CA Supreme Court to rule on Gay Marriage today (5/15) at 10:00am

[SzczerbiakManiac]

Discussions from:
The Advocate (http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid54351.asp)
Good As You (http://www.goodasyou.org/good_as_you/2008/05/51508----the-ma.html)
The Official CA SC site (http://www.courtinfo.ca.gov/courts/supreme/highprofile/)

I am crossing my fingers for a positive ruling!

[Gemini Cricket]

We shall see...
Fingers crossed.
:)

[innerSpaceman]

OMG, yeah, I forgot about this. Meant to revive the old thread today (hahaha, a la the Jodie Foster thread today), but forgot.


I'm pins and I'm needles.






ETA: Oh, and if the ruling is what I hope it to be ... will you marry me, Gemini Cricket? :blush:

[Morrigoon]

*crossing fingers*

[Alex]

Congratulations!

I'm not convinced that the judiciary is the right way to achieve this goal but I'm completely happy about it anyway!

[Kevy Baby]

Why shouldn't homosexuals have the right to the same misery as breeders?

[BarTopDancer]

It's 10:26....

[Alex]

Ha ha ha ha. That joke is just as funny on the 12,120,123rd telling as it was on the 714,312th.

If that was directed at my response, then I don't think that. I am completely fine with anybody getting married that wants to. I just think that there is a fair chance that getting that result through the judiciary will make it more difficult in the long run. I might be wrong (will it be more of a Love decision or more of a Roe decision when it comes to settling issues) but at the moment I'm leaning more towards Roe.

[Alex]

It's 10:26....

The decision was released 20 minutes ago. The gay marriage ban in California has been overturned.

[Gemini Cricket]

http://abcnews.go.com/TheLaw/wireStory?id=4859659

[Eliza Hodgkins 1812]

Hear, hear, Kevy B! And once again quote John Waters:

“The privilege of being gay,” John Waters recently told Fresh Air, “was that you didn’t have to get married or have kids. Now Provincetown will be the new Niagara Falls, and gays have more babies than Catholics.”

Hehe.

That said, it's an absolutely ridiculous thing to disallow two consenting adults to marry. Or, for that matter, multiple consenting adults to marry each other, if that be the way those folks swing. But I also think it's kind of ridiculous that marriage is a legal issue at all, even between two consenting heterosexuals.

Anyhoo, I much prefer living in sin. ;)

[Morrigoon]

Overturned!

:)

[Eliza Hodgkins 1812]

http://abcnews.go.com/TheLaw/wireStory?id=4859659

Hurrah! And welcome to legalized bondage, gaybies!

(Seriously, this is cool.)

[Ghoulish Delight]

This should help all of those catering and events companies that got hit by the writers' strike.

[SzczerbiakManiac]

The Official Opinion of the Court (http://www.courtinfo.ca.gov/opinions/documents/S147999.PDF) (PDF)
WOOOOOOOHOOOOOO!!

[BarTopDancer]

Yay!

[Strangler Lewis]

Quick. Somebody write a gay version of "Marty."

("When ya gonna get married, Marty, hah? When ya gonna get married?"

[Kevy Baby]

Ha ha ha ha. That joke is just as funny on the 12,120,123rd telling as it was on the 714,312th.

If that was directed at my response, then I don't think that.I am not sure who this is directed at (since you didn't quote), but if it was my post, then I have no idea what you are talking about. Yes, it is an old joke. In case you haven't noticed, I am not serious in all of my posts and often do pull old, lame jokes out.

[innerSpaceman]

OH EM GEE!


I can't even feel how happy I feel. I'm kinda in pleasant shock.




Ok, Gemini Cricket, maybe you wanna think about the whole proposal thing .... but wanna go party in WeHo tonight??? It should be quite the gay bash. We could each meet the men of our dreams and, if not by the end of the night, we could always get married tomorrow. ;)



Oh, that invite is open for anyone else as well.

The street party, not the marriage. Really should be the fun celebration of the century!!!

[Cadaverous Pallor]

This is awesome news. Heard it from my (lesbian) coworker and ran out here to check the LoT celebration. :D

Let's hope this sticks, and travels to more states. :cheers:

[Scrooge McSam]

Congratulations, Cali folk!!

[Snowflake]

I just heard on NPR and a couple of the attorneys came by to mention it. This is good news. :D

[BarTopDancer]

Being gay is no longer an excuse to avoid marriage!

[Gemini Cricket]

ETA: Oh, and if the ruling is what I hope it to be ... will you marry me, Gemini Cricket? :blush:
Another proposal from a man today?
My inbox is full as it is.
I'll add you to the list.
:D

I'd marry someone all right, but I have to un-domestic partnership with someone else first...
:)

[BarTopDancer]

I bet LB Pride is gonna be a celebration too!

I'll be there with some friends. Is anyone else going?

[Gemini Cricket]

I'm going.
With George.
I think iSm should come along.
I'm trying to hook them up.
:)

[Alex]

I've started reading the decision. It looks like, in the early reading that the decision is essentially that since the substantive traits of marriage are granted to homosexuals through domestic partnerships, that there is an impingement on equality of dignity in giving them a different name than marriage.

I wonder if this means that the issue could be resolved by getting rid of domestic partnerships or defining them to also exclude homosexuals (not advocating that, just curious if it would eliminate the constitutional issue
this decision settles).

[JWBear]

YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Now that we've won that battle, we have a state constitutional amendment to fight...

[Moonliner]

Today, in the world of freedom, the proudest boast is 'Ich bin ein homosexuell'

[Gemini Cricket]

Today, in the world of freedom, the proudest boast is 'Ich bin ein homosexuell'
Does that translate to: "I am a donut puncher"?

:D

[innerSpaceman]

Now that we've won that battle, we have a state constitutional amendment to fight...

Yes, big fight to come ... and I wanna be part of it. Where do I sign up?


And yeah, I'll go to LB Pride with GC and George. When is that???

But what about the WEHO PARTY TONIGHT?!?!?!?

[Gemini Cricket]

LB Pride is this weekend.
I'll go to Weho tonight.
:)

[innerSpaceman]

Yay! (oh, arrangements need to be made ... it's not gonna be the kind of thing where we can just find each other .... though cell phones will help.)


(And Holy Hell ... Pride, um this weekend, huh? Well, I'm going to the Indy Marathon at LSP and Tom's on Sunday ... can we do Pride on Saturday??)

[Gemini Cricket]

The festival is Sat and Sun.
We can do the festival.
The parade is Sun, but I'm not big on seeing it.
:)

[BarTopDancer]

I will be at Pride at some point on Saturday with a bunch of people.

Call me.

[Isaac]

Yay.

:)

[3894]

Now go get married so we can bitch about our husbands.

[BarTopDancer]

So this is going to have to go to vote now though, right?

And then appeals to the US Supreme Court?

If it goes in November, I can see the two Presidential candidates being forced to pick a side (I know Obama is personally against it, but says it's up for the states to decide, not the federal government).

Great first step, still a long way to go.

[Alex]

It is a state constitutional issue. I don't think there is any appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court.

What we'll likely be voting on in November is a new amendment to the California constitution that explicitly allows defining marriages as between opposite sexes.

Barring anything I haven't heard about yet it sounds like gay marriages will just be able to start happening in 30 days when the ruling goes into effect.

I do imagine that all of the candidates will be asked to take a position on the amendment that will likely be on our ballot in November. Since all three have opposed gay marriage in the past I'm sure their answers will be something along the lines of "I oppose gay marriage, but it is for the people of California to decide."

[Strangler Lewis]

I haven't read it, but even if it is a state constitutional matter, if it borrows too heavily from federal constitutional principles, it's conceivable that the U.S. Supreme Court will take the case. If we amend our state constitution, that would have to be challenged at the federal constitutional level. Since the Lawrence v. Texas majority is still on the court, it could go well, although it might take a couple of years to get that far.

[Tom]

Yes, big fight to come ... and I wanna be part of it. Where do I sign up?

I couldn't find a single organized webiste opposing the potential ballot measure, but this page (http://www.eqca.org/site/pp.asp?c=kuLRJ9MRKrH&b=4026413) from Equality California's site has information on their efforts and links to many other groups that offer ways to get involved.

[BDBopper]

Why do we have to make such a big fuss over these things? Why does Big Brother feel that he has a right to be involved in marriage in the first place? Marriage should be between the two parties that love each other and their maker (if desired). Period. End of story.

If I had things my way people could marry who they want, when they want, how they want, what they want, or how many they want. The Bible is my guidebook on this matter but it is not right to tell people how they should live from a religious sense.

[flippyshark]

I sometimes hear fudamentalist preachers say that if gay marriage is legal, then the inevitable slippery slope will begin, and there will be nothing to prevent people from marrying their own children, their livestock, and so on.

So, if I move to California, can I marry my cat? My Nintendo Wii? A corn dog?

[BDBopper]

I sometimes hear fudamentalist preachers say that if gay marriage is legal, then the inevitable slippery slope will begin, and there will be nothing to prevent people from marrying their own children, their livestock, and so on.

Who cares? No one is killing themselves. You're not physically hurting anyone. You're not absconding with anyone's property. Therefore it should be legal.

[Alex]

I can think of good reasons why you shouldn't be allowed to (legally) marry your cat, wii, or corn dog.

