This Day In Gay Utah History May 12th

12 May

1969 Patrick Perez, age 28, was sentenced to 3 to 20 years by Ogden’s  2nd  District Judge Charles G. Cowley after a plea of guilty to sodomy and assault with a deadly weapon.  Robert Phillips of Ogden, attorney who defended Perez in 2nd District Court testified he had known the man and his family for 8-10 years and believed Perez became homosexual because of pressures in prison during a previous sentence. (03/14/1970 SLTribune page 19)

Ralph Place

1971--Gay Lib Misunderstood, Persecuted, Says

Pam Mayne

Panel: A five member panel for organized Gay Liberation presented the idea that lesbian and homosexuals are a misunderstood and persecuted minority of society to 40 students Wednesday night at Van Cott’s main lounge. Panel members, Pam Mayne, Scott Rustin, George Kelly, Mary Heath, and Ralph Place, said their concern was to be able to face life as individual human beings. The panel’s purpose is speaking out for the cause of Gay Liberation was “to pool their resources” in order to introduce a clear, true picture, of Lesbianism and homosexuality. The panel did not present individual views but began the meeting with questions from the audience. Opposition to the Gay Movement came from several athletes and further augmentation continued with both sides justifying their point of view.  One of the students asked the panel why they considered themselves normal, and said he couldn’t accept sexual behavior that deviated from his normative group as being normal.  Miss Mayne asked the question in return “Why discriminate against people who love each other?…They still can be helpful to society.  Love is the ability to let someone mean more to you than yourself.’’  The panel was asked why they wanted the publicity and if the publicity they had received had any adverse affects with people they came in contact with every day.  The panel said that being open, with the idea of trying to change people’s attitudes for the better made them freer than what they had previously been. A question was asked since some homosexuals married and raised families, what would they expect sexually from their children?  The panel expressed the view that they would consider the children as individuals and would allow them to adjust to their own life style. The point was made by the panel that they would not overtly consider influencing their children to be either heterosexual or homosexual. The panel said that their real concern was the security  of homes and jobs. They said that employers considered them bad job risks and transient.  The Gay Liberation Movement is sponsoring several projects beginning with a proposed dance in the Union, May 26, participation in the March for Freedom, May 15, and the starting of a clinic to help themselves understand and accept their role as an individual in society. (05/13/1971 Utah Daily Chronicle page 1)

Harvey Milk

1977 Harvey Milk Calls for Boycott of Florida Oranges- Guest Editor, San Francisco- Anita Bryant has already done harm to untold thousands, and she is not finished yet. The list of harm that she has already caused is long, and now, she objects, not just to gays teaching, but to gays meeting in the White House. And we still have among us those who are her apologists. Anita Bryant is testing her power. As she gains support (and she is) she takes stronger anti-gay stands.  Reminds me of how Hitler rose to power by using the Jews as bait.  I don’t see Bryant becoming another Hitler, but her tactic is similar. Hitler ever had many Jews on his side at first defending his “rights”.  Anita Brant should lose her job. And those among us who feel differently should explain their position to the young who are finding out their own sexuality and gayness, who want to be proud and free and not ashamed and closeted.  I wonder if those who feel that Anita Bryant has the “right” to hatred and bigotry will still defend her when she steps up her demands against gay people. Are those who think so highly of her “rights” willing to sacrifice the rights of thousands of gay people? Do they want to be accepted so badly that they will crawl to our enemy on their knees?  The world has too many people who spread hatred behind the Bible, and unfortunately, there are too many people willing to defend  a person’s ”right” to spread hatred. I don’t. It’s fresh California and Texas orange from here on out until Anita Bryant is out. – Harvey Milk.  Arizona Gay News

Michael Aaron Green

1984- Michael Aaron, age 22, University of Utah student is first openly Gay delegate to the Salt Lake County and Utah state Democratic conventions.

1987-A tie vote in the Connecticut House of Representatives killed a state-wide Gay rights bill.

1989  Went to the reception for the Mountain and Desert States Conference at the Marriott Hotel in Denver, Colorado. It was a nice evening and I walked home with David Sharpton about 11 pm. He was all mad about something. Perhaps not getting laid. [Journal of Ben Williams]

1990- David Nelson founder of the Gay and Lesbian Utah Democrats pushed to have the 

David Nelson

Utah Democratic Party adds sexual orientation to nondiscrimination clause of its on discrimination policy. Motion passed.

Grave Stone

1992 Mark A. Biedenbach, age 30,passed away due to complications from AIDS.  Survived by his lifetime companion, Michael Fluehe who died in 1993

1994 Tori Osborn, executive director of the Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Service Center  and  former director of the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force  attended  “Turning of

Tori Osborn

the Century Conference”  held by the Utah Stonewall Center and lectured on Queer Politics and Leadership.

1998 - Utah 2nd Congressional nominee Lily Eskelsen met with nine Salt Lake area Democrats to discuss matters of importance to the Gay and Lesbian Community. The meeting was requested by Doug Wortham and arranged by Gay democratic leader David Nelson who serves as a member of the Eskelsen steering committee. Those

Doug Wortham

meeting with Eskelsen were Doug Wortham cofounder and current chair of Gay Lesbian Straight Educators Network, David Nelson, founder of Gay and Lesbian Utah Democrats,  Jackie Biskupski,  currently running for the Utah House in District 30, Laura Milliken Gray director of the Utah Anti-Violence Project, Kathleen Olsen a member of Gay and Lesbian Employee Association and NOW, R. Lee Roberts assistant director of The Utah Arts Festival, David Thometz current member of the Gay Caucus, Bente Trappy former executive director of the People With AIDS Coalition of Utah, and Kathy Worthington former editor of Womyn’s Community News.

12 May 2000 5/12/2000 This Friday, May 12th at 7pm Family Fellowship is having a meeting/social get-together at Little America Hotel in Salt Lake (between 500 S and 600 S and between Main and W Temple) in the Arizona Room. It will be a nice catered dinner. Stephen Clark, ACLU attorney working on the East High lawsuits, will give an update. (See http://www.acluutah.org/ for info about the recent court victory.) Others will tell about their experience in Washington, DC, for the Millennium March on Washington for Equality, then there will be entertainment. This is a great opportunity to relax and associate with some really great and supportive parents. They committed to have at least 70 people at the dinner, but fewer than that have signed up so far, and they have to cover any shortages on the expenses, so any support we can give them would be appreciated. The cost is $25 per person. Tickets need to be purchased by this Wednesday, May 10, by calling Gerry Johnston at 801-568-1141 (in Salt Lake). For all those that can afford it, it should be a great evening.

2003 Members of the Utah Stonewall Historical Society-Toni Johnson of PWAU, Alan Anderson Board Member, Alex Gallegos of Business Alliance, Jason Avilla, Alma Smith of Affirmation, Bryan Stone-Daley, Bob Childers, Becky Moss, Ben Barr, Ben Williams Board Member, Heidi Larsen, James Hicks, Boris Kurz, Brad, Russ Ellison, Chaise Manhattan, Chris Smith, Paul Chez, Chuck Whyte Board Member, Chad Keller Board Member, Charles Milne, Courtney Moser Board Member, SLCC Gay Club, Craig Hunter, Cy Martz of Pride Alliance Utah State, Michael Quinn, Dawn Colbert, Randal Meyers Board Member, Billy Denim, Doug Tollstrup, David Thometz, John Wilkes, Dixie Martin, Doug Fadel, Doug Wortham, Doug Winkler, Jim Dabakis, Erick Meyers, Randy Bodle, Frank Holt, George Trosper, David Nelson, Jay Bell Board Member, Joyce Cottrell, LGSU, Joe Redburn, John Reeves, Julie Brizzee, Kathy Worthington; Kevin Knollenburg, Kevin Hillman, Curtis Baker, Linda Peterson, Pepper Presspentt, Mike Webb, Michael Aaron, Marlin Criddle, Marilyn  Martindale, Michael Mitchell, Brenda Voisard, Mark Swonson Board Member, Mike Romero Board Member, Melissa Sillitoe, Marcus Taylor, Mike Picardi, John Griffith, Paul Cunato, Todd Dayley, Pink Pistols, Dan Fahndrich, Randy Watson, Restoration  Church,  Rhett Larsen, Kevin Warren aka “Ruadhan O’Sheridan , Troy Schmittroth, Scott Wilson, Cyber Sluts, Ron Johnson, Jackie Bikupski, Martin Pollock Board Member, Stan Penfold, Stephanie Thomas Board Member; Stephen Whitaker, Steve Ferguson, Teinamarrie Nelson, Thom Lee Martinez, Mark Thrash, Tim Keller, Toni Palmer, Tracey Von Harten, Bruce Harmon, Kelli Peterson,  Wasatch Affirmation, Delta Lambda Saphho Union, Karl Bennion

2003 CHILD-ABUSING FORMER CENTER DIRECTOR JOINS DEM CAUCUS SALT LAKE

David Nelson

CITY -- I wrote on March 8 that a Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Utah Inc. youth director was convicted in July of one count of second-degree felonious forcible sexual child-abuse; four months before the director resigned from the center and seven months before the director's name and service was removed from the center website. Utah Democratic Gay and Lesbian Caucus Chair Michael Picardi published on May 4 a

Michael Picardi

commentary written by the former center director whom he described as a caucus "board" or  executive-committee member. The caucus, which also serves as the state chapter of the  National Stonewall Democrats, has served since 1990 as the  official gay and lesbian division of the state party; I founded it.  Caucus leaders and members promote the party to gay and  lesbian voters, and promote gay and lesbian matters to the party  leaders and their candidates. The result is better relations between the groups and increased support for our issues. But the introduction of a new caucus executive-committee member who was convicted just 10 months ago of forcible child abuse might make those relations change faster than autumn leaves. What party leader or candidate would accept the endorsement, contributions and volunteers of a caucus whose leadership includes a convicted child abuser? As I wrote on March 8, center leaders acted almost amazingly nonchalant when they learned of the then-director's conviction, and "asked for [the director's] resignation" instead of terminating the director's service immediately and unilaterally. If center leaders acted nonchalantly, caucus leaders seemed emboldened with the idea of their new committee member's service despite the conviction. On-the-record comments from two caucus leaders, as well as off-the-record comments from another, suggest an avoidance to explain their political dilemma. Calling my investigation of the new committee member an "attack," Picardi complained of a different standard with my opposition of the new committee member and my previous support of onetime party candidate

Cody Judy

Cody Judy. Fair enough. Both are convicted felons yet, in 2002, I argued successfully against an official party denouncement of Judy as a Democrat. I believed then as I do now, that it's wrong to deny any party candidate their right to be consider fairly by their own delegates; the party denouncement would be just that. A majority of Democratic leaders and I supported his right to campaign for the convention vote of his peers, not to become our party nominee. He lost the nomination exactly as I'd predicted. The difference I see with appointing a new executive-committee member who is also a felon is that, as opposed to the opportunity I helped afford Judy, naming the committee member to serve goes beyond opportunity and conveys all the influence that the service promises. It circumvents the ability of the caucus members to consider the committee member and the conviction; an ability that the other leaders enjoyed for themselves at their recent meeting to appoint the new committee member. The repercussions that the caucus might suffer seemed of little importance to the leaders. David Nelson Salt Lake City

• Hello and thank you for your message, Dominique. [Storni] I wrote the March 8 and May 11 reports specifically without identifying the person who was convicted of one count of  second-degree felonious forcible sexual child-abuse and later worked for Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Utah Inc., and Human Rights Campaign Inc., and works now for Utah Democratic Gay and Lesbian Caucus which serves also as the National Stonewall Democrats state chapter. I believe that the identity of the person is less important to my reports than the descriptions of how the leaders of each group responded to the news of the conviction. While I don't know how HRC leaders responded, I care more about how our own center and caucus leaders have responded. I consider their responses to be respectively nonchalant and defiant; something about which I believe their supporters should have concern. I know I do. Others have asked why I believe that the conviction is of any relevance to these groups or other gender- and sexual-minority Utahns; a kind of "what's done is done" opinion of the matter. I couldn't disagree more. As I described in the March 8 report, the person resigned from the center only when four months had passed after the conviction and, then, only after the other  directors asked for the resignation. The urgency of an imperative  termination by the directors was seemingly lost on all of them. As I described in the May 11 report, the person was recently  appointed by caucus "board" or executive-committee members  to serve as another such member. The person continues to serve today and at least two of the other members are seemingly defiant against any similar imperative termination. Why does this matter? In the first instance, the person continued  to serve as the center youth director for four months after the conviction of forcible sexual child-abuse; a conflict of legal interest if not of community interest. The directors did nothing more than ask for the resignation. In the second instance, the person continues to serve as a caucus leader with the political influence of making considered judgment about the endorsement, contributions and volunteers of Democratic candidates for elected party and public offices. I suspect that no Democrat in the state would accept the support of a group whose leadership includes a recently convicted child abuser. But what confuses me most about this matter is the apparent lack of concern that these center and caucus leaders have shown for what is arguably their most potentially damaging circumstances to date. The time has passed for either to show definitive action and impress their supporters that they care more about the success of their groups than the insulting nonchalance or defiance they've given us. Any action by them now would be exactly what it would seem: Damage control. And who the person is remains unimportant in this context. David Nelson Salt Lake City
• DOMINQUE STORNI to David Nelson “Okay ... forget the bloody perp's name. We

  

  Dominique Storni

  all have skeletons in our closets we'd like to hide. Here are a few more interesting questions. How much money does he/she contribute? How well is he connected to the elitists who really control the gay community here? Does anyone really even give a shit? Perhaps anyone who reads this email can just read through the bitter bullshit and consider these questions rhetorical” Dominque “ After a night of meditation and reflection.... I'd like to wish this person well in his/her recovery. I sincerely hope that if the charges and conviction were appropriate, this individual is seeking honest therapy and will find himself/herself in a better place soon. And here's a message to the universe to help the victims heal. *lights a candle*
• David nelson to Chad Keller , “Chad I think the message in not responding is sending a message loud and clear. It in their eyes was not important enough to address publicly and is not an issue to them.  While I'm not clear as to the connection, as the individual will not have any direct contact with children/minors in the Utah Democratic Gay and Lesbian Caucus position, and should simply be monitored in their duties to prevent future indiscretions. I am concerned with the first organization, the Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Utah Inc., as this individual had direct contact with youth.  I trust that a written policy is and has been in place since this resignation? Why has the center not responded publicly to this serious accusation? How many youth were at risk? Might there be more? My understanding is that this could have been a legal-age person dating an underage person, and then a parent finding out? If that is the case, to what extent should there be concern? I agree that a predator has no place in a position dealing with youth. In speaking to a current member of the center board, it is my understanding in this situation the accused was a 20-year-old at the time, and was dating a 17-year-old, and a parent found out and made issue. Is this what this is based on and if so what then what should then our response as a community be? I think the center would most likely say that the internal policies and procedures of the organization should not be weighed in on by the community as a whole.  We as a community invest a lot in the center as an organization, this situation is just one more reason to be concerned with the manner in the center is being run, it does not and I do not think will ever be accountable to the gay community as a whole. Had it believed in and was accountable to the community, there would have been full disclosure on this situation in some manner in at the least the Pillar, detailing the situation and the action taken, and better yet, the hostile take over of Utah Pride Inc. for its own benefit would have been done in the open with public comment and not under the cloak of darkness. Its accountability to the community ended when it ceased the election of a board of directors by the community, and created a board with big wallets and connections. As with many other gay community centers nationally, ours may soon stumble due to an uprising from the very community it wants to serve. There needs to be a balance brought to the organization that has been missing for quite some time. It may soon be forced to come to the realization that it needs to do more, be better, and truly representative of all segments of our community if it is to survive. Our center has lost touch.
• TONI PALMER Comment- I understand your point, David, regarding the action (or lack there of) of the "leaders" of the various groups upon hearing of his/her  conviction. I think sexual abuse on a child is something that should be taken  VERY seriously and

