CNN: Chris Kluwe - "An openly gay player in the NFL is not a distraction"

Chris Kluwe continues to impress the hell out of me with his smarts, clarity and passion.

Chris Kluwe, punter for the Minnesota Vikings of the NFL, is an ambassador for Athlete Ally, an organization working to end homophobia in sports. And he's an all-around great guy.

After the above appearance with Anderson Cooper on CNN, he penned this special op-ed for CNN.com. Here's just a bit of Chris Kluwe's fabulosity:

Why do people care so much about someone else's sexuality? Why do people give two s***s how someone else lives his life? Why do people have this absolutely idiotic notion that being gay has any sort of effect on how well a player can play football, or basketball, or baseball? Why the f*** do I even have to write this column for a major news organization to talk about something that shouldn't even remotely be a factor in sports? Well, the reason is simple. I'm writing this because no gay player is currently out, and the first gay player who eventually does come out needs to know that -- despite all the indoctrination from the league about not being a distraction -- if he's the one to take the first step, he will have allies. He will have support. He will have those of us who realize that people's sexuality doesn't define who they are, just as their jobs don't define who they are, and that guys who bring our wives and children to games and team events are no different than those who would bring their husbands and children. Most importantly, I'm writing this so that coaches, managers, players, owners and fans realize that the first gay player who comes out won't spontaneously cause rainbows to erupt out of everyone's rear.

Make sure you read the entire essay. And follow Chris on Twitter @ChrisWarcraft

Chris Kluwe - you rock. Period.

And - thank you.

Michael at the White Party in Palm Springs

So, my husband Michael is at The White Party in Palm Springs this weekend working with Chippendales lead singer (and this year's The Amazing Race silver medalist) Jaymes Vaughan, who is this year's Ambassador of the White Party.

As always, there are a ton of parties and very sexy men.

BUT  - Michael just sent me these pics capturing the "highlight" of his weekend - his word.

The still fabulous - she just doesn't age, does she? - Madame is "Dame of the White Party 2013" and Michael was beside himself to meet her.

She looks amazing, doesn't she?  Click on the pics for larger view.

True Blood Season 6 - Tease #1

True Blood Season 6 premieres June 16th at 9PM on HBO.

Sen. Jeff Flake: A GOP Presidential candidate who supports marriage equality is "inevitable"

During an appearance on Meet The Press, Arizona Sen. Jeff Flake said that he felt it was inevitable that there would one day be a GOP presidential candidate, and that he or she would receive wide support:

CHUCK TODD (HOST): Let me ask you on gay marriage. Could you support a Republican presidential candidate some day who supported same-sex marriage?

FLAKE: Oh, I think that’s inevitable. There will be one and he will receive bipartisan support — or she will. So I think that yes, the answer is yes.

TODD: And where are you on this issue, you say it’s inevitable. Are you — Lisa Murkowski, a Republican colleague of yours called it evolving on the issue. Are you evolving to use her words on this issue?

FLAKE: I believe that marriage should be between a man and a woman I still hold to the traditional definition of marriage.

TODD: Is there something that you — are you thinking about it? Can you imagine changing your position before you left the U.S. Senate?

FLAKE: I can’t. I tell you, in the past I’ve supported repealing Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell. I’ve supported the [The Employment] Nondiscrimination Act as well, but I hold to the traditional definition of marriage.

Although support for marriage equality has risen at an amazing rate across all demographics, I think it will be a while before the GOP actually chooses a presidential candidate who supports same-sex marriage.

I appreciate Sen. Flake's support on ENDA and the repeal of DADT, but he clearly could use a little more "evolution" on the topic of marriage equality.

(source)

SMASH show runner: "We're aware the show is not successful"

Even with scenes featuring a shirtless Jeremy Jordan, there's not good news coming from SMASH show runner Josh Safran: “We’re all aware the show is not successful," according to TVLine.

He also reveals that the upcoming season finale, episode 17, “was constructed as a series finale.”

The series, recently moved to Saturday nights, is expected to be cancelled.

(via Gay.net)

Ad: Broadway's "The Trip To Bountiful"

Ending a 30 year absence, celebrated actress Cecily Tyson, three-time Emmy® Award winner for "The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman" and "Oldest Confederate Widow Tells All" and Academy Award® nominee for Sounder, makes her triumphant return to Broadway in this eagerly anticipated new production, directed by Michael Wilson (Gore Vidal's The Best Man, Dividing the Estate).

THE TRIP TO BOUNTIFUL follows Carrie Watts (Tyson), an active, highly motivated widow living in a cramped apartment in Houston in the Spring of 1953 with her son (Cuba Gooding Jr.) and daughter-in-law (Vanessa Williams) . Carrie escapes her relatives' watchful eyes to realize her dearest dream: to return to her beloved hometown, Bountiful. What starts as an ordinary trip soon becomes an inspiring and life-changing journey of discovery.

