Commonwealth since 2004. However, in 2004, then-Gov. Mitt Romney, an opponent of marriage equality, relied on a nearly century old law to prohibit many same-sex couples from outside Massachusetts from marrying. The so-called 1913 law, named for the year it was enacted, prohibits out-of-state couples from marrying in Massachusetts if their marriage would not be legally recognized in their home state. The law, which was not applied for decades before Gov. Romney enforced it, appears to have been passed in order to prohibit interracial marriages not recognized in many states at the time. Its application has prevented gay and lesbian couples from nearly every state other than New Mexico, Rhode Island, and, most recently, California, from marrying in the Bay State. New Mexico and Rhode Island do not have explicit prohibitions against marriage by same-sex couples, and California recently began recognizing marriage equality.
In June 2007, the Massachusetts legislature voted 151-45 to defeat a proposed constitutional amendment that would have rolled back marriage equality, the proposed amendment would have appeared on this November’s ballot if it gained support from 50 legislators.
The so-called Defense of Marriage Act, passed in 1996, prevents married gay and lesbian couples from receiving any rights or benefits under federal law. Additionally, in Delaware and Wisconsin, same-sex couples who marry could be subject to criminal penalties.
The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against GLBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. > Full Story. [7/31/08]
POWERHOUSE LINEUP OF SPEAKERS TO ADDRESS THE STATE OF THE FAITH MOVEMENT AND THE INCLUSION OF LGBT PEOPLE Pro-LGBT Christians will converge in New Orleans, Sept. 4–7, for Many Stories, One Voice conference > Full Story. [7/31/08]
NGLCC WELCOMES TOP LAW FIRM TO LGBT SUPPLIER DIVERSITY PROGRAM New York, NY (July 30, 2008) - Today the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) and NGLCCNY announced the addition of Sonnenschein Nath & Rosenthal, LLP, a prestigious national law firm with major operations in thirteen U.S. cities including Chicago, New York, and Washington, DC. Sonnenschein Nath & Rosenthal, LLP, had joined the organizations in an effort to attract more diversity to the firm's supply chain, specifically by adding LGBT-owned companies to the mix. "Sonnenschein, Nath & Rosenthal are leading the way for major firms that are not just talking the talk, but walking the walk on diversity and inclusion," said Justin G. Nelson, NGLCC co-founder and president. > Full Story. [7/30/08]
THE PRESIDENT€™S EMERGENCY PLAN FOR A IDS RELIEF (PEPFAR) RENEWED The President's Emergency Plan For AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) Renewed > Full Story. [7/30/08]
HRC APPLAUDS MASSACHUSETTS LEGISLATURE FOR VOTING TO REPEAL 1913 LAW WASHINGTON – The Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, applauded today the Massachusetts House of Representatives for voting 118-35 to repeal a 1913 law that prevented many out-of-state same-sex couples from marrying in Massachusetts. Earlier this month, the State Senate also voted to repeal the 1913 law. The legislation now moves to Gov. Deval Patrick, who is expected to ok the repeal. Once the 1913 law is repealed, same-sex couples from any state will be able to marry in Massachusetts, although their marriage may not be recognized by their home state, and in at least two states, Delaware and Wisconsin, same-sex couples who marry could be subject to criminal penalties.
“We congratulate Senate President Therese Murray, House Speaker Sal DiMasi, Sen. Dianne Wilkerson, other members of the legislature, MassEquality, and GLAD for this latest step forward toward full equality,” said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. “We also thank Gov. Deval Patrick for his leadership in supporting the repeal of this antiquated and discriminatory law. This is an important step toward making clear that marriage equality for committed gay and lesbian couples means full equality under the law.”
Massachusetts has recognized marriage equality under state law since the landmark Goodridge v. Dept. of Public Health decision in 2003, and gay and lesbian couples have been marrying in the Commonwealth since 2004. However, in 2004, then-Gov. Mitt Romney, an opponent of marriage equality, relied on a nearly century old law to prohibit many same-sex couples from outside Massachusetts from marrying. The so-called 1913 law, named for the year it was enacted, prohibits out-of-state couples from marrying in Massachusetts if their marriage would not be legally recognized in their home state. The law, which was not applied for decades before Gov. Romney enforced it, appears to have been passed in order to prohibit interracial marriages not recognized in many states at the time. Its application has prevented gay and lesbian couples from nearly every state other than New Mexico, Rhode Island, and, most recently, California, from marrying in the Bay State. New Mexico and Rhode Island do not have explicit prohibitions against marriage by same-sex couples, and California recently began recognizing marriage equality.
“This is a true victory for equality. In repealing this law we’ve sent the message loud and clear that in Massachusetts, we respect and honor all families. We’ve ridded our state laws of the last vestige of discrimination against same-sex couples, and we once again lead the way for equality for all people,” said MassEquality Executive Director Marc Solomon.
In June 2007, the Massachusetts legislature voted 151-45 to defeat a proposed constitutional amendment that would have rolled back marriage equality, the proposed amendment would have appeared on this November’s ballot if it gained support from 50 legislators.