But I can't think of any for why you shouldn't be able to marry your children (assuming they are of an age making consent possible).

So when the loving incestuous couples start clamoring for their right to marry, I'll support them too. If when they're legal you'd like to marry your son or daughter (or all of them; if you have them) then you have my support.

But I'm afraid when it comes to your corn dog you'll just have to live in sin.

[Kevy Baby]

But I'm afraid when it comes to your corn dog you'll just have to live in sin.Geez Alex; you're so closed minded!

[GusGus]

Eat your corn dog and marry it too?

[Scrooge McSam]

Eat your corn dog and marry it too?

Somwhere there's a LOL-dog to be made.

"ur doing it rong!"

[JWBear]

GC, IsM (& anybody else)... If you come down Saturday, let us know. We don't have any plans as yet.

[Gemini Cricket]

GC, IsM (& anybody else)... If you come down Saturday, let us know. We don't have any plans as yet.
Will do.
I'm thinking of doing an afternoon/evening pride visit. I have a Dr's appt at 4:30pm that I need to make.
I'll give you a call.
:)

[SacTown Chronic]

Call me old-fashioned, but I'm prone to marry those who would eat my corn dog.


"Ur doing it rite!"

[Morrigoon]

Who cares? No one is killing themselves. You're not physically hurting anyone. You're not absconding with anyone's property. Therefore it should be legal.

Both parties have to be competent to consent. That's why bestiality is illegal.

It did occur to me that legalizing plural marriage would cut down on some of the welfare abuses >:D

[CoasterMatt]

Have fun celebrating, and welcome to the world of wedded bliss :D

[Isaac]

What is Long Beach Pride like ?

I've never been to a pride before.

[Not Afraid]

Long Beach meet this weekend????? It will be one hell of a celebration this year!

I was listening to Which Way LA tonight and some doofus said that "gays SHOULD have the right to marry, just not someone of the same sex". Ummmm, me think he needs to go back to school and start with Human Sexuality 101.

[Not Afraid]

What Pride like? Ummm, it's hot and there will be lots of hot men not wearing shirts.

[Morrigoon]

Hmm....damn, that would be fun, but the social calendar is quickly filling up. Will have to keep this in mind though.

[CoasterMatt]

That ruling was gay. :D

[Alex]

And just think, if this ruling holds up, the credit for it goes to three Republicans.

[BarTopDancer]

What Pride like? Ummm, it's hot and there will be lots of hot men not wearing shirts.

It's like the fair. Without the games or rides and lots of same sex couples and groups and gay focused booths. I don't think there were a lot of men without shirts last year. Yummy fair type food and drinks. Concerts at night. It was $20 to get in last year and parking was about that too.

[innerSpaceman]

What is Long Beach Pride like ?

I've never been to a pride before.

Ya know what ... me neither, i don't think. Never been my thing, tho it always seemed like it might be fun. :blush:



Now it seems like it's the Best Time Ever to go, so I'm doin' it. Sure, Long Beach Meet!!

:snap: :snap: :snap:


:cheers: Ya wanna go earlier, anyone? I don't think Gemini Cricket can make it till the evening. (I don't want to spend all day, but I don't figure G.C. till 6:30-7ish, and that seems kinda missing it too much for my first Pride, and zapppop's and a Long Beach fags and hags meet.)


:iSm:

[Gemini Cricket]

I've been to a ton of Pride events. Love them all. But I hear it's going to be hot so going in the afternoon/early evening is the way to do it. I'm hoping there's going to be a cowboy tent.
:)

[innerSpaceman]

Yeah, I definitely want to miss the hottest part of the day, but not miss the Hottest of the day.

[Gemini Cricket]

gasp! :)

There is a country stage.
Yay!

Uh, that's where I shall be for the entire time.

If anyone's searching for me, just look under a cowboy.

:D

[Gemini Cricket]

http://www.longbeachpride.com/

[Not Afraid]

The train from our house is $5 RT.


(well, from Willow station)

I'm actually practically free on Saturday and Sunday - but I was going to take a hike in the new wetlands area and see the wildflowers.

[Gemini Cricket]

...but I was going to take a hike in the new wetlands area and see the wildflowers.
Boooring! Go see hot men instead.
:D


It's nice seeing the news of the ruling on the front page of the LA Times this morning.
:)

[innerSpaceman]

Sorry I never made it to WeHo last night. I got involved in, of all things, a mix-tape project. But I'm looking forward to LBP.

Are you going to go, Not Afraid? It would be much nicer, I think, to take the public transportaton from your neighborhood rather than deal with parking there. I expect attendance to be particularly high this year for some reason. ;)


I know you've watched all the Indy movies already, but I'm going to Tom and Heidi's marathon on Sunday ... so I have to do Pride on Saturday. Are you in, O' FagHag with the Tangle of Middle-Aged Hair???

[SzczerbiakManiac]

So, if I move to California, can I marry my cat? My Nintendo Wii? A corn dog?Yes. No. Yes, but not on Fridays.

[innerSpaceman]

Anyone else up for Fantastically Well-Time Pride Fest tomorrow?


Fags? Hags? Bueller??



:cheers:

[Bornieo: Fully Loaded]

Will there be any hot lesbians there?

[Gemini Cricket]

Will there be any hot lesbians there?
Most lickly.
:D

[Isaac]

What time ?

[innerSpaceman]

How's 3:00 - 3:30? Meeting up at Lisa's Place. Then we'll take public transport, and she will be our Official Hag!

[Not Afraid]

Sure. But, it's still quite toasty at 3.

[innerSpaceman]

Yesh, but we have to gather. Then take a walk to pub transport. Then walk a couple of pooches en route. Then continue on the way to the Festival.

By that time, I predict 4:30 - - just when Gemini Cricket should be getting to his "Doctor's Appointment" (I guess since we know his family is in Hawaii, he can't use the already-taken euphemism Uncle's Cousin's Birthday for his assignations) ;)


Yes, it will still be hot at 4:30. But how else am I going to see a lot of shirtless gay men???


We can linger and aim for 5:00, but I don't want to do much later than that, eh? Though I'm up for groupthink.



Where's JWBear???

[Not Afraid]

Why, JWBear is available via that old, antiquated method that I prefer.

[Gemini Cricket]

Why, JWBear is available via that old, antiquated method that I prefer.
Missionary style?

[Not Afraid]

Honey, watch who you're talking shyt to.

[innerSpaceman]

Notice he didn't deny the "Doctor's Appointment" scam. Pffft, like a doctor in Southern California will see patients on a Saturday afternoon! Ha!

[Gemini Cricket]

Notice he didn't deny the "Doctor's Appointment" scam. Pffft, like a doctor in Southern California will see patients on a Saturday afternoon! Ha!
Ho ho. He does and will see me. And, if I'm lucky, he's a hottie doctor.
:)

[innerSpaceman]

Who'll go along with playing doctor. :)

[lashbear]

Congratulations on the wonderful news. iSm, you might have to marry Greg & I when we come out [pardon the pun] next. !!

Now go get married so we can bitch about our husbands.
Mine never takes out the trash ! ;)
Who'll go along with playing doctor. :)
Can I be the Nurse ? :evil:

[Gemini Cricket]

Honey, watch who you're talking shyt to.
Talking shyt? It ain't Christmas.

:D


(NA - It's a South Park reference.)

[JWBear]

Why, JWBear is available via that old, antiquated method that I prefer.

Huh?

I don't know what we're doing yet. I wore Bill to the bone with the last 3 days of sightseeing. If we go, we'll probably meet you down at the festival.

I'll keep Lisa posted (she is Communications Central, after all).

[innerSpaceman]

Oh my, Lash ...

After the last wedding ceremony I performed in October, I swore it would be the last.


Oh, so, let's say it will be the last straight wedding I'll perform ... because I'll make an exception for you and the Stoat if you wanna get hitched when you visit in Aught Ten.

Um, that's IF we haven't passed a Constitutional Amendment defining marriage as between a man and a woman before then (which I'm going to work tirelessly to defeat). And of course, even if that hasn't happened, your California gay marriage won't be legal in Australia (which of course we'll use as bait to lure you to the Golden State).


:cheers:

[Morrigoon]

According to a poll of just over a thousand people (however accurate that can be assumed to be), the majority of Californians are against a proposed constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24857315/

[SzczerbiakManiac]

Well let's hope those who favor equality get their asses to the polls in November!

[innerSpaceman]

I'm still looking to find some organization that needs volunteer help, rather than donations, in combating the proposed Constitutional Amendment.


(A volunteer core consisting of hot, single gay men in their late 30's/early 40's is also a requirement.)

[Tom]

I'm still looking to find some organization that needs volunteer help, rather than donations, in combating the proposed Constitutional Amendment.


(A volunteer core consisting of hot, single gay men in their late 30's/early 40's is also a requirement.)

You could start such a group if none exists.

[innerSpaceman]

Actually, the Equality Group you earlier linked too (that only wanted donations) had links to other groups that I intend to check out.



Oh, and if I could start my own group with lots of hot, single gay men in the late 30's/early 40's, why would I need to bother with fighting the Constitutional Amendment???


:iSm:

[Chernabog]

(A volunteer core consisting of hot, single gay men in their late 30's/early 40's is also a requirement.)

Exactly!!! Actually GC and I were just discussing today how it'd be cool to be part of a gay volunteer organization for social purposes as well as for the cause.

