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We recently hosted a birthday party for my daughter. We, as lesbian parents with a lesbian daughter, are big fans of the rainbow... but that was not the reason for a rainbow themed party. It was simply because we love COLOR! Lots of color! Using Pinterest, we found plenty of ideas for food and décor that would support our rainbow theme, and our budget. Click any photo below for a larger slideshow view. Click to our Pinterest account for all our rainbow party ideas, recipes and directions.
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Carol Channing should be a recipient of the 2013 Kennedy Center Honor for her outstanding contributions in the Performing Arts. Having travelled throughout the world in her iconic roles, she touched and affected many people. Back in the day, when she came to town in a show, the whole city would be excited....at 92, she deserves this award. She has tirelessly traveled the country, even at her advanced age, trying to raise funds and awareness for the need for the arts in schools. She's synonymous with theatre and "Hello Dolly". She also shared in local arts facilities a lovely story about a Russian troupe that came through San Francisco, when she was a youngster, and she still sings one of their songs for audiences--in Russian--because she learned it phonetically when she was about 10 or 12. She's amazing. From humble beginnings to her emergence as a bona fide Broadway star, Carol Channing is most deserving of a Kennedy Center Honor. I hope people sign up in droves so we can all see Carol sitting in that dress circle with the President and First Lady. Carol Channing is a living American legend, enriching our culture through various performance art outlets including but not limited to: Broadway, cabarets, motion pictures, television, record albums, and literary publications. Her distinguished portrayals of personalities such as Lorelei (Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, 1949-51), Muzzy Van Hossmere (Thoroughly Modern Millie, 1967; for which she was nominated an OSCAR®), the White Queen (Alice in Wonderland, 1985), and of course, Dolly Levi (Hello, Dolly!, 1964-96! various companies: the Broadway run and first tour ended in Houston, June '67. The first Broadway revival was '78 and the second was October '95 - January '96. ), are forever ingrained in our memories and future generations to come. Channing has presented lovable and unforgettable characters, ultimately demonstrating her impressive talents and ability to relate to her loyal audiences across the country and around the globe. The Arts are a significant and certainly influential element of child development and Ms. Channing’s efforts should not go unrecognized. Channing’s promotion and placement of Art, Music, and Drama, back into the classrooms of public educational institutions are admirable and is clear evidence of her dedication and devotion to the Arts beyond the stage and camera. The Kennedy Center Honor is a distinguished award that celebrates and recognizes those who have enriched our culture through various performance art vehicles. Carol Channing’s life-long loyalty to the Arts through her own work and through outstanding promotional endeavors should be not only considered, but honored. Channing’s phenomenal performances and efforts have been further recognized by her peers and other distinguished personnel in the Arts: Carol Channing's dedication and performance quality has entertained us through many decades. She is a comic genius and deserves this award!! – Lee Roy Reams Carol Channing is an enormously talented entertainment industry icon whose spotless reputation and lifelong contribution to the truest American ideals make her a deserving recipient of this award- Lee Schiller Carol’s recognition for her acclaimed portrayals of memorable and loveable American characters and commendable efforts in placing a priority on Arts education is long overdue. She has clearly dedicated her life’s work to the quality of her work and the advancement of the Arts across so many generations. Now it is time for us to give back to Carol Channing, as she has given so much to us and the Performing Arts. Here’s how YOU can help: Please, go to: http://www.kennedy-center.org/programs/specialevents/honors/?confirm=1 to suggest Carol Channing to be a recipient of the 2013 Kennedy Center Honor Award. For more information, please contact: Richard@RichardSkipper.com When Jaime Richaud and Leryn Leblanc Richaud left their home in Lafayette, LA for Bora Bora, their only thought was to have the private wedding ceremony they had dreamed of. Little did they know they would