With powerful themes regarding memory, mortality and the undeniable, universal yearning for home, you won't want to miss this powerful show The Cleveland Plain Dealer calls, "A gorgeous, great play. American theater at its most engaging."

For tickets click here.

Syracuse University in the Final Four!

The Syracuse University Basketball team zone is sort of like the weather. Everybody talks about it, but nobody does anything about it.

That certainly was the case Saturday, when Marquette, after buzzing around this NCAA tournament for longer than expected, became the latest fly in the Orange ointment.

Syracuse and its amazing 2-3 zone beat the Golden Eagles 55-39 in a tough showdown between rivals from the Big East.

Syracuse University will face the Michigan-Florida winner in the Final Four.

As a former head cheerleader for Syracuse University - Go Orange!

Spencer Day on The Candi & Randy Show

Uber-cool and fab Spencer Day dropped by The Candi & Randy Show to share his thoughts and tunes from his new CD "The Mystery of You" today.

Great musician - cool, creative and personal in a manner that's completely relatable.

With a voice and face to match :)

Hit play to check him out, or take a look below....

Legendary music producer Phil Ramone dead at 72

From CNN: Music producer and engineer Phil Ramone, winner of 14 Grammys and a technical innovator, died Saturday morning in a New York hospital, his son Matt told CNN.

His collaboration credits are a Who's Who of the music industry: Olivia Newton-John, Burt Bacharach, Bono, Ray Charles, Bob Dylan, Aretha Franklin, Quincy Jones, Madonna, Paul McCartney, Paul Simon, Frank Sinatra and Stevie Wonder, just to name a few.

"Our industry has lost an immense talent and a true visionary and genius," said Neil Portnow, president of The Recording Academy, which had given him a Technical Grammy for his lifetime of innovative contributions to music.

Artists described Ramone, 72, with superlatives.

From Bette Midler: "Phil Ramone, a giant in the recording world; kind beyond words. Goodbye.."

From Elaine Paige: "Such devastating news has just reached me of the passing of the great Phil Ramone. I feel really sad at this loss."

"This is so shocking. I just performed for his tribute in December," Aretha Franklin said in a statment. "Truly one of the great names in music has gone on, but the melodies will remain."

Said Billy Joel: "I always thought of Phil Ramone as the most talented guy in my band.... The music world lost a giant today."
Ramone made innovations to the compact discs and surround sound technologies, Portnow said.

Ramone's collaboration with Ray Charles, Billy Joel and Paul Simon won a total of three Album Of The Year awards, and Ramone won Producer Of The Year (Non Classical) in 1980, The Recording Academy said.

Just a few of my favorite Phil Ramone collaborations:

Music: Michael Buble "To Be Loved"

Yes!  New music from Michael Buble!

Bublé’s new CD "To Be Loved" will be released April 23, 2013, in the US.

Via press release:

Michael Bublé’s highly anticipated new studio album “To Be Loved” is scheduled to be released on April 23rd in the US (April l5th internationally), by Reprise Records.

The first single, “It’s A Beautiful Day”, co-written by Bublé, was released February 25th.

“To Be Loved”, Bublé’s sixth studio album follows his “Christmas” CD which sold seven million copies internationally and was the number two biggest selling album of 2011 (after Adele).

“My new record is about love, happiness, fun and yummy things. Getting to work with my friend and longtime collaborator Bob Rock (“Call Me Irresponsible”, “Crazy Love” and “Christmas”) who produced the entire album was very exciting. We’re a good team. I love the songs we selected this time out. It was also terrific working once again with my songwriting partners” commented Bublé.

Later this year, Bublé is scheduled to perform 10 sellout shows at London’s 02 Arena beginning June 30th.

For more info, check out MichaelBuble.com

PA: State Rep. Brian Sims on "Hardball"

Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Openly gay Pennsylvania state legislator Brian Sims appeared on "Hardball" last night to talk about the incredible momentum the gay rights movement has picked up in recent years.

Sims was smart and on point. At one point, host Chris Matthews said "Maybe you'll be governor some day."

p.s. Brian's not very hard on the eyes, either.... always a nice combination...

Lee Roy Reams at 54 Below - April 3rd

Pete Stellato on The Candi & Randy Show

The Candi and Randy Show recently welcomed WBFF's (World Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation) Pete "Steel" Stellato.

Handsome, smart and motivated, Pete talks about how he's making his own personal come-back, what his future plans are, and we delve a bit into his personal life.

Sometimes, life takes a swing at you and throws you. Pete's approach? Balance. In working out, in nutrition, in relationships.

Hit play and listen as Pete inspires us to be our personal best.

Marie Osmond supports marriage equality

After the Osmond family hosted an anti-gay marriage event this week in Utah, this is a surprise.