Let me know if you find anything, it would be great to help organize marches or rallys or phone bank or anything!!! I mean, with all the Pride events this summer the gays have to get mobilized to vote in November....

(We also discussed volunteering for Outfest.... on an unrelated note. Free movies, cute ushers, free Absolut ;) ) :)

[innerSpaceman]

Yeah, I was all about Volunteering for Outfest, but have been informed by those in the know that all the good jobs are long gone. I was supposed to do it in March, but never got around to it.

Truth is, my prime motivation was finding a boyfriend ... and I'm too busy too volunteer my time for something that shallow.


BUT ... with the political campaign to stop the Constitutional Amendment, I really feel passionately about both the stated goal and finding a boyfriend.







And if that doesn't work ... well, there's Outfest every year. :)

[Chernabog]

BUT ... with the political campaign to stop the Constitutional Amendment, I really feel passionately about both the stated goal and finding a boyfriend.


As far as Outfest is concerned, what are the "good jobs"? Just being an usher would be cool. Even stuffing envelopes with fun people is a better way (for me) to meet people than doing the "howdy on the internet, let's meet for coffee, yadda yadda" crap. (I *hate* dating. I'm much better at meeting people in a group, or butting into someone's conversation, rather than a "get to know you" planned deal).

It seems like a better way to meet a steady man than the bars or the interwebs (or in a recovery program, for that matter).

[innerSpaceman]

Oh, absolutely any kind of gig with other fun, single, queer men is a better way of meeting people than the internet (or, to be specific, than internet dating ... since I've met many cool people and a long-time boyfriend via the internet).

It's just that a past Outfest volunteers coordinator described to me in detail the various volunteer jobs ... and I know there were one or two that particularly appealed to me, that I would have had to grab earlier.

That's NOT to say that envelope stuffing wouldn't be fun ... just that I'm not going to find the time to volunteer for that, with my life as happily busy as it is.


It's tough for me to give up a bird in the hand. In other words, since just about every minute of my socially available time is already filled socially, it's difficult for me to miss out on fun with friends to spend time in a meet-new-people situation ... purely for the sake of potential boyfriending.


If there's a DOUBLE purpose ... like, say, a political cause I feel passionate about (or even one of the Outfest jobs that looked particularly rewarding), I might have an easier time passing up on some of the many social events that usually have me double booked every weekend as it is.


And thats.Just.Me. :iSm:

[BarTopDancer]

Some guy was handing out papers at Pride to help stop the marriage ban amendment that may end up going up for vote.

Their website is EqualityForAll (http://www.equalityforall.com).

ETA - this may have already been linked. I saw a reference by iSm to an Equality group. I'm to lazy to go look though.

[Kevy Baby]

That's NOT to say that envelope stuffing wouldn't be fun ..."Envelope stuffing" - is that some sort of euphemism?[/quote]

[innerSpaceman]

Yes, if you must know. Keep it on the down low, though.



And yeah, that Equality Group was linked to before. As far as I can tell from their website, they want only money, not volunteer assistance.

[BarTopDancer]

And yeah, that Equality Group was linked to before. As far as I can tell from their website, they want only money, not volunteer assistance.

Oh that is a bummer. I was half tuned out when he was talking to us at Pride. Just grabbed the paper for reference.

[innerSpaceman]

While we're at it, let's get down to specifics and have this thread be (at least partially) devoted to finding a husband for me, and for Cherny, and for Gemini Cricket.








(We can worry about getting Kevy man-laid later.)

[JWBear]

"Matchmaker, Matchmaker,
Make me a match,
Find me a find,
catch me a catch
Matchmaker, Matchmaker
Look through your book,
And make me a perfect match!"

[innerSpaceman]

Ugh, my sister and I are in a bit of a fight over a matchmaking attempt by her.

She tried to fix me up with some guy who is 19-years younger than me. I told her that guys that much younger than me are automatically disqualified, and that, ahem, guys exactly 19 years younger than me raise so many red flags I don't even want to hear about them.

But he has an AP and goes to cemetery screenings, and he's gay --- so we must be a match. Over my disqualifier, she then shows this guy my picture and says I will call him. I got pissed at her, and she got return pissed at me.




So - - - potential matchmakers for Zlick ... mid-30's to late 40's ONLY.



Thank you for your consideration. :iSm:

[Morrigoon]

Not even one date? For a little twink nookie?

[JWBear]

Ugh, my sister and I are in a bit of a fight over a matchmaking attempt by her.

She tried to fix me up with some guy who is 19-years younger than me. I told her that guys that much younger than me are automatically disqualified, and that, ahem, guys exactly 19 years younger than me raise so many red flags I don't even want to hear about them.

But he has an AP and goes to cemetery screenings, and he's gay --- so we must be a match. Over my disqualifier, she then shows this guy my picture and says I will call him. I got pissed at her, and she got return pissed at me.




So - - - potential matchmakers for Zlick ... mid-30's to late 40's ONLY.



Thank you for your consideration. :iSm:

But... Is he cute? ;)

ETA: I agree with Goonie.

[innerSpaceman]

Not even one date? For a little twink nookie?
(cough)zapppop-bad-taste-in-the...er...mouth(cough).




NO!





and he's totally cute, and I don't care!

[JWBear]

(cough)zapppop-bad-taste-in-the...er...mouth(cough).




NO!





and he's totally cute, and I don't care!

You're passing up a chance to sample some young, cute manflesh when it's offered on a silver platter?!



I hate you.

[innerSpaceman]

It's not offered on a silver platter. Reportedly this guy thinks I'm cute ... but I could cherry pick plenty of photographs that would fool people into thinking so. :)


It doesn't matter. I want a relationship, not just hot sex (though the relationship must enable plenty of hot sex). If I were to meet someone and spark a mutual thing, only to then find out they were 19 years younger ... that would be one thing. But I will not purposefully date someone whom I know in advance is precisely zapppop's age difference from me.

[JWBear]

Oh well... Then pass him on to GC or Cherny. A hot man is a terrible thing to waste! ;)

[Chernabog]

Ummm!! Hello!!! *raises his hand* can I see a picture of this guy please, Mr. Spaceman? My age range is roughly 25-38 (for dating, that is). I agree with JWBear and second the motion. All in favor, say aye!

[Gemini Cricket]

I'd like to see a picture as well.

[Chernabog]

I posted first!!!

Nerdfight!

[JWBear]

Perhaps you can share him. ;)

[Kevy Baby]

Perhaps you can share him. ;)Who gets sloppy seconds?

[Gemini Cricket]

Perhaps you can share him. ;)
No thanks.
:D

[innerSpaceman]

Don't get all huffy gentlemen, I'm not about to post anyone's picture on the internet without their permission.

He didn't send me his pic, he sent me a link to his myspace page ... and i needed a password to access his pics, so I think he's into keeping them a bit private.

[Kevy Baby]

I know who it is and I was able to hack his site. Here is one of the pictures:

http://www.thenewsoundoftrash.com/content/binary/mullet1.jpg

[katiesue]

I know who it is and I was able to hack his site. Here is one of the pictures:

http://www.thenewsoundoftrash.com/content/binary/mullet1.jpg

Please tell me he's really not gay and I can have him!

[Chernabog]

Well, get permission then! ;) Say "hey there are a couple of cute gays on this message board I post to that wondered if you were a top or a bottom."

I mean, I couldn't marry a bottom! (sorry, had to get it back on topic)

[Kevy Baby]

Please tell me he's really not gay and I can have him!I know some really good optometrists...

[JWBear]

I know some really good optometrists...

Ehhh... He's not that bad. Perhaps on the late shift, in a dark dark corner....

[Chernabog]

Ehhh... He's not that bad. Perhaps on the late shift, in a dark dark corner....

When desperation and that sixth vodka tonic sing sweet sweet nothings in your ear...

[SzczerbiakManiac]

I don't suppose I can get in on this action... :(

[Gemini Cricket]

A study issued this week by UCLA's Williams Institute for Sexual Orientation and the Law projected that gay men and lesbians will spend $684 million on cakes, photographers and other services over the next three years unless voters reverse the high court's ruling in the fall.
The researchers found that about half of the state's more than 100,000 same-sex couples will get married during the next three years, and an additional 68,000 out-of-state couples will travel to California to exchange vows. The study estimated that over that period, gay weddings will generate $64 million in tax revenue for the state, $9 million in marriage-license fees for counties, and some 2,200 jobs.
Source (http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/wayoflife/06/11/gay.marriage.money.ap/index.html)

[innerSpaceman]

Hmmm, maybe I should stop looking for a gay marriage, and get into the gay marriage business.

I already perform ceremonies (though I can't charge for that), but maybe some kind of gay-marriage-centric event planning could bring into the fold many of the talents of various swankers ... and we could make a killing in a new field of economic opportunity stemming from the goodness of civil rights advances.


I love the potential.

[NirvanaMan]

Source (http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/wayoflife/06/11/gay.marriage.money.ap/index.html)

And just think how much more revenue will be generated in divorces! It boggles the mind as to why anyone would oppose it, strictly from a practical perspective.

I on the other hand don't believe there should be state/federal recognition of the institution of marriage at all (Man/Woman included), but that is a whole other can of worms. If you are going to recognize this contract for what it is in the eyes of the law, a financial agreement between two parties, then how on earth could they ever discriminate and claim to hide behind the law, or worse, the will of the people. For one rare moment, I do applaud the CA Supreme Court and I did crack a smile upon hearing of their decision last month.