The so-called Defense of Marriage Act, passed in 1996, prevents married gay and lesbian couples from receiving any rights or benefits under federal law.
The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against GLBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.
-30-If you would rather not receive future email messages from Human Rights Campaign, let us know by clicking here.Human Rights Campaign, 1640 Rhode Island Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20036 United States > Full Story. [7/29/08]
BUDAPEST PRIDE AND TEXAS ISPS If you read the news with sadness of the violence the LGBT community faced in Hungary this year at the Budapest Pride Parade, you might be interested in knowing that the violence which occurred was organized through a website ran by the ultra-right wing Hungarian Nazi Party, www.kuruc.info. It's content called for violent visits of the LGBT community and had a countdown of the hours until the Budapest LGBT Pride Parade. > Full Story. [7/28/08]
HRC RESPONDS, OFFERS ASSISTANCE TO KNOXVILLE CHURCH Human Rights Campaign Responds, Offers Assistance to Knoxville Church HRC Foundation to send Religion & Faith Director Harry Knox to Tennessee
WASHINGTON – The Human Rights Campaign Foundation, the nation’s largest gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, issued the following statement today on the tragedy at Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church. According to authorities, a man walked into the Knoxville area church on Sunday shooting and killing two adults and wounding seven others before being overpowered by congregants. The HRC Religion & Faith team placed calls to Unitarian Universalist Association officials this morning to offer our condolences and support. A vigil is scheduled for tonight at 7 p.m. Religion & Faith Director Harry Knox will be in attendance and is offering assistance as needed.
Statement from HRC Religion & Faith Director Harry Knox:
“Our hearts go out to the victims of the terrible shooting yesterday at the Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church in Knoxville, TN. We know that these types of acts have terrorizing effects on whole communities and we share the grief felt by the families of the victims, Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church, and the whole Knoxville community.
Unitarian Universalist churches have been spiritual leaders for all of us. They have offered sanctuary for LGBT people when most other denominations wouldn't and have provided space for those shunned and marginalized by the larger culture. As we pray for the Knoxville Unitarian Universalist community, we also pray for the entire Unitarian Universalist Association as they grieve this senseless tragedy to one of their finest congregations.”
The Human Rights Campaign Foundation is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against GLBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. > Full Story. [7/28/08]
REPEAL OF DISCRIMINATORY HIV TRAVEL AND IMMIGRATION LAW HEADS TO PRESIDENT'S DESK Repeal of Discriminatory HIV Travel and Immigration Law Heads to President’s Desk The U.S. House today approved the provision, part of global AIDS legislation
WASHINGTON – The Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, praised the U.S. House of Representatives today for approving the repeal of our nation’s discriminatory law barring HIV-positive visitors and immigrants. Senators John Kerry (D-MA) and Gordon Smith (R-OR) secured a provision to repeal this ban in the Senate’s legislation to reauthorize PEPFAR, the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief. The PEPFAR bill passed the Senate last week with the Kerry-Smith provision by a vote of 80 to 16. Today, the House approved that Senate-passed bill by a vote of 303-115 and it now heads to the president’s desk.
“Congressional backing for the repeal of this unjust and sweeping policy that deems HIV-positive individuals inadmissible to the United States is a huge step forward for equality,” said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. “The HIV travel and immigration ban performs no public health service, is unnecessary and ineffective. We thank our allies on the Hill who fought to end this injustice and now call on President George W. Bush to sign the PEPFAR bill into law and ask Secretary of Health and Human Services Leavitt to remove the remaining regulatory barriers to HIV-positive visitors and immigrants.”
HRC has been a lead organization lobbying on Capitol Hill for the repeal and will continue to work to ensure that Department of Health and Human Services’ regulations are changed. The Human Rights Campaign has worked closely with the offices of Sens. John Kerry and Gordon Smith, as well as Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA), the sponsor of an effort to repeal the ban in the House of Representatives. Both Sen. Kerry and Rep. Lee participated in a national media conference call held by HRC in March. In addition to action alerts urging members to contact their Senators, HRC and Immigration Equality drafted a coalition letter on behalf of more than 165 organizations in support of the Kerry-Smith provision in the PEPFAR bill, and has directly lobbied numerous Senate offices on the repeal measure.
In December of 2007, Senators Kerry and Smith introduced legislation, the HIV Non-Discrimination in Travel and Immigration Act (S. 2486), to repeal the ban. In the House, U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA) introduced similar the legislation, H.R. 3337, in August 2007. The travel and immigration ban prohibits HIV-positive foreign nationals from entering the U.S. unless they obtain a special waiver, which can only allow for short-term travel. Current policy also prevents the vast majority of foreign nationals with HIV from obtaining legal permanent residency in the United States.
“I am so pleased that we were able to eliminate the unjust and discriminatory policy banning HIV/AIDS positive people from entering the United States,” said Rep. Lee. “It’s far past time we got rid of this shameful policy. I’m glad we were able to remove the statutory ban and pass this bill less than two weeks before the International AIDS Conference in Mexico City.”