  

  Toni Palmer

  it's something that personally makes me sick to think of anyone doing. I DO think that the person’s name should be revealed. If there's another side to the story, let him/her tell it and try to defend or explain. If it is however what it is "forcible sexual child-abuse", they should be OUTED quite publicly (at least in our community) and should be ousted from ALL positions of power within our community. Now, speaking to everyone who thinks that this all should just be swept  under the rug with the "what's done is done" opinion: Do we really want  someone convicted of "second-degree felonious forcible sexual child-abuse" representing US? A person like that certainly does NOT represent ME. Do they represent YOU, is that why you're so quick to let bygones be bygones? I certainly hope not. I'm shocked that our "leaders" would seemingly take this conviction with anything less than the pure horror it deserves and swift action to remove this person from any position of power. Another thing, imagine if this person (representing the glbt community) should happen to be involved in a serious issue regarding our rights AND this information should come out that he/she has been convicted of this. The Gayle Ruzickas of the world already want to paint us as child molesters and "recruiters" of children, do we really need her or others like her to have this kind of REAL ammo against us? Also I think it is only fair that other members of our glbt youth community be warned about this persons previous actions regarding "children,” so they can take precautions around this person. Now, if there is some other side to the story, something we're not hearing, let this person come forth and present that. Meantime, I think they should be treated as a potential danger to our youth community members and ousted from any groups representing glbt people. Toni P.
• RUADHAN O'SHERIDAN to Toni Palmer- I agree with much of what you say here, Toni. I would hope this individual is remorseful (as the charge was forcible sexual abuse of a male minor) and is in treatment of some kind. However, I do not believe the individual needs to explain his-her actions with regard to seeking or holding these highly visible positions. The organizations and their leadership have some ‘splainin’ to to, though. So, what I would ask Michael Picardi and company is, "WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU THINKING? DUH!" 76-5-404. Forcible sexual abuse. (1) A person commits forcible sexual abuse if the victim is 14 years of age or older and, under circumstances not amounting to rape, object rape, sodomy, or attempted rape or sodomy, the actor touches the anus, buttocks, or any part of the genitals of another, or touches the breast of a female, or otherwise takes indecent liberties with another, or causes another to take indecent liberties with the actor or another, with intent to cause substantial emotional or bodily pain to any person or with the intent to arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any person, without the consent of the other, regardless of the sex of any participant. (2) Forcible sexual abuse is a felony of the second degree. Amended by Chapter 18, 1984 General Session
• KEVIN WARREN AKA “RUADHAN O’SHERIDAN  to Chad Keller- Chad, I am not sure the current Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Utah Inc. board member was giving you the full story here or covering their own asses as to the degree of the crime and their inappropriate and extremely tardy response to the conviction. If there was a dating relationship and the sex was "consensual" insofar as the 17-year-old in question wanted it to happen, then the crime would have been "unlawful sexual conduct with a 16- or 17-year-old". However, the state sex-offender database describes the offense of the person in question as "Forcible Sexual Abuse" of a male minor. If you look at both of the laws I have pasted below, you will see that the only real difference between the two is the consent issue. If the sex was consensual, why the "forcible" charge? This small distinction makes all the difference in the attitude folks may have toward the crime itself and likely the individual. It should not make a difference in the fact that neither organization has responded to the questions of how the center handled this situation post-conviction and why the Utah Democratic Gay and Lesbian Caucus would take on such a publicity and credibility nightmare. Ruadhan  76-5-401.2. Unlawful sexual conduct with a 16 or 17 year old. (1) For purposes of this section "minor" means a person who is 16 years of age or older, but younger than 18 years of age, at the time the sexual conduct described in this section occurred.(2) A person commits unlawful sexual conduct with a minor if, under circumstances not amounting to rape, in violation of Section 76-5-402, object rape, in violation of Section 76-5-402.2, forcible sodomy, in violation of Section 76-5-403, or aggravated sexual assault, in violation of Section 76-5-405, the actor who is ten or more years older than the minor at the time of the sexual conduct: (a) has sexual intercourse with the minor; (b) engages in any sexual act with the minor involving the genitals of one person and the mouth or anus of another person, regardless of the sex of either participant; or (c) causes the penetration, however slight, of the genital or anal opening of the minor by any foreign object, substance, instrument, or device, including a part of the human body, with the intent to cause substantial emotional or bodily pain to any person or with the intent to arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any person, regardless of the sex of any participant. (3) A violation of Subsection (2) is a third degree felony. 76-5-404. Forcible sexual abuse. (1) A person commits forcible sexual abuse if the victim is 14 years of age or older and, under circumstances not amounting to rape, object rape, sodomy, or attempted rape or sodomy, the actor touches the anus, buttocks, or any part of the genitals of another, or touches the breast of a female, or otherwise takes indecent liberties with another, or causes another to take indecent liberties with the actor or another, with intent to cause substantial emotional or bodily pain to any person or with the intent to arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any person, without the consent of the other, regardless of the sex of any participant. (2) Forcible sexual abuse is a felony of the second degree.
• David Nelson Comment- I disagree here, Chad. In politics, there are just three things that gives anyone influence: Votes, money and integrity; usually in that order. Much as gender- and sexual-minority voters might want to believe otherwise, our votes alone will never amount to much.  While our money makes us the new cause célèbre among both Democratic and Republican fund raisers, it's ultimately our political integrity that wins or loses our supporters. That integrity includes playing in a world where political peccadilloes so much as a misplaced salute results in others interpreting and reinterpreting possible meanings and the continued viability of the offender.  So it's within this world that our premiere political liaison has jeopardized not only its integrity by appointing a recently convicted child abuser to its leadership, but that of those of us who rightly demand and expect sterling performance from those who also act in its service. Picture it: John Doe is running for the Congress in south Salt Lake County and says to a news reporter "Of course I'm proud to receive the endorsement and support of those of Utah Democratic Gay and Lesbian Caucus, especially because its leaders include a convicted felon who forcibly abused a child from our own community." Absurd? Or is it more likely that Doe and his other candidate friends would run, not walk, away from our only Democratic institutional liaison with state politics? David Nelson Salt Lake City.
• David NelsonTo Toni Palmer -I concur, Toni. When I wrote the March 8 report about the convicted person, I contacted and interviewed the person, and offered to publish the report without identifying the person because the person resigned from the Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Utah Inc. four months before. Regardless of whatever else transpired, I was loathe to add public humiliation to what a state judge had sentenced. I believed that, as much as the crime was singular, isolated and finished, so too would be the person's ambition for continuing an avocational career in gay and lesbian politics considering the crime conflicted with the career. As I wrote the May 11 report, I wondered again about indentifying the person. Considering the person's political ambition unwise but not unlawful, I believed that the greater mistake was made by the Utah Democratic Gay and Lesbian Caucus leaders who, even after being interviewed by me with the person's identity made clear, chose instead to react defiantly rather than renege their appointment. I remain hopeful that the person will choose to resign the appointment and its underlying ambitions, and be happy that life outside prison might still be otherwise enjoyable. Failing such a resignation, I believe that my promise not to identify the person should expire.I'll get back to you on that.... David Nelson Salt Lake City
• Chad Keller to David Nelson-I see your point, but was the conviction known or fully disclosed to the Utah Democratic Gay and Lesbian Caucus?  If not, then what action, if any, did caucus leaders take upon discovery, and why or why not? We see how the Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Utah Inc. handled it, but haven’t heard from them why they chose to handle it the way they did. Keep asking the questions. CK, Chad Keller Comment- Questions, Questions, Questions! I know that the organizations in question are present and accounted for in this list, so I will ask, Why the silence? Did I get an honest answer in that this was nothing more that a parent taking issue with their newly found gay 16-17-year-old son dating a 19-20-year-old and it became an issue of semantics of age in the court? I feel, though, we are speculating a lot on some of it. Can the public records be accessed and posted?
• Rob Chase Comment- I agree completely. For us to stand back and sweep this under the rug, makes us all appear to be almost accepting of this behavior. I'm really not comfortable with the image that we will cover-up the actions of others because of a shared sexuality. It confirms what Ruzicka, et al, says about us all the time. I personally hope this person is prosecuted and placed on the national sex-offenders list where they belong. As to the question of if it was consensual, it seems to me that if it was, nothing would have come out about it. Things like this tend to come to light when the victim reports it. Also, aren't things like this typically overlooked in the event that the two people are at least close to each other's ages? For instance a relationship between someone who's 19 and someone who's 16? The image of a 30-year-old molesting a 16-year-old is just creepy to me. That's my $0.02. Rob”
• Chad Keller Comment-Would someone please send directly to me the case number? I can pull it up online and will probably have to pull it the old-fashioned way. It seems more and more that the new gay-community establishments are doing more to sweep more and more under the rug, and they are defending each other, as they now have the death grip that they have always wanted on the community. They will sweep everything under the rug they can to make themselves look good, and will only take issue with something when they, the establishment, stands to benefit; $11,000.00 comes to mind. CK
• From Toni Palmer Comment- There was one thing that struck me while reading: 76-5-401.2. Unlawful sexual conduct with a 16 or 17 year old. Section 2 (full legal text is below in Ruadhan’s letter) "...the actor who is ten or more years older than the minor at the time  of the sexual conduct...." So, if I'm understand this correctly, the accused would have to be 10 or more years older than the victim, meaning that a 17-year-old with a  20-year-old would NOT be considered "unlawful sexual conduct.” Am I right in that assessment? So, if it is the case that the person in question was a 20-year-old  involved with a 17-year-old, it seems that that would not be illegal and not enough to press formal charges. So, it seems, what we have here is either a bogus story (regarding statutory rape and "gay panic" by parents), OR a youth who WAS truly forcibly assaulted. I'm left not knowing what to think, but feeling very concerned about  the issue. I also do not want to perpetuate something that many sexual-assault victims fear, and that is not being believed. It's possible that what this person was convicted of is what truly occurred. Regardless of the circumstances, this person WAS convicted (from what I understand here)!  And one thing I DO know is that a person convicted of "second-degree felonious forcible sexual child-abuse" representing the GLBT community, in a position of power, will absolutely have a (possibly irreparably) negative effect on us all. Toni P. 
• Kirk Dansie Comments-I apologize for taking a tangent on the subject but, as someone who specializes in the evaluation and treatment of sexual offenders, it might be helpful for all of you to know some basics. If this person was convicted of a felony sex crime, they will be listed on the sex-offender registry (not for misdemeanors). With a sex-crime conviction, it is highly likely this person has been mandated by the court to successfully complete sex-offender therapy -- which will encompass several years of treatment. Probation/parole conditions (depending on if this person serves a prison sentence) will stipulate "no contact" with minors under any circumstances. There are many, many sex offenders out there who are not predators and are quite safe in the community -- especially if under supervision and treatment. I realize that most people loathe sexual offenders and this sparks quite harsh responses; however, they also deserve the "benefit of the doubt" (as do other offenders -- who, by the way, usually never get any treatment for their criminal behavior). Have some trust in us professionals out there to deal with these issues that society wants to ignore. For those of you who are interested, you can self-educate a bit by visiting www.csom.org. Y'all are more than welcome to back-channel email me if you have questions/concerns. I fully support the removal of this person from any position that has any likelihood of contact with minors -- assuming that a crime, arrest, charge and conviction happened. Kirk
• Ben Williams Comments - "The individual in question was 19 years old at the time this crime was committed. The abuse was with a 15-year-old male with whom the 19-year-old had a personal relationship prior to the time of the abuse. Neither person was "out" at the time of the abuse. To my knowledge, neither person had any previous male-to-male sexual contact prior to this instance. The perpetrator claims that both he and the victim were experimenting sexually for the first time and that the sexual contact was consensual." Maybe I am missing something here...but if "the sexual contact was consensual" and experimental why was this case prosecuted at all? Why is this not also the focus of this debate!! How many 19 heterosexuals serve jail time for getting a 15 year old pregnant?. In this state they are allowed to marry with the consent of the judge. And up until about five years ago 15 year old girls could be married off to some old polygamous bastard in this state with society's blessing. If the crime against the 15 year old was rape or forced abuse I could understand a conviction but other wise...come on. How many 19 years old in this state are really no more than 12 years old when it comes to their sexuality because of the sexually dysfunctional climate of the dominate culture in this state. I was under the impression that when all this hullabaloo began that it was some middle age person....groping children. Re direct this dialog to where it belongs..., against a homo-phobic system and society that virtually destroyed the life of a 19 year for being open about his sexuality and to those sexual-phobes who see all homosexuals as  predators and recruiters. Stop condemning our local organizations who refuse to label a boy for life for actions committed when 19 years old (Contrary to Mormon belief Sodomy does not equal murder!) and go after the straight and educate them to the facts; and of the injustices that are perpetrated on our people! This reminds me of the Ogden case where a straight man's word to a straight jury sent a Gay man to prison for seven years to life for allegedly kidnapping him for sex while the killer of another Gay man in Park City had his sentenced reduced to less the 7 years because the Gay man "was responsible" for his own death. The Ogden man's case was eventually thrown out by an appellate court but not until this innocent man served several years in prison!  Where was the dialog when Club Blue was selectively targeted for closure? Or even more the lack of sex education in public schools where 15 years old may learn about sexuality and homosexuality without having to "experiment". Are we so eager for straight approval that we can't be angry at them anymore and we have to redirect our anger at ourselves? Give Me a Break! Ben Williams
• From Martin Grygar comments - I would like to chime in with some more information that may prove sway some of your opinions. I am not suggesting that it should. I am only offering some of the facts, as I understand them, to further this debate. Most of these items should be verifiable in the public record. To the gentleman who commented that this person should be "outed" I say that the person is listed on the Utah Sex Offenders Registry (no doubt the place where David Nelson found him). This online resource is available to everyone with a link from, of all places, the KSL Television website. The individual in question was 19 years old at the time this crime was committed. The abuse was with a 15-year-old male with whom the 19-year-old had a personal relationship prior to the time of the abuse. Neither person was "out" at the time of the abuse. To my knowledge, neither person had any previous male-to-male sexual contact prior to this instance. The perpetrator claims that both he and the victim were experimenting sexually for the first time and that the sexual contact was consensual. The perpetrator went on to begin a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints mission after the crime was committed. During this period, he felt guilty (presumably for having a homosexual encounter) and turned himself in to his mission president. The mission president sent him home and his bishop counseled him to write a letter of apology to the victim (among other things). It was this letter that served as the prosecution's evidence that a crime had been committed. A conviction ensued but the perpetrator did not begin his jail sentence until several months after his conviction. The judge gave him time to allow him to finish a political project on which he was working. The jail sentence was less than three months. Prior to serving the jail sentence, the perpetrator resigned from the board of directors of Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Utah Inc. While there is some debate as to whether some members of the GLCCU board knew about the conviction prior to the resignation, it is safe to assume that a background check at the time of the perpetrator’s appointment to the board would not have yielded a conviction of any crime. Nevertheless, a background check may have yielded arrest information that may have proven useful to the board when considering a new appointee. Perhaps the focus of this debate should not be about who committed this crime but rather how thoroughly the organizations of our community investigate appointees to positions of power within said organizations. Our goal should be both to protect the children to whom we have a responsibility and to protect the organizations that we work so hard to build. Respectfully, Martin Grygar P.S. In response to Kirk's posting, the individual currently holds no position in which he has any dominion over or contact with minors. This is a condition of his probation. He found it difficult to find a job (another condition of his probation) that met this requirement. He was eventually able to find a job and, to my knowledge, is presently employed.
• Chad Keller’s Comments - Well, now that is out in the open, I can clearly state that the current Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Utah Inc. board member did not lie about the situation. The person in question has done their time, and will continue to do their time for years to come. The issue is clear, and I think the situation for me and others is more understandable. However I submit that the larger problem is the total lack of community respect, trust and, above all, accountability. Nonprofit groups of the large, paid nature take an attitude to weather the storm, and their staffs only account to the board. Well who does the board account to? It would seem, and logically in most if not all situations, the community they serve. However, the new movement is they account only to the donor. The donors are giving their nod of approval every time they write a check. And if they are still writing checks, and not asking questions, then in their mind their is not a problem. Many organizations in the mainstream have even created token ombudsman positions, but rarely does the position function as it should, and it isn't really taken seriously by staffs and boards because of who is asking or complaining is prioritized, donor first, community second. Boards of our nonprofit groups are the cream-of-the-crop busy professionals looking for a quick way to make a difference in a high-profile manner. They can meet for a few hours every month, make some big decisions and then pat each other on the back. When was the last time most board members of these "Mega Gay Establishments" came off the Mount Olympus and did something other than write a check or throw a cocktail party? They would state that they have done their time in the trenches and have the right to sit back, and write that check. I would counter that we never are finished working in the trenches and doing the work. It seems though that there is a cavalier attitude towards regular members of our community that are taking issue with the Paid Professional Gays and Lesbians or leaders of our community's high-profile organizations. Are the organizations in question for this situation and others of the same nature listening to the questions before them or are they just brushing them off because of who is asking? They define the best, brightest and most in-touch with the community those with the deepest pockets and most connections. Innovation and concepts are disregard if not from the approved set. Things will not change and answers given unless they feel that they are in true jeopardy. Perhaps to take control back of these organizations and get answers and accountability it is time to start drying up some of the money readily available to them. CK
• Dominque Storni’s Comments- Chad asked: "I feel, though, we are speculating a lot on some of it. Can the public records be accessed and posted?" Yes, unless the record was sealed by the judge.. "The perpetrator went on to begin a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints mission after the crime was committed. During this period, he felt guilty (presumably for having a homosexual encounter) and turned himself in to his mission president. The mission president sent him home and his bishop counseled him to write a letter of apology to the victim (among other things). It was this letter that served as the prosecution's evidence that a crime had been committed." IF ... this story is true: I find it interesting that the church felt in necessary to involve themselves to the point of destroying a young man's life goals and ambitions. I find it reprehensible that they don't chime in similarly with child sexual abuse from older males in the church against children under the age of 15. The church, in recent years, has fought even to the Utah Supreme Court to protect their right to not expose child molesters who rape even children under age eight (age of baptism). They have spent millions fighting gay rights and millions protecting their right to conceal child molestation. It is my understanding that if someone has sex with someone under age 16, it can be unlawful if there are more than three years difference in age. 19 to 15 qualify as illegal under those conditions. I am confused as to why he didn't take a misdemeanor plea bargain, unless he and council were convinced he would prevail. Again ... if the facts alleged in the posting are true, I find it reprehensible that the church weighed in so heavily in THIS case, but fights adamantly for perpetrator protection in brutally abhorrent sexual crimes against children. Is it only because it was GAY sex? Were they afraid he was RECRUITING a young impressionable lad? Did the family think this would make their son NOT gay? "By their fruits ye shall know them." I no longer participate in Mormonism because their fruit is rotten, and it stinks. Dominique  P.S. I'm sure someone is asking themselves how I would know about the church's activities I have mentioned. Personal experience. I also wonder why GLCCU felt it so important to hide if the facts alleged in the posting are true. If true, the facts are mitigating, to say the least. 
• From Kevin IAmBoiCrazy So, the lesson here is simple. Don't date anyone under 18 and in the closet, and this stuff will never be an issue. Kevin =)
• BEN Williams- Check driver's license, make sure they don't have a false id, and check social security number! Betterstick to older men LOL!
• Toni Palmer Comments- You're right that "most people (DO) loathe sexual offenders.” As well they deserve to BE loathed. I loathe them quite openly and proudly. To others: Regarding this particular case, should it be shown that this is a case of homophobic parents/church/law rather than real sexual assault, then I'd be the first to apologize for such a strong reaction. There may never be a way to know the 'real' truth. However I still think a 19-year-old should know better than to have any inappropriate contact with a minor. AND as previously stated the conviction IS there (we can argue the details, whys and what-ifs, BUT it's still there) and will come back to haunt us all if this person is a public representative of our Community. Toni P. (not a "gentleman", but maybe a "gentledyke" ;)
• Chad Keller Comments- Ben ... you’re right ... the issue that a gay 19-year-old had a relationship with a 15-year-old gay individual is not prosecuted the same way a 19-year-old redneck gett'n it on with his 15-year-old girlfriend. And for that we should be very angry too. The gay kid was 19 at the time, confessed on a mission got sent home, served his time and will do time on this for the majority of his life. He got a record for being young and boy-crazy in love. So do we go after the red neck the same? In most, if not all cases, NO ... and there is either an abortion, adoption, child support or marriage as an option and a slap on the hand, if that, for a straight. Clearly, with the situation, the person is not a pedophile, so, under the circumstances, was it necessary to terminate him? I think if we look back at our youth, and it’s a distance for me and others to look back, what did we do that could have put us in the same situation when confronted with Mormon guilt? He got the book thrown at him for a youthful indiscretion. I'm not condoning the action, but let’s, like Ben has indicated, look at it in perspective on a large scale. I don't see equal justice. Justice was peeking out from under the blindfold on this one. But, I also think that the original discussion as phrased does bring up valid issues. Questions were posed to the Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Utah Inc. and to the Utah Democratic Gay and Lesbian Caucus if they knew of the situation, and what were the actions that were or need to be taken. One has not responded, and the other brushed Mr. Nelson inquiry off in typical fashion. (Keep those wagons circled for an attack girls.) As the community, we are slowly losing ownership of the very organizations that are ours, all because we, as the community, aren't stuffing their pockets. Had a major donor started asking questions on this issue, the red carpet would have been rolled out and they'd be lunching at the New Yorker. And don't tell me that donors are giving just to support. The Denver-based Gill Foundation has a whole segment on giving,  and teaches what to expect and to ask as a large-dollar donor.  
• Maryanne Martindale Comments-My comments are NOT on behalf of the Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Utah Inc. board of directors; they are my personal comments and should not be seen or interpreted as anything else.  To Ben: Thank you for being one of the VERY FEW sensible people posting to this site. To Chad: How dare you assume the level of participation by board members, especially for a grou

