Connextions Magazine - Issue 9 MD

LGBT Lifestyle & Travel

Winter 2012 Issue #9

13 cities 2013

for relocation in Where is the

Honeymoon Capital

of the world?

Tilghman Island on the Chesapeake ABC’s sailing in Maryland

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of

$4.99 USA

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Travel to the Ocean, the Bay & the Mountains

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Maryland

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RIGHTS

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WORKING EQUALITY.

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HRC STRIVES TO END DISCRIMINATION AGAINST LGBT CITIZENS AND REALIZE A NATION THAT ACHIEVES FUNDAMENTAL FAIRNESS AND EQUALITY FOR ALL.

HRC SEEKS TO IMPROVE THE LIVES OF LGBT AMERICANS BY ADVOCATING FOR EQUAL RIGHTS AND BENEFITS IN THE WORKPLACE, ENSURING FAMILIES ARE TREATED EQUALLY UNDER THE LAW, AND INCREASING PUBLIC SUPPORT AMONG ALL AMERICANS THROUGH INNOVATIVE ADVOCACY, EDUCATION AND OUTREACH PROGRAMS. HRC WORKS TO SECURE EQUAL RIGHTS FOR LGBT INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES AT THE FEDERAL AND STATE LEVELS BY LOBBYING ELECTED OFFICIALS, MOBILIZING GRASSROOTS SUPPORTERS, EDUCATING AMERICANS, INVESTING STRATEGICALLY TO ELECT FAIR-MINDED OFFICIALS AND PARTNERING WITH OTHER LGBT ORGANIZATIONS. WWW.HRC.ORG

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CONTRIBUTORS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Shelly Straub ART DIRECTOR Lucia Camarda ADVERTISING SALES (315) 380-6883 CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Stu Gallagher Rula Kanawati Peyton Steitz Harol Baez Jaap Hart CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Christopher de la Torre Edward Truth Maria Lesetz Desiree Sousa Lisa D. Miller, CFP Michael Leonelli Nathan David

Read Connextions Magazine online or purchase your print edition through our website at:

r e t t e L

from the editor

I have discovered a hidden gem, a place of peace, a new gay-friendly destination unlike any other. When I think of “island life”, and hear people rave about being on “island time”, typically my mind takes me to places on the ocean or under a tiki tent. In this issue, find 10-pages that feature the magic of Tilghman Island, which sits on the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland. This is not some far away foreign land, it’s right in our back yard. It’s a place at the end of the world, where water surrounds you and serenity fills the air. There is a magic on Tilghman Island that is difficult to put into words... even for an Editor.

Our adventures in Maryland also took us to the ocean, the mountains, and sailing in Baltimore.

Read about family friendly vacations, with top notch customer service in Ocean City (pg. 22); A B&B in the mountains of Maryland’s western region (pg. 42); and the ABC’s of Sailing throughout the State (pg. 58).

“I had found a kind of serenity, a new maturity... I didn't feel better or stronger than anyone else but it seemed no longer important whether everyone loved me or not--more important now was for me to love them. Feeling that way turns your whole life around; living becomes the act of giving.”

- Beverly Sills

www.connextionsmagazine.com WRITE TO US: Do you have a question or comment regarding this issue or future issues of Connextions Magazine?

We would love to hear from you! Email responses, press releases and future event listings are always welcomed... shelly@connextionsmagazine.com All submissions become the property of Connextions Magazine.

The views and opinions stated throughout this magazine are not necessarily the opinions of staff at Connextions Magazine.

Connextions Magazine, LLC publishing office is located at 8601 Tartan Drive North, Cicero, New York 13039. Connextions Magazine will not knowingly publish or advertise text which is fraudulent or misleading. The publisher reserves the right to edit, limit, revise, or reject any text without cause. Connextions Magazine assumes no financial responsibility for typographical errors. If any errors are found, please notify Connextions Magazine immediately. Materials in this publication may not be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher.

ISSN 2160-4347 (print) ISSN 2160-4355 (online)

Although Connextions is dedicated to highlighting one American state in each issue, we also bring you features that will inform, educate and inspire. Learn about the importance of a safe community space (pg. 50); get your dose of inspiration by turning probabilities into possibilities (pg.16); or find out where the most popular cities are for LGBT relocation in the US (pg. 8). If you are considering a family getaway this winter, check out Hawks Cay Resort in the Florida Keys (pg. 26) or if a winter wonderland wedding is on your list of ‘wants’, we bring you to the Honeymoon Capital of the World in Niagara Falls (pg. 46).