The ban originated in 1987, and explicitly codified by Congress in 1993, despite efforts in the public health community to remove the ban when Congress reformed U.S. immigration law in the early 1990s. While immigration law currently excludes foreigners with any “communicable disease of public health significance” from entering the U.S., only HIV is explicitly named in the statute. For all other illnesses, the Secretary of Health and Human Services retains the ability, with the medical expertise of his department, to determine which illnesses truly pose a risk to public health.
The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against GLBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. > Full Story. [7/25/08]
AFTER DISCUSSIONS WITH HRC, MARS INC. PULLS CONTROVERSIAL AD WASHINGTON – The Human Rights Campaign Foundation, the nation’s largest gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, learned today that Mars Inc. will pull a controversial television advertisement for Snickers following communication between the HRC Workplace Project and Mars, the parent company. The ad features a man whose appearance and actions – speed walking in an exaggerated manner – conjure up stereotypes of gay men. The man is then ridiculed by Mr. T who appears shooting Snickers bars out of a gun and admonishing the jogger to be a “real man.”
Statement from HRC Workplace Director Daryl Herrschaft:
“Following conversations between the Human Rights Campaign and senior Mars representatives, the company has agreed to pull its most recent ad using stereotypes of gay men to sell its Snickers product line. HRC applauds Mars for taking swift and appropriate action.
In 2007, another distasteful Snickers advertisement was aired during Super Bowl XLI. The company subsequently pulled the ad. Following that, HRC began a constructive dialogue with Mars on workplace inclusion for GLBT employees. We were of course surprised to see the company return to the same practice it had just recently rejected.
These kinds of ads perpetuate the notion that the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community is a group of second class citizens and that violence against GLBT people is not only acceptable, but humorous.
We are hopeful that Mars will make the necessary changes in their organization to ensure this does not happen yet again.
The Human Rights Campaign Foundation is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against GLBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. > Full Story. [7/24/08]
TASK FORCE EXPRESSES DISAPPOINTMENT IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY COURT DECISION National Gay and Lesbian Task Force expresses disappointment in Montgomery County Circuit Court decision allowing efforts to repeal transgender rights law to move forward > Full Story. [7/24/08]
CONGRESS DEBATES 'DON'T ASK, DON'T TELL' [VIDEO] Congress Debates 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' Associated Press Jul. 23, 2008. 03:44 PM EST > Full Story. [7/24/08]
NATIONAL GAY AND LESBIAN TASK FORCE ACTION FUND CALLS FOR END TO DISCRIMINATORY ‘DON’T ASK, DON’T TELL’ POLICY WASHINGTON, July 23 - The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund applauds the U.S. House of Representatives for holding the first hearing since 1993 on the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy, which prohibits lesbian, gay and bisexual people from serving openly in the military. In addition to submitting written testimony, the Action Fund worked closely with Servicemembers Legal Defense Network and other colleague organizations to prepare witnesses and members of the committee for the hearing. > Full Story. [7/23/08]
HRC BACK STORY TO LIVEBLOG DON'T ASK DON'T TELL CONGRESSIONAL HEARING Today at 2:00 p.m. EST, Eric Alva, the first American soldier wounded in Iraq, will testify before Congress to speak out against "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," which forces people in the military to be dishonest about their personal lives or face losing their jobs. > Full Story. [7/23/08]
BALDWIN STATEMENT ON "DON'T ASK, DON'T TELL" HEARING
In a much-awaited and historic meeting, the House Armed Services Committee's Military Personnel Subcommittee is holding a hearing today to review the military's "Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell" policy. Since 1993, more than 11,000 service members have been discharged under “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” which bans military service by openly lesbian, gay and bisexual Americans. Before today’s hearing, Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), co-chair of the House LGBT Equality Caucus, issued the following statement: > Full Story. [7/23/08]
RIP - ESTELLE GETTY Sad sad news. > Full Story. [7/22/08]
LAMBDA LEGAL FILES FEDERAL LAWSUIT AGAINST GEORGIA GENERAL ASSEMBLY OFFICIALS FOR FIRING TRANSGENDER WOMAN (Atlanta, Georgia, July 22, 2008) - Today Lambda Legal announced a federal lawsuit against Georgia General Assembly officials on behalf of Vandy Beth Glenn, a transgender woman who was fired from her job as a Legislative Editor after she stated her intention to live as a woman in accordance with her health care providers' recommendations. > Full Story. [7/22/08]
PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES MCCAIN, OBAMA TO ATTEND FORUM AT SADDLEBACK CHURCH
Presumptive presidential nominees Sens. John McCain (R-Ariz.) and Barack Obama (D-Ill.) have agreed to attend a forum at Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, Calif., on Aug. 16, the New York Times reports. According to the Times, the candidates will appear together for the first time since presidential campaign efforts began. The Rev. Rick Warren, who called the candidates personally to invite them to the forum, said that the event will focus on how they make decisions and on some of Warren's main focus areas, such as HIV/AIDS, poverty and the environment (Rutenberg, New York Times, 7/21).