Says Marie: "The God that I believe in is a god of love, not fear. I don't tell my children if you're not good you're going to Hell. I tell my children that God will be there for them when they struggle. That's the God I believe in.

"I believe in [my lesbian daughter's] civil rights, as a mother. I think my daughter deserves everything that she desires in life. She's a good girl. She's a wonderful child. I don't think God made one color flower. I think he made many..."

Baby giraffe stands for the first time

How cute is this?

First of all, the mother is so attentive and nurturing.

And then, to watch the calf feel the instinct to stand and keep trying is amazing.

Apparently the calf was standing and nursing within 30 minutes of birth.

(via SocialiteLife)

Dr. Ben Carson attempts to explain inflammatory marriage equality comments

Dr. Ben Carson, the neurosurgeon who's a rising star for political conservatives, said Friday that he wants to restore civility to American political discourse and acknowledged that he is prepared to step down as commencement speaker at Johns Hopkins University.

Students at Johns Hopkins have circulated a petition to replace Carson, who's retiring this year, as the university's commencement speaker after he made incendiary remarks regarding marriage equality this week. He told MSNBC's Andrea Mitchell that he's willing to honor those students' wishes.

Carson, the director of pediatric neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins, on Tuesday called hetero-sexual marriage “a well-established, fundamental pillar of society and no group, be they gays, be they NAMBLA, be they people who believe in bestiality — it doesn’t matter what they are. They don’t get to change the definition.”

Today on MSNBC, however, he was a bit more moderated in his language:

"I think people have completely taken the wrong meaning out of what I was saying," Carson said. "First of all, I certainly believe gay people should have all the rights that anybody else has. What I was basically saying is that as far as marriage is concerned that has traditionally been between a man and a woman and nobody should be able to change that."

Nonetheless, he conceded that "perhaps the examples were not the best choice of words, and I certainly apologize if I offended anyone....the point that I was making was that no group of individuals, whoever they are, whatever their belief systems, gets to change traditional definitions. The reason I believe the way I do, I will readily confess, is because I am a Christian who believes in The Bible."

(via MediaMatters)

Patriots Rob Gronkowski: An openly gay player would be "another teammate and another friend"

New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski appeared on ESPN Radio New York recently saying that he's fine with a gay player on the team:

"I got this question before, about a year ago, and I basically will say the same answer that I did a year ago. You've got to accept the player. Everyone has their own ways to live their life and as long as he's respecting me, keeping distance, respecting myself, I'll respect him back. If he's being a great teammate and he's a guy on the field doing a great job, well then you've got nothing to complain about. He's another teammate and another friend."

"If someone is on my team and they are a great teammate and a great player on the field, helping the team win -- that's all you've got to ask for."

No active NFL player has publicly come out as gay, although a report from CBSSports.com this week states that a current NFL player is "strongly considering" doing so.

(via ESPN)

The science of goosebumps and music chills

From my favorite science guys, AsapSCIENCE.

Why do we get goosebumps in the first place? Do they serve any purpose?

Shirtless Kellan Lutz takes a break during Men's Folio Indonesia photo shoot

Kellan Lutz caught during a break showing off his buff shirtless body during a photo shoot for Men’s Folio Indonesia’s March/April 2013 issue.

Lutz is featured in the publication to promote his new film Java Heat, which will open in Indonesia on April 18 before hitting theaters in the US on May 10.

Java Heat follows an American (played by Lutz) in Indonesia who teams up with a Muslim cop to track down a terrorist.

(source)

Dan Choi fined $100 for White House DADT protest

Former US Army lieutenant Dan Choi, who became the face of the movement to end Don’t Ask Don’t Tell, has been fined $100 for chaining himself to the White House in 2010.

In May of 2011, the other twelve who took part in the protest pled guilty and received deferred sentences. Lt. Dan was the only defendant to plead not guilty.

Choi, who was discharged from the Army after coming out on the Rachel Maddow Show, faced up to six months in federal prison for his actions.

He will not face any prison time if he pays the fine.

The Washington Post reports:

The guilty finding against Daniel Choi came as the West Point graduate tried to turn the usually staid courtroom of the District’s federal court into a lively venue for protesting his prosecution for his role in the November 2010 demonstration.

In court on Thursday, Choi’s erratic demeanor swung from emotional outbursts at the lectern to belligerent confrontations with a U.S. Park Police officer and the federal prosecutor.

Dressed in a military uniform, Choi paced the courtroom, serving as his own lawyer. “All I want at the end of this day is to return to the U.S. military,” Choi said through tears.

Choi, who is not trained as an attorney, alternated between whispered apologies for his teary breakdowns and loud rebukes of Assistant U.S. Attorney Angela George for failing to refer to him as a lieutenant.

NYC: Strange reaction to marriage equality at Harlem coffee shop

What a strange story to be coming out of NYC today...