become the faces of "destination dream weddings" for same sex couples looking to wed in the tiny island country. The couples' gorgeous beach ceremony, overlooking the crystal blue water of the famous lagoon that surround the French Polynesian island, provided a picturesque backdrop for the two as they said "I do" in an emotional ceremony. The video of the ceremony was so powerful, The Four Seasons in Bora Bora asked the couple if they could use it on their website for the world to see. "All we wanted was to go and have the wedding of our dreams. Our dream ceremony was so special for us, but it took on a whole new meaning when the Four Seasons asked us if we would be willing to share it with the world. We hope that witnessing two people vowing to love one another for the rest of our lives helps others realize that no matter who and no matter where - love is love," said Jaime. Jaime Richaud is a former elite flight paramedic, who spent years aiding in relief work, including the World Trade Center following the tragic events of September 11, 2001, NASA's Columbia Space Shuttle disaster in Texas in 2003 and the tsunami that devastated Sri Lanka in 2004. Richaud started her own medical contracting company in 2005, GlobalMed USA. In 2005, Richaud and Leblanc, a dental hygienist, met through mutual friends in 2010 and were engaged in December 2011. After researching same sex ceremonies the world over, the two came across Bora Bora and began working with the Four Seasons to plan an intimate ceremony on one of the most beautiful tropical islands in the world. The two signed their marriage license in California on the way to the French Polynesian island and were married on July 11, 2013. "I am proud to call Jaime my wife and more proud to share the love we have found with the world. When the Four Seasons asked us to be a part of their efforts to show same sex couples what could be possible in Bora Bora, we didn't hesitate. Its an honor to represent them, our marriage and the beauty and simplicity of two people that just want to spend their lives making each other happy," said Leryn. The two returned home to Louisiana on July 18 and celebrated with family and friends in their native Louisiana at a reception on July 27th. The two plan on starting a family and raising their children together. To view the video that will be used by The Four Seasons, click here. There’s nothing wrong with cruises. I mean, we all love to take them. They are massive ships with everything you could want onboard. The problem is, sometimes you feel like a small fish in a ginormous ocean when on a standard cruise. By David Duran Featured in Connextions Magazine Issue 12 Click here to read Issue 12. What's Inside the Latest Issue? Read the Editor's Letter below for the scoop on all things travel! Boy, it’s been a busy year for the gays! Marriage equality is on the rise worldwide, and that can only bring about happy couples on happy honeymoons. As such, gay travel is at an all time high. In this issue, we bring you some fantastic travel options, such as sun and sand in Puerto Rico; diversity in Dallas; cowboys and cattle in Ft Worth; and highlights in Austria, coming from a Vienna Virgin! But the travel features don’t stop there. Always ‘on-the-go’ David Duran brings us to California, where we visit The Orlando – a chic boutique hotel in LA, and to La Valencia Hotel, which sits on the most stunning San Diego coastline. David also takes us on an Un-Cruise Adventure in Alaska; Brings us to a 5-star sparkling jewel in the desert of Arizona, and finds a famed Fiesta in San Antonio. David Perry, who brings humor into every article, gives us his take on the latest ‘Krave’ in Las Vegas, and Maria Lesetz radiates her joy with 8 steps to help you enjoy your journey - whether it be a travel journey or a life dream. First comes love, then comes marriage – then comes the newborn in a baby carriage! Manny Velasquez-Paredes is our gay family travel guru and he gets personal discussing a trip to the Great Wolf Lodge in the Poconos of Pennsylvania. If discussing wedgies while riding a water slide isn’t personal, I don’t know what is! And since this is our special travel issue and we didn’t bring you a wedding couple, Windy Dean (former track and field championship athlete) gives us her hysterical engagement story, entitled: “The Modern Day Version of Sleeping Beauties”. You really can’t miss this one! Laughter is always the best medicine and we are taking it to a whole new level in this issue. You might notice that our tone has changed a bit, the articles are a little more personal and we’ve added a lot more edge. Drop us a note and let us know if you can handle the sarcasm.