[Gemini Cricket]

I applaud the marriage ruling for the rights aspect. But without the Federal government getting on board, it's still kinda sh!tty.
I'm in the marriage camp for a couple of reasons.
I like the idea that someone says "That's it, you're the one and I'm going to let you and the world know." It puts my mind at ease somehow.
And I like the idea of a big celebration with all my fam and friends at a ceremony. I guess you could do it without the ceremony, but I've always wanted one for me. Not to mention the gifts...!

Yeah, the man of my dreams could just say that there's no one else, but a public display of commitment with gifts would be even better.
:)

[Ghoulish Delight]

And I like the idea of a big celebration with all my fam and friends at a ceremony. I guess you could do it without the ceremony, but I've always wanted one for me. Not to mention the gifts...!

Yeah, the man of my dreams could just say that there's no one else, but a public display of commitment with gifts would be even better.
:)But what does that have to do with law? I'd much prefer that the government, at any level, had nothing to do with marriage between anyone. You shouldn't have to sign a paper and pay for a license to have a big party. But since it's far too intertwined in our culture to separate it out now, then it definitely should be open to anyone and everyone.

[Chernabog]

Hey guys (and by guys I mean, iSm especially):

When I was at Pride on Sunday (marched with the attorneys, fun times), my friend Tom informed me of a group that he and some others have started re: the marriage vote, called "Love Honor Cherish" for the protection of marriage equality. They're starting up the website www.lovehonorcherish.org (its just a link to an email address for right now, they're working on it) ... AND THEY NEED VOLUNTEERS (unlike those other places that just want money).

He said they are doing meetings every Tuesday night on this (and they may also have Wednesday night meetings), all of which anyone here is welcome to attend. Should I start a new thread regarding this? If anyone wants to go to a meeting with me I'd be thrilled to do so.

[Gemini Cricket]

But what does that have to do with law? I'd much prefer that the government, at any level, had nothing to do with marriage between anyone. But since it's far to intertwined in our culture to separate it out now, then it definitely should be open to anyone and everyone.
I guess on a personal level it has nothing to do with law. I agree that the gov't should keep out of it, but, you're right, it's in it.

I want the Federal Government to recognize my marriage. I want the country I'm in to acknowledge me and my husband the same way as every straight couple who has been married. I want to know that we're equal in the eyes of our gov't. Because right now, we're not.

[Kevy Baby]

I applaud the marriage ruling for the rights aspect. But without the Federal government getting on board, it's still kinda sh!tty.At first blush, I was kind of in the same camp. But then I realized that you can't change the world overnight: this is just one of many steps in the march. Within a few short years, it will be a nationwide (legal) acceptance and then within our lifetime, we will be wondering why there was ever such a fuss.

The masses are slow at changing, especially in mindset.

[innerSpaceman]

I mean, iSm especially:

He said they are doing meetings every Tuesday night on this (and they may also have Wednesday night meetings), all of which anyone here is welcome to attend. Should I start a new thread regarding this? If anyone wants to go to a meeting with me I'd be thrilled to do so.

Yes, I'm interested. When's the first meeting? Where?


(I don't think we need a separate thread, but that's up to you.)

[Gemini Cricket]

Yep. Americans got used to miscegenation didn't they? Well, maybe not all Americans...

[Chernabog]

At first blush, I was kind of in the same camp. But then I realized that you can't change the world overnight: this is just one of many steps in the march.

It may also another step in the legalization of federal recognition, via the U.S. Constitution's "Fair Faith and Credit" clause (and the unconstitutionality of DOMA).

When's the first meeting? Where?

I only talked to Tom Watson for a few minutes about this -- all he said is Tuesday nights so far, and there may be another meeting Wednesdays. Tom and his partner live off of Mulholland, but I'm not sure where the meetings are. I'll email info@lovehonorcherish.org and if I don't hear back by tomorrow I'll give Tom a call at work.

[Chernabog]

I heard back from Andrew (Tom's partner) and he's putting me on the email list. Please email that address above and he'll do the same for you :)

[innerSpaceman]

Ok, I just emailed them. Hope to hear back, and that this pans out as something worthwhile to stop the spread of evil hated and instead spread the joy and love of joy and love.

[NirvanaMan]

But what does that have to do with law? I'd much prefer that the government, at any level, had nothing to do with marriage between anyone. You shouldn't have to sign a paper and pay for a license to have a big party. But since it's far too intertwined in our culture to separate it out now, then it definitely should be open to anyone and everyone.

Well this is spectacularly unusual and worthy of celebration in and of itself. GD, we completely agree on this.

That is my position to a T.

[Chernabog]

Ok, I just emailed them. Hope to hear back, and that this pans out as something worthwhile to stop the spread of evil hated and instead spread the joy and love of joy and love.

Cool, lets see if this works out.

[Eliza Hodgkins 1812]

Leave it to the California Kearns to find a way to exclude gay marriage without breaking the law. (http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/la-oe-morrison12-2008jun12,0,4911853.column)

[Chernabog]

Leave it to the California Kearns to find a way to exclude gay marriage without breaking the law. (http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/la-oe-morrison12-2008jun12,0,4911853.column)

Yeah iSm, how bout you drive the heck up to Bakersfield on weekends and perform some gay marriages???? Bust down that bitch's door! (I'm being serious, actually).

[Eliza Hodgkins 1812]

I heard back from Andrew (Tom's partner) and he's putting me on the email list. Please email that address above and he'll do the same for you :)

Emailed. Thanks!

[Kevy Baby]

Leave it to the California Kearns to find a way to exclude gay marriage without breaking the law. (http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/la-oe-morrison12-2008jun12,0,4911853.column)It makes me want to cry.

[BarTopDancer]

speechless

[alphabassettgrrl]

<<"since we all know that 86 out of every 100 of us are Christians who believe in God, we at Kieffe and Sons Ford wonder why we don't just tell the other 14% to sit down and shut up.">>

Nice.

On the one hand, at least the ban is applied evenly. On the other hand, "bureaucraic weenie" definitely describes that clerk. And then hiding from the firestorm? Whatever.

[innerSpaceman]

Yeah, the problem is I have to be deputized by the county clerk in each county. Something tells me that won't be happening in Kern.

[Eliza Hodgkins 1812]

Should be able to attend the meeting next Tuesday.

[Gemini Cricket]

Yeah, the problem is I have to be deputized by the county clerk in each county. Something tells me that won't be happening in Kern.
Yeah, well, who the fvck wants to get married in Tehachapi anyway?

[innerSpaceman]

Ok, I'm going to next Tuesday's meeting.


They need straight women, so it's a good thing EH1812 will be there. Now, we just need some people of color, hopefully some straight Latino men or something like that.

[Kevy Baby]

They need straight women, so it's a good thing EH1812 will be there. Now, we just need some people of color, hopefully some straight Latino men or something like that.Why, are you trying to recreate the Village People?

[Chernabog]

Ok, I'm going to next Tuesday's meeting.


Awesome, Tuesday is my normal "program" meeting, but I will bugger out on it next week so that I can do the marriage meeting. There is also a June 29 Pool Party fundraiser if any LoT folks would like to attend.

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb99/jlevy77/LoveHonorCherishPoolPartyFundraiser.jpg

FYI for other folks who want to get involved, there are other activities/groups that are doing things like phonebanking and stuff -- here's a forward of an email I got:

Members of Love Honor Cherish –



Here are some things you can do between meetings:



TONIGHT – Thursday, June 12 – there is a Town Hall meeting on gay marriage at the Gay & Lesbian Center (Village, 1125 McCadden, just north of Santa Monica Blvd). All of the movement people will be attending.



EVERY THURSDAY – there is Voter ID phone banking in Silverlake, by Equality for All (calling people and asking them if they support us.) Time: 630 to 915pm. Email Hannah at hannah@eqca.org in advance and tell her your FULL NAME, PRIMARY PHONE NUMBER, EMAIL, and the date you want to phone bank. They will respond to confirm.



SUNDAY, JUNE 29 – the film Mike Roth and I made about same-sex marriage in Massachusetts will be shown for FREE at All Saints Episcopal Church, Pasadena. Reception 5:30, Screening at 6:30, panel discussion to follow (which I am on!) It’s a great motivator and this is a rare chance to see it (no, it’s not on DVD).



John

[BarTopDancer]

Meeting details?

It's a hike from the OC, so I'm not sure if I can make it.

[Chernabog]

Another email:

As part of our fight against California’s anti-marriage constitutional amendment, LHC is looking for singles and couples (gay, lesbian, and straight) to appear in a series of Public Service Announcements. These will be posted to the lovehonorcherish.org website, Youtube, FaceBook and MyspaceTV.com. We welcome all ages, ethnicities, races, etc.

If you (or someone you know) are interested in voicing your opinion (in your own words) on this very important issue, please contact Andrew Klayman (arklayman@yahoo.com) or Ted Williams (cmgsoon@hotmail.com) for further details.

We'll be shooting on Sunday, June 22, 2008 from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.

P.S. We have one scripted PSA that requires a 5-year-old with the ability to learn and sing a few lines. If you know anyone, please let us know.