Warren said that at the request of McCain and Obama, the forum will be held in a nondebate format and open to all media, although only Warren will ask questions. The candidates will appear briefly together before each one takes questions from Warren for an hour, according to the AP/Contra Costa Times. "While I know both men as friends, and they recognize I will be frank, but fair, they also know I will be raising questions in ... four areas beyond what political reporters typically ask," Warren said, adding, "This includes pressing issues that are bridging divides in our nation, such as poverty, HIV/AIDS, climate and human rights" (AP/Contra Costa Times, 7/21). According to Warren, he will develop his questions with feedback from the Muslim, Jewish and Christian leaders associated with the group (New York Times, 7/21).
STATE COLLEGE, Pa. – July 22, 2008 – The AccuWeather.com Hurricane Center reports Tropical Storm Dolly is nearing hurricane strength as it moves through the western Gulf of Mexico toward landfall early on Wednesday near the Texas - Mexico border. The gathering storm has raised concerns in the oil and agriculture industries.
The AccuWeather.com Hurricane Center reports Tropical Storm Dolly is expected to reach hurricane strength today as it moves over the warm water of the Gulf of Mexico. There is a strong possibility it could reach Category 2 strength, with winds of 100 mph, before making landfall early on Wednesday near the mouth of the Rio Grande River.
Oil Production Impacts
The storm is not expected to have a major impact on oil and natural gas operations in the Gulf; however, several oil companies have begun to evacuate some rigs and platforms.
Exxon Mobil spokeswoman Margaret Ross tells AccuWeather.com nonessential personnel have been evacuated from company facilities expected to be in the path of the storm. She adds there has been minimal impact on production.
Royal Dutch Shell on Sunday and Monday evacuated about 185 people from its operations in the western part of the Gulf. Meanwhile, the U.S. Minerals Management Service has activated its Continuity of Operations Plan team to monitor activities in the Gulf until operations return to normal and the storm is no longer a threat.
Landfall Concerns
The strength of the storm by landfall will depend on its forward speed. On Monday, Dolly entered the Gulf at around 18 mph. Today, it has slowed to near 12 mph as it moves west-northwest across the Gulf.
“We are concerned that Dolly has the potential to cause damaging winds and life-threatening, widespread flooding across South Texas and northern Mexico. Rainfall amounts of 5 to 10 inches are likely across the region with locally heavier amounts possible,” said AccuWeather.com Expert Senior Meteorologists Alex Sosnowski and Ken Clark.
The Mexican government has issued a hurricane warning from the U.S. border to Rio San Fernando and a tropical storm warning and hurricane watch from Rio San Fernando to the U.S. border, while a tropical storm warning and a hurricane watch are in effect south of Rio San Fernando to La Pesca. Anyone along the Gulf Coast, especially in the areas under hurricane warnings, should take immediate steps to protect life and property.
Hurricane-force winds will pound the coast of South Texas, while tropical storm-force winds will extend into the mid to upper Rio Grande Valley. In addition, a coastal storm surge of 4 to 7 feet above normal tide levels can be expected, with the strongest surf striking the coast to the north of the eye.
Rio Grande Ag Impacts
Five to 10 inches of rain and locally higher amounts forecast for South Texas and northern Mexico could spark dangerous flash flooding that could threaten lives and property. The rain could have a major impact on agriculture in the Rio Grande Valley, the center of citrus production and the most important area of vegetable production in Texas, producing cotton, sugarcane, maize and a variety of sorghums. > Full Story. [7/22/08]
GAY AND LESBIAN CONSUMERS MORE LIKELY TO FOLLOW LATEST STYLES AND TRENDS Gay and Lesbian Consumers More Likely to Follow Latest Styles and Trends New online study also shows gay and lesbian adults are also more likely to upgrade to the latest model > Full Story. [7/21/08]
NATIONAL GAY AND LESBIAN TASK FORCE NOW ACCEPTING SESSION PROPOSALS FOR WASHINGTON, July 16 - The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force is now accepting session proposals for The 21st National Conference on LGBT Equality: Creating Change. > Full Story. [7/17/08]
SENATE APPROVES REPEAL OF DISCRIMINATORY HIV TRAVEL AND IMMIGRATION BAN U.S. Senate Approves Repeal of Discriminatory HIV Travel and Immigration Ban Human Rights Campaign praises Senate for supporting repeal of draconian policy
WASHINGTON – The Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, praised the U.S. Senate today for approving the repeal of our nation’s discriminatory law barring HIV-positive visitors and immigrants. Senators John Kerry (D-MA) and Gordon Smith (R-OR) secured a provision to repeal this ban in the Senate’s legislation to reauthorize PEPFAR, the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief. The PEPFAR bill passed the Senate today with the Kerry-Smith provision by a vote of 80 to 16 and now moves to conference committee before being sent to the President.
Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL) had introduced an amendment to strike the Kerry-Smith provision from the PEFPAR bill. However, the efforts of Senators Kerry and Smith in addition to robust advocacy from HRC and our coalition partners secured enough opposition to the Sessions amendment that the Senator agreed not to bring it forward for a vote.
“We applaud the Senate for rejecting this unjust and sweeping policy that deems HIV-positive individuals inadmissible to the United States,” said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. “We call on the leaders of the House and Senate to retain the Kerry-Smith provision in conference and ensure it is included in the final legislation sent to the President’s desk.”