  

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  p you so obviously disdain. I take personal insult from your assumption that I do nothing but meet for a couple hours a month and write a check. Just because a board member chooses not to get involved in the "eat our own young" mentality that a very fractious element in this community practices, does not mean they don't work extremely hard, even tirelessly, on behalf of the community at large. To Dominique: "Elitists?” Please read my reply to Chad. I have never treated you in any way that warrants that kind of label. To all those who seek to perpetuate the negativity that oozes from this group: Despite the many protestations of working for a higher good, your motives are clear: To pass judgment on someone else, to vilify the center and other groups who you are "pissed" at, and to amuse yourselves with idle gossip in hope of living vicariously through others who don't have the same time on their hands. Get a life!
• From Toferbear Comments-VERY SMART! Thanks Kevin!
• Mike Picardi Comments: Ladies and Gentlemen, As most of you know, David Nelson has mounted an "investigation" into the appointment of a "felon" to our board. I put  the word felon in quotes because after this man serves his parole, the charge reduces to a misdemeanor. I put the word investigation in quotes because this is nothing more than a vendetta by Nelson against the Center and the Caucus. Some have questioned my lack of response. I had hoped that Nelson's anger would disappear and the pain from his so-called disability would prevent him from continuing his quest. After I learned of the recent postings on GayVoteUtah, my hope left me and I decided to make my feelings known. There is no rule, law, ordinance or directive that disallows a felon to serve on any committee, caucus or board in the State Democratic Party. The person in question must still be approved by the membership of the Stonewall Democrats, a fact that Nelson, a so-called founder of the Caucus seems to have forgotten. The man in question has served the Democratic Party and the LGBT Communities without any concern for his own rewards. This is not something that can be said of Nelson. But I get ahead of myself. I want to explain my history with Nelson and my involvement with the Party and the LGBT Communities. If it had not been for David Nelson and David Thometz, I would not be as involved as I am today. They got me hooked on politics and the dream of making a difference right here in Utah. I did not come full-born as the Chair. Nelson was the one who appointed me to the board over five years ago. As I became more and more active, Nelson told me of all the evils in both the Party and the LGBT community. There were those in the party who would do ANYTHING to get rid of the Caucus; the State Chair wanted the Gay Caucus gone because only then would a Hate Crimes bill pass; Rocky Anderson was a traitor to the LGBT community, as was Frank Pignanelli; if it was not for Nelson, Rep. David Litvack would never have replaced Loretta Baca; he, Nelson, had written MAJOR Hate Crimes legislation that no one would sponsor; the leadership at the Center "hated the Caucus, that's why we did not meet there"; the people at the Center were "only in it for the money"; the Royal Court thought the Caucus was "too good for them", we were considered snobs; no one but Nelson knew what was good for the LGBT Community; Congressman Barney Frank would NOT come to Utah for a fundraiser. There were numerous other things told to me over lunches and dinners that I paid for because he was always "unemployed or between jobs". I thought it odd that David Thometz was always there. But then I began to understand it all. He was to make certain they both came away with the same story, that way no single person stood a chance of telling their side (I learned from someone in the Party too late never to talk to them without another person present). It struck me as strange that the Mayor who was the Grand Marshal of Pride the year I donated a booth to the Caucus, ran, not walked, ran passed our booth. I asked Thometz why Rocky hadn't stopped, his response; "Rocky's pissed at David, so the hell with him". Their arrogance began to show itself. I decided to run for Chair when his stories began to unravel and I saw the effectiveness of the Caucus becoming non-existent. The first flaw in his facade appeared when he told me of his history with the Stonewall Center. He, Nelson, had had a crush on Jim Debakis and was livid when the new Center opened and  he, Nelson, was not appointed director. It didn't matter that Nelson did NOT have the qualifications to be director, he "deserved it" and Jim had the power to appoint Nelson (according to Nelson).  I realized that Nelson was involved in politics for his own gains. At the first two conventions I attended, Nelson did nothing but campaign to be elected as a delegate to the National Democratic Convention. He even told the Caucus members how to vote "the system" so he would be victorious. When Senator Pete Suazo passed, Nelson demanded that he be appointed to fill out the Senator's term. When this did not happen, three separate shouting matches ensued between Nelson, Thometz and County and State Party officials. I was made Secretary the year before I became chair. Nelson wanted to control everything that was written about the Caucus, even though he was not the Chair. When I paid for a mailing to the members, Nelson was angry because he could not control every detail. About this same time, Unity Utah was being formed and Nelson told me of the problems a PAC would bring. The power of the Caucus would be "taken away". Nothing could be further from the truth. We have had a positive relationship with Unity and worked together on many issues and we intend to do so in the future. After I became Chair, I expected all the terrible things Nelson had said about Party Leadership to come true. I was amazed at the welcome I received. The SAME thing happened at the Center. People were thrilled to have someone who wanted to "work together for the Community". Nelson had burned so many bridges in the Community and the Party that for the first six to seven months I had to have meetings with other leaders to rebuild the bonds that Nelson had torn down with his arrogance. The last run-in between him and myself happened over my attempt to move the Executive Committee meetings from Sunday mornings (yes SUNDAY MORNINGS at 10:30am) at the County Complex to the Gay and Lesbian Community Center. I believe that we serve as an outreach group between the LGBT Communities and the Party. I felt we should be at the Center. I called all the board members and got a majority. I did not, however, call Nelson and Thometz, I already knew their position.  At the next meeting, Nelson pulled a "rule of order" pertaining to a NEW board member I had appointed. He claimed, rightly, that this member needed to be approved by the entire board. The trick was preventing my voting as Chair. There was a tie on the Board member; Nelson said as Chair, I could NOT vote. Ok fine, I believed we had the vote to move the meeting. With one member abstaining, there was another tie.  Again, Nelson prevented me from voting as the Chair. Needless to say, I found out what he had done was not correct. He resigned from our board the NEXT day. I was sincerely saddened that he and then Thometz resigned. I had hoped that with their knowledge and past experiences, they would want to contribute to the betterment of the Party and the LGBT Communities. As we have all seen from his "investigations", he is still out for David Nelson; not the Democratic Party and not the LGBT Communities. I have never seen or heard him confront the Republicans the way he does the Democrats. Why not "investigate" the larger problems and stop devouring each other. I will entertain any questions any of you may have. I will not, however, be drawn into any so-called investigation, inquiry or whatever else Nelson may call it that focuses on the negative energy he so blatantly expresses. When and if he ever decides to try and do something constructive and positive for the LGBT Community and /or the Democratic Party, I will be the first to wish him the best and give him my support. I stand behind my appointment. I stand behind my decisions and I invite all who want to advance the fate of the LGBT Communities and the Democratic Party of Utah to join me. Together, we do make a difference. Mike Picardi, Chair national Stonewall democrats, Utah Chapter.
• From Donald Steward AKA Fergie (Cyber Sluts) Good morning everyone....Since I have been a member of this list, I have watched it be a largely one-sided, one note forum. Despite its potential as a community building tool, it often seemed that there was little constructive discussion, a lot of sniping, and some heavy handed editorializing. To me it reinforced Lieblings adage that "freedom of the press is only

  