BTD I will PM you with meeting details since it is at someone's house and I don't know if I should put that up or not on the web?

[BarTopDancer]

Thanks Cherny! I replied.

I am going to see if they have MySpace and Facebook groups yet.

[SzczerbiakManiac]

How frackin' awesome is (San Francisco Mayor) Gavin Newsom!
Originally Posted by cbs5.com (http://cbs5.com/local/gay.weddings.marriage.2.746698.html)
San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom said Thursday that he would go to Butte or Kern County himself to marry gay and lesbian couples, if those counties truly do not have enough staff to perform same-sex ceremonies next week.
<snip>
Newsom expressed surprise that the cities of Bakersfield and Oroville were worried about not having enough staff to marry gay couples. Newsom said he would dispatch volunteers, if the clerks there are intersted [sic] in having the help.

[BarTopDancer]

That's awesome!

Makes me want to go spend money in SF for the tax revenue.

[Kevy Baby]

I heart Gavin Newsom

[BarTopDancer]

Me too. Seriously. Bluff called. So happy.

[Alex]

Gavin Newsom isn't really very awesome.

Though on this particular issue he is.

[BarTopDancer]

Isn't tomorrow the day?

[alphabassettgrrl]

Yep. I think it's great that we'll get the time from now until November with gay people getting married and the right wing will see that the world won't end. Life is just normal. And then we can all vote "no" on the "protect marriage" proposal on the ballot. :)

[innerSpaceman]

Only a few places are staying open past 5:01 pm to perform marriages tomorrow evening. Most places will start with business as usual on Tuesday morning ... and I hope there's enough time before November to demonstrate to the good people of California that it will be business as usual for all of our lives even after a flood of homosexuals marry the ones they love.


I find it fitting to be attending the LHC meeting Tuesday night. I hope they are on to something, because I want to get involved.

[Fab]

The LBGLC reports that voter registrations are WAY up!

[Disneyphile]

Yep. I think it's great that we'll get the time from now until November with gay people getting married and the right wing will see that the world won't end. I'm betting that whole "Rapture" email service is going to get some new business. Perfect timing. ;)

[Alex]

What if the world does end? Won't we all feel foolish then?

[Bornieo: Fully Loaded]

Time to buy stock in Food Processing Companies - people are gonna be buying a ****load of blenders...

[Disneyphile]

What if the world does end? Won't we all feel foolish then?
Could be reminiscent of some nuts who gave away their worldly possessions and fled to the "Holy Land" just in time for Y2K. I remember watching the TV that night for the live report from that area, and pointed at the TV, laughing my butt off.

I can see it now - "Everyone! Git yer butts to the hills, cuz it's the end times fer sure, because them gays are getting married! Rapture's gonna happen fer sure this time! Its the sign I tells ya! And don't fergit to bring yer goats, because they'll try to marry them too!"

Never get angry at stupid people, for they provide some fun entertainment. ;)

[Kevy Baby]

Isn't tomorrow the day?

Only a few places are staying open past 5:01 pm to perform marriages tomorrow evening. Most places will start with business as usual on Tuesday morning... There is at least one exception:
Phyllis and Del
For decades, Del Martin and Phyllis Lyon were little-known outside America’s lesbian movement, which they helped launch in San Francisco in 1955.

That was until 2004, when a moving photo of their post-wedding embrace shot the couple to fame overnight. Longtime gay-marriage supporters and a then-brand-new mayor of San Francisco hatched a plan to make “Phyllis and Del” the face of same-sex marriage, as the first of more than 4,000 gay couples were issued marriage licenses in the city.

They correctly figured the couple, now in their 80s, would begin to bust stereotypes and bring new converts to the cause.

Now, virtually everyone in the gay community, and many outside it, refer to them simply as “Phyllis and Del.”

As they were during San Francisco’s 2004 experiment with same-sex marriages, the couple will be the first ones married in the city. At 5:01 p.m. today, surrounded by a group of 75 friends, family members, supporters and politicians, they will be wed at City Hall in the winter of their lives.But that is a very worthy exception. From here (http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080616/NEWS07/80616018).

[JWBear]

Sometimes I think it would be best for all of use if we carved out a chunk of the US and gave it to the far right-wing religious folks, so that they can have their own little theocratic country to themselves. The south-eastern quarter of the country would be perfect – most of them will be able to stay right where they are. (But, we keep Florida… Disney World, and all that.)

[innerSpaceman]

Bravo. Yes, Kentucky, Alabama, Mississippi, South Carolina, Georgia and Louisiana are all yours. Have freaking fun.

[NirvanaMan]

Sometimes I think it would be best for all of use if we carved out a chunk of the US and gave it to the far right-wing religious folks, so that they can have their own little theocratic country to themselves. The south-eastern quarter of the country would be perfect – most of them will be able to stay right where they are. (But, we keep Florida… Disney World, and all that.)

I would be even happier if we could stick the far left in there as well. That would be fun!

[JWBear]

I would be even happier if we could stick the far left in there as well. That would be fun!

Sorry. No one on the far left has ever tried to change the Constitution in order to make me a second class citizen. They can stay. :rolleyes:

[innerSpaceman]

I'm fine with the far left having their own country carved out of the United States. Hmmm, lemme see. Oh, look, we've already got the prime candidate. It's called "California"


I'll be sorry to see you go, NirvanaMan. You're a pip. :p

[Chernabog]

Holy sh**. Four more hours and same-sex marriage is legal in the State of California....

http://planetout.com/news/article.html?date=2008/06/16/1

I'm thinking after my deposition tomorrow morning I might head down to the courthouse and join the festivities, before heading over to the LHC meeting.

[Alex]

I don't have any meetings this afternoon. I'm tempted to go in to SF City Hall to see the fun.

[BarTopDancer]

8 minutes.

[Kevy Baby]

Done

[Morrigoon]

License issued, 5:01 :)

[JWBear]

...And yet the Earth was not torn assunder, realeasing the hosts of hell...

[Kevy Baby]

...And yet the Earth was not torn asunder, releasing the hosts of hell...Are you sure about that? Have you been to Detroit lately?

[BarTopDancer]

Mazel Tov!!!!!!

[BarTopDancer]

OK, Checked with 2 married friends. Their marriages didn't fall apart/become less valid in the last 28 minutes.

[Kevy Baby]

As of Friday, nearly 620 couples had booked appointments to obtain licenses at San Francisco City Hall over the next 10 days.Unlike Massachusetts, which legalized gay marriage in 2004, California has no residency requirement for marriage licenses, and that is expected to draw a great number of out-of-state couples. The turnout could also be boosted by New York state's recent announcement that it will recognize gay marriages performed in other jurisdictions.From this story (http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/25188169/).
__________

And I don't know if it is just the luck of the draw for me, but it seems like a lot of the stories I have been reading on this topic the last couple of days have been focused more on lesbian marriages. Just an odd phenomenon, but something I noticed.

[innerSpaceman]

Not by chance at all. Everyone loves lesbians. They have always been, and will continue to be, the "face" of gay marriage because mainstream breeders find lesbianism less offensive, and women less deserving of a punch to the face in general.

[Alex]

Plus, lesbians aren't known for putting things in their butts unnecessarily (though I'm sure plenty still do).

[Fab]

Define "unnecessarily".

[Eliza Hodgkins 1812]

To those attending tonight's LHC meeting, I'm going to be a no show tonight. I'm not so sick that I need to miss a full day of work but I'm not so well that I feel like doing much else besides going home directly after. Headache and dizzy spells that have been bothering me for a few days now. Seeing a doc on Thursday morning. Will look forward to a report tomorrow, from those who do attend. And I will do my best to make it to the next one. Apologies!

[LSPoorEeyorick]

OK, Checked with 2 married friends. Their marriages didn't fall apart/become less valid in the last 28 minutes.

And in fact, I thought mine became even more valid.

[Alex]

Well, using the "property value" view of marriage (you can't paint your house, across the street from mine, pink because that would diminish the value of my property) I believe my marriage is now worth approximately $0.17 cents less than yesterday. However, this reduction is purely from diminished scarcity. You might argue that my marriage is just as unique as it was yesterday. But this is not true as I suspect the number of married men with painted toenails will now see a surge.

However, my first marriage has been retroactively augmented by $0.03 - a 45% increase in value.

If someone can provide me with a billing address for the Homosexual Agenda I'll see if I can get this $0.14 reimbursed before I am forced to cast my vote on the amendment this fall.

[Ghoulish Delight]

You going to ask for installments, or lump sum?

[Isaac]

On a related note, Norway just legalized gay marriage.


http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080617/ap_on_re_eu/norway_gay_marriage


Norway's upper house of parliament voted 23-17 in favor of the gender-neutral marriage law on the same day that gay couples were marrying in California.
The law replaces 1993 legislation that gave gays the right to enter civil unions similar to marriage but did not allow church weddings or adoption. It takes effect Jan. 1.

[Kevy Baby]

Headache and dizzy spells that have been bothering me for a few days now.Are you pregnant?

[innerSpaceman]

Feel better EH1812!



On a more whistful note:


Someday my Party B will come. Le sigh.

[JWBear]

Feel better EH1812!



On a more whistful note:


Someday my Party B will come. Le sigh.

What if you meet another Party A? What will you do then?

[innerSpaceman]

I can be versatile, in a pinch.