“The HIV ban is ineffective, unnecessary, and simply bad public health policy,” said Rachel B. Tiven, executive director of Immigration Equality. “It is especially harmful to gay and lesbian families, who do not benefit from the waiver available to opposite-sex couples. The Senate’s change is welcome, and long overdue.”
HRC has been a lead organization lobbying on Capitol Hill for the repeal. The Human Rights Campaign has worked closely with the offices of Sens. John Kerry and Gordon Smith, as well as Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA), the sponsor of an effort to repeal the ban in the House of Representatives. Both Sen. Kerry and Rep. Lee participated in a national media conference call held by HRC in March. In addition to action alerts urging members to contact their Senators, HRC and Immigration Equality drafted a coalition letter on behalf of more than 165 organizations in support of the Kerry-Smith provision in the PEPFAR bill, and has directly lobbied numerous Senate offices on the repeal measure.
In December of 2007, Senators Kerry and Smith introduced legislation, the HIV Non-Discrimination in Travel and Immigration Act (S. 2486), to repeal the ban. In the House, U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA) introduced similar the legislation, H.R. 3337, in August 2007. The travel and immigration ban prohibits HIV-positive foreign nationals from entering the U.S. unless they obtain a special waiver, which can only allow for short-term travel. Current policy also prevents the vast majority of foreign nationals with HIV from obtaining legal permanent residency in the United States.
The ban originated in 1987, and explicitly codified by Congress in 1993, despite efforts in the public health community to remove the ban when Congress reformed U.S. immigration law in the early 1990s. While immigration law currently excludes foreigners with any “communicable disease of public health significance” from entering the U.S., only HIV is explicitly named in the statute. For all other illnesses, the Secretary of Health and Human Services retains the ability, with the medical expertise of his department, to determine which illnesses truly pose a risk to public health.
The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against GLBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. > Full Story. [7/16/08]
HRC RELEASES STATEMENT ON MCCAIN COMMENTS AGAINST SAME-SEX ADOPTION Human Rights Campaign Releases Statement on McCain Comments Against Same-Sex Adoption Comments show McCain is out of touch with today’s leading child welfare organizations
WASHINGTON – The Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, issued the following statement today after Sen. John McCain, the Republican presidential nominee, told the New York Times he remains opposed to adoption by same-sex couples implying that he is opposed to single-parent adoption as well. In the interview, published Sunday, July 13, McCain said, “I think that we’ve proven that both parents are important in the success of a family so, no I don’t believe in gay adoption.”
“McCain’s comments on adoption show a disturbing disregard for the reality that thousands of children and youth face -- the possibility of never having a permanent, loving home,” said Ellen Kahn, director of the HRC Foundation’s Family Project. “Leading child welfare organizations in the U.S. concur that there is no reason to prevent gay and lesbian people from raising children, and the child welfare professionals who are mandated to find the best possible families for children in need recognize that every potential loving parent, whether single or married, gay or straight, is a valuable resource for children who are in need of a permanent family. It is an insult to these professionals and the children whom they represent to suggest that the door should be closed to people other than a “traditional” married couple. It is also an insult to the thousands of children being raised by lesbian and gay parents, and who are thriving and contributing positively to their communities.”
This has been a consistent position for Senator McCain. Asked in 2000 about adoption by same-sex couples, McCain responded that he didn’t “believe it’s appropriate.” (San Francisco Examiner, March 1, 2000)
With the strong support of leading child welfare and adoption advocacy organizations, the HRC Foundation launched the “All Children – All Families” initiative to help adoption agencies become more welcoming and skilled in working with GLBT foster and adoptive parents. The program, which recently received a grant from the Freddie Mac Foundation, has been well received and is viewed as the premier resource among child welfare leaders. The program includes the “Promising Practices”guide, a tool for adoption agencies whichoffers examples of effective practices for working with GLBT foster and adoptive parents. The guide features sample policies and materials, and also features tips from leaders of welcoming agencies, researchers in the field, and GLBT adoptive and foster parents. The guide also includes an organizational self-assessment to allow agencies to gauge their current policies and practices and receive guidance for improvement.
Today there are more than one half a million children in the U.S. foster care system, with at least 100,000 awaiting adoption by loving, permanent families. Agencies might purposefully or inadvertently close the door to qualified families through their practices. Few agencies recruit GLBT adoptive & foster parents, and many GLBT people feel unwelcome or discouraged. Similarly, members of the GLBT community might not be aware of the opportunities in domestic adoption and foster care, or they might not know of agencies that welcome their families. “All Children-All Families” works to ensure that all qualified prospective parents who wish to open their homes and hearts to children and youth have the opportunity to do so, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
The All Children – All Families program includes a national advisory board comprised of leaders and experts in child welfare who understand that the GLBT community has tremendous potential to provide loving families for our waiting children.” Additional information on the “All Children – All Families” initiative and the HRC Foundation Family Project can be found online at www.hrc.org/acaf.