  Donald Steward

  guaranteed to those who own one.” I believe that the negativity (and what sometimes seems to be hypersensitivity) excluded many people from participating, especially any moderate, centrist or even conservative voices. If GayVoteUtah.com wants to mobilize the GLBT community politically, then it needs to foster and include all voices. The fact that David has published Mike Picardi's (and others) response gives me hope that maybe this message board can finally get some balance, be an effective means of community organizing, and a useful clearinghouse of information and opinion. As a long time participant in the GLBT community I recognize many of the people that post messages here and I am familiar with their involvements and affiliations. Some I like, some I don't. But I do recognize that most of them have real passion for advancing our causes, and have worked hard in community groups and on community projects for years (and I do mean YEARS!). That type of commitment needs to be supported. One final thought. The 2003 legislative session finally saw some movement on a Hate Crimes bill. The bill advanced further than ever before not because the GLBT community and the Democrats lobbied for it as they always do, but because a broader coalition of centrists, moderate Republicans, and even staunch Republicans (such as state Attorney General Mark Shurtleff), spoke up and joined the discussion. That type of inclusion, coalition building and honest discussion is how we make progress folks, both inside and outside the GLBT community. Thus endeth the lesson ... can I get an Amen? Fergie.
• Ben Williams Comments-  I take umbrage.... "To all those who seek to perpetuate the negativity that oozes from this group: Despite the many protestations of working for a higher good, your motives are clear: To pass judgment on someone else, to vilify the center and other groups who you are "pissed" at, and to amuse yourselves with idle gossip in hope of living vicariously through others who don't have the same time on their hands."      First of all, I question deeply that anyone can see clearly the motives of someone’s heart without a long term relationship with that individual. It appears that there are some fundamental differences in our community over issues of direction. These fundamental differences have been voiced by conflicting strong personalities and, it appears, civility has broken down. It is easy to give someone a piece of your mind when you don't have to look them in the eye and I truly feel all our responses need to reflect that. Hasty words spoken in anger linger longer than praise. When we had a Gay and Lesbian Community Council of Utah Inc., the players in this community knew each other on first-name and face-recognition. It is not as easy to stand in front of an individual and shout “J'accuse”  as it is to sit in front of a keyboard and monitor. Personalities have become so entrenched in their own positions that lines are being drawn and people are power brokering into alignment for the conflict. First, I have to say that I was born a Democrat (although a branch of the family were Granger Socialists) and, indeed, David Nelson and I have been at odds with each other since we met (I like to think of him as my nemesis), but now I am old enough to know what a valuable role he played in my life, and I do consider him a friend. (Time makes friends of all enemies if you live long enough). Therefore, I must take exception to Michael Picardi’s statement “When and if (Nelson) he ever decides to try and do something constructive and positive for the LGBT Community and /or the Democratic Party, I will be the first to wish him the best and give him my support.”  I do have to stand up and say that truly Picardi’s views are simply misplaced malice stemming from probably hurt and frustration. I am here to say the entire gay political structure of Utah (both parties and independents) stands on the back of David Nelson's accomplishments and because of his combatant personality he has never and probably never will get the recognition he so richly deserves. I guess that is the price of being unloved and probably the unkindest cut of all. It  would not surprise me if he is bitter. However, no one ( I mean no one!) has devoted his entire life and probably his health to the gay body politick as much as Nelson has and does. Has he done a lot of it for self-promotion? Probably. Name a politician, including Picardi, who does not. Politics is dirty. Duh. Nevertheless, when you read the historical ledger of the first-this or first-that, Nelson’s name is always there at the head of the class. He accomplished all this without a paycheck and with generally no support from a politically apathetic gay population mostly raised in conservative Republican families with a mind set of Mormon first, conservative second, and gay dead last. I disagree strongly with the position Nelson has taken on guns in school being an educator however I simply agree to disagree. I think the Pink Pistol concept (like Pink Panthers before it) is fundamentally sound but, yes, I do think allowing me to conceal a weapon in a classroom with 30 whacked out sixth graders is nuts! As for the perennial Chad Keller, rather than simply dismiss him with the comment, “How dare you assume the level of participation by board members, especially for a group you so obviously disdain,” why does not the Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Utah Inc. forthrightly address his issues and concerns rather then simply dismiss him as a “malcontent?”  Keller’s service and tenure in this community, when weighed against many of those who are currently serving on the board, is significant! Don’t dismiss people like him lightly. When many who are criticizing him were earning their professional credentials, Keller had already a working Ph.D. in Gay Behavioral Science and fund-raising by rolling up his sleeve and doing the work! Both Chad Keller and David Nelson have given collectively 35 years of service to building a gay community -- one that we all very much benefit from. Let’s not so easily dismiss their dissent. Throw in David Thometz, and we are talking 50 years! In conclusion, the comments made by Ms. Martindale, “To pass judgment on someone else, to vilify the center and other groups who you are ‘pissed’ at, and to amuse yourselves with idle gossip in hope of living vicariously through others who don't have the same time on their hands,” appears to be a mirror in the hand. I am sure the comments were made out of frustration and lack of appreciation that often is neglected in this forum. I do appreciate the efforts of every and all individuals who are actively seeking to make a positive change in the lives of our people. Still, I certainly hope Ms. Martindale was not implying that all dissidents who do not approve of the action of the “professionals” at the center or any other organization are idle indigents. Indeed, I believe, if you are earning a living off the gay community, you should especially be open to criticism and inspection -- whether you are an executive director or business owner. If its too hot in the kitchen, get out!  But, Ms. Martindale, I want to assure you that many, if not most, of us who post here are employed; working as educators, lawyers, business owners, technicians and other legitimate occupations (both blue collar and white -- full time!) I feel it is never vicious gossip to question! It is the right and duty of an inquiring mind. It benefits both the giver and receiver. To attack individuals is vicious.  How can you honestly not admit that the center has not made some questionable decisions (the merger of Utah Pride Inc. comes to mind) without benefit of real community input? Deals done in closed committees cannot inspire confidence and trust. If the center or any other entity would respond quickly to “rumors” perhaps these ongoing tirades would cease.  It’s not Thometz and Nelson’s responsibility to quit questioning motives -- it’s the center’s responsibility to address them. Can Chad asked a question? He would like to know to whom is the center board of directors accountable? If a segment of the community is unhappy with the direction the center is going where is there room for a “loyal opposition?” A gay and lesbian community center should be one in “fact” (and I personally feel “in accountability”) to the entire community and not just in a name. Calling a zebra a thoroughbred is self-promoting. That is not  to impugn the wonderful resources and the creative projects the center does in behalf of the gay and lesbian community. The center has many positive things going for itself due to the enormously talented people it has attracted. And by the way Ms. Martindale, I very much have a life ... one that I  have devoted to the enrichment of the gay communities of Utah for nearly 20 years, and have earned the right to speak my mind -- not only from writing checks but for putting up the chairs in this community so we can hold this dance! Sincerely, Ben Williams Class of '69
• From Ben Williams Comments-Toni, I agree with you except for the definition of minor. Age 15 is minor for legal reasons only. 19 is considered minor for entering a bar and until 1970 for voting. It appears to me that in truth it was two minors doing some sexual exploring! When a person is over 13 and the person who is a sexual partner is no more than a few years older let's say no more the four for argument sake (Biologically and legally but not necessarily emotionally) where is the crime? If an adult exploits a youth yes I am on board ... but to criminalize mutual sexual exploration by youth with youth is not only crazy but immoral! How, in good conscience, could this been a criminal act! And before we all get too huffy -- we gays are all just one step from being arrested for misdemeanor offenses in Utah. Are we not, as our friend Gayle says, criminals who have just not be prosecuted? I was fucking back in 1973 does that make me an unprosecuted felon? I know in 1974 I was magically cured of my homosexual mental illness by the American Psychiatric Association. Now I don't have to put mental illness on my job applications! In high school, my sister's boyfriend's 18-year-old friend and I had sex. Should I have sent him to prison? Maybe he would not have died in Vietnam if I would have! But then I would have been a bastard all my life. Ben
• From Martin Grygar Comments: Now it has come time to share some more of the story. Again, this is not to sway any opinions. My intent is only to offer up the facts, as I know them, for the purpose of furthering the debate. In response to Ben's comments, when the parents and authorities of the 15-year-old boy approached him, he indicated that the sexual contact was forced. The 15-year-old boy was not "out" at the time the authorities approached him. The case was never brought to trial because the perpetrator agreed to a plea-bargain on the advice of his attorney. This is why the charges will be dropped to a misdemeanor after successful completion of probation, as Mike Picardi indicated in his comments. Finally, I would like to personally thank Kevin for putting the whole situation into perspective. It is unfortunate that the justice system has chosen to treat cases differently based on the sexual orientation of those involved. Having sex with an underage boy is still against the law and our best defense is still to fully obey the law until it or the justice system can be changed to be more equitable. I believe the law serves a good purpose and I would like to see the justice system rise to occasion and treat heterosexual cases with the same severity with which homosexual cases are treated. Only then can society hold all of our young adults equally accountable for their actions. Respectfully, Martin Grygar
• Kevin Dansie  Comments- Several points re: y'alls comments with this entire, tangential issue. 1. So far, it appears to me that nobody has cited actual facts from official records; thus, everything is ALLEGED at this point (in America, we have the phrase "innocent until proven guilty"). Even if you know this person, his statements are not actual facts that have external evidence supporting them (this is why victim/witness statements, police reports, court documents, physical evidence, etc., are so important). If I am going to accuse someone of a wrong, judge some other person, or anything similar I would certainly want some evidence and not just my own perceptions, emotions, hearsay, and gossip to take over. 2. If you just follow Kevin's rule (no sexual contact unless the person is PROVEN 18 regardless of consent) you are almost safe. Obviously, many of us (gay, lesbian, straight) commit sodomy (if we are so lucky). Nonconsent (e.g., rape, and certain sexual acts regardless of age), is illegal and immoral. "Consent" is a legal term. Many circumstances constitute nonconsent (e.g., children, "minors", any words or conduct that imply "no", use of force, threats, concealment, surprise, unable to resist, coercion or enticement, unconscious/drugged states, unawareness, mental disease or defects, incapacity, etc.). Gender is not defined in the statutes, thus same-sex contact is not necessarily illegal. Only defined behaviors are illegal. 3. Ages in the law are confusing and with sex crimes some ages of victims and perpetrators are defined by each statute; however, this is the general interpretation everyone should know. "Children" are under the age of 14 (13 or younger). "Minors" are usually 14 or 15-year-olds in regards to sexual crimes (14 or older, but under 16). "Minors" can also be 16 or 17 if the statute defines it as such. Children cannot consent to anything sexual (e.g., a 13-year-old cannot consent to sex with another 13-year-old). A 14 or 15-year-old cannot legally consent to have sex with anyone over 15, even if they say they want to and won't tell. 4. 14-year-olds and 15-year-olds can consent to sexual contact with each other and not be charged with crimes (unless the sex act falls under another crime -- sodomy, rape, forced crimes, etc.) 16-year-olds and older CANNOT have LEGAL sexual contact with anyone 15 or younger. 5. Age of the perpetrator is only relevant for the degree/class of the crime. For example, if a 16-year-old has sex with a 14 or 15-year-old, this is unlawful sexual intercourse but only punishable up to a Class A misdemeanor. If a 17-year-old (or older) has sex with a 14 or 15-year-old, this is unlawful sexual intercourse punishable up to a 3rd degree felony. 6. 16 and 17-year-olds seem to be able to consent to sexual contact with adults, as long as the adult is no MORE than 10 years older. This is probably the statute that allows all sorts of immoral things to happen that shouldn't. You can commit just about any sex crime through sufficient "touching, however slight...even if accomplished through clothing." (e.g., lewdness is quite easy to commit unknowingly by the perpetrator). 7. If I take the ALLEGED story (a 19-year-old male with a "consenting" 15-year-old male REGARDLESS of the 15-year-old wanting sexual contact), then the following crimes have been committed. Unlawful sexual intercourse punishable as a 3rd degree felony. Sodomy, if any sex act involved the genitals of one person and the mouth or anus of another person. If any nonconsent/aggravated issues were involved, the crimes increase and the penalties (class/degree) increase. Also, any "lesser included offenses" may have been committed (e.g., if you rape a child with an object and use a gun, you have committed a plethora of sex and other crimes and can be charged and convicted of all of them). 8. The "law is an ass," which means the law has no ability to interpret itself. Police, prosecutors, judges, and others involved in the legal system are responsible for using the "spirit of the law" concept to determine arrests, charges, punishments, etc., for the most part. This is why legal, ethical, and moral guides can often clash with one another. There are entire statutes dealing with individual circumstances regarding sentencing, probation, rehabilitation, etc. 9. The 19-year-old should have had a hell of a lot better judgment than the 15-year-old, regardless. It is not any defense whatsoever that "moral consent", experimentation, etc., was involved, or if we feel sorry for them because they were "in love," "in the closet," "a missionary," or any other B.S. It also doesn't matter if either party has no lasting psychological harm (which, by the way, is probably not possible). Ignorance of the law is also not a defense for anyone. 10. It would be extremely wise for the persons and agencies more closely involved in this mess to take this opportunity and learn what actions need to be taken to try and prevent this from happening again or blowing up in our faces. Current and future "damage control" might be warranted. Inaction can be seen as permission. Let's not minimize, justify, or blame others for the wrongs we inflict on others and society. Personal responsibility and accountability are the most important factors that need to be taken to heart. 11. Can we now be done with this discussion and all agree that those who legitimately need to take action should stop talking and take some appropriate action? Respectfully, The long-winded Kirk...
• James P. Hicks Coments-Chad made an excellent comment and I couldn't agree with him more. In the case of a male-female sexual encounter of this same type. In the heterosexual society, nothing is ever done, it’s just swept under the carpet. Just as today, it would appear by everything we see on television and in magazines,

  

  James Hicks

  these days that adultery in the heterosexual world is dismissed in the same manner. Because these types of events are so common within the heterosexual society, they have dismissed them and they have no moral consequences all moral judgments have been placed on the homosexual world. I'm not trying to say that's an excuse for what happened, however we are talking about a young man in love with another young man one of our own. We are condemning this man for his love for another man; he will feel this pain for the rest of his life. I'm quite certain if it were a young man in love with a young woman the outcome would have been quite different. We must look at the bigger picture here. James P. Hicks

• D. Taft comments- After having worked with many individuals in similar situations, many have worked very hard to earn their own self respect as well as ours, and they deserve that. Mike Picardi has also earned my respect as Stonewall leader, as well by way of his responsible efforts ... as a leader, thank you Michael. I respect your and the committee’s judgment, best wishes to you ... to other past person's; take care and find something that has meaning ... and take me off of your list; this is my third request. D. Taft
• Ben Williams to David Thometz: David, I appreciate your slight editing of my comments before posting. It keeps me from looking like a fool. However when I capitalize Gay I do it was a reason not as an oversight. Besides being a pet peeve of mine as well as a signature for my writing style, I purposely adopted the 1969 resolution to use  capitalized "Gay" to identify with a people's liberation movement. Please do not lower case them again in my postings. It is part of my political position. Thank You Ben PS  See article printed in May issue of the Pillar for a more complete explanation
•  Marlermax Comments- Kirk, I have a few questions for you. Are you an attorney? If not, please explain your need to dispense legal advice in your most recent post. In addition, where did you gather your facts? My reading and interpretation of the Utah Code on the sex-offender website leads me to believe that you are incredibly mistaken on a few key points you make. I am not an attorney; therefore I will not make an argument or state as fact the law as definitively as you have done. I'm glad you called an end to this issue, however, my questions to everyone who's posted: Wasn't this issue actually over when the judge pounded his gavel? Was this really an issue when ONLY THREE people (Maryanne Martindale, Michael Picardi and Martin Grygar) who have posted on this subject thus far, have actually approached this nameless person and asked him/her about his/her role at the Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Utah Inc. and with Stonewall Democrats, and how that related to the crime he/she supposedly committed? I have it on very good authority that David Nelson has never contacted this person, including when the two were in THE SAME ROOM at the Salt Lake County Democratic Convention TODAY about anything that David Nelson has posted. I've seen the ONLY email David ever sent this person, and that email was pointed, vicious and didn't offer an opportunity for explanation or discussion, but rather was formulated to force answers. The questions were pointed so much that no matter how answered, they would have made the alleged offender and the center look bad. Certainly no one except Martindale, Picardi and Grygar have any true knowledge of what happened - because no one else who's posted has talked to the alleged offender, alleged victim, the Salt Lake County District Attorney or defense counsel. What has happened is pure gossip of those with idle hands. It's a disgrace. Shame on all of you have messed in something, passed judgment on, and otherwise attacked in an area where you truly had no first-hand, second-hand or otherwise even slightly reliable information. This issue should be over. I join Maryanne - shame on you!
• David Nelson Comments- “I have it on very good authority that David Nelson has never contacted this person, including when the two were in THE SAME ROOM at the Salt Lake County Democratic Convention TODAY about anything that David Nelson has posted.” I chatted in February with Adam Bass at Gay.com about his conviction and my March 8 report. He asked that I contact him by electronic-mail message. I did. Here's a copy of his reply to my questions. The finality of Adam's reply made further contact with him unnecessary and unreasonable. Please reread my March 8 and May 11 reports. While neither applauding nor condemning Adam's conviction, I questioned the consequential actions of those groups with whom Adam worked:  Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Utah Inc., Human Rights Campaign Inc., and, now, Utah Democratic Gay and Lesbian Caucus serving as the state chapter of National Stonewall Democrats. The representatives of which haven't expressed regret about employing or continuing to employ the Adam's  political services. I remain unconvinced that Adam and his supporters at these groups believe that his involvement with them was and is damaging to our political ability regardless of his original motivation which resulted in his actions and consequential conviction. David Nelson Salt Lake City ___  Date: Sat, 15 Feb 2003 16:25:36 -0800 (PST) From: "Adam G. Bass" <adamgbass@yahoo.com>Subject: Re: Utah Department of Corrections conviction, July 3.To: "GVUNewsTalk" <gvunewstalk@yahoo.com>CC: "Paula Wolfe" <pwolfe@glccu.com>Mr. Nelson, After careful review of your questions, and consultation with family and friends, I am of the opinion that I need not answer your questions. Therefore I am respectfully declining to share any personal information with you. If you would like information about The Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Utah, I would recommend speaking with Dr. Paula Wolfe, the Executive Director of that organization, at 539-8800, or Mr. Kent Frogley, the President of the Board of Directors at The Center. Dr. Wolfe can provide you the contact information for Mr. Frogley.  Adam G. Bass GVUNewsTalk <gvunewstalk@yahoo.com> wrote: Thank you, Adam, for asking me to contact you by electronic-mail message with my questions about the Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Utah Inc., and your conviction on July 3 of  2nd degree felony forcible sex abuse of a male child (as  described by the Utah Department of Corrections) 1. Do you serve as a board of directors member, including as "Member At Large - Youth," of the Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Utah Inc.? 2. Do you serve as an officer, staffer or volunteer of the Center? 3. Did you ever serve as a board of directors member, officer, staffer or volunteer of the Center? 4. If you did serve as such, was your service terminated before your conviction on July 3? 5. If your service wasn't terminated before July 3, when did it terminate? 6. If your service wasn't terminated before July 3, did you inform other board of directors members, officers or staffers about your conviction? 7. If you informed them, was your service terminated as a result? 8. If your service was terminated as a result, did you volunteer the termination? 9. If you informed them, and your service wasn't terminated as a result, were you ever instructed by other board of directors members, officers or staffers to do anything other than voluntarily terminate your service? 10. If you were ever instructed by other board of directors members, officers or staffers to do anything other than voluntarily terminate your service, what were you instructed to do? Thank you for your prompt answers, Adam. Please consider my questions and your answers as on the record. As I promised yesterday, I see no need, and don't plan, to identify you in my news report unless you choose to be quoted. Let me know if you do, and label your quoted statements as such. My concern isn't  about your service with the Center, or your life since your conviction, as much as the lapse in managerial judgment by those who supervised your service. As you probably know, you're under no obligation to tell me anything, but I might proceed with my report as the facts determine. David Nelson Salt Lake City