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Tel Aviv's gay pride parade on June 7, 2013. Credit: U.S. Embassy Tel Aviv
By Alina Dain Sharon/JNS.org Should society accept homosexuality? In America, where the U.S. Supreme Court on June 26 decided to recognize same-sex marriages in states where it has already been legalized, 60 percent of respondents to a Pew Research Center survey released in June said “yes” and 33 percent said “no.” But in most of the Middle East, the issue of LGBT rights isn’t likely to spark the spirited debate that it does in the U.S. Arab countries including Egypt, Jordan, Tunisia, in addition to the Palestinian territories, all had more than 95 percent of respondents answer no to the same question in the Pew survey. But then there are Israelis, who, although divided in their attitudes, are undeniably more accepting of the LGBT community than their Arab neighbors. Forty-seven percent of Israelis responded no to whether society should accept homosexuality, and 40 percent responded yes. Israel is an oasis in an otherwise-barren Middle East for LGBT rights. A number of Palestinian LGBT individuals who experience persecution seek asylum in Tel Aviv, a city that hosts its annual Gay pride parade attracting more than 100,000 people, and was voted “Best of Gay Cities 2011” in an American Airlines survey. “I see LGBT rights as part of an overal social justice, the right of a human to live as he/she is without masks is a basic right,” Shai Deutsch, chaiman of Aguda, the national association of the LGBT community in Israel, told JNS.org in an email. An exclusive interview with Matthew Simmons, who was crowned as title holder of the Mr Gay World USA competition on Saturday, June 22, 2013. CM: Why do you think you deserve the title as gay ambassador for the USA? Matt: I believe I am someone who others can look up to and I represent a good cause. I am able to relate and connect with others on a personal level. I am a strong willed individual with an interesting and diverse background. Namely, my past employment, both as a Marine Corp soldier and as an adult entertainer. Though gravely different choices, I am not ashamed of either. Both have made me the individual that I am today. I hope to share my experiences with others and shed positivity. CM: Why did you choose employment in the adult entertainment industry? Matt: It was an honor to serve my country, but I personally felt lost and insecure during my service in the Marine Corps, because I was gay and unable to be my true self. My choice to begin working in the adult entertainment industry was a way to escape the reality that I was a gay man, in a military life that was unaccepting. It was my way of being OUT in a hidden community. Not to mention that I was young, and this industry pays better than a minimum wage 9-5 desk job. CM: Why did you end your employment in the adult entertainment industry? Matt: Over a year ago, I left the industry when I began thinking of my future. It just hit me that this industry is short lived and I want a career that I can retire from and be proud of. In the future I can see myself married and having children. CM: What do you have to say to those people that will judge you for your past career choices? Matt: Just because this was a choice I made in my past, it should not hinder my future career choices and the fact that I am eager to take a stand for equality and make a difference. I am much more than just my employment choices. CM: What are your plans for the future? Matt: I am currently enrolled at the University of Nevada in Las Vegas and I intend to finish school and get my business degree. With my Business Management degree, I hope to work in my Uncle’s law firm and continue being an activist for gay rights. CM: How can your past experience positively affect others? Matt: As we know now, my past experiences include wonderful decisions like joining the military and poor decisions like doing Adult films. Through it all, I've never stopped learning and growing into the man I am today. So if there is anything to take away from my story- it is that our lives and the values we hold should not be judged on our past alone. Our lives are a work in progress. CM: Jarl and Michael, as the co-founders of the Mr Gay World USA organization, why would you choose a gay ambassador for the USA that has had employment in the adult entertainment industry? Michael: I wouldn't choose an adult film star to be Mr Gay World USA- and I don't believe we did. We chose a young man who- much like myself, made some poor decisions that unfortunately would affect his entire life. I am a recovering alcoholic who was once arrested for drink driving and had spent years in and out of rehab- but have turned my life around since. I doubt any of us would want to be judged on our past but for who we are today and what we've learned along that way that makes us better and more healthy individuals. Jarl: That’s a complicated question and we knew that this would cause a stir, but being gay and having had people judge me all my life, I feel that I am not going to be the one to judge. I was brought up in a very religious and conservative part of Norway and everyone judged. I decided early on that if people ask for forgiveness and want to be a better person than I am not the one to let the past hinder them. I feel that Matt is wonderful role model that will help many young gay men make positive choices by speaking about his past. So together, with the judges and our values and mission, we believe that Matt was the best choice. We look ahead, we look forward. What’s ahead is much more important; Marriage equality, Gay adoption rights, human rights and equality for all, and Matt will be a great part of that. Matt’s message: I dream to inspire my peers to overcome the tough obstacles in their life and strive to be the best person they can, never giving up on their dreams and never losing sight of who they are. Traveling to and living in many foreign countries for the better part of my childhood has allowed me to gain a respect for people living in other parts of the world that may not be as fortunate as many Americans are. I believe this makes me relatable to a diverse range of men, giving them someone they can easily look up to.