The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against GLBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. > Full Story. [7/15/08]
GLBT CONSUMERS SEE FINANCIAL SERVICES DIFFERENTLY THAN OTHERS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE > Full Story. [7/14/08]
ANOTHER MISGUIDED EFFORT BY RIGHT-WING TO FOMENT ANTI-GAY SENTIMENT DURING PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN Washington -- Tomorrow, leaders of the anti-gay right wing will gather at the Family Research Council to discuss the results of their latest poll on the political impact of anti-gay amendments on the November ballot. This is clearly another effort by right-wing to force Republican presidential nominee John McCain into using gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender issues as a divisive wedge during the presidential campaign. In reality, the FRC's efforts another symbol of its movement's weakness in 2008 according to the Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest GLBT civil rights group.
"Pollsters for John Kerry and George Bush, Mark Mellman and Matthew Dowd, have disavowed the idea that anti-gay voters were a factor in the 2004 election. Knowing that, candidates and voters should be skeptical of a Family Research Council-commissioned poll indicating that they are more likely to support a candidate who supports statewide amendments to ban marriage for gay and lesbian couples," said HRC President Joe Solmonese. "The FRC poll is another attempt to browbeat John McCain into becoming more anti-gay."
Voters in California, Arizona and Florida will consider ballot measures to enshrine discrimination in their states' constitutions. Arizona voters defeated a similar initiative in 2006. In California, Republican Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has announced his opposition to the efforts to reverse marriage equality. California made legal marriages for gay and lesbian couples in May and began conducting marriages in June. In Florida, Governor Charlie Crist has been on both sides of the issue. He opposed spending state GOP funds on the effort to place the amendment on the ballot.
Even GOP nominee, John McCain twice voted against a federal marriage amendment, which had the very strong support of the FRC and its allies. Those votes have created a conundrum for the anti-gay organizations, hence their efforts to re-ignite the issue with a poll.
"Efforts to use GLBT equality as a way to win votes are stale in today's political environment," continued Solmonese. "A recent Field Poll shows that a majority of Californians support marriage equality. The FRC thinks that anti-gay voters are McCain's best hope to win his home state of Arizona, but Arizona voters have already rejected this tactic at the polls.That just smacks of desperation. Our nation was built on the ideals of fairness, opportunity, and equality under the law. Pathetic attempts to claim otherwise are a disgrace. Besides, the right wing's tired tactics are unlikely to sway voters feeling the pressure of a strained economy and exhausted by five years of a no-end-in-sight Iraq War."
The Human Rights Campaign is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against GLBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. > Full Story. [7/10/08]
BERTHA TO SPARE OIL RIGS
Bertha to Spare Oil Rigs
First Hurricane of Season Not Concern for Gulf Interests
STATE COLLEGE, Pa. - July 8, 2008 - AccuWeather.com Chief Hurricane Forecaster Joe Bastardi reports “Hurricane Bertha will not be a threat for the Gulf area.”
As the nation’s rising oil prices impact millions of families at the pump, it is welcome news that Bertha will not enter the Gulf of Mexico and will not impact energy producing interests in the Gulf.
“The biggest news is that it is not a Gulf problem,” Bastardi says of the first hurricane of the 2008 Atlantic Basin season. “My gut feeling is that, should it miss the connection with the trough to the north, a move close to the coast the middle part of next week is possible, most likely south of Hatteras, but not into the Gulf.”
According to Bastardi, the disturbed weather in the western Gulf is not likely to organize now that a new Pacific system is developing on the other side of Mexico. The active pattern is liable to produce another African wave that may be on a track that would be of concern for the Gulf by next week at this time, some 5 degrees south of where Bertha is now.
Storms moving across North America this week could influence Bertha’s path. AccuWeather.com meteorologists note Bertha could become virtually stationary by the weekend. All interests along the Southeast coast and anyone planning vacations to beach resorts in the Southeast should monitor the AccuWeather.com Hurricane Center for updates on Bertha's progression over the next week to 10 days
HRC RELEASES STUDY GUIDE FOR DOCUMENTARY ON GLBT PEOPLE AND FAITH Human Rights Campaign Releases Study Guide to Accompany Documentary on Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender People and Faith Curriculum created to complement For the Bible Tells Me So aims to stimulate conversations and encourage advocacy on GLBT issues > Full Story. [7/7/08]
MICHELLE OBAMA PRAISED FOR CONNECTING HISTORICAL DOTS OF DISCRIMINATION Faith In America today praised Michelle Obama for connecting the historical dots of discrimination and prejudice for Americans in a speech yesterday in New York. > Full Story. [6/30/08]