(If you pinch the right place) ;)

[BarTopDancer]

Sulu is gettin married! (http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/n/a/2008/06/17/state/n110014D10.DTL&feed=rss.bayarea)

[innerSpaceman]

Hahahah, do you promise to live long and prosper?!

[Chernabog]

Hahahah, do you promise to live long and prosper?!

He actually made some kinda quote like that. George Takei is one frickin strange cookie. I went to an LGLA (Lesbian Gay Lawyers Association) awards dinner at the tail end of last year and he was the featured speaker. A friend and I chatted with him over drinks and appetizers pre-dinner, got our picture with him, etc..... he was really really strange. AND he was trying to make a joke, and ended up insulting me (about my receding hairline .... I *think* it just sort of came out wrong since he laughed afterwards like it was supposed to be a joke, but my friend and I were like OMG you just got insulted by Mr. Sulu).

Oh well, lol.

[JWBear]

He actually made some kinda quote like that. George Takei is one frickin strange cookie. I went to an LGLA (Lesbian Gay Lawyers Association) awards dinner at the tail end of last year and he was the featured speaker. A friend and I chatted with him over drinks and appetizers pre-dinner, got our picture with him, etc..... he was really really strange. AND he was trying to make a joke, and ended up insulting me (about my receding hairline .... I *think* it just sort of came out wrong since he laughed afterwards like it was supposed to be a joke, but my friend and I were like OMG you just got insulted by Mr. Sulu).

Oh well, lol.

Yes, I've heard he's a little queer....

[Bornieo: Fully Loaded]

There are alot of ugly lesbians getting married on tv - can we request better news shots of some of the hotter Lesbians kissing?

For scientific purposes...

[Kevy Baby]

For scientific purposes...Here (http://www.popularpages.net/pics/lesbian-kiss_4_1402_si.jpg) ya (http://www.lesbiankiss.ws/images/lesbian-kiss.jpg) go (http://www.mylesbianspictures.com/freelesbiansex/images/lesbiankissing_jpg.jpg). For (http://www.sujet.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2007/06/jessica-biel-sarah-silverman-lesbian-kiss-4.jpg) scientific (http://www.planetclimax.com/pics/freesites/lesbian-kissing+-46-1.jpg) research (http://pornofficer.com/images/blonde-lesbians-kissing.jpg).

[lashbear]

Time to buy stock in Food Processing Companies - people are gonna be buying a ****load of blenders...
Toaster Ovens are the whitegood of choice. :cheers:

[JWBear]

whitegood?

[Ghoulish Delight]

Ah, you missed that Aussie lesson, did you?

Whitegoods = major household appliances (dishwasher, clothes dryer, range, etc). As opposed to "Browngoods", the small kitchen appliance type stuff that used to be bakelite brown.

[LashStoat]

Yeah, well, who the fvck wants to get married in Tehachapi anyway?

Is that a kind of spangly semi-tranluscent sequened feather-adorned fabric?

[Morrigoon]

Is that a kind of spangly semi-tranluscent sequened feather-adorned fabric?

They should be so lucky.

[Chernabog]

iSm and I attended last nights meeting of Love Honor Cherish (LHC / lovehonorcherish.org ). I was pretty impressed and we're both getting involved with the organization (in the media group, more on that in a sec). There were a lot of attorneys there but also people from all areas -- Here's the email I was asked to forward, to those who would also like to be involved:

Dear Friends and Colleagues:

A working group called Love Honor Cherish has formed to protect the hard-fought decision by the California Supreme Court to grant gay and lesbian couples the right to marry.

The group meets every Tuesday. After a short discussion, we will break into three groups -- fundraising, outreach and media – and each group will work on specific projects. We already have more than 50 members and there’s more room for you and your friends.

In just 19 weeks, a ballot initiative that would override the court decision will go before the voters. The campaign against this initiative will be the biggest battle ever faced by our community. More than $10 million must be raised and our entire community must be mobilized. Independent working groups like ours, operating separately from the main campaign but funneling money, energy and ideas into it, will play an important role.

We invite you to participate in this historic effort.

Please RSVP to john@johnhenning.com

Best Regards,
John Henning

For those that were wondering the funds raised are going directly to the Equality California PAC. There are going to be house parties to raise funds -- and if anyone HAS a place they'd like to do a house party in (and invite their friends.... LoT fundraiser, perhaps?), the group can send a speaker to talk as well. (that's one way of getting involved).

Two of the more immediate things that are coming up are the Public Service Announcements that are going to be filmed this Sunday, and the pool party on the 29th. I've already put up a flier in this thread re: the pool party -- PM me if you'd like to go because I will be there for sure.

As far as the PSAs are concerned -- we need folks from all walks of life-- gay, straight, married, single, etc. to record a short video on this topic. You can talk about anything you want -- what gay marriage means to you, why you should vote against the marriage amendment, or even how you're a straight married couple and you support your gay friends equal rights, anything. If you'd like to participate, the videos will be filmed both THIS SUNDAY and also AT THE POOL PARTY. (These are videos that will be used both on the website and elsewhere). PM me on that if you'd like to participate.

... more on this in a sec... gotta get back to work.

[lashbear]

whitegood?

Ah, you missed that Aussie lesson, did you?

Whitegoods = major household appliances (dishwasher, clothes dryer, range, etc). As opposed to "Browngoods", the small kitchen appliance type stuff that used to be bakelite brown.
Hence the old Aussie joke:

"Why does a bride wear white?"
"So she can blend in with the appliances in the Kitchen"

[Chernabog]

^^^ To continue:

As part of our fight against California’s anti-marriage constitutional amendment, LHC is looking for singles and couples (gay, lesbian, and straight) to appear in a series of Public Service Announcements. These will be posted to the lovehonorcherish.org website, Youtube, FaceBook and MyspaceTV.com. We welcome all ages, ethnicities, races, etc.

If you (or someone you know) are interested in voicing your opinion (in your own words) on this very important issue, please contact Andrew Klayman (arklayman@yahoo.com) or Ted Williams (cmgsoon@hotmail.com) for further details.

We'll be shooting on Sunday, June 22, 2008 from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm at:
PM ME FOR THE ADDRESS

If anyone knows anyone that would like to participate, please let me know.

So iSm and I signed up for the media committee, which does the website, among other things. Right now we're searching for a web designer who would be willing to donate some time to making the lovehonorcherish.org site more accessable -- or even making an animated logo from the existing one. Suggestions re: the website are welcome as well (obviously it just got plopped up there)... we just added blogging capability, etc. but the general design of the site needs to be re-done so that the regular page (and not the splash page) is the front.

Other things we have are business cards to hand out, t-shirts, etc. There are simply too many people who are complacent about this -- who either don't vote or who don't understand why gay people want to get married or why equality is important (there is a separate outreach committee that is handling speakers, etc. as well as a fundraising committee... as I mentioned above, a LoT house party might be a cool idea to do. I'm talking my parents into having one at their house as well).

I mean, think of it on these terms (this was discussed at the meeting)-- if, during the interracial marriage debate, you had a solution where if two people of the same race got married, it would be "marriage" and two people of different races got married, it would be a "transracial union". Silly, huh? Well that's what is going on here. Separate is not equal, and this marriage amendment is discriminatory. Gay marriage legitimizes gay relationships, and that is what supporters of this amendment DO NOT WANT.

Please get involved in some way, come to the next meeting (iSm will be there; I will be there every other Tuesday). Thanks for your support!

[Disneyphile]

Cherny - while I'm not available at all this weekend, I'll be happy to lend any shooting and/or editing work into the mix starting next week. I can go and shoot just about anything - parties, rallies, more PSAs, etc.

[Kevy Baby]

I will cheerfully volunteer any beer drinking work that needs to be done

[innerSpaceman]

Disneyphile, I was going to approach you about this tomorrow night ... but we were wondering if, in connection with your soon-to-be-burgeoning gay marriage videography business, you might ask some (or more than some) of your gay marrieds if we could use a little of their wedding footage on the site, to help the cause (it was tossed around that gay wedding bloopers might be a complete hoot).

Just an idea. :D

[Kevy Baby]

(it was tossed around that gay wedding bloopers might be a complete hoot).I wish I had footage from a gay wedding (obviously unofficial) that I lpayed at about 10 years ago. The ceremony was on the patio at the El Adobe in San Juan Capistrano. From my vantage point, I was able to see an older woman, probably ultra-conservative, watching the proceedings from her table inside the restaurant. She had a "how wonderful: a wedding" look on her face, watching the groom wakl up the aisle followed by the ring bearer and flower girl. But her jaw dropped and she just about lost it when the second groom came up the aisle and held hands with his (soon-to-be) hubby. I could see her ranting up a storm with her table mate throughout the ceremony.

Priceless!

[Disneyphile]

Disneyphile, I was going to approach you about this tomorrow night ... but we were wondering if, in connection with your soon-to-be-burgeoning gay marriage videography business, you might ask some (or more than some) of your gay marrieds if we could use a little of their wedding footage on the site, to help the cause (it was tossed around that gay wedding bloopers might be a complete hoot).

Just an idea. :DUnfortunately, I've had no gay weddings to shoot yet, but as soon as I do, I'll absolutely ask those clients if I can submit their footage!

Hmmm. Maybe I'll offer up a free shoot to a gay couple and then I can add it to my samples too.