• Toni Palmer Comments- Well, it would seem as though (by reading some ppl's responses here) the answer to end this conflict is a good firm "sweeping under the rug", yet again. We seem to be good at that in Utah. If you can't see it, it didn't happen, right? Let me say in regards to some people who's response has been that this is hearsay and that only a few (named) ppl know what really happened. I'd say to them that even those named individuals are spreading hearsay. The only two ppl that know what really happened are the two men/boys involved in the situation and we've heard from everyone but them. It seems the tide has turned from a feeling of horror at the situation, to a tragic love story gone terribly awry. This is not a television movie or a sappy romance novel, it's real life.  Maybe this truly IS experimenting" gone bad due to a homophobic world, maybe it IS what the charge says it is. I don't know and neither do you. I ask though; Are we so willing to follow a gay brother (just because he's gay too) that we follow him right off the edge of a cliff without question? Not questioning things is surely ingrained in most of us because of the local dominant religion. But certainly most of us have overcome that by merely questioning the Mormon Church’s stand on homosexuality. Have we not? Some would wish to silence discussion on this issue, but I think it's important that we discuss these issues here and even debate back and forth. Even if we don't come up with any "real" answers, All of it makes us THINK. Which, to me, is much preferable to sweeping it under the rug and pretending that everything is "happy happy, joy joy" in MoMo land. Toni P.
• Martin Grygar Comments- It is an absolute shame that the members of this community were not able to hold a civil discussion without the personal attacks that degrade this forum. Furthermore, it is a shame that the moderator felt compelled to use the name of the perpetrator to defend himself from said personal attacks. For once I would like to see someone stand up and be the greater person when faced with pressure. Nothing good can be achieved when the dignity of another human being is not upheld. Having been the lesser person in my past, I feel I can speak with authority on the subject. With highest regard, Martin Grygar
• Dominque Storni to Marilynn Martindale- "To Dominique: "Elitists?” Please read my reply to Chad. I have never treated you in any way that warrants that kind of label."  You are correct, Ms. Martindale. You have always been kind and respectful to me as well as with anyone whom I have seen you interact. My comment wasn't directed at you, personally, but at Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Utah Inc. board of directors and staff who speak with forked tongue. You cannot deny that I have been lied to on several occasions. Let me be specific about one such incident. At a meeting with the center committee discussing the "merger" (I call it “hostile takeover”) by the center of Utah Pride Inc., I was attending to gather facts for an article for the Pillar, which I DID write and which WAS printed I believe in its December 2002 edition. I was promised that the meeting was only a fact-gathering meeting. I also encouraged all present that if there was no fear of what they were doing, that what was taking place was legitimate, and that it was in the best interest of the community, they should allow it to see the light of day. Why, after all, be so secretive if there was indeed nothing to hide? I was promised by everyone present that once facts had been gathered, goals of each organization were determined and a plan was set, public input would be sought before ANY permanent decisions would take effect. As we have all seen, those were empty promises. The “merger” took place quietly, behind closed doors, with no input from the community, and with disdain for honesty and inclusion. I saw the writing on the wall long before the “merger” took place and decided to leave public life. I have, since the day I came out, advocated for a group that, while crying discrimination, discriminates. Perhaps I have burned any and every bridge. Perhaps there is no going back for me. I’m not sure I would want to even if possible. I am convinced I am persona non grata. My crime? Advocating for ALL marginalized people and speaking out against those who marginalize. When I had written my article, I provided it to both center Executive Director Dr. Paula Wolfe and pride directors for review. Pride directors offered advice about wording and suggested I include some points. Dr. Wolfe, on the other hand, nearly completed gutted the content of the article and re-sent me the copy SHE wanted with strict instructions that HER version be printed. After reading Dr. Wolfe's version to many friends and pride directors, I chose to print my original version. I submit that too often, the tail wags the dog. The argument here isn't whether Adam Bass was totally screwed by a homophobic society. I think we all concur; now knowing the facts of the case, that he was railroaded by so-called Christians with skewed morals. My prayers are with him. The argument IS the continuing secrecy of those in control at the highest levels within the gay and lesbian community. (Note my intentional deletion of bisexual and transgender) These people ARE predominantly wealthy and DO exhibit traits of imperialism and elitism. A wise friend recently told me something like, “Dominique, you are ignored and pushed aside because you talk too much. Keep talking, because nothing changes when people like you are silent.” The personal cost has been too high. I also have paid my dues. I don’t believe there is any facet of the gay community I haven’t touched in the past five or six years. I was present and spoke for the transgender community at the grand opening of the center. I have volunteered at most events and with nearly every group within the gay community. Many have opened their arms to me and have been VERY accepting and respectful. However, there have also been a plethora of people who have been equally rude, condescending and exclusionary. Forgive me for being in the closet and attempting to be the penultimate Mormon father and husband while people like Ben Williams, Chad Keller, Kathy Worthington and Becky Moss were valiantly fighting the good fight at great risk and peril of life. Pardon me for not always understanding everyone’s history as I forgive for exclusion and misrepresentation of trans-history. Pardon me for not knowing the personalities and motives of each political faction. Forgive me for being SO vocal for transgender inclusion and respect. Forgive me for allowing myself to be silenced by selfish, controlling individuals whose activism is more about personal gain than that which is for the higher good for all humankind. Forgive me for hiding behind my keyboard and all these damn wires. Forgive my lack of courage to confront you in person. I submit that this strain was never about the actual events. It was and is about dishonesty and exclusion. While crying for repentance unto the people on the hill who hide behind closed doors and their religion, and make back-door deals; our leadership behaves exactly as they do. United we stand. Divided we fall. Discrimination against one, Is discrimination against all. Respectfully, Dominique Storni
• Ben Williams to Dominque Storni -Dominique-Keep swinging away ... I might not always agree with you ... I am a product of my times which can truly be horse blinders ... I may never ever understand your struggle much as a heterosexual will never truly understand mine ... any consolation ... I really don't get lesbianism either but hey I don't have too ... I just have to respect it. I think you provide a valuable service to the "gay" community. (I use the historic term "gay" as my lexiconic word to mean all those who are self-identified homosexuals striving to perpetuate a queer counterculture which includes men, women, those in transition and intersexuals.) Like Diogenes, an ancient Greek philosopher whose quest was to find a single honest man, you are a powerful proponent for your issues. Integrity is the key to all worlds. I believe that you have it. I wish more people in our community did. However, I know in my heart that we are all damaged by being gay in a heterosexual society that considers same-sex love anathema. The hurt of being unloved for who we are is a painful burden for many to bear. My creed is and always will be to "bind up the broken hearted and liberate the captives.” I believe from your letter that it is yours also. As to the surreptitious way decisions effecting the entire gay community are made by the Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Utah Inc., I  agree with you, and fear that the center has become an "institutionalize corporation" more interested in self promotion then receiving any real input from the community. Somewhere along the way, the center began to think that they are the "community" and have the right to make decision for the rest of us. Elitism may be too strong of a word but certainly there is little regard to the general public to whom the center purports to represent. I wouldn't say the center distrusts the community but they certainly don't solicit opinions from it either, nor do they feel compelled to answer inquiries regarding decisions made by the center. The former Gay and Lesbian Community Council of Utah Inc. envisioned a center similar to the Jewish Community Center, a resource center and social drop in place. The Utah Stonewall Center tried to fulfill that vision but was undermined by an unelected board of directors who had no long term connection with the community and no community spirit. The newest incarnation of a gay community center has the appearance of being a professional resume-builder with lots of programs but little community involvement. (For years it was not even wheelchair assessable but, my, weren't the hardwood floors stunning!) I could be wrong and probably am too harsh with that assessment. However, it would be nice to see members of all the gay organizations have some seat on the center board of directors. I am told, but do not know as a fact, that a requirement for being a board member is guaranteeing x amount of money to the center. Looking at their calendar schedule, there appears to be lots going on at the center; so, something good is happening there. It certainly fulfills a niche to some elements of our community especially to the lesbian and youth. I guess what is troublesome to many that I have talked with is the secretive and exclusive manner in which the center conducts its business. How does one attain minutes of meetings, budget expenditures and salary payments? Having said that, I do not wish to disparage the entire board and staff of the center. Perhaps it’s just time for a new executive director. I've heard that nonprofits benefit when there is a reasonable turn over of directors so that the "disease of ownership" does not cloud decisions. I'm sure I may have ticked off many people who may read my response to you, Dominque. My apologies and mea culpas to all who I have offended. Sincerely, Ben Williams Class of '69
• From fmatheson: Army-McCarthy Hearings, June 9, 1954: Joseph Welch: "Until this moment, senator, I think I never really gauged your cruelty or your recklessness.... Let us not assassinate this lad further, senator. You've done enough. Have you no sense of decency, sir? At long last, have you left no sense of decency?"
• David Thometz Comments: Ladies and Gentlemen, I realize that some of you made up your minds about David Nelson long ago, many without ever having met him. I know that the same is true of many opinions about me. These remarks are, therefore, for the rest of you who like to hear both sides of an issue before forming a judgment. I'll offer my refutations in context of Utah Democratic Gay and Lesbian Caucus Chair

  