Travaasa, Austin Texas
As the Summer Season of Gay Pride Parades and Celebrations Swings Into High Gear, Preferred Hotel Group™ Adds Dozens of New Hotels and Presence in Eight New Cities to its Groundbreaking Preferred Pride Program As LGBT communities from Austin to Amsterdam put the finishing touches on an ever-growing number of spirited summertime celebrations, Preferred Hotel Group welcomes 41 new properties to its Preferred Pride collection of TAG-approved or IGLTA-member hotels and resorts across the globe. Preferred Pride has also expanded its footprint for 2013 with presence in eight new cities, including Austin (Texas, USA), Orlando (Florida, USA), Seattle (Washington, USA), Buenos Aires (Argentina), Vienna (Austria), Cape Town (South Africa), Karlovy Vary (Czech Republic), and Valletta (Malta). “The expansion of our Preferred Pride portfolio underscores the historic strides made by the LGBT community recently,” said Rick Stiffler, Vice President of Leisure Sales for Preferred Hotel Group. “We are delighted to now offer nearly 130 gay-welcoming hotels in some of the world’s most popular destinations that LGBT travelers and their families can call home any time of year.” Each property within the Preferred Pride portfolio offers a Preferred Pride package. Available through December 31, 2013, this special offer caters to all travelers who want to celebrate Pride, featuring the best available rate and a special property-specific amenity. The newest hotels to join the Preferred Pride collection in popular Gay Pride destinations include: Hotel 1000 – Seattle, Washington, USA From this five-star downtown hotel, guests are within a 10-minute walk of the start of Seattle’s Pride Parade at Union Street and Fourth Avenue. A sleek modern retreat, Hotel 1000 offers thoughtfully-appointed rooms, a stylish restaurant, and a full-service spa. Preferred Pride package: two drinks at BOKA and 30% off at Spaahh; rates from US$479 per night Seattle Pride Parade and PrideFest: June 29 - 30 Hotel Mayfair – Paris, France Hotel Mayfair presents the Parisian setting that Gallic-minded LGBT travelers expect—opulent guestrooms filled with rich furnishings and every modern amenity. Guests will enjoy a convenient location mere minutes by Metro from Gay Pride Paris festivities and a short stroll to the Louvre and d’Orsay museums. Preferred Pride package: bottle of Saint-Emilion Wine and free Wi-Fi; rates from US$286 per night Gay Pride Paris: June 29 Hotel de las Letras – Madrid, Spain Blending Old World architecture with modern-day comforts, the centrally located Hotel de las Letras is just steps away from the Gay Pride action at Puerta de Alcalá. The hotel’s lounge is the perfect pre-party destination, offering small bites, cocktails, and a live DJ from Thursday to Sunday. Preferred Pride package: one 30-minute massage per person; rates from US$168 per night Gay Pride Madrid: July 3 – 7 Upcoming parades and festivals where Preferred Pride hotels are located also include: Gay Pride New Orleans, June 20 – 24: Hotel Monteleone Pride Toronto, June 21 – 30: Metropolitan Hotel Toronto London Pride, June 25 – 30: ME London San Francisco LGBT Pride, June 28 – 30: Cavallo Point NYC Gay Pride Events, June 28 – June 30: The Mark Amsterdam Gay Pride, August 1 – 4: Grand Hotel Huis ter Duin Gay Pride Montreal, August 12 – 13: Hotel Gault Copenhagen Pride Parade, August 24: Palace Hotel Austin PRIDE, September 7: Travaasa Austin For more information on Preferred Pride or to book the Preferred Pride package, visit www.PreferredPride.com. About Preferred Pride Preferred Pride collection launched in June 2011. To be eligible, hotels must be either TAG Approved® (Community Marketing’s Travel Alternative Group) or belong to IGLTA® (International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association). Both organizations are universally recognized to set the standards for LGBT travel. Hotels that participate in Preferred Pride are offered diversity training on best practices in serving the LGBT community from check-in to check-out. About Preferred Hotel Group™ With a global reach extending into more than 85 countries, Preferred Hotel Group represents more than 650 of the finest hotels, resorts, and serviced residences in the world. Preferred Hotel Group’s brands include Preferred Hotels® & Resorts, Preferred Boutique™, Summit Hotels & Resorts™, Sterling Hotels™ , Sterling Design, and Summit Serviced Residences™. Travelers gain valuable benefits through branded programs that include Preferred Residences™; Preferred Golf ™; the I Prefer™ Guest Benefit Program; Preferred Pride; and Preferred Family, a collection of hotels and resorts certified to provide a rich experience for travelers of all ages. For more information, visit www.PreferredHotelGroup.com and follow the brand on Facebook and Twitter. What’s your parenting style? You could be featured on a new cable series. Are you an attachment parent? Tiger Mom? A green parent? Free range? Authoritative? Permissive? Or do you have