Leesa Dahl, a piano teacher and an opera accompanist, apparently was offended somehow by the pro-marriage equality sign on The Chipped Cup, her local coffee shop.

So she posted on the shop’s Facebook page: ’You just lost two local customers with your political sandwich board… We were so happy when you joined the neighborhood and were faithful, but alienating the majority of the population is a really irritating and dumb move. We will encourage others not to patronize your business.’

The conversation continued to escalate when the owners responded with a benign "Thank goodness"  to which Ms. Dahl responded "Go f*ck yourself."

On Twitter she added: It’s too bad @ChippedCupNY discriminates against 98% of their customer base by being H8ful!’

In response, here is what the owners of the coffee shop wrote: "Hi Everyone, I’m the owner of a coffee shop in New York. Yesterday we put out our sandwich board with a message in support of Marriage Equality. This was one woman’s reaction:"

(source)

Caller to NY1's "The Call" - Gays should be beheaded

Wow.

The calm in this man's voice is chilling.

S&P 500 stock index closes at record high

Supreme Court Justice Ginsberg's "skim milk" comment goes viral

Behind the scenes at the Broadway Bares 23 photo shoot

From sea to shining sea, this year's Broadway Bares will crisscross the country in a racy, raucous road trip, exploring the United States as the 23rd annual edition of the immensely popular modern-day burlesque show delivers Broadway Bares 23: United Strips of America.

Click here for more info.  You don't want to miss this.

Sunday, June 23, 9:30 pm & Midnight
Roseland Ballroom
239 West 52nd Street, NYC

PA: Excellent letter from state Rep. Brian Sims to Sen. Bob Casey

Openly gay state Rep. Brian Sims of Pennsylvania has written an open letter to US Senator Bob Casey regarding the Senator's silence on the topic of marriage equality, especially in light of so many politicians making public announcements of support:

Senator Casey, seven years ago I joined hundreds of thousands of LGBT Pennsylvanians in support of your candidacy in an effort to remove Senator Rick Santorum, one of the most anti-LGBT legislators in modern history, from public office. We worked tirelessly and we celebrated your victory, even as many of us struggled to reconcile our support for you with our fundamental beliefs in women’s reproductive rights, beliefs which you do not share.

We have believed since you were sworn in that when the time was right, when it really mattered, you would be there for equality. The time is right and we need you to be here.

But your voice is silent. And I am angry.

Senator, I know you. I know how we have interacted and I know that you have respect for me as a gay man. More importantly, I know that LGBT people surround you in virtually every area of your life, personal and professional. You have never had a shortage of interaction with the LGBT community and that is what makes it so confusing that you have not made up your mind on equality. Or have you?

You really need to read the entire letter. It's honest, bold and direct.

Funny signs supporting marriage equality at SCOTUS

This was my favorite, but you can find more at Funny Or Die.

President Obama speaks to Hispanic news networks about same-sex marriage cases

President Obama spoke with the largest Hispanic television networks this week on the topic of the Supreme Court and marriage equality.

Speaking with Telemundo, the President said, "I think it is time for the justices to examine this issue." In the interview, Obama reiterated his position that the federal government should recognize the unions of couples in states that allow gay marriage:

“I certainly believe that those states that have made a decision to recognize these couples as being married, that the federal government has to respect that decision by the states,” he said. “That's traditionally been how it works. States have defined marriage and the federal government has followed the lead of the states.”

“I think not only is it right and fair but also consistent with our Constitution to recognize same-sex couples,” added Obama, a former professor of constitutional law. “It doesn't mean everybody has to agree from a religious standpoint about this issue. It does mean that it is very important for us to remember that we're a nation where everybody is supposed to be equal before the law.”

On Univision, the President wouldn't predict the SCOTUS decisions, but spoke from his experience as a constitutional law professor:

“I never predict what the court will do,” Obama said. “But I used to teach constitutional law, and there is certainly a strong basis for determining that in this age, given what we now know, given the changes that have been taking place in the states around the country, same-sex couples should be treated fairly and have the same rights benefits, be able to transfer property, all the rights and recognitions that heterosexual couples do.”

Trailer: "The Wolverine"

International trailer for THE WOLVERINE starring the fab Hugh Jackman.

Opens July 2013.

ABC News covers Edie Windsor & DOMA case at Supreme Court

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Suze Orman answers conservative opponent on marriage equality

Suze Orman appeared this week on CNN’s Piers Morgan Live and politely took down the positions of a conservative author and Heritage Foundation fellow. (Ironically, if you read the Heritage Foundation’s website, they claim their representative, Ryan Anderson, won).

Watch the video and you’ll see that clearly, Suze Orman, a respected financial analyst with her own CNBC show on finance, and a lesbian in a life-long same-sex relationship, carries the day.