  David Thometz

  Michael Picardi's post. Please scroll down. I apologize in advance for the length, but there was a lot to answer in Picardi's scorched Earth. "[S]o-called disability" is a rather callous way to refer to someone living with the degenerative effects of osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. It is also completely irrelevant to the discussion at hand and, as such, seems to be a rather shameful ad hominem attack to dismiss or divert attention away from any substantive discussion. As a man with a legally recognized disability yourself, Mr. Picardi, as evidenced by your disabled-parking permit and complaints of joint pain, I would expect significantly less cynicism and a bit more humanity. I should hope that even more are questioning your lack of response now, since your only response seems to be a series of attacks against David Nelson. The issue has never been about the legal ability for      this individual to serve, or even about whether he's a nice guy or the scum of the Earth. I don't know him well enough to pass that sort of judgment, and I really don't care to try to do so anyway. It has been and remains about the WISDOM of your appointment. Yes, it must be approved by the caucus at the state (not county) party convention; but your appointment of a known and convicted forcible sexual abuser of a minor is the real issue, and the effect(s) of that appointment on the caucus, the community and the party. This is a person who, we must presume, through the time of the trial and for several months AFTER his conviction, retained his position as a youth director at the Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Utah Inc. Even after he was asked to resign (ASKED to resign) by the center, and public record of his conviction was discovered, Picardi still chose to appoint him to the caucus leadership with seemingly no regard for either the political or ethical ramifications of such an appointment. This is not a sealed record that has been wrongfully revealed to the world. This is a matter of public record, just as available to Gayle Ruzicka or U.S. Rep. Chris Cannon or the Deseret News to find as it was for David Nelson or the Center to find. The record is readily available on the Internet. It can easily be found directly at the Official State of Utah Sex Offender Registry on the Utah Department of      Corrections website. There is also a link to the registry from the KSL-TV website. Do you really think such a piece of information wouldn't be exploited to its fullest potential by the enemies of GLBT equality? Actually, Picardi was introduced to the caucus in or around February 2000,      when he attended a caucus event at the center, which he had seen advertised in The Pillar. It was an event which David Nelson and I hosted to help GLBT Utahns learn how to get involved in politics and become active in the party of their choice in time for neighborhood precinct caucuses to be held the next month (March 2000). Picardi expressed to us an interest in becoming involved, and we suggested that he attend his neighborhood precinct caucus to try to be elected a delegate. He had so much energy and enthusiasm that we submitted his name to the caucus executive committee to be appointed as a member of the committee. As chair, however, the appointment was mine, not David Nelson's. The committee voted unanimously to appoint Picardi as a committee member, and this was later approved by the caucus itself at the next state convention. As you can see by the dates, this was hardly "over five years ago." If it had been, he would have remembered the Salt Lake City mayor's campaign of Rocky Anderson (1999) quite differently, as seen in later in the paragraph, as well as a few paragraphs down: In addition to rather cheap attacks, there is interesting revisionist history here, and I must say, this must sound to anyone's ears much more like Picardi's hyperbolic words than Nelson's more carefully constructed words. Whether you agree with Nelson or not, one must admit that phrases like "would do ANYTHING to get rid of the caucus," "traitor to the community," "hated the caucus," "only in it for the money" (a direct quote?), "too good for them" (another direct quote?) and the like are hardly consistent with Nelson's public or private statements of the past. I'll take each statement one at a time: Picardi's reference to Nelson telling of "the evils in both the Party and the LGBT community" as well as the reference to the claim that "[t]here are those in the party who would do ANYTHING to get rid of the caucus" seem to be a dual reference to general criticism as well as to an event in the mid-1990s (before Picardi was ever involved) when certain Democratic Party leaders called a meeting with Utah Democratic Gay and Lesbian Caucus leaders. Upset at perceptions that GLBT visibility within the party and demands of the party to support GLBT issues was hurting Democratic candidates in Utah, they demanded -- not requested -- that the caucus drop the word "Democrat" from its name. Nelson and I, as well as then-caucus Chair Michael Aaron took great offense at the demand, and we refused. The caucus had and has every right to claim the title "Democratic", as do all other caucuses within the party. Frank Pignanelli was one of the Democratic leaders who made this demand, but Nelson never to my knowledge labeled him or Rocky Anderson a "traitor to the community." Indeed, Nelson worked very closely with Pignanelli in the early '90s on the state's first hate-crime legislation. Indeed, to my knowledge, Nelson helped write the original hate-crime bill ever considered by the Utah legislature. Pignanelli also sponsored and fought for other legislation. As for the attributed statement that "the State Chair wanted the Gay caucus gone because only then would a Hate Crimes bill pass," I don't recall either of us ever referring to state Democratic Chairwoman Meghan Holbrook by name, but the general concern certainly bore itself out in the 2000 and 2001 legislative sessions, when at least two alternate hate-crime bills, one stripping out all protected categories and one stripping out only sexual orientation, were considered. Nelson and I also worked closely with Anderson on Anderson's 1996 congressional campaign. It was during Anderson's congressional campaign that he promised the GLBT community unconditional support, and even broached the subject of gay marriage against the caucus' recommendations. Nelson and other caucus leaders advised him that it would be an issue that would be too difficult at the time to defend against certain Republican attacks. Despite our advice, Anderson made it a campaign issue anyway, and, predictably, received scathing attacks from Republicans and local media. We once again urged him to drop the issue and focus on issues which would play better to 2nd Congressional District Utahns. Instead, Anderson issued a statement saying that he would, if elected, take a referendum and vote the will of the residents in the district; essentially against equal-marriage rights. In the last weekend of that election, Anderson paid for a television advertisement where he declared: "I'm not going to advocate same-sex marriage in Congress." Anderson lost the race to Republican Merrill Cook. While hardly calling Anderson a "traitor to the community," Nelson and I, as well as some other caucus leaders, nevertheless expressed our disappointment over the backpedaling. Some other caucus leaders became angry with our reaction, and a schism of sorts ensued. In 1999, David Nelson and I, as well as caucus leaders Thom Lundstrom and Kelli Peterson, joined with former center Executive Director Monique Predovich and Salt Lake City Councilmember Deeda Seed and other GLBT leaders in endorsing and campaigning for Jim Bradley for Salt Lake City mayor, angering caucus leaders who still supported Anderson. Our rationale was that Bradley, a former Salt Lake County commissioner (and now a county councilmember), had followed through in 1992 and won employment protections for gays and lesbians on the county level, and deserved our support more than someone who made promises but backed down when the political pressure was on. In a fairly rare move, the caucus membership endorsed both candidates. The claim that Nelson said, "if it was not for Nelson, Rep. David Litvack would never have replaced Loretta Baca" is false. On more than one occasion, Nelson pointed out to Picardi my role, as Litvack's legislative district chair for many years, in helping him get elected. Both Rep. Litvack and his wife Erin have both thanked me for my work in contacting and coordinating delegates and creating signage, logo, brochures and identity pieces for the campaign. I think it's an accurate statement that without my support and that of the caucus, Litvack would have faced a much more difficult battle against a sitting legislator who was seen as being rather solidly supportive of GLBT and other liberal issues in a solidly liberal Democratic district. Aside from charging for my professional graphic-design services (at a substantially discounted rate from other graphic designers, as well as offering a great deal of work pro bono), I have never sought any specific gain or other recognition for work for candidates. We have demanded a rightful seat at the table; nothing more. As far as Nelson's claim that "he, Nelson, had written MAJOR Hate Crimes legislation that no one would sponsor," this is essentially true. The reason no one would sponsor it is because, at the time, there was still a major move to strip sexual orientation and/or all protected categories. Nelson's legislation, based on national models, kept the protected categories in place. As for the ridiculous claim that "the leadership at the center 'hated the caucus, that's why we did not meet there'," this is blatantly false. The caucus had been meeting at the Salt Lake County Commission-Council chambers since the early 1990s, well before the current center opened. This was chosen for many reasons, including centrality of location and proximity to committee members, visibility in government and disabled accessibility among other reasons. I'll go into more detail on this issue in a few paragraphs. The rest, "the people at the center were "only in it for the money"; the Royal Court of the Golden Spike Empire thought the caucus was "too good for them", we were considered snobs; no one but Nelson knew what was good for the LGBT Community; U.S. Rep. Barney Frank would NOT come to Utah for a fundraiser" is ludicrous ad hominem attack. I have never heard these words (or words to that effect) from Nelson, and to my knowledge, they do not express his opinions. They certainly do not express mine. Although if Nelson is, in fact, privy to Rep. Frank's travel itinerary, perhaps he could pull a few strings for us. It is true that Picardi always offered to pay for these lunches, but not because Nelson or myself ever asked. We certainly had enough to pay our own way, and had even planned to pay for Picardi's lunch on several occasions. Picardi always insisted on paying. It's sad and telling that he would even mention such a pettiness. Of course, I was in attendance at these meetings because Nelson and I were trying to prepare him for a position on the caucus executive committee. As I was then chair of the caucus, It's strange that he would question my attendance. The rest is a rather cheap attack. Yeah, these sound like my words, all right. Uh-huh. Of course, these are not my words. My actual response included recounting Anderson's 1996 congressional race and the 1999 mayoral race. It's not as colorful a story as Picardi's, but it's more factual. This is a bizarre ad hominem attack. It is also completely contrived, to the best of my knowledge. I don't know (nor do I care to know) about Nelson's crushes, but I do know that Nelson in fact did apply on three occasions to be the center executive director. He was not selected, but he planned and held several community-outreach meetings there on behalf of the caucus. He also played a part in supporting earlier incarnations of the center, both at its 500 South 900 East location and the 700 South 300 West location, and held many caucus meetings at both locations. Picardi's allegations here are just too bizarre and insubstantial to be taken with any credibility. This, too, is a bizarre ad hominem attack -- especially so considering how Picardi has recently touted his own award bestowed by the county party. That's more than I have ever received, or ever expected to receive. If the county party or any other party had offered a similar award previous to this year, I would have gratefully accepted, but I have never nominated myself for such recognition. It's worth noting here, too, that Picardi announced to the caucus executive committee in late 2001, shortly after being elected chair, that he was going to nominate David Nelson for the Kristen Ries Award in recognition for all that Nelson had done for the GLBT community, and he encouraged the rest of us to do the same. Caucus leader Becky Moss and I sent our nominations of Nelson to the award committee, but we were informed that Picardi never did. For what it's worth, Nelson did receive the 1998 Democratic National Committee Lawrence O'Brien Achievement Award but, to my knowledge, neither sought nor received any awards from state or county parties. This, too, occurred in the summer of 2000 -- the first party convention Picardi had ever attended, and once again, Picardi is deliberately skewing the events. Not only did Nelson campaign for election to serve as a national delegate, he also helped campaign for state Rep. Jackie Biskupski and I as a slate of three openly gay and lesbian candidates. Due largely to his work, we were able to attend the 2000 Democratic National Convention -- the most ever elected in the state's and the party's history. Nelson's explanation of bullet voting was a strategic way the caucus members to get the most for its voting power by voting only for the preferred candidates. Recognizing the value of sending three openly gay and lesbian delegates to represent Utah, caucus Vice Chair Becky Moss graciously took the gavel for chairing the caucus meeting, allowing Nelson and I the opportunity to campaign at other caucuses, as other candidates were rightly doing at the time. In addition, far from Picardi's claim that he did "nothing", Nelson once again, as every year for over a decade before, took responsibility for reserving the caucus room and for organizing signage and delegate coordination. That Picardi would imply otherwise is, at best, ignorant to what really happened, and at worst, a deliberate misrepresentation. It is interesting to hear Picardi try to recount these events, as, to the best of my knowledge, he was present for none of them -- certainly none I attended. As I was the Democratic chair of what was then Utah 27th Representative District, a district which shared common voting precincts with Sen. Suazo's district, I was in attendance at the meetings in question. David Nelson served as the Democratic chair of what was then the Utah 2nd Senatorial District -- the district served by Sen. Pete Suazo. David rightly demanded to have a role in the party's decision of which names to submit to the governor to fill the vacancy left by Sen. Suazo's death. He never to my knowledge "demanded that he be appointed to fill out the Senator's term." He was rightly angry that, despite being elected by constituents of the district to perform this very function, he was essentially shut out of the process for determining the names to be submitted. He had no opposition to the name that was eventually chosen -- Sen. Suazo's wife Alicia -- but he had been denied a rightful seat at the decision table, despite his elected position of senatorial-district chair. Picardi's misrepresentation of these events, time and time again, has no doubt created and contributed to much of the ill-will against Nelson both in the Democratic Party and in the Utah GLBT community. Picardi was named secretary of the caucus at the same time he was appointed to the executive committee. Despite our tradition that any expenditure of money be approved by the committee before it is made, Picardi took it upon himself to compile a mailed message to caucus members, print it and mail it, all without getting approval or following guidelines followed by the caucus for years. There were many inaccuracies in his mailing, including referring to Rep. Judy Buffmire as "Senator" and altering the caucus logo and printed identity. These would have been caught if he had sought approval from the executive committee beforehand. We also would have been able to provide him artwork for the proper caucus logo. The issues here involved the use of the DEMOCRATIC caucus database and other resources to be used by the multi-partisan Unity Utah Inc. The board voted overwhelmingly against this, not as a sleight against Unity, but to protect the naturally partisan interests of the caucus. In 2002, Unity endorsed a handful of Republicans and Green candidates. This was correct and proper to do, but using a shared Democratic caucus database to do so would have been predictably inappropriate. This isn't surprising. Picardi comes off as a nice guy, and Nelson sometimes comes off as cooler and less personable, especially in political affairs. It's also true, I'm sure, that both the center and the state party love the idea that they can turn to a caucus leader who won't question or criticize them in any manner. I'm not surprised that they've embraced Picardi and want to do everything they can to keep him where he is. Is this really something that's necessarily good for the community? Picardi is, after all, a leader who, in the February 2002 issue of the Pillar, told GLBT Utahns that we should accept a watered-down hate-crime bill based on the then-current Texas law. A few months later, the Texas law was replaced, on the grounds that it was unworkable, with one based on the national model touted by Nelson. For all      of his complaints about Nelson and myself, Picardi was leading us in a regressive direction on hate crimes. Criticisms aside, Nelson was right. Further, to dismiss Nelson as being the cause of tension with the Center and the State Democratic Party leaders is disingenuous at best, and it dismisses the many other individuals who have leveled similar criticisms against these organizations, as evidenced by many comments posted to the Dem-UT and GVUNewsTalk Yahoo! Groups as well as letters to the editors of the Deseret News, the Salt Lake Tribune and the Pillar, among other publications. What Picardi is failing to mention here is that we had discussed the issue of moving the caucus meetings during the previous meeting, and the proposal had failed a vote. Picardi was well out of order trying to take a new vote after the meeting had been adjourned, during which time no effective discussion or debate could take place. The vote didn't go the way he wanted, so he called a handful of committee members to take a closed vote after the meeting was adjourned. Imagine the surprise of some committee members when he announced that we were holding the meeting at the center even after the vote had failed at the previous meeting, especially considering that neither Nelson, committee members Becky Moss and Tim Tracy, nor myself had been contacted regarding any new "vote? There were many reasons which influenced our decisions to hold our meetings at the Salt Lake County Government Complex on Sunday mornings during my chairmanship. We did our best to accommodate changing schedules of committee members, and shifted our meeting dates and times accordingly.      We even planned and held committee meetings in committee members' homes when it was more convenient for members with scheduling difficulties. But the primary reason was that the county government had adopted the state’s first GLB-inclusive nondiscrimination laws. It was right for the caucus to      meet there. As the committee had previously voted to meet at the County Complex, it was improper of Picardi to have moved the meetings without a proper vote of the committee to change the venue.Another issue that arose at this same meeting involved several messages that had been deleted from the caucus' Yahoo! Inc. group archive. In the December 2000 meeting, Picardi denied deleting them and expressed great anger at being so accused, going so far as to suggest that perhaps Nelson or I had deleted them instead to somehow frame him.Oddly, at the January 2001 meeting, he confessed that he had, in fact, deleted them, but claimed he did it because he was worried that they might embarrass the caucus if they remained. Anyone searching the archives of the group will still see several entries missing from late 2000. Speaking for myself, I resigned from the caucus executive committee largely because it became clear that Picardi was not willing to play by rules of honesty or order. If it had been only disagreement over his policies or philosophies, that might have been a different matter. It's interesting to hear him accuse Nelson of being in it for himself. Of course, Picardi hasn't been around to see or hear all of what David Nelson has done for the community in his more than 23 years of service. If it weren't for Nelson, not only would Picardi not be chair of the caucus, there literally wouldn't be a caucus for him to chair. Since resigning from the caucus, Nelson has built GayVoteUtah.com into a major resource for online discussion and networking. He co-founded the social group qVinum, a GLBT wine-tasting club which has already held successful fund raising events for local GLBT organizations, most notably the Salt Lake Men's Choir. And he has founded and built the state chapter of Pink Pistols into the world’s largest group of GLBT Second Amendment activists. It's fairly clear that Picardi isn't willing to acknowledge Nelson's commitment to the community, and will go to any lengths, especially unsubstantiated and ad hominem character assassination, to ignore his contributions. To bring this long rebuttal back to its point, Nelson (and several others, myself included) are concerned about the appointment of the person who was convicted of forcible sexual abuse on a minor, to the executive committee of a high-profile GLBT political organization such as Utah Stonewall Democrats (Utah Democratic Gay and Lesbian Caucus). Rather than simply answer these concerns, Picardi instead launched a long and arguably slanderous stream of attacks against the messenger. It's interesting that, of all people, and in light of this stream of attacks, Picardi should accuse Nelson of having a vendetta. Remind me again, which one is in it for himself? or what it's worth, it should also be noted that the caucus was and has been a charter group member of the National Stonewall Democrats since as far back as 1994, before NSD was founded, and long before Michael Picardi changed the caucus      name. Ironically, Nelson coordinated the NSD network of local chapters and      advised the national group while it formed it's bylaws.
• Jerry Buie I have been trying to post this and keep getting rejected so I hope I have

  

  Jerry Buie

  figured this process out and here is the message. Boys, Boys, Boys Until recently I have found this e-mail list helpful. I found that useful, entertaining and insightful information was generously offered through this list. As a therapist in the community I refer people to these posting that I offer freely to let them know of the good things happening in Utah. Apparently this has come to an end as we attempt to smear and divide each other. As a Sex Offender Provider, I can assure you that many employers in this state have offenders working in their businesses, living next door and passing sacrament. Let's not be foolish. I might also add that many men who have been park cruising and arrested historically have been on sex offender registries (discontinued in Utah). There has been considerable speculation about this incident. Without the facts, it has become the Stonewall Enquire version that has done nothing but ignite suspicions and accusations that are not necessary for what we hope to accomplish as a community. Why do we fear Cannon and Ruzicka when we do much more effectively to each other what they hope to do to us? Bottom Line: The Center, This E mail list, Picardi and Nelson and everyone who has responded to this listing have so much to offer to each other. Many of us have been touched by these resources for the better. My fear is the division this smear attack is now having. Who needs Ruzicka when we have each other to destroy the work of many years and many efforts? Can we just      get back to work? If we can't play nice on this list it would be more helpful to not be a part of it. As a community we need to learn to play together and honor all our voices, that's what will prevail when its all said and done. Love Jerry Buie