Thank you for taking the time to browse the pages of Connextions Magazine. Your comments and feedback are always welcome! We look forward to connecting with you again when our Spring Issue releases in February.

Happy holidays and have a safe journey into the new year!

Shelly Shelly Straub

Facebook.com/Connextionsmag Twitter.com/Connextionsmag Pinterest.com/Connextionsmag

cover photo: Thank you to Jaap Hart from Alkmaar, Netherlands who took this photo in Annapolis, MD

Lucia Camarda Art Director Lucia brings innovation and creativity to Connextions Magazine. www.connextionsmagazine.com

Stu Gallagher Photographer

www.facebook.com/StuartGallagherPhotography http://stugallagherphotography.com

AUG 2011 Issue #4

Christopher de la Torre Contributing Writer

7 Reasons LGBT FamiliesRock Canada’s New Gay Getaway

Christopher de la Torre writes about science and technology.

Follow him on Twitter @urbanmolecule.

Domestic Violence

#5 Truth 1 Issue The Unspoken TER 201 WIN

Massachusetts

Melissa Ferrick “Still Right Here”

Glennkard Pac

Y/ SONALIT R / TV PER OR / DIRECTOR GRAPHE / ACT CHOREO ING ARTIST RECORD

Edward Truth Contributing Writer

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Edward Truth is a critical theorist based in New York City.

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Desiree Sousa Contributing Writer Desiree started Out & About Travel in 1999, one of the internet's most popular gay & lesbian travel agencies. Out & About Travel is considered "pioneers of the gay & lesbian travel industry."

www.gaytravelpros.com facebook.com/gaytravelpros

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Maria Lesetz Contributing Writer Maria Lesetz is a Health & Happiness Coach and founder of Lovin’ Life – a life coaching company that specializes in facilitating powerful, personal transformations in physical and emotional well-being. Maria’s high-energy, passion and enthusiasm for life inspire thousands through one-on-one coaching, guest appearances on radio shows and television, and motivational speaking engagements.

Maria@MariaLesetz.com www.LovinLifeNow.com

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LIVE | TRAVEL | CONNECT

Stu holds equal passions for landscape and portrait photography, along with a broadening list of commercial clients. Prints are available.

CONTENTS Features

8 12 18 52 56 58

13 Cities for Relocation in 2013 DADT Repeal One-Year Anniversary Gala LGBT History of Equality in Maryland Science Vacation - Think Anywhere, Anytime Making a FAIR Comparison The ABC’s of Sailing in Maryland

Travel

22 26 30 42 46

Take the Kids to Ocean City, Maryland Hawks Cay Resort, Florida Keys New Gay Getaway - Tilghman Island Peace in the Mountains of Maryland The Honeymoon Capital of the World

Business

10

The Best Way to Market Your Business

Food

36 37

Two If By Sea Tilghman Island Inn

Lifestyle

24 28 50

Professional Profile of 2 International Male Models 6 Pitfalls in Gay & Lesbian Financial Planning Safe Spaces in Your Community

46

24

Wellness

16

Finding Your Power to Create Possibilities

In Each Issue

44 60 62

In Review - Books, Mags, Music & Movies Website Highlights - Unique Gift Wrapping Professional Directory

58

Relocation Nation 13

by Edward Truth

destinations for LGBT living in

2013

Atlanta, GA

Atlanta, GA There's a lot more to The Gate City than Braxton Family Values. In addition to an array of shops and restaurants (try the East Atlantic Village), and the Atlanta Braves, this world-class southern city has an impressive civil rights history. Anne Fauver, an open lesbian, was recently elected to the Virginia Highland area council. If you're leaving home for the first time you might prefer Athens, which is just an hour and a half drive away. The college town, voted one of the best spots for millennials, boasts a lively mix of culture, sports and outdoorsy goodness.

Austin, TX The self-proclaimed music capital of the world is a liberal oasis amidst the red expanse of the Lone Star State. Indie thrives here, as does food (specifically BBQ) and the outdoors. Regarded as one of the best places to go to college in the country, UT Austin adds to the city's reputation of "Texas black sheep"—and plenty of young people mean a slew of social options.

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people to Cleveland's antidiscrimination laws in housing and employment and, more recently, Cleveland won a bid for the 2014 Gay Games, which means this Midwestern enclave is about to hit the big time.

Denver, CO The Mile High City provides a grand outdoor adventure for those who like to get out. Denver's liberal mindset is complimented by great weather and breathtaking scenery; the nearby Rocky Mountains provide a top-notch experience for any nature enthusiast.