“I feel compassion for you,” Orman tells Anderson. “And I’ll tell you why. Because I know you believe very strongly what you believe, but I also know that you’re very uneducated in how it really works. “I believe from the bottom of my heart that if you really understood why the government does need to get involved, why it does need to be legal on a federal level, if you really understood that, there’s no way that you would sit there and say what you are saying right now.”

(via TNCRM)

Rachel Maddow recaps the SCOTUS/DOMA arguments

Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Next cover of Time Magazine: "Gay marriage already won"

"The Supreme Court hasn't made up its mind but America has."

Photographed by Peter Hapak.

The only purpose of marriage is procreation

And so, no senior citizens should be allowed to marry I guess...

"If I'm going to marry a horse, it's going to be a young, virile horse."

(via JMG)

MSNBC's Thomas Roberts on marriage equality

US Supreme Court: DOMA Oral Arguments 3-27-13

From the L.A. Times - the complete oral arguments for and against the Defense of Marriage Act at the US Supreme Court on March 27, 2013.

SCOTUSblog: 80% chance DOMA will be struck down

Several news sources reporting DOMA likely to be repealed

From TalkingPointsMemo: Emerging from Wednesday's Supreme Court oral arguments on the Defense of Marriage Act, CNN's reporter Jeffrey Toobin said the Court was likely to overturn the 1996 law based on the skepticism of crucial swing vote Justice Anthony Kennedy.

"I think DOMA's in trouble and I think it's in trouble because Anthony Kennedy was repeatedly concerned that the Defense of Marriage Act violates states' rights," Toobin said on CNN.

"Anthony Kennedy as we all know the swing vote on this Court is someone who is concerned about gay rights although he said very little, I think nothing about the issue of whether the Defense of Marriage Act violated gay people's constitutional rights. He was clearly very concerned that the Defense of Marriage Act was invading the province of the state to define marriage. That's a state function, usually. And that would certainly be suggesting that he was going to strike down the law. And certainly the other liberals, the four Democratic appointees looked like they were going to vote to strike it down."

In addition, NBC News Justice Correspondent Pete Williams reported that there seemed to be five votes to invalidate the law.

Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Williams said comments from Justice Anthony Kennedy indicated that he had problems with law: whether Congress had the right to say what marriage is, as well as the lack of narrow focus in the 1996 law which may make it unconstitutionally over-broad.

Bill O'Reilly slams gay marriage opponents

Bill O'Reilly: “The compelling argument is on the side of homosexuals. That’s where the compelling argument is. ‘We’re Americans. We just want to be treated like everybody else.’ That’s a compelling argument, and to deny that, you have got to have a very strong argument on the other side. The argument on the other side hasn’t been able to do anything but thump the Bible.”

Sen. Kay Hagen supports marriage equality

Sen. Kay Hagen of North Carolina has come out in favor of marriage equality:

"I know there are strong feelings on both sides, and I have a great deal of respect for their opinions, but after much thought and prayer on my part this is where I am today.

"I know all our families do not look alike. We all want the same thing for our families. We want happiness, we want health, prosperity, a bright future for our children and grandchildren. After conversations I’ve had with family members, with people I go to church with and with North Carolinians from all walks of life, I’ve come to my own personal conclusion that we should not tell people who they can love, or who they can marry. It’s time to move forward with this issue."

Kentucky: Legislature overrides veto of anti-gay "Religious Freedom Act"

The Kentucky legislature last night voted to override Gov. Steve Beshear's veto of the Religious Freedom Act, which allows state residents to disobey civil rights laws on the basis of "sincerely held religious beliefs."

The state House’s 79-15 vote sent HB279 to the Senate, which voted 32-6 to override the measure.

Gov. Beshear released the following statement: “As I explained in my veto message, I have significant concerns that this bill will cause serious unintentional consequences that could threaten public safety, health care, and individuals’ civil rights.”

Activists are concerned that the law will be used to challenge LGBT rights ordinances in Louisville, Lexington, Covington. and Vicco.

The text of the bill:

Government shall not burden a person's or religious organization's freedom of religion. The right to act or refuse to act in a manner motivated by a sincerely held religious belief may not be burdened unless the government proves by clear and convincing evidence that it has a compelling governmental interest in infringing the specific act or refusal to act and has used the least restrictive means to further that interest. A "burden" shall include indirect burdens such as withholding benefits,assessing penalties, or an exclusion from programs or access to facilities.

Strong majority support for marriage equality in New Jersey

From a just-released Quinnipiac Poll:

• By a 64 - 30 percent margin, voters support a law allowing same sex couples to marry

• Men support same-sex marriage 60 - 32 percent

• Women support 68 - 28 percent

• Voters over 55 years old - 56 - 38 percent

• Voters 18 - 34 years - 80 - 17 percent among

Montana: Sen. Jon Tester endorses marriage equality

Montana Sen. Jon Tester on Tuesday endorsed same-sex marriage, joining the party’s new public consensus on the issue.