ACLU APPLAUDS FIRST-EVER CONGRESSIONAL HEARING ON GENDER IDENTITY IN THE WORKPLACE Washington, DC – The American Civil Liberties Union today applauded the House Education and Labor Subcommittee on Heath, Employment, Labor, and Pensions for holding the first-ever congressional hearing on transgender issues and gender identity discrimination in the workplace. Chaired by Representative Robert Andrews (D-NJ), the committee heard from retired Army Colonel and ACLU client Diane Schroer. The ACLU is currently representing Schroer in a Title VII sex discrimination lawsuit against the Library of Congress. > Full Story. [6/26/08]
“NEWSWRAP" FOR THE WEEK ENDING JUNE 21, 2008 "NewsWrap" for the week ending June 21, 2008 (As broadcast on "This Way Out" program #1,056, distributed 6-2308) [Written by Greg Gordon, with thanks to Rex Wockner with Bill Kelley] > Full Story. [6/23/08]
LONG PATH TO THE ALTAR FOR GAY COUPLES IN CALIF. [VIDEO] Long Path to the Altar for Gay Couples in Calif. Associated Press • Jun. 16, 2008. 08:23 AM EST
California today becomes only the second state in the nation after Massachusetts to allow gays to get married. Last month's ruling by the state Supreme Court kicks in at 5:01 p.m. Pacific time. (June 16) > Full Story. [6/16/08]
“NEWSWRAP" FOR THE WEEK ENDING JUNE 14, 2008 "NewsWrap" for the week ending June 14, 2008 (As broadcast on "This Way Out" program #1,055, distributed 6-16-08) [Written by Greg Gordon, with thanks to Rex Wockner with Bill Kelley] > Full Story. [6/16/08]
MAKE CHANGE, NOT LAWSUITS Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender organizations urge couples marrying in California to 'Make Change, Not Lawsuits' > Full Story. [6/11/08]
“NEWSWRAP" FOR THE WEEK ENDING JUNE 7, 2008 "NewsWrap" for the week ending June 7, 2008 (As broadcast on "This Way Out" program #1,054, distributed 6-9-08) [Written by Greg Gordon, with thanks to Rex Wockner with Bill Kelley] > Full Story. [6/10/08]
GEORGE MICHAEL: A NEW ALBUM AND MAKES AMERICAN ACTING DEBUT
New York, NY (March 24, 2008) – After performing 80 shows in 12 European countries for a staggering 1.3 million fans over the past year alone, legendary superstar George Michael will be bringing his smash 25 LIVE tour to North American Arenas in the summer of 2008 in support of his new retrospective record. This will be Michael's first North American tour in 17 years. The new record, titled Twenty-Five, will be released April 1st and is a 29-song, 2-CD set featuring six new songs (including duets with superstars Paul McCartney and Mary J. Blige and a song from the Eli Stone finale, “Feeling Good”) in addition to many of Michael's iconic songs from both his solo and WHAM! career. In addition, a companion 2-disc DVD of 40 videos will also be made available.
The 25 LIVE tour broke several ticket sales records, most notably in Copenhagen. Michael's concert at The Parken Stadium sold over 50,000 tickets in the matter of minutes, shattering the previous ticket sales record at the venue, formerly held by U2. On the 25 LIVE tour, Michael left both fans and critics alike in awe:
"It was a master class in pop genius." - The Observer
"George proved he is simply one of the best vocalists this country has ever produced. A stunning performance." - The Sun
"Worth waiting for. The show was, in every single meaning of the word, perfect." - De Morgen
"A tremendous singer, a complete showman, all George Michael needs is a mike, his songs, and the magic on stage is instantaneous." - La Parisien
The North American leg of the 25 LIVE tour will kick off in San Diego on June 17th and will continue through San Jose, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Seattle, Vancouver, Minneapolis, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, New York and several other major cities. The tour will incorporate 22 shows over the course of seven weeks and Michael will perform material taken from the entire span of his career, including some classic Wham! tracks. Michael has recently teamed up with iTunes and Ticketmaster to produce an innovative media package which allows fans rare access to Michael’s videos, songs, and tickets to one of his North American 25 LIVE concerts. The package goes on sale on iTunes on March 25th. Tickets to the 25 LIVE tour will go on sale to the general public the weekend of April 6th.
George Michael has enjoyed one of the most successful and enduring careers in the history of pop music, selling more than 85 million records globally and encompassing seven US No. 1 singles, two Grammy awards, three American Music Awards, an MTV Video Music Award and two prestigious Ivor Novello awards for songwriting. His record "Faith" has sold over 20 million copies alone. In addition, Michael has garnered 11 British No. 1 singles and seven British No. 1 albums. He recently was declared the most played British artist on radio over the course of the last 20 years. On March 27th, Michael can be seen making his American acting debut on the new hit ABC series, Eli Stone, in which each episode is titled after one of his songs.
For more information about the George Michael, please visit:
CA SCHOOL SHOOTING; HATE-CRIME CHARGES HAVE BEEN FILED Local Groups for Gay Rights KCOY CBS 12 Santa Maria • Feb. 15, 2008. 03:12 AM EST > Full Story. [2/15/08]
NEWS: "CALL FOR LOVE" SUPPORTS LGBT JAMAICANS A CALL FOR LOVE: Valentine's Day 2008 by Mel Bryant
"STOP THE VIOLENCE! STOP THE HATE!" More than 30 die-hard activists, including two associates from Jamaica AIDS Services, one of whom is currently seeking asylum in the United States after threats to his life, chanted these words as they gathered at the Jamaican Consulate on Third Avenue in New York City on Valentine's Day to CALL FOR LOVE. The international action campaign, organized by Metropolitan Community Churches in response to the recent wave of mob violence directed against LGBT people in Jamaica, brought together representatives from MCC, Human Rights Watch, The Center, UNITY Fellowship, Renewed Life Ministries, Lavender and Green, Hadwen Park Congregational Church and the Peace Corps.