Ithaca, NY With a manageable cost of living and unemployment at a low 6.4 percent, this Finger Lakes destination is a hotspot for the college-educated, environmentally conscious, and alternatively styled—a great option for smart, healthy and open-minded millennials.

Autostraddle listed Ithaca as one of the most "lesbianish" American cities.

Cleveland, OH

Los Angeles, CA

In Armistead Maupin's Tales of the City, Mary Ann Singleton left Cleveland for the bright lights of San Francisco, but she might have stayed had she known it would someday be regarded as one of the nation's gayest cities. The city council has added protections for transgender

As one of the most expensive cities on our list, Los Angeles home prices top the national average, although they've fallen since the housing bubble burst. Like Ithaca, Autostraddle lists LA as a top spot for lesbians. (The L-Word is still one of our favorite shows.)

www.connextionsmagazine.com

Miami, FL

San Francisco, CA

Miami has been moving up, both in culture and in cost. Art Basel "lends an air of international sophistication," says The Advocate of the annual art show whose galleries boast some of the world's most respected art dealers. Art and fashion continue in the city's Design District, but if sun and sand are more your style, South Beach still offers an oasis for the alternatively minded.

If San Francisco is out of your budget (as it is for most of the middle class), its neighbor Oakland (called "the Brooklyn of the West Coast") has the second highest concentration of same-sex couple households in the country. According to Kiplinger, the average home price in Oakland is a few hundred thousand less than that of San Francisco ($600K vs. $800K), despite an equal median household income. The Huffington Post says UC Berkeley is a utopia for the liberal-minded academic, and Oakland was recently the highest ranked North American destination city by the New York Times.

Minneapolis, MN The Twin Cities (Minneapolis-St. Paul) are described as a "gay magnet� for Midwesterners. Minnesota Senator Al Franken introduced the Student Non-Discrimination Act to protect LGBT youth from school bullies and, perhaps not surprisingly, Minneapolis is a haven for rugby players and a migration spot for (man) bears.

San Francisco, CA

New York, NY Hailed as the "gay capital of the world," New York City is considered one of the world's best cities for LGBT living—and it comes with a price tag to match. According to Kiplinger, housing costs here are four times the national average (the average home price is $1.15 million), and grocery items and utilities will cost you more in the Big Apple than any other city on our list. The metro population of nearly 20 million is kept busy with museums, poetry clubs, jazz clubs, comedy and theatre shows, and NYU is regarded as one of the best places to attend college.

Central Park NY, NY

Seattle, WA It's not surprising that the birthplace of grunge, coffee and computers would also welcome gays and lesbians with open arms.

The city, dubbed "the shining gay star" of the Pacific Northwest, is home to a high LGBT population. If you're looking for cheap and cheerful, Tacoma (just a 40 minute drive from Seattle) is ranked one of the best cities for millennials. Rents in Tacoma are about 35 percent less than in Seattle, and unemployment hovers at around 7 percent.

Washington, DC The nation's capitol has many faces. Bookish, straight-laced and cultured, DC makes plenty of room for a rich restaurant scene and vibrant nightlife. Autostraddle calls American University a "dyke paradise" and Dupont Circle's iconic gay reputation has spread to its neighboring Logan Circle, which gives DC even more gay and lesbian to love. If you're planning to settle in Washington, prepare your wallet; according to Kiplinger, the average home price is just under $650K, making it one of the most expensive cities on our list.

Pittsburgh, PA With unemployment at a low 6.6 percent and the average apartment rental at about $1,000, Pittsburgh is a good bet for millennials, but you don't have to be young and starting out to enjoy what this city has to offer. Its clean urban landscape, rich annual events schedule and large public transportation system make it a pedestrian paradise.

Credits: Autostraddle, The Advocate, The Huffington Post, Kiplinger, Lambda Legal For relationship recognition and protections by state, visit Lambda Legal online at www.lambdalegal.org

Edward Truth is a New York City-based journalist and critical theorist.

Follow him on Twitter @EdwardTruth.

9

Online Networking vs. In-Person Networking?

Will you be remembered by your last status update

OR

your last smile and handshake?

connected with thousands of people through professional networking I am sites, such as Linkedin and dot429, and although I appreciate my network of colleagues, I remember most, those with whom I have met in person.