I've admired the manner and directness that Sen. Tester has represented his state for a long time.  I've feel he is a true representative of the independent spirit of his home state.

Sen. Tester joins Sens. Claire McCaskill of Missouri and Mark Warner of Virginia in endorsing same-sex nuptials, and Jay Rockefeller of West Virginia who on Monday pushed the courts to repeal the Defense of Marriage Act.

“Montanans believe in the right to make a good life for their families,” Tester wrote on Facebook. “How they define a family should be their business and their business alone. I’m proud to support marriage equality because no one should be able to tell a Montanan or any American who they can love and who they can marry.”

Like McCaskill, Tester just won reelection easily, and won’t face voters until 2018.

Congratulations, Montana.  You have a Senator to be proud of.

(via Politico)

Opponents of marriage equality admit same-sex marriage has not impacted their own marriages at all

In May 2004, the Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts ruled that the state’s prohibition on same-sex marriage was unconstitutional.

In that time, the number of states legalizing marriage equality has risen to 9 states plus Washington, DC.

ThinkProgress asked opponents of equal rights for gays and lesbians today how 9 years of same-sex marriage has impacted their own marriages.

Want to take a guess what the answers were...?

During today’s Supreme Court case on marriage equality, the justices pressed Charles Cooper, the lawyer defending discrimination, on how exactly same-sex marriage somehow undermines marriage between straight people. He was unable to give a cogent response.

(via ThinkProgress)

From the begginning of creation...

THIS, folks, is who and what is standing against equal rights for gays and lesbians.

The woman is possibly a fan of home schooling, too.  But that's just a guess...

(via AmericaBlog)

Audio: Oral arguments at SCOTUS Prop 8 hearing

Via AFER

First thoughts from SCOTUS hearing on Prop 8

First thoughts coming out of SCOTUS hearing on Prop 8.

It may be that Justice Kennedy is wary of the issue of "standing" by the proponents. If dismissed, the 9th Circuit of Appeals decision would stand.

West Virginia Sen. Jay Rockefeller supports marriage equality

"Like so many of my generation, my views on allowing gay couples to marry have been challenged in recent years by a new, more open generation.

"Churches and ministers should never have to perform marriages that violate their religious beliefs, but the government shouldn’t discriminate against people who want to marry just because of their gender.

"Younger people in West Virginia and even my own children have grown up in a much more equal society and they rightly push us to question old assumptions – to think deeply about what it means for all Americans to be created equal. This has been a process for me, but at this point I think it’s clear that DOMA is discriminatory.

"I’m against discrimination in all its forms, and I think we can move forward in our progress toward true equality by repealing DOMA." - Sen. Jay Rockefeller (D-WV)

Alaska Sen. Mark Begich supports marriage equality

Sen. Mark Begich (D-AK) has announced he supports the freedom to marry for same-sex couples just hours after similar announcements from Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA) and Sen. Claire McCaskill (D-MO).

Sen. Begich issued this statement on his support for marriage:

"I believe that same sex couples should be able to marry and should have the same rights, privileges and responsibilities as any other married couple. Government should keep out of individuals' personal lives—if someone wants to marry someone they love, they should be able to. Alaskans are fed up with government intrusion into our private lives, our daily business, and in the way we manage our resources and economy."

(via Buzzfeed)

Now is the time to overturn DOMA

"In America, we don't have second-class citizens, and we shouldn't have second-class marriages, either."

via Freedom To Marry

More proof that Rush Limbaugh is either a liar or an idiot

In the last election cycle alone, Maryland, Maine and Washington state all passed same-sex marriage by popular vote of those states' citizens.

Rush Limbaugh knows this. But it makes him feel better to lie to his listeners and say the issue has lost every time when it has not.

Last week, a new Post-ABC News poll revealed 58 percent support for marriage equality.

"So same-sex marriage and wiping out the Defense of Marriage Act is now a civil right. People that oppose it are bigots and nobody wants to be a bigot.  But the thing you can't say is that if left to a vote of the people, same-sex marriage loses every time it's on the ballot.  I think so far it's 30 times.  State ballots, initiatives and other things, and the Defense of Marriage Act at the federal level.  It's never passed. 

You wouldn't know that, would you, by listening to the pop culture media?  You would think that this issue has overtaken everything, it's the most important issue to everybody and anybody, and that it has massive public support.  And yet every time it's been voted on by the people it has gone down to defeat.  That's why the courts have to get involved, because the people, according to the left, won't do the right thing." - Rush Limbaugh, speaking on yesterday's radio show.

NYC Pride announces Grand Marshals

NYC Pride announced today that DOMA plaintiff Edie Windsor, along with Harry Belafonte and Earl Fowlkes, will serve as Grand Marshals for the 44th annual NYC LGBT Pride March.