• David Nelson-I'm confused here, Jerry. After telling me to remove from GVUNewsTalk Yahoo! Inc. group subscription your JBuie1465@aol.com address almost three  months ago, and identify the address as among those that I don't contact, you request resubscription today with your  jerry.buie@attbi.com address; hardly evidence of finding this  group "helpful ... useful, entertaining and insightful." I'm also surprised that, especially as a sex-offender care  provider, your remedy for what many have described here as the  troublesome political appointment of a person who was  convicted of 2nd degree felonious forcible sexual abuse of a  male child would be to hush up the dialogue and not talk about  it. Particularly troubling is your willingness to show more concern for the abuser than the abused. I remain unconvinced that discussing how our political groups  negotiate this matter is wrong. More attention, not less, is what will help us accommodate this matter correctly. More discussion,  not less; more questions, not less. David Nelson
• MARTIN GRYGAR] David, I fail to see the relevance of notifying us of which email address Jerry prefers to use to subscribe to this group. I would hope that, moving forward, you would respect the privacy of the members of this group more carefully; poor form, my friend. That said, after reading Jerry's post, I did not feel that he was trying to make any statement about the victim's rights or what subjects should be discussed in your forum. Let us be clear here. The statement was about mudslinging and personal attacks that serve no purpose but to degrade our community. Many of those attacks were on you. I hope that you can see how this type of libelous dialogue not only fails to further our cause but also serves to divide our community. I second Jerry's post and challenge all members of your forum to make it into a positive place where issues can be discussed in a manner that is productive and informative. Respectfully, Martin Grygar
• TONI PALMER Hmmm ... I wasn't aware I was a "Boy" ... guess I better inform my parents, huh? That would explain why womyn freak out when I go into the bathroom. Hmmm ... and I thought it was just a Butch Dyke thing. LOL
• KIRT DANSIE- I personally don't want to continue hashing out the sex offender issue -- because it seems to be a side issue to a bigger problem I certainly am unaware of in the community. It seems there are a lot of divisions and opinions that clash here, but what is most important is that we respect the divisions and differing opinions. What I think should happen is that we take this opportunity to make some significant changes. Maybe the community should be organized like a government/business-type blend. We need a diverse set of leaders (business, political, financial, researchers, fund raisers, grant writers, clinicians, older, younger, wiser) who really try to represent the diversity we have within our sub-culture. We don't need elitists but inclusionists. Perhaps positions should be elected within our community for a set term of "office" to prevent corruptions, make sure we have true commitments that represent OUR interests, etc., and when they don't, we elect those who can do the work WE want. I fully admit that my intentions to be involved have not been met with action on my part. As an outsider who has lived away from Utah for the past four years, I continually hear disappointment from others who have tried to get involved -- and this creates an uneasiness in my wanting to get involved. I personally would not want to be part of any organizations that seem "broken" and/or corrupted. Obviously, the whole sex-offender thing sparked a lot of dissent within the ranks, which saddens me. We can use this experience, learn from it, make changes and move on to a positive direction and future, OR we can remain the same, stuck in the patterns and "comfortable" with the repetition compulsion (sorry, I'm Freudian). Dysfunctional families (e.g., the GBLTQ community as I see it) are dysfunctional for a reason -- they "work" for everyone involved by having us stay in roles that we create with each other."Power corrupts. Absolute power corrupts absolutely." Thanks for reading, Kirk Dansie
• KEVIN WARREN AKA “RUADHAN O’SHERIDAN  Quoting jerry. Buie  “I have been trying to post this and keep getting rejected so I hope I have figured this process out and here is the message. Boys, Boys, Boys” Great start! Not only do you leave out half of the community, but you are condescending, to boot! “ Until recently I have found this e-mail list helpful. I found that  useful, entertaining and insightful information was generously offered  through this list. As a therapist in the community I refer people to these posting that I offer freely to let them know of the good things > happening in Utah.” I am sorry your tastes for information have changed. I have found that this list has become even more important and relevant during the last couple of weeks of discussion topics. “Apparently this has come to an end as we attempt to smear and divide each other.” Discussion of a very real concern to LGBT people and our political voice is a smear campaign? If you want to look at a smear campaign, I suggest you look at Michael Picardi's oh so fragrant posting of love and light regarding David Nelson. “As a Sex Offender Provider, I can assure you that many employers in this state have offenders working in their businesses, living next door and passing sacrament. Let's not be foolish. I might also add that many men who have been park cruising and arrested historically have been on sex offender registries (discontinued in Utah). There has been considerable speculation about this incident. Without the facts, it has become the Stonewall Enquire version that has done nothing but ignite suspicions and accusations that are not necessary for what we hope to accomplish as a  community. Why do we fear Cannon and Ruzicka when we do much more  effectively to each other what they hope to do to us?” Obviously you have not been following very well. The discussion is about the wisdom (or apparent lack of it) of appointing a convicted felon (convicted of FORCIBLE sexual abuse of a minor) to a highly visible public position of the Utah Democratic Gay and Lesbian Caucus and the damage that could publicly do to the caucus, possible Democratic candidates who might benefit from LGBT support, and to the political will, voice and integrity of the LGBT community as a whole in the state. Does this clear anything up for you? “ Bottom Line: The Center, This E mail list, Picardi and Nelson and  everyone who has responded to this listing have so much to offer to each other. Many of us have been touched by these resources for the better. My fear is the division this smear attack is now having. Who needs Ruzicka when we have each other to destroy the work of many years and many efforts? Can we just get back to work? Let me get the rug while you push that BIG broom there. You’re sure it won’t leave a noticeable lump when I put the rug back down, now?  If we can't play nice on this list it would be more helpful to not be a  part of it. As a community we need to learn to play together and honor  all our voices, that's what will prevail when its all said and done. Love Jerry Buie ‘  Perhaps you should learn to take your own flowery advice and learn something about honoring all our voices. Please pay special attention to the ones who have differing opinions from yours, strong emotions (including righteous indignation or angry disbelief), and particularly those who like to expose those roaches under the rug. Oh yeah, there are GIRLS on this list, too. Can you hear them? Sounds like there is some work to be done before we all learn to play together. It would be a great beginning if all the ostriches pulled their heads out of the sandbox before we start to play in it. Kiss Noise, Ruadhan O'Sheridan
• Toni Palmer Comments to Kevin Warren aka “Ruadhan O’Sheridan  Thanks for watching out for the grrls, Ru.  It's honestly appreciated.
• Jerrie Buie Comments-Let me respond with an apology. In my posting, I started with the comment "Boys, Boys, Boys." This was in reference to DAVID and MICHAEL, and the in-fighting between them and not meant towards the list. It was not to send a message of not including the women on the posting. As far as David suggesting that I was not a member of this group until recently, I sent a message regarding that confusion that he has not posted. I changed email carriers from AOL to ATTBI and have always gotten these messages. Jerry Buie

2003 Craig Miller to Ben Williams Hi, Ben, Attached is my list of recipients and contact information.  I hadn't been contacted for years, myself, but last year Chad organized the awards and asked me to handle nominations and voting.  I think previous to this, nominations were generated only by the past recipients, not the general public.  Just before I got started with it last year a whole mess erupted that I never quite understood.  The plaque that had all the recipients' names on it in the Center disappeared and the rest of us had a hard time figuring out who all the recipients were and what year they got their awards. I think I pieced it all together, but you wouldn't believe how hard that was.  I called some of the recipients who couldn't even remember what year they, themselves, received it!  There were a few people I couldn't find.  I remember trying to telephone you but never did get through.  I also remember several of the people I talked to said they had never been contacted before. Email is really the easiest way to tally the votes but I made phone calls to the rest and even hand delivered a packet to Kim Russo's house.  I would certainly appreciate any contact information you could provide me.  Extend apologies to anyone who missed out last year, but let's get them involved this year and get solid contact information.  I'd like to have email, home addresses and telephone numbers.  I've checked old Pride Guides and there is quite a variety of wording about the criteria but this seems to be the most often repeated: The Dr. Kristen Ries Award was established to recognize outstanding service to the greater gay and lesbian community.  It was first presented to Dr. Kristen Ries for her humanitarian efforts in dealing with the AIDS crisis and the community service award was afterwards named in her honor.  The Kristen Ries Community Service Award has been given annually since 1987.  Recipients have all in their own unique ways demonstrated a long time commitment of service to building and supporting the GLBT community.  They are very much positive role models and like Dr. Kristen Ries "exemplify everything that the award has stood for: compassion, leadership and courage." Just for the record, the Award is organized by the Pride Committee but the selection of the Award is made by a vote of the past Award recipients. It is presented during Pride Week.  This year the Award will be given at the Grand Marshall reception and the recipient will be invited on stage for public recognition on Pride Day.  Last year the Pride Committee almost did away with the award.  They were responding to rumors that the award process had been "tainted" in previous years, but a few of us argued that it needed to continue.  Rumors will always circulate, regardless.  I'm working to bring better visibility to the award this year.  I hope this clears up any confusion.  If you have other concerns or questions, please let me know.  Craig. Chad Keller  to Ben Williams- ’Ask Becky [Moss], as she knows the location of the two plaques....(lol) I’lll send the ones you need today. From Ben Williams to Craig Miller-I got an email today saying that the perpetual Reis Award plaque has been located and that I could go and get it. That's all I know right now.  Best Regards Ben.  From Craig Miller to Ben Williams- Great! Where in the world was it?! Or who had it is the pertinent question. Actually there should be two of them floating around out there.  We had a new one made last year that we can't find.....  Craig”

 2003 Ben Williams to Bruce Harmon- How would you feel about nominating Chad for a Kristen Ries Award?

• Bruce Harmon to Ben Williams- That’s an interesting thought, I’m not sure it would ever fly but I would be willing to do it. Chad has been involved in numerous things, unfortunately his drinking problem has caused him some major difficulties. He would be the closest thing I have to a "son" in the community; someone who idolized me and wanted to be like me, so that would be nice I guess. I strongly feel like it is David      Nelsons turn to win the award though. He has given so much through the years, we need to be recognize him for  his efforts.
• Ben Williams TO Bruce Harmon - Amen.. I nominated David Nelson in 1999 and took lots of shit for it.  He truly deserves it.. and as to Chad Keller, if we never acknowledged all the creative Gays who have an addictive personality no one would get recognized. I know the Ries should be a role model though. However I have to look at his deeds and service and his heart. Hope all is well with you...I took this project on myself to contact past recipients so I will probably be in the dog house with Pride, Oh well. 
• Bruce Harmon to Ben Williams: Ben: From what I hear about Pride, and the takeover by the Center, I’m glad you have taken over the job of contacting past recipients. At least I know that things will be handled fairly and everyone will be contacted. By the way, who was last years recipient? I’m not sure we ever heard. Bruce Harmon .
• Ben Williams to Bruce Harmon -Kevin Hillman 2002 recipient Thanks for your confidence-Ben

 2003 BEN Williams  TO Craig Miller- Craig I wrote this for 1998 Pride Guide- THE KRISTEN RIES COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD The first Pride Day community service award was created by Donny Eastepp, Emperor XII of the Royal Court of the Golden Spike Empire while serving as Gay Pride Day Chair in 1987.  The award was established torecognized outstanding service to the Gay and Lesbian Community. It was presented to Dr. Kristen Ries for her humanitarian efforts in dealing with the AIDS crisis at Holy Cross Hospital.  Dr. Ries was the first Utah physician to serve the AIDS community and the award was afterwards named in her honor.  The 2nd recipient of the Kristen Ries Award was Rev. Bruce Barton pastor of the Resurrection Metropolitan Community Church of Salt Lake City. Rev. Barton was recognized for his ministry to the entire Gay and Lesbian Community of Utah, not just his church. In 1989 the 3rd honor was given to KUTV Channel Two. The choice was controversial since many felt the award should be given only to members of the Gay and Lesbian Community. However the Pride Day Committee felt that KUTV’s contributions in bringing the AIDS Quilt to the Salt Palace merited recognition. Afterwards however, the Gay and Lesbian Community Council of Utah voted to have the award given to individuals or organizations which represent the Gay community. The first award of the 1990’s was given to community activist Chuck Whyte. He received the 4th award for his annual Unity Show and for helping to establish a  food bank for the Salt Lake AIDS Foundation.  In 1991, the Kristen Ries Award was offered to three individuals, Nikki Boyer, Becky Moss, and Ben Williams. Boyer was honored for her 20 years of Community Service. Moss was recognized for hosting Concerning Gays and Lesbians" on KRCL FM91 since 1983. Williams was acknowledged for creating a summer retreat, Beyond Stonewall and for building community organizations.  The 6th Kristen Ries  Award was presented to the College of Monarchs of the Royal Court of the Golden Spike Empire and Craig Miller in 1992. Miller was recognized  for serving as first director of the Utah Stonewall Center and the Royal Court’s Monarchs for their charitable contributions to the Gay and straight communities since 1975.  After some concerns over the selection process of recipients for the award, in 1993, Pride Day Co-Chair, Kevin Hillman established the procedure for choosing recipients which is still followed. Hillman established an award committee made up of past recipients. This committee chose the recipients rather than Gay Pride Day members doing the selecting. Nominations of candidates for the award however was and still is open to anyone from the Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual Community.  Ben Barr, Val Mansfield, and Kathy Worthington were honored in 1993 under this new procedure. Barr was honored as an AIDS educator and executor director of  the Utah AIDS Foundation. Mansfield a long time Gay Activist and artist was acknowledged for his Outreach Program. Worthington was honored as founder of the Women's Community News and her service to the Utah Stonewall Center.  The 8th Kristen Ries Award was presented to Kim Russo for her AIDS education outreach and service to the Gay and Lesbian Community. The following year, 1995, Bruce Harmon, Emperor XV of RCGSE, was bestowed the Kristen Ries Award for his long term charitable service and for his efforts with establishing the annual Gay Pride Day Parade. Harmon joined his partner Rev. Bruce Barton as honorees.  In 1996 the 10th Kristen Ries Award was shared by Clariss Cartier Empress XI of the RCGSE aka Doug Tollstrup and Charlene Orchard. Orchard was honored as co-chairwoman of the Utah Human Rights Coalition, and Tollstrup, was honored for raising money for charity under the name Clariss Cartier.  In the 11th year of  award, it was presented to four individuals, Barb Barnhart, Reverend Kelly Byrnes, Jeff Freedman, and Maggie Snyder PA-C. Barnhart was distinguished as an AIDS Activist, Rev. Byrnes as pastor of Bridgerland Metropolitan Community Church, Freeman, Emperor XVII of the RCGSE for charity work, and Snyder for her devotion to the care of People With AIDS. Barnhart, partner of past recipient, Kim Russo, passed away later in the year. Last year, the 12th Kristen Ries Award was presented to LaDonna Moore, former executive director of the Utah AIDS Foundation.  The Kristen Ries Community Service Award Recipients while seemingly diverse have the commonality of having given time, service, and commitment to the Gay and Lesbian Community. They are positive role models and like Dr. Kristen Ries “exemplified everything that the award has stood for: compassion, leadership, and courage.” Hopes this helps and I will send you all the email addresses of recipients I have. Ben

• Craig Miller to Ben Williams “Ben, Thanks for all your help. And thanks especially for the article.  That really helped.  I have the 98 Pride Guide and didn't see this article  in it.  Maybe it was printed in the Pillar that year.  Anyway, it helps a lot.   Below are the names and addresses I have.  Some of this information may be outdated and some of them may not have email addresses. Nikki lives nearby and I can drop it off at her house.....  I forget who I contacted for the College of Monarchs last year but they did a group vote and got back to me with the result.  If you know who to contact this year that would be a big help.  I'm working on the Living Traditions Festival  this week, so I'm a little out of control trying to focus on other things. This is getting to be a busy time of year! Thanks again, Craig

2003 Ben Williams TO Becky Moss- As former recipients or representatives of organizations that are recipients you have the privilege and obligation to vote for the 2003 Kristen Ries Award recipient, from nominees submitted to Craig Miller. Craig will present to us after May 22 the names of all persons who have been submitted and their lists of contributions whereon we can make an informed decision who best exemplifies the award we have been all honored with.  It has been in the past that a nominee must have at least five years of service to the community and that service must be altruistic in nature. Being involved in inter-organizational community building was also a requirement. We also need your help in contacting the following individuals. If you have current email addresses or phone numbers it would really help Craig out.  Nikki Boyer, Kim Russo, LaDonna Moore. Charlene Orchard- Sincerely Ben Williams Utah Stonewall Historical Society

2003 INTRODUCING SALT LAKE COUPLES Salt Lake Couples is a social group for committed GLBT couples of all ages. We are NOT a partner-swapping sex club.  Our social group has three purposes: To build and strengthen our relationships with our partners. To provide a social network with other same-sex couples. To be examples and role models to the world that long-term, committed same-sex couples do exist. Salt Lake Couples meets every other Saturday evening for a social  event.  For more information about our socials, visit our website