[Gemini Cricket]

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is asking California members to join the effort to amend that state's constitution to define marriage as being between a man and a woman.A letter sent to Mormon bishops and signed by church president Thomas S. Monson and his two top counselors calls on Mormons to donate "means and time" to the ballot measure. A note on the letter dated June 20 says it should be read during church services on June 29, but the letter was published Saturday on several Web sites.
Source (http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5guC0NokkvfoH2o4M7k89_fw9By_QD91GAR4G1)
Well, isn't that interesting. I think I shall be attending Love Honor and Cherish meetings. How disappointing to see that there are still those out there who would gladly deprive people of happiness all in the name of Jesus. It's like it was in Hawai'i in 1998 all over again. Wonderful.

[BarTopDancer]

It's sad but not surprising.

Source (http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5guC0NokkvfoH2o4M7k89_fw9By_QD91GAR4G1)
Well, isn't that interesting. I think I shall be attending Love Honor and Cherish meetings. How disappointing to see that there are still those out there who would gladly deprive people of happiness all in the name of Jesus. It's like it was in Hawai'i in 1998 all over again. Wonderful.

[innerSpaceman]

Source (http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5guC0NokkvfoH2o4M7k89_fw9By_QD91GAR4G1)
Well, isn't that interesting. I think I shall be attending Love Honor and Cherish meetings.

I forget which movie I was thinking about this morning, but I recalled how militant you are about poor portrayals of gays in cinema, and against the use of "gay" as pejorative.

I was hoping you'd consider channelling your well-intentioned militancy into some good, old fashioned gay political action now that our hard-won equal marriage rights are within a hair's breath of being repealed by a foolhardly election to change the very Constitution of our state.


Please consider checking out Love, Honor, Cherish. There's a meeting tonight! And a fun Pool Party on Sunday.


Hey, EVERYONE'S INVITED TO THE POOL PARTY. It's gonna be a blast!

[innerSpaceman]

The church's teachings and position on this moral issue are unequivocal. Marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God and the formation of families is central to the Creator's plan for His children.

All fine and good. But it sickens me that Mormons (or anyone) would try to change, not merely the law, but the State Constitution based on the Creator's plan for His children. I'd be just as sickened if, as a jew, a prominent rabbi urged me to change the state constitution to prevent blacks from marrying white folk because it was against God's plan for humanity.


Ugh, I'm seething. I have a few Mormon friends, and I dread to discover their stance on this. I can't imagine they would sheep march in lockstep with hateful urgings from the Mormons on High in Salt Lake ... but it would seriously affect our friendships if they did.

[Gemini Cricket]

You still need to see the Celluloid Closet, iSm. Good doco.
:)

[innerSpaceman]

Oooh, I'll queue it right now (and, heheh, should have it in about a month, at the rate I'm going thru my 'flix films).

[Gemini Cricket]

I attended an LHC meeting last night. The group is very organized and is led by some really great, experienced people. Also, its structure allows for creativity. If you have an idea, they're willing to hear it, no problem. I have worked with several organizations and some are very regimented, rigid. This one is not which I think is an asset to how successful it can be.

I volunteered to help shoot a commercial tonight and am helping to organize a pool party on Sunday.
:)

I say if you're good at writing letters to the editor, write them now. Any kind of participation helps.

[Strangler Lewis]

Is it better for someone with no religious axe to grind to want to amend the constitution because gay marriage looks weird? Of course, nobody makes marriage sound weirder and more culty than a poobah for the Mormon church.

[innerSpaceman]

Hmmm, I almost want to start a new thread, and not have it be in the Daily Grind ... because it would only be quasi-political at most.


But Chernabog, Gemini Cricket and I are involved with this Love, Honor, Cherish group ... and it's less a political thing than an ongoing fun event thing that we'd love to invite the LoT swankers to.

:cheers:

Yeah, these events are all going to be fundraisers ... but you might as well get used to the fact that the three of us ARE going to (politely) hit you up for money between now and November. And you SHOULD donate generously ... but you don't have to do so multiple times ... and that shouldn't stop you from attending multiples of the fun events put on by L.H.C. - - to have a good time while helping our worthy cause with even just your good-time participation. Does that make sense?


First up ... this coming Sunday ...

http://img521.imageshack.us/img521/6938/poolpartydl9.jpg


7582 Mullholland Drive, LA 90046. Noon to 5pm.

This is gonna be a lot of fun ... and though it's been advertised a bit around town ... well, it would be silly if it's just a party for the folks who meet every Tuesday at Love, Honor, Cherish. Nope, we want all our friends to come ... so Gemini Cricket, Chernabog and I cordially invite you!

:snap: :snap: :snap:

There won't be a hard sell to give money (though it's $25 at the door). But you might as well get used to being pitched to on this issue. This is, as you might imagine, a vital concern for the three of us. As for me, I've never been moved before to donate time and energy to a cause. That's shameful of me, I know. The most I ever did to protest the Iraq war was to honk in support as I drove past huge demonstrations of peace-loving Americans.

But this one gets me where I live. Because it's not about where I live, or how I work ... it goes to the very heart of me being gay, because it's about who I love. Quite differnent from housing discrimination or workplace discrimination .... marriage discrimination is an assault on MY love. So I feel it in my heart most strongly.


And now that justice has been done at long last in California, it kills me to think it may get snatched away so quickly.

But the Fundies are against us, and the Mormons are against us, and even Heinz Ketchup is against us!!

:mad:



So please show your support by Having Fun With Us ... and come to the Pool Party or some of the other events that will be happening. Yeah, we'll have our hand out ... but you needn't grease our palms any more often or more generously than you are moved to.





:iSm:

[blueerica]

In other words, we ought to be able to do as we please provided our actions don't detract from others' quality of life. If I, like some ill-informed right-wingers, believed same-sex marriage would unavoidably lead to hundreds of gays and lesbians having a Roman orgy on my kitchen floor, I might rethink my stance on the subject.

Probably my favorite quote of the day.

From here (http://www.newstatesman.com/religion/2008/06/sex-marriage-gay-church-mormon).

*sigh*

[Gemini Cricket]

Probably my favorite quote of the day.

From here (http://www.newstatesman.com/religion/2008/06/sex-marriage-gay-church-mormon).

*sigh*
From the article:
According to Mormon doctrine, Homosexual is not a noun...
According to my doctrine, the LDS leadership is not human.

[innerSpaceman]

Can't we get a ballot initiative to define religion as a superstitious cult ... just to show them what it's like to have other people stick their nose in their business where it doesn't belong?

[Cadaverous Pallor]

Can't we get a ballot initiative to define religion as a superstitious cult ... just to show them what it's like to have other people stick their nose in their business where it doesn't belong?Fighting intolerance with intolerance, blech, almost not even funny.

[innerSpaceman]

Sometimes empathy must be forced where it is not naturally felt.

Do you think the fundies have a clue that so many Americans feel their farcical religious doctrines are the danger to the fabric of society? Perhaps if some people tried to make it unconstitutional, they'd understand what it means to mind your own freaking business, whether your moral code agrees with other people's or not.

[Alex]

I just wonder if it would do much to change anybody's minds or just further boost the anti-gay crowd into voting so that they can ensure trouncing this one...and oh since they're in the booth they might as well vote against gay marriage.

They know they are being intolerant. They think it is a correct and proper intolerance. Such a retaliatory measure wouldn't phase them. To them it would be just as silly as if child rapists gathered together and proposed a measure to make consensual sex between adults illegal.

[Pirate Bill]

Does anybody watch 30 Days (http://www.fxnetwork.com/shows/originals/30days/)?

Produced and hosted by Morgan Spurlock, the guy that made Super Size Me. The premise of the show is for someone to live 30 days in someone else's shoes. Either someone with views different from their own or to try something different and controversial.

The last episode was about gay couples adopting. A Mormon woman (with the opinion that gays should not be allowed to adopt) moved in with a family consisting of 2 gay men with 3 adopted boys. The show seems to make an attempt to give equal treatment to both sides of each issue. But in this episode I think both sides were equally not adequately represented. I suppose that makes it fair, but it fell short of what I think it could have been.

They brought up a few pros and cons and talked to people "in the know" of each argument but spent the majority of the time just showing the difficulty that both sides have in discussing the issue.

Anyway, aside from the argument of immorality brought up by those who oppose gay marriage, I think adoption rights is another big issue that certainly comes up should gay partners be granted legal married status.

I feel like I understand and can empathize with both sides of the issue. However I think I still fall on the side of less government regulation. I don't think the government should be in the marriage business, or even the adoption business.

[innerSpaceman]

Hmmm, I wonder if an epsiode could really shoot for a Live-in-Their-Shoes experiment ... have a straight man be gay for 30 days. Watch him try every day for a month to "choose" his sexuality, as all us homos are supposed to be able to do.


And, no, Alex, that's no more a real suggestion for programming as my one about unconstitutional religiousity was an actual proscription for political strategy.


Thanks for pointing out there'd be a backlash if I managed to go out and get the signatures needed to put that on the ballot. Whew, now I won't bother. ;)




* * * * *


On a more serious note, I'm wondering if there will be a significant backlash from the Supreme Court ruling that affects the election. I believe there was quite a backlash in Massachusetts, and it took nearly two years for widespread acceptance of gay marriage to take hold in that state.




We don't have that much time.