The best possible marketing practice for your business that has withstood the ever-changing world on the web, is YOU. Without a doubt, it’s that connection you make when talking with someone face-to-face, that you will remember. There are certainly exceptions to this rule, such as one of my

Most recently, I attended a networking event, hosted by dot429. The event was held at the SOHO Grand Hotel in New York City. Inside of a dimly lit room, while sipping on a glass of wine, I mingled, introduced myself, and held as many short conversations as the event would allow. I had the opportunity to put a personality to the profile picture of many colleagues of which I am already professionally connected on the dot429 network, as well as the opportunity to meet new and interesting people.

Here are some tips to remember when attending a networking event: • Forget being fashionably late! Arriving early gives you a chance to socialize in a calmer setting before the room is filled, and before guests begin grouping themselves. It’s much easier to introduce yourself to one person, in lieu of walking up to a group of people.

• Smile! Enjoy the event and let others know you are happy to be in attendance. A smile is the simplest way to show off your welcoming and warm personality.

most trusted business colleagues, whom I have never met, but through email and social media, we have become the best of friends and network daily in an effort to support each other’s business. But other than the few exceptions, I am an advocate of meeting new people with a handshake, sharing smiles and conversation, and making that personal connection which leaves you with the imprint of the personality behind the business.

I recently read the book Networking Like a Pro, by networking expert and New York Times bestselling author Dr. Ivan Misner along with David Alexander, and Brian Hilliard, who discuss key networking techniques to help you grow your business. I was inspired to master my networking skills based on the concepts of this excellent read. An exceprt from the book reads: “Online networking has not replaced in-person networking. Why hasn’t it? Because, I believe, there is a magic that happens when you bring a group of people together in the same room or when you are engaged in a one-to-one conversation with someone.”

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• It’s not all about you! Although this is a business networking event, try to leave the sales pitch at home and make the conversation a bit more personal. You will be remembered more for your glowing personality, over your incredibly unique business. (Everyone thinks they have that) • Follow up! Get and give business cards, because depending on how the night goes and how many people you have the opportunity to meet, chances are you won’t remember everyone. Send a quick “nice to meet you” email after the event.

NYC LGBTQS Chamber of Commerce Inc. We are the voice & bridge of LGBT business in the NYC Area.

As the first gay/lesbian Chamber of Commerce in NYC, we are here to assist businesses obtain SBA Certification.

NY State Certification and loan processes.

The NYC LGBT Chamber of Commerce Inc. is a not-for profit 501 (c) (6) whose purpose is to assist and facilitate in economic development opportunities for LGBT and minority businesses.

Carmen Hernandez-DeArmas, President, NYC LGBTQS Chamber of Commerce, Inc. “NY’s first and only LGBTQS Chamber” P.O. Box 6041 Bronx, NY 10451 Office: 347-547-6300 Emails: info@nyclgbtqscc.com Website: www.nyclgbtqscc.com

5311

e v r e to S

Freedom

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN), OutServe and the Interbank Roundtable Committee (IRC) held a first anniversary gala, “Celebrating Our Heroes: A Tribute to America’s Service Members & Veterans,” on September 18, 2012.

The controversial “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT) law, which prohibited openly homosexual persons from serving in the American military, was signed in 1993. Since the law, more than 14,500 service members have been discharged from the United States military. In July of 2011, DADT repeal was officially certified, taking full effect 60 days later, marking September 20, 2011 as the official day of repeal.

Honoring the one-year anniversary of the repeal of DADT, this hugely successful and emotional event drew over 1000 attendees to support and honor the former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Admiral Mike Mullen, who played a significant role in the repeal. During

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photos courtesy

congressional discussions about the repeal, in 2010, testifying before the Senate Armed Services Committee, Admiral Mullen stated: “No matter how I look at the issue, I cannot escape being troubled by the fact that we have in place a policy which forces young men and women to lie about who they are in order to defend their fellow citizens. For me, it comes down to integrity –theirs as individuals and ours as an institution.”

The first anniversary gala was held aboard the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, located on the West side of Manhattan on Pier 86, 12th Ave. & 46th Street. In 1943, Intrepid was commissioned and served proudly in World War II, then went on to serve as one of the primary recovery vessels for NASA, three tours of duty off Vietnam, and submarine surveillance in the North Atlantic during the Cold War.

Stu Gallagher Photography

As a national historic landmark, there could not have been a more appropriate venue for this historic event.

Along with the Broadway ensemble performances, the evening emcee was none other than Barbara Walters. As co-host and chief correspondent of ABC News’ 20/20, who has made journalistic history with her interviews of political figures and celebrities, Ms. Walters proudly praised Admiral Mullen during her speech, which only excited the pumped-up and exhilarated crowd more.