2003 MARK SWANSON to BEN WILLIAMS Assimilation: Gays & Lesbians into Mainstream

Mark Swanson

Society   Should Gays and Lesbians Assimilate and conform into One Mainstream Society? This is a vital question we must ask ourselves as individuals and whether we will have a Gay & Lesbian Community at all within the next 20-? years from now. There is a great debate happening within our Community and Communities throughout the world about the Assimilation of Gays and Lesbians into mainstream America and other countries.    Across this nation and the world Gays and Lesbians are asking for there equal rights under the laws of there Countries. Slowly, overtime these laws are being passed and our equality is being secured through legislation. But, through this legislation will we loose ourselves and uniqueness as a people? Will we become so homologized that we will look and sound like everyone else? Will we become Borg like? Dull, plain, without any creativity or personality?   There are many in our Gay and Lesbian Community that would rejoice becoming assimilated into one society. They, want us to forget about our past ghetto history and heritage, our struggles and sacrifices, no longer deal with our Gay or Lesbian bars or the bar scene in general, drag queens, drama of the flaming gay queens and butch lesbians. Should we as Gays and Lesbians be concerned about our Gay History and our Culture?  Will we as people let others rewrite our Gay and Lesbian history , or change it according to there liking, and even destroy it because they feel no need save it all?    Why, are so many Gays and Lesbians so ashamed of our past and present history that they have total disrespect for those Gay men and Lesbian women who sacrificed there lives and livelihood for where we are today. When it comes to being Gay and Lesbian we are made up from all societies, countries, colors, races, and cultures. As a people, we are a very unique diverse group of men and women which consists of society into itself. Gays and Lesbians do blend into the mainstream society. So many people would never know any of us were Gay or Lesbian unless they asked about our personal and private lives.   At this point, in our lives now and the world we live in today. We still have to contend with discrimination when it comes to our careers, housing, hate from others, and still create the type of home life we would like live with the laws we have today.   As a People and Community we need to decide this for ourselves on becoming Assimilated or Not. But, particular the younger generation and youth today who will be our next generation of leaders. For, these Gay and Lesbian Leaders of tomorrow will ultimately decide whether our past and present history, culture, and Gay & Lesbian Community will survive the 21st Century.  **Just a note regarding my column, I will be using Gay and Lesbian and no longer using GLBT or any other  acronym when speaking about our Community. Gay and Lesbian will be all inclusive of what makes up the Gay & Lesbian Community today. Mark Swonson                                                

Samantha Harman & Cody McCook

2004 WEDNESDAY Tempest in a T-shirt: Students bounced over logos Hillcrest High School students Samantha Harman and Cody McCook wear the T-shirts -- off campus -- that got McCook suspended. About 25 teens protested the school's actions Tuesday morning. (Danny Chan La/The Salt Lake Tribune) By Linda Fantin The Salt Lake Tribune MIDVALE -- Hillcrest High student Cody McCook is no Carson Kressley, the "Queer Eye for the Straight Guy" star who, as a kid, used to sit on the playground and mentally mix and match outfits on his classmates. Then again, Kressley probably never got kicked out of school for his fashion sense. Since May 6, Hillcrest officials have suspended McCook twice and booted at least three other students for refusing to cover up or change out of T-shirts with the anti-smoking message, "Queers Kick Ash." And not because the logo was lime green. School officials claim the shirt violates Hillcrest's dress code, which prohibits, among other things, clothing that is vulgar or sexually suggestive, or "items which bear advertising, promotions and likeness of tobacco." The pun "kick ash" was deemed unsuitable, as was the word "queer." Principal Linda Sandstrom says the label is still seen by some as a slur and could target students for harassment. Although Hillcrest's Gay-Straight Alliance is not directing the anti-tobacco campaign -- the nonprofit Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgender Community Center of Utah is -- Sandstrom said the school club could be disbanded if some of its members insist on being "disruptive." About 25 teens demonstrated near the school Tuesday morning, donning signs that read "Homophobia is so gay," and "Queer is nothing to fear." "This is school," Sandstrom said. "We're trying to help kids learn what's appropriate." According to the American Civil Liberties Union, educators are the ones in need of a few lessons -- on the U.S. Constitution. Citing free speech protections, ACLU attorney Margaret Plane called the school's response unlawful and requested in writing that the suspensions be reversed and removed from student records, and that administrators stop threatening the Gay-Straight Alliance. There is nothing lewd, vulgar or obscene about advertising one's sexual orientation, Plane wrote to school and Jordan District officials, and the word "queer," while once derogatory, is now considered a positive term of self-identification. As evidence, she points to the Bravo "Queer Eye" makeover show and the existence of queer studies programs at the University of Utah and elsewhere. "Students have a right to political speech or expression, including expression of sexual orientation," Plane wrote. As for the image of a stubbed out cigarette, it is not being used to promote smoking but to curb it. In fact, funding for the gay-oriented anti-smoking campaign comes from the state health department, part of Utah's $30 million a year share of the national legal settlement with tobacco companies. The need for a gay-themed campaign is backed by the Centers for Disease Control, which reports that nearly 60 percent of gay adults ages 18 to 24 smoke compared with 35 percent of their straight peers. Melinda Maureen, director of youth programs for the GLBT Community Center, said the shirts were created by a teen task force and given to students from several schools, including Murray, West Jordan, Hunter, Hillcrest and Copper Hills high schools. "Hillcrest is the only one with a problem," Maureen said. As for McCook, the 17-year-old isn't buying his school's rationale, especially concerns about student safety. He says gay students are repeatedly harassed at Hillcrest -- earlier this year McCook's ceramics locker was vandalized and plastered with anti-gay epithets -- only to be told by administrators that the students "bring it on themselves." While several Hillcrest students said statements of sexuality don't belong at school, they agreed that there is a double standard. Sheena Steedman, 16, said straight males are allowed to sport T- shirts with women in swimsuits. Nor has the school cracked down on girls who wear shirts advertising "I love Mormon boys." Jennifer Brown said Hillcrest has a reputation for being radical, and she's had enough. "We have to put up with a lot of crap because people are always trying to make a statement," the 17-year- old said. "People shouldn't go around flaunting their sexuality no matter what it is."

2005 [UVSCGSA] Activity for 5/14/05  We will be joining GLYA and FHE Family this Saturday for an activity in Salt Lake.  Come join us hope to see you all there. Since

Aaron [Cloward] will be out of town for work and won't be able to plan/host the GLYA activity, Daniel Holsinger (founder of the Family Home Evening group) will be the host for this activity.  Here is the info: Movie Night @ Belvedere Party Room 29 South State, Salt Lake City May 14, 2005 - 7:00pm Bring your favorite movie, food, snacks, etc. to the Belvedere Party Room for a movie night! The Party Room boasts a HUGE screen TV, two huge comfy couches, a large kitchen area and plenty of floor space  for blankets and pillows. FINDING IT: The Belvedere is an apartment building directly east of ZCMI Center mall and directly south of the old Hansen Planetarium. Walk in to the building through two sets of double doors.  Once you're in the lobby turn left and walk down a very small hallway and you'll walk right into the Party Room.

2006 Utah GLBT Business Guild Presents Its First Annual Commitment Expo!  Call for Participation Friday, May 12, 2006 • 6:00pm-9:00pm, Hotel Monaco Happy Hour 6:00pm-7:00pm • Presentations 7:00pm-8:00pm • Networking with Vendors 8:00pm-9:00pm Cash bar and light hors d’oeuvre provided by Hotel Monaco Sponsored by Hotel Monaco Co-sponsored by the GLBT Community Center of Utah • Equality Utah • Washington Mutual The Pillar Magazine • the UPS Store • NetWORLD.com • Mysyte.com • DJ Pauly • SL Metro Special

thanks to Ken Lee of Hotel Monaco  Current Vendor Participation I an C. Mitchell L.M.T. | Mary Elizabeth Williamson , Dressed for the Times [custom apparel specializing in period reproductions] Under the Linden’s Bed and Breakfast | Equality Utah | the GLBT Community Center of Utah | NetWORLD.com | The Pillar Magazine | The UPS Store www.utahglbtbusinessguild.org  Questions or additional info?  Contact Karl Bennion , or Rachel Langton ,

2010 Pygmalion Theatre Company: Sordid Lives Thursday May 13 - Saturday May 29 By Rob Tennant Salt Lake City Weekly In 2008, Pygmalion Theatre Company put on Sordid Lives, Del Shores’ 1996 play that spawned both a 2000 independent film and a 2008 television series on the Logo cable network. The tagline to the play was “A dark comedy about white trash,” and it didn’t disappoint. Set in a small Texas town and full of drinkin’, gunplay and ambivalent attitudes toward homosexuality, the production consistently hit the sweet spot between camp and a sweet, sincere sentimentality. It’s no wonder that the show is back by popular demand for PYG’s 2010 season. Helmed once again by director Fran Pyrun, Sordid Lives tells the story of the family of recently deceased matriarch Peggy and their preparations for her funeral in spite of their own secrets and prejudices, and the, well, sordid circumstances of Peggy’s demise. Her death involved a seedy motel room and a pair of mislaid artificial legs not her own, facts that her family would prefer not become public. Just as they would prefer that their long-institutionalized flamboyant Brother Boy (

Michael Canham

Michael Canham, pictured) remain hidden away. And there’s the closeted gay son in Hollywood. Throw in some broad lower-class rural Southern stereotypes and some Thelma & Louise references, and you get a hilarious, pitch-perfect show that never forgets to humanize the caricatured characters it’s exploiting. There are also some good songs. There will be laughing and crying—perhaps both by you. Pygmalion Theatre Company: Sordid Lives @ Rose Wagner Center Black Box Theatre, 138 W. 300 South, 801-355-ARTS, May 13-29, $20. PygmalionProductions.org

2010 From: Valerie Larabee  Subject: More Voting Needed - Round 2 - Please Vote by Friday, May 14 at 5PM Dear Members of the 2010 Dr. Kristen Ries Community Service Award Selection Committee, According to our published guidelines for selecting this prestigious award (attached), we have not reached a clear winner from our first round of voting.  The top three nominees from the first round of voting were Rep.

Christine Johnson

Christine Johnson, Donald Steward (Ruby Ridge) and Mark Swonson with 23 of you submitting your vote.  Adding more complexity to our process, Rep. Johnson has been selected (Note: she has not been notified) as the recipient of the 2010 Pete Suazo Political Action Award (the other prestigious award given annually at the Utah Pride Festival Grand Marshal Reception). This award is chosen annually by the Board Chairs of 5 organizations (Equality Utah, Utah Pride Center, Stonewall Democrats, Log Cabin Republicans and the Utah Human Rights Campaign Steering Committee).We would like to suggest a course of action that includes conducting a second round of voting for the Dr. Kristen Ries Community Service Award that lists only Donald Steward and Mark Swonson as nominees. Rep Johnson, as an elected official, will instead receive the Pete Suazo Political Action Award that honors the work of the late

Donald Steward

senator and clearly represents the leadership and passion that Christine has brought to her role in government as well as our community. Note: Only elected officials are nominated for the Pete Suazo Award. If you agree, please cast your vote for one nominee – either Donald Steward or Mark Swonson by replying to this email by Friday, May 14th at 5PM.  If you disagree, and want to have Rep Johnson considered this award too, please feel free to cast your vote for either of the three nominees Donald, Mark or Christine. Thank you in advance for your flexibility and quick response!  Please feel free to call if you have questions.  Valerie

Dr. Kristen Ries Community Service Award 2010 Nominee Info – Second Round Nominees

Mark Swonson Nominated by: Lucia Malin Mark Swonson is one of those behind the scene guys who is everywhere. Mark is at every event, volunteering his

Mark Swonson

time, manning a booth, selling tickets, always contributing to make LBGT events a success. He never seems to say no. I can’t imagine the number of hours he dedicates to various organizations but it’s a lot. The community needs leaders but it also needs the pack mules who steadfastly plod along and provide the elbow grease it takes to get the job done. He uses Facebook to great advantage and constantly disseminates information and publicity for events. If just a few other community members would show half as much dedication to taking on the unglamorous tasks that need to get done, imagine how much work could get done! Donald Steward (aka Ruby Ridge)Nominated by: Ben Williams Donald Steward (aka Ruby Ridge) has been an active member of the community for 25 years and personified the meaning of community service. Few in this community have given their time, energy, and money as unselfishly as Donald. Among his contributions to our community are: · One of the founders of Horizon House for People With AIDS · One of the founders and organizers of Camp Pinecliff for People With AIDS and their families· One of the founding member the Cybersluts- a fundraising group that raises thousands of dollars for charity · Chair of the Utah Pride Parade for 5 years or more  Organizer of 3rd Friday Bingo Fundraiser which has raised tens of thousands of dollars for non-profits. Donald Steward is long over due to be recognized as a Dr. Kristen Ries Award recipient, an award that epitomizes unselfish service to building and nurturing our Queer Community. Christine Johnson Nominated by: Lucia Malin Christine Johnson has given her all to represent the LBGT community at the legislature. She fearlessly initiated conversations and successfully created liaisons with very unlikely old, white, male, LDS legislators - those whom we most need to be on our side. I believe we need activists who push back at the system and refuse to go along such as Troy, but we also need leaders who work to change the system from within. This is a much harder task because so many don't recognize this as an appropriate political strategy. Making alliances though negotiation necessitates compromise. Walking on egg shells comes to mind as to how one ha s to behave when attempting system change from within. Christine has weathered attacks from all sides but remains steadfast in her convictions that it is possible to improve the attitudes of many Utahns who are uneducated about the realities of the lives of LBGT people. It could not have been fun to create these pathways with the likes of Howard Stephensen and then get lambasted by the very people she was working for. If you make people mad at both ends of political spectrum, that means you are doing something right. Christine has exhibited the utmost in personal sacrifice by agreeing to carry a baby for a gay couple who could not otherwise have a child. I was shocked when I first read about this in the Tribune. But as I have seen Christine so matters of factly proceed with her life in a totally open way that I only have admiration for her integrity, courage and resolve. I saw her exhausted and discouraged at the end to the 2010 legislative session, but never beaten down. She is even now, in her last trimester, working hard to make sure her vacated seat is filled by a dedicated progressive who will vocally support LBGT issues.

2016  Val Mansfield's family donated $3,500 in his memory, and the Queer Utah Aquatic Club board dedicated the fund to providing financial support to swimmers to attend IGLA. Members of the board have contributed an additional $1,400 to build the fund for the future. We also received a generous $250 donation from Bill Barnette at the spring BBQ putting us over the $5000 mark!

2018  Salt Lake Tribune ‘Queer Prom’ gives Utah teens a space where they can express their true selves Logan • The second annual alternative prom in Logan designed to make LGBTQ students feel comfortable was organized by teenagers this time and was called “Queer Prom.” Oliver Wesley, the son of Logan Pride Foundation President

Rikki Wheatley-Boxx

Rikki Wheatley-Boxx, was on the planning committee for this year’s prom, which was held Saturday. He said there’s a push among younger generations to reclaim the word “queer.” “It’s something my parents’ generation grew up with as an insult,” Wesley said. “Now, we see it as something beautiful and to be proud of.” Wesley said queer also is a more inclusive term, because it includes anyone who identifies as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, asexual, or any other group under the umbrella of the different versions of the LGBT acronym. Wesley, who is transitioning from female to male, said this prom is especially meaningful to him. “This will be my first year going as someone who knows who they are,” Wesley said. “I found myself in the space between last Queer Prom and now.” The second annual alternative prom in Logan designed to make LGBTQ students feel comfortable is being organized by teenagers this time and will be called Queer Prom, the Herald-Journal reports. The prom was organized by three LGBT organizations in Cache Valley: the Cache Pride Center (previously known as the Cache Youth Resource Center), the Logan Pride Foundation, and LGBTQ+ Coffee, The Herald Journal reported. Blue Inessa of LGBTQ+ Coffee said events like queer prom are important to LGBT teens, especially in Utah and rural communities, “Queer Prom is a way of saying, hey, you’re valued and we see you, all of you,” Inessa said. “All of your gayness, all of your transness, all of your queerness. You can express that here and have that gateway moment of a prom.”

Jess Zamora-Kelso

Jess Zamora-Kelso, director of the Cache Pride Center, said Queer Prom is just one of many ways the nonprofit works to support LGBT youths in the valley. The organization also works to connect youths with resources for homelessness, mental health, hunger, or any other basic unmet needs.