Via press release:

Edith Windsor will be taking her fight against DOMA all the way to the Supreme Court after paying more than $360,000 in federal estate taxes upon the death of her partner of 44 years.

Harry Belafonte has been a longtime advocate for civil rights and universal equality on a global scale.

Earl Fowlkes serves as the President/CEO of the Center for Black Equity, whose mission is to fight for health, social and economic equity in the Black LGBT community.

“We believe this year will be historic. LGBT rights are expanding across the country and these individuals embody the soul of a movement far from over. They are tirelessly fighting for all of us. They are the great waves in a sea of hope: Edith's never-ending battle for marriage equality, Harry's unending fight for human rights, Earl’s focused leadership and selfless spirit. So with great pride, we congratulate them and honor them for their unwavering dedication to the idea of a more just and verdant future for all peoples,” said Chris Frederick, Managing Director of NYC Pride.

For more on this year's NYC Pride, visit their official site. This year's March takes place on June 30.

We do have a budget problem

(via Americans Against the Tea Party)

Virginia Sen. Mark Warner supports marriage equality

"I support marriage equality because it is the fair and right thing to do. Like many Virginians and Americans, my views on gay marriage have evolved, and this is the inevitable extension of my efforts to promote equality and opportunity for everyone.

"I was proud to be the first Virginia governor to extend anti-discrimination protections to LGBT state workers. In 2010, I supported an end to the military’s ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ policy, and earlier this month I signed an amicus brief urging the repeal of DOMA. I believe we should continue working to expand equal rights and opportunities for all Americans." - Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA), today announcing his support on his Facebook page.

UPDATE: According to BuzzFeed, Sens. Jay Rockefeller (D-WV) and Tim Johnson (D-SD) have also indicated today that they no longer support the Defense of Marriage Act.

(via JMG)

Backstreet Boys do "Harlem Shake"

And for those paying attention, it looks to be Nick Carter shirtless with his guitar in his underwear doing his part to entertain...

Sneak peek at Broadway Bares 23

From the YouTube description: Broadway Bares, the unrivaled evening of sexy striptease that benefits Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, will return for its 23rd edition on Sunday, June 23, 2013.

This year's theme will be announced on Thursday, March 28 at broadwaybares.com and broadwaycares.org.

This always sold-out annual event combines the naughtiness of burlesque and the razzle-dazzle of Broadway. More than 200 of the hottest male and female dancers in New York City take to the stage for two sensational shows at 9:30 pm and midnight.

Brian Brown is already a sore loser over marriage equality

"I think we’re going to win these cases. But say the worst happens and we lose in a broad way – that means that the Court somehow does a Roe, a Roe v. Wade, on marriage and says that all these state constitutional amendments are overturned, gay marriage is now a constitutional right – well, we’re going to press forward on a Federal Marriage Amendment. We’ve always supported a Federal Marriage Amendment, and there’s a lot of misconceptions about it. Some people try and argue, ‘Well, this is against federalism.’ No, our founders gave us a system where we can amend the Constitution.

"We shouldn’t have to do this, we shouldn’t have to worry about activist judges, you know, making up out of thin air a constitutional right that obviously none of our founders found there and no one found there until quite recently. But if we do, for us, the Federal Marriage Amendment is a way that people can stand up and say, ‘Enough is enough.’ We need a solution in this country, we cannot be, as Lincoln said, half slave, half free. We can’t have a country on key moral questions where we’re just, where we don’t have a solution. And if the Court forces a solution, the way we’ll amend that is through  the Federal Marriage Amendment." - Hate group leader Brian Brown via Right Wing Watch

Since 1789, there have been over 11,000 attempts to amend the US Constitution.  While these may be approached by "national convention," none of those attempts have succeeded.

Only 27 amendments have been added to the Constitution.  The first ten are known as the Bill of Rights. The last amendment was added in 1992.

There are two steps to passing an amendment: Proposal and Ratification.

The amendment must first be proposed a 2/3 vote of Congress.

Ratification occurs with a 3/4 vote of the state legislatures or a 3/4 vote of state conventions made up of delegates (not necessarily legislators) elected by the people. That would mean 38 states would have to ratify the amendment.

Not gonna happen with marriage equality, Brian...

Debra Messing cast in new CBS pilot for fall

More indication that SMASH is pretty much done.

As if the move to Saturday nights wasn't enough, EW is reporting Ms. Messing already has a new gig with CBS.

Michele Bachmann under investigation for alleged presidential campaign "improprieties"

According to the Daily Beast, Michele Bachmann is currently being investigated by the Office of Congressional Ethics for "improprieties" regarding her failed presidential campaign.

From the Daily Beast report:

Federal investigators are now interviewing former Bachmann campaign staffers nationwide about alleged intentional campaign-finance violations. The investigators are working on behalf of the Office of Congressional Ethics, which probes reported improprieties by House members and their staffs and then can refer cases to the House Ethics Committee.