[Gemini Cricket]

Pirate Bill ~
I haven't seen the episode, but GLAAD issued a statement about it.
Regrettably, the episode also features a defamatory statement by Peter Sprigg of the Family Research Council, an anti-gay activist organization, who claims: "Homosexuality is associated with higher rates of sexual promiscuity, sexually transmitted diseases, mental illness, substance abuse, domestic violence, and child sexual abuse, and those are all reasons for us to be concerned about placing children into that kind of setting." While there is no credible scientific research that backs Sprigg’s claim - and much that disputes it - the episode presents his assertion as if it were fact and offers no credible social science experts or child health authorities to challenge Sprigg’s assertion. Indeed, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Psychological Association, the Child Welfare League of America, and many other child health and social services authorities who support parenting by qualified lesbian and gay parents dispute Sprigg’s claim.Source (http://www.glaad.org/media/release_detail.php?id=4459)

I think letting his statement stand alone makes it sound like fact. I think a differing opinion from someone else should have been presented also.

I also don't agree with some gay activists who say the FX Network as a whole is anti-gay. Nip/Tuck is tre gay if you ask me.
:)

[Gemini Cricket]

In an e-mail last Sunday morning, I asked my son in California (and indirectly my entire family) to walk out of church on Sunday, June 29, 2008 when their bishop stands up to read a letter (http://advocate.com/news_detail_ektid56469.asp) from the First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (otherwise known as the Mormons). I disagree with the reading of this letter because in it the Mormon prophet has asked all California Mormons to “…do all [they] can to support the proposed constitutional amendment by donating of [their] means and time to assure that marriage in California is legally defined as being between a man and a woman.” Source (http://advocate.com/exclusive_detail_ektid56748.asp)
Religious Disobedience. Yes yes yes and totally yes.
It's a neat editorial. I think it's a valid request. In time, I think his family will agree with him.
:)

[SzczerbiakManiac]

Hmmm, I wonder if an epsiode could really shoot for a Live-in-Their-Shoes experiment ... have a straight man be gay for 30 days. Watch him try every day for a month to "choose" his sexuality, as all us homos are supposed to be able to do.I didn't see it, but I think 30 Days did that on a first season episode. Obviously, the guy didn't go "all the way", so maybe this isn't germane to what you were suggesting.

[innerSpaceman]

Heheh, I'm not suggesting anything but the suggestion, just for kicks.

I imagine it wouldn't go too far, certainly not 'all the way'. But I'd love to see 28 days of Hmmm, can't quite go gay yet. And every day remind the audience that which gender you're attracted to is supposed to be a choice, so what's wrong with this guy??!


And just start collecting petition signatures for a ballot initiative to amend the constitution such that the definition of religion is Protestant ... just long enough for the Mormons to go, Hey, they shouldn't do that! ......oh.

[Pirate Bill]

Source (http://advocate.com/exclusive_detail_ektid56748.asp)


I thought that by asking my family to do this, I was simply asking them to send a strong message to Salt Lake City that they disagree with the idea that any church has a right to entrench clearly religious dogma into the constitution of a state or country.

Unfortunately, that's not really the right way to send a message to Salt Lake City. Nobody in church headquarters is going to know about a family getting up and walking out of church, even if the church is located in the heart of Salt Lake. It will only send a message to the local authorities (the bishop and perhaps the stake president depending on how things escalate).

The appropriate thing for anyone to do, if they feel so inclined, is to talk to the bishop directly about it. Before he reads it in front of the congregation if possible. Or afterward if not. Even speak to the stake president if necessary.

These face to face conversations are going to have to take place anyway, even if they do a walkout. People get up and walk out of the church service all the time for all sorts of reasons, and rarely as a means of protest or "disobedience."

Letters can also be sent directly into Salt Lake, but they get so many letters that there's no way for anyone in the presidency of the church to read all of them and still have time to do anything else. I'm sure though, that if the pre-screeners see an abundance of letters on one particular topic they will communicate it up the chain. Otherwise, any problems or concerns that can be handled locally are deferred locally.

[Gemini Cricket]

I think if enough people did it, it would be a clear message. It's got to start somewhere. My best method for a Mormon to disagree with the LDS church is to not give them money, but seeing as how tithing is required... well... oh well.

I think the LDS church is totally off base on this issue. No one is forcing the Mormon church to have gay weddings. This is about civil marriage, not marriage within a church. The LDS church is trying to scare people into working against marriage equality, I find that pathetic.

[innerSpaceman]

And, as I mentioned in some other thread, the irony of the Mormons - of all people - trying to define marriage as between one man and one woman is particularly delicious. ;)

[3894]

Lewis Black sums it up in this clip. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ANrvQC4wIk).

[Morrigoon]

And, as I mentioned in some other thread, the irony of the Mormons - of all people - trying to define marriage as between one man and one woman is particularly delicious. ;)

Apparently if they can't have a non-traditional marriage, nobody else can.

[Gemini Cricket]

Lewis Black sums it up in this clip. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ANrvQC4wIk).
So very true.
I love Lewis Black. I always think that he's going to have a heart attack during one of his tirades.

It's funny when I come across a YouTube clip where the comments have been turned off. I'm like, 'C'mon, coward, let's see what people are saying!'
:D

[innerSpaceman]

Hahahah, I missed that clip before. Thanks for relinking. God, I love him.


Can he be president? Sure, he'd have a stroke within the first 10 days ... but they'd be ten glorious days!

[Gemini Cricket]

The prop on this issue now has a number.
Prop 8.

No on 8.

[innerSpaceman]

Some dweeb at the Love Honor Cherish meeting last night wanted us to link our message with the larger political campaign of Equality for All, which is undoubtely going to be No on 8, with lots of No, No, No ... whereas LHC wants its message to be a very positive Yes, Yes message about love.


As in Support Love, Honor Equality, Cherish Freedom. and then, to get people thinking about the issue, perhaps a little know on 8.

[Kevy Baby]

Not to hate
No on eight

[Tom]

Courtesy of INXS:

Hallucinate
Dessegregate
Mediate
No on eight
Try not to hate
Love your mate
Don't suffocate on your own hate
Designate your love as fate
A one world state
With no on eight
The number eight
That's no on eight
A gentle trait
The broken crate
A heavy weight
Just no on eight
Like pretty Kate has sex ornate
Now devastate
Appreciate
Depreciate
No on eight
Emulate
The truth dilate
Special date
Really, no on eight
Guilt debate
The edge serrate
The youth irate
No on eight
Deliberate

Fascinate
Deviate
No on eight
Liberate
To moderate
Recreate
No on eight
Annihiliate
Atomic fate

Mediate
Clear the state
Activate
No on eight
A perfect state
Food on plate
No on eight
Vote no on eight
Designate your love as fate
At ninety-eight we all rotate

No on eight
No on eight
No on eight
No on eight

[Disneyphile]

Awesome, Tom! :D

To simplify:

Just Love Your Mate - Vote No on Eight

[Morrigoon]

Random thought: is it too late to get another proposition on the ballot? Why aren't we trying to put a competing prop on the ballot that would amend the state constitution to specifically INCLUDE gay marriage by defining marriage as a union between two persons to create a single household?

Oh, and I already brought this up in the Sooo... thread, but I've decided that when talking to people who are against gay marriage (ick factor, religion, semantics over the word "marriage", etc.) - instead of antagonizing them by trying to convince them to like gay marriage, I'm going to try to provide them with enough reasons that mean something to them (protect freedom, keep the government out of your personal life, don't take away rights that others currently have, whatever it takes) to convince them to not vote on the issue at all.

Yep, I'm going to try to make them just uncomfortable enough with a yes vote to convince them to abstain. And I'm going to make it clear that I can respect an abstention. One less yes vote to overcome :)

[Kevy Baby]

Random thought: is it too late to get another proposition on the ballot?Yes. It takes a little over a year to successfully get an initiative onto the ballot (submitting intent with the AG, collecting signatures, etc.).

Go to this link (http://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/elections_j.htm) and look for "Suggested Initiative Deadlines"

[Gemini Cricket]

Leaders of the gay and lesbian community, along with their union allies, plan to boycott the Manchester Grand Hyatt because its owner, Doug Manchester, has contributed $125,000 to an initiative to ban same-sex marriage.Source (http://weblog.signonsandiego.com/news/breaking/2008/07/gay_right_supporters_boycott_m_1.html)

Interesting.


In addition, he said, he was motivated by his strong Catholic faith to believe that marriage is between a man and a woman.
But, he said that he welcomes gays and lesbians to his hotels and restaurants.
Source (http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/metro/20080709-1902-bn09boycott.html)

Manchester: Gays shouldn't marry but I'll take their money...
:D

[SzczerbiakManiac]

Breaking News
The Massachusetts Senate has voted to repeal a 1913 law used to bar out-of-state gay couples from marrying in the state. (http://www.knbc.com/family/16890609/detail.html?treets=la&tml=la_natlbreak&ts=T&tmi=la_natlbreak_1_02390207152008)

Obviously, it needs to be approved by the MA House & Governor, but Gov. Patrick looks to be in favor of the bill.

Take THAT Mitt Romney! :snap:

[innerSpaceman]

I'm relieved, but confess to being a tad miffed California's economy won't have the lock on out-of-state gay weddings.


Frankly, that was going to be an argument in favor of putting the kibosh on Prop. 8.


Money talks.