a style that’s all your own? We’re looking for parents with unique perspectives on parenting for a new series on a top-rated national cable network. Please send your name, phone number, e-mail address, a description of your family/ parenting style, and a photo to casting@punchedinthehead.com. More info available at http://punchedinthehead.com/casting. We received this heartfelt letter from Maya - a 17 year old high school senior from CNS High School in Cicero, New York. Written by Maya Winne Diab This is a letter to all the kids that aren’t able to go to their prom or ball. First and foremost, please know – YOU ARE NOT ALONE. There are so many people out there that constantly get harassed for being gay or are just too scared. It’s ok. Go out and do something with your friends. Sometimes, I wish I could trade places with people just to know how it feels and to give those kids being bullied an amazing experience that every teenager should be able to enjoy no matter who you like or love or how you dress. I am constantly thankful everyday for being able to express my feelings openly and tomorrow I will be going to my senior ball with my girlfriend. We’ve been together for around seven months and I love her with all my heart. I’ve been looking forward to this day for so long. I wish you could all be able to experience this because it truly a night never to be forgotten. Nothing upsets me more than someone having to hide who they really are because I believe that is one of the hardest things to ever have to be put through in life, especially when we are taught all through school to literally ‘be yourself.’ It just isn’t fair. I really hope one day you are able to show who you are and experience the feeling of falling in love because that changes your life. Love brings people together and no matter who you are attracted to, you should be able to go out in public and just let everyone know who you are, who you love, and actually feel completely comfortable without being judged. Once again, my heart goes out to all of those who have to miss out on an amazing night during your high school years and don’t think for one second that I am not thinking about you. Being gay is OK and you should never have to feel uncomfortable being who you are. While I am enjoying my Senior Ball tomorrow night, I will be thinking about every single one of you, even though I don’t know any of you. I am so excited to be able to spend it with my princess. I hope everyone gets the chance to find that perfect person for them one day. Love, Maya Diab These are photos from my Senior Ball, with my girlfriend Lillie in her beautiful dress. |
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Connextions Magazine, the award-winning LGBTQ Travel Magazine, is your trusted resource for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer travel destinations, vacation ideas, fun travel videos, LGBTQ travel guides and the latest news relevant to our entire rainbow community. Connextions Magazine focuses on celebrating the LGBTQ Traveler providing information on lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer travel, our LGBTQ culture, the diverse style of our rainbow community, adventures, gay romance, tips for Lesbian Moms, Gay Dads, Bisexual, Transgender Parents and families.
Connextions Magazine LLC - PO Box 242, Calverton NY 11933
MISSION: Connextions Magazine is The Travel Magazine for the LGBTQ community. Making connections to travel like a local, whether on a quick weekend getaway or a luxury vacation, Connextions transports our readers through dazzling photography and insightful content about gay travel, dining, queer culture and style to destinations and memorable travel experiences across the globe. We are your Connextions to the world!
Connextions Magazine, the award-winning LGBTQ Travel Magazine, is your trusted resource for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer travel destinations, vacation ideas, fun travel videos, LGBTQ travel guides and the latest news relevant to our entire rainbow community. Connextions Magazine focuses on celebrating the LGBTQ Traveler providing information on lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer travel, our LGBTQ culture, the diverse style of our rainbow community, adventures, gay romance, tips for Lesbian Moms, Gay Dads, Bisexual, Transgender Parents and families.
Connextions Magazine LLC - PO Box 242, Calverton NY 11933
MISSION: Connextions Magazine is The Travel Magazine for the LGBTQ community. Making connections to travel like a local, whether on a quick weekend getaway or a luxury vacation, Connextions transports our readers through dazzling photography and insightful content about gay travel, dining, queer culture and style to destinations and memorable travel experiences across the globe. We are your Connextions to the world!
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Copyright © 2010 - CONNEXTIONS MAGAZINE, LLC - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
LIVE | TRAVEL | CONNECT®