Former staffers tell The Daily Beast that investigators have allegedly asked about allegations of improper transfer of funds and under-the-table payments actions by Bachmann’s presidential campaign, specifically in relation to the campaign’s national political director, Guy Short, and Bachmann’s onetime Iowa campaign chairman, state Sen. Kent Sorenson. Questions directly about Bachmann, they said, have been primarily focused on what she knew about those men’s actions and when she knew it.

Well, well, well... things that make you go "hmm..."

Currently shooting season 2: "Where The Bears Are"

"Where The Bears Are" - the fun and fab web series - is currently shooting season 2!  

Help the guys complete their second season by buying merchandise at http://wherethebearsare.acmeprints.com/ or donating at http://wherethebearsare.tv/

A quick history of Prop 8 and marriage equality

Finally -- Proposition 8, the California law which has been overturned twice in federal courts, will reach the highest court in the land tomorrow, and will soon be history.

This quick summary explains the journey of Prop 8 and what happens next.

Visit http://AFER.org to support the case.

Scott Fujita on marriage equality - 'Why is common sense not enough?'

Scott Fujita, an 11-year N.F.L. veteran and an ambassador for Athlete Ally, which fights homophobia in sports, has written a powerful op-ed for the New York Times on the subject of marriage equality and the many examples he plans to use to explain to his young daughters how and why discrimination against gay marriage existed and the progress that has been made.

From the New York Times:

I support marriage equality for so many reasons: my father’s experience in an internment camp and the racial intolerance his family experienced during and after the war, the gay friends I have who are really not all that different from me, and also because of a story I read a few years back about a woman who was denied the right to visit her partner of 15 years when she was stuck in a hospital bed.

My belief is rooted in a childhood nurtured by a Christian message of love, compassion and acceptance. It’s grounded in the fact that I was adopted and know there are thousands of children institutionalized in various foster programs, in desperate need of permanent, safe and loving homes, but living in states that refuse to allow unmarried couples, including gays and lesbians, to adopt because they consider them not fit to be parents.

In articulating all my feelings about marriage equality, I almost don’t know where to begin. And perhaps that’s part of the problem. Why do we have to explain ourselves when it comes to issues of fairness and equality? Why is common sense not enough?

Read the entire essay here.

In December 2011, Fujita recorded a video for Americans for Marriage Equality:



In 2009, Fujita was named the New Orleans Saints’ “Man of the Year” for his contributions on the field and in the community.

Thank you, Scott Fujita.

Missouri: Sen. Claire McCaskill supports marriage equality

This past weekend, Sen. Claire McCaskill expressed her full support for marriage equality:

“I have come to the conclusion that our government should not limit the right to marry based on who you love,” McCaskill wrote on Tumblr. “While churches should never be required to conduct marriages outside of their religious beliefs, neither should the government tell people who they have a right to marry.”

McCaskill joins a number of other prominent Democrats who have endorsed same-sex marriage; just last Monday, former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton said she supported gay marriage, fueling speculation she would run for president in 2016.

McCaskill's announcement comes two days before the U.S. Supreme Court is scheduled to hear arguments in the first of two cases on gay marriage.

From the AP: Gay marriage heads to the Supreme Court

Coretta Scott King for marriage equality

MEET THE PRESS: David Boies on SCOTUS and Prop 8

Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Prop. 8 attorney David Boies joined David Gregory on Meet the Press today to talk about this week's case at the Supreme Court.

Boies says that he believes his side will prevail because his team has already succeeded on the three issues they set out to prove.

In addition, Boies had this to say:

"We believe that even if you simply apply the rational basis test, there is no rational basis to justify this ban. And that's because...there is no evidence. None. That allowing gay and lesbians to marry harms the institution of marriage or harms anyone else... The evidence is that having a loving couple that are married is great for children. Everybody agreed with that. But the evidence is that's true whether it's a gay couple or a straight couple. And it's true whether it's an adopted couple or a biological couple."

(via NBC News)

Sen. Rand Paul fine with "neutral" federal same-sex marriage laws

On Fox News today, Sen. Rand Paul stated that while he supports "traditional marriage" he wouldn't mind if the Supreme Court struck down the Defense of Marriage Act and allowed states for themselves to decide marriage laws.

Said Sen. Paul: "I don't want the government promoting something I don't believe in, but I also don't mind if the government tries to be neutral on the issue."

Click here to watch the discussion.

Evan Wolfson's truth trumps Tony Perkins' packaged talking points

On Face The Nation this morning, a round table was held discussing the upcoming oral arguments to be held at the US Supreme Court on same-sex marriage.

Watch the full discussion above where Tony Perkins, of the certified hate group Family Research Council, tries to repeat and repeat his long practiced scare tactics about marriage equality while Evan Wolfson puts the facts about equality on the table.

(via Good As You)

What is at stake at SCOTUS?