The Rev. Pat Bumgardner, Chair of Global Justice Ministry of Metropolitan Community Churches, recounted many of the horrific events of the past year, including the January 29th break-in to the private home of three gay men by a mob wielding clubs and machetes. "Two of those young men, doing nothing more than existing in their own home, were clubbed and macheted to the point of hospitalization," she said. "One lost an ear and may suffer paralysis from the attack. A third young man is missing and presumed dead. Only the blood trail away from the home remains."
"Enough is enough!" she called to the lunchtime crowds passing by the Consulate. "The time has come for people of goodwill around the globe to break their silence and demand that the Jamaican government and its political and social structures guarantee the safety of all Jamaicans."
Rebecca Schleiffer of Human Rights Watch recounted the horror of three gay men trapped in a pharmacy by a mob of two hundred in Montego Bay last year on Valentine's Day. "Those three young men had to place an international phone call to the Human Rights Watch," she said, "and we had to act on their behalf before the police would intervene. And even then," she continued, "those charged with protecting the lives of Jamaican citizens joined in the taunting and threatening gestures, punching one of the three in the face and stomach."
Jamaican Nathaniel Cunningham, who is seeking asylum in the United States because of death threats for his work with Jamaica AIDS Services and his courage in being out as a gay man, said, "The nightmares must end! No more sleepless nights wondering if you will be next! It's time for all Jamaicans to feel safe in their own homes and in their own country!" Cunningham led the crowd in chants calling for love to replace hate.
Speaker after speaker, including the Rev. Judith Hanlon, Pastor of the Hadwen Park Congregational Church, UCC, who had traveled to New York from Worcester, MA to participate in the demonstration, called on the Jamaican Consulate to intervene and promised to keep the pressure on until change is as evident as the violence has been. Prior to the demonstration, Rev. Bumgardner and Jamaican activist Junior Walker were politely rebuffed in their attempt to meet with the Acting Consul General, Lincoln Downer. They did, however, manage to deliver a letter calling attention to the CALL FOR LOVE campaign and promising ongoing efforts until the violence ends.
As the demonstration ended, those gathered placed flowers carrying the banner, "For the Jamaican Victims of Homophobic Hatred and Violence." As Rev. Bumgardner prepared to lead the crowd in a prayer of remembrance and promise, the Consulate's building manager came outside to say that praying on the sidewalk was not allowed. "We are going to pray now," Rev. Bumgardner responded, at which point the building manage stepped away and waited for the prayer's conclusion. A few moments later he reappeared to say that the flowers must be removed. After some negotiation, the flowers were delivered to the Consulate with their banner intact.
The Valentine's Day public actions in New York City, along with similar actions in Philadelphia, Toronto, Miami, and Washington, DC, marked the beginning of an international public awareness campaign organized by Metropolitan Community Churches.
For More Information On The New York City Action or Upcoming "Call For Love" Events, Contact: The Rev. Pat Bumgardner, Chair MCC Global Justice Team GlobalJustice@MCCchurch.net. 212-629-7440 > Full Story. [2/15/08]
GSA NETWORK, TRANSGENDER LAW CENTER, AND EQCA SADDENED OVER SHOOTING OF GAY JR. HIGH STUDENT IN OXNARD GSA Network, Transgender Law Center, and EQCA Saddened Over Shooting of Gay Jr. High Student in Oxnard > Full Story. [2/14/08]
MINISTERS WANT STATE TO LEGALIZE SAME-SEX MARRIAGE > Full Story. [2/14/08]
GLAAD APPOINTS NEW MEMBERS TO NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS GLAAD APPOINTS SIX NEW MEMBERS TO NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS > Full Story. [2/11/08]
OUT IN AMERICA ANNOUNCES LGBT WEDDING ALLIANCE Rainbow Wedding Network and Out in America Create Marketing Alliance Targeted at the Gay and Lesbian Wedding Niche > Full Story. [1/5/07]
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STATE COLLEGE, Pa. – July 22, 2008 – The AccuWeather.com Hurricane Center reports Tropical Storm Dolly is nearing hurricane strength as it moves through the western Gulf of Mexico toward landfall early on Wednesday near the Texas - Mexico border. The gathering storm has raised concerns in the oil and agriculture industries.
Exxon Mobil spokeswoman Margaret Ross 
New York, NY (March 24, 2008) – After performing 80 shows in 12 European countries for a staggering 1.3 million fans over the past year alone, legendary superstar George Michael will be bringing his smash 25 LIVE tour to North American Arenas in the summer of 2008 in support of his new retrospective record. This will be Michael's first North American tour in 17 years. The new record, titled Twenty-Five, will be released April 1st and is a 29-song, 2-CD set featuring six new songs (including duets with superstars Paul McCartney and Mary J. Blige and a song from the Eli Stone finale, “Feeling Good”) in addition to many of Michael's iconic songs from both his solo and WHAM! career. In addition, a companion 2-disc DVD of 40 videos will also be made available. 