Admiral Mike Mullen & wife Deborah Mullen

It was a wonderful sight, and renewed hope for mankind, to see so many straight supporters who don’t particularly have a mission behind their involvement in the fight for equality, such as a friend or family member who has been wrongfully discharged from the military based on their preference to love. One such straight supporter is Tamara Tunie, star of NBC’s “Law & Order: SVU”, who attended the anniversary gala, with her husband Gregory Generet. Tamara said “Attending this gala doesn’t have any personal meaning for me, but as a human being and a citizen of this Country, it is VERY important to me.”

It is important to me that every citizen is treated equally, and afforded every opportunity and ability to achieve happiness and a fabulous way of life, which is why I am here tonight.”

Other celebrities and familiar faces in attendance, included: Randy Jones, original cowboy from the pop music group, The Village People; Elizabeth Birch, former President of Human Rights Campaign; TV Producer Randy Barbato; Sheila Nevins, President of HBO Documentary Films; Lisa

Tamara Tunie

Sherman, EVP and General Manager of Logo Television; Mike Ruiz, celebrity photographer, former model and star of Logo series “The A-List New York” and “RuPaul’s Drag Race”; Laurie Tisch, co-owner of New York Giants. Along with many military and former military

Elizabeth Birch, former President of the Human Rights Campaign (the largest LGBT equality-rights advocacy group), summed up the evenings events, as she stated: “I simply want to use my time this evening to say thank you to Admiral and Mrs. Mullen

personnel, including: Mike Almy, former Air Force Major; Eric Alva, former Marine Staff Sergeant; Zoe Dunning, Retired Navy Captain; Victor Fehrenbach, Retired Air Force Lt Colonel; David Hall, former Air Force veteran; April F. Heinze, Navy veteran and co-chair SLDN Board of Directors; Aubrey Sarvis, Army veteran and Executive Director of SLDN; Josh Seefried, Air Force Lieutenant; Steve Snyder-Hill, Army Major; Tony Loverde; Katie Miller; Patrick Murphy; and Melvin Dwork, who is a WWII veteran, discharged for homosexuality in 1944, but with the help of SLDN, had his military discharge papers upgraded to “honorable” in 2011.

for giving so many service members back their dignity, and a sense that they are worthy of being regarded as full contributing Americans. You will be remembered for many things now and in the years to come. But history will regard you as one of those leaders who did not back down in the face of a human challenge. You have helped to change the course of history for our nation and for millions of service members and veterans who will never be able to thank you themselves. But please know that our community is grateful to you, and we are thrilled to honor you here tonight.”

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xoxo

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My Body made him gay

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15

From Probabilities to Possibilities …

Where your

power to choose is your greatest asset!

by Maria Lesetz, Happiness Coach & Motivational Speaker

I

can’t help but laugh at the title I came up with for this article … “from Probabilities to Possibilities”. Let me explain…

I used to be a statistician in the corporate world, calculating probabilities for a living, identifying what’s part of the “norm” and what’s an outlier. I made decisions on whether it was too risky to move forward with a new consumer product or to change the current formula. It’s where “on average” and being in the “normal distribution” was a good thing and being an “outlier” was a bad thing. HA! Now I am a Certified Life Coach and I live in that world of infinite possibilities, not only for myself, but for my clients too! I believe that being an “outlier” is a GREAT thing and that shooting for “average” is limiting yourself to what is possible for your future.

Why shoot for “average” when you can be EXTRAordinary?

I believe that success in life comes from taking risks - ones that feel good on the inside and are aligned with what brings you joy - even if those “risks” have an outer shell of fear. (Because that “fear” is just a story you are telling yourself and it can be overcome with a big dose of courage and an unwavering belief in yourself that anything is possible!)

I now know what it takes to move into that world of infinite possibilities - something we all have access to …

Choice

Simple word. BIG Impact!

But I’m not talking about choices like “what do I wear today?” or “should I date this person or not?” or “what career do I want to pursue?” I am talking about your choice to think and feel in a certain way each and every day. Your choice to react to what life throws your way in any way you see fit. You may currently react by default to life’s adversities, but when you make the conscious choice to react in a way that is going to benefit YOU and how you feel, ahhhhh … now that’s when the infinite positive possibilities of what comes next begin to appear!

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Here are a few examples of the type of “choices” that make the biggest impact on your overall happiness level.

You choose …

You choose …

How you respond to judgments from others about who you are, what you look like, what you are doing with your life, or whom you choose to love.

To worry about something that hasn’t even happened yet and may never happen!

You see, those who judge, have many judgments of themselves.

So, it says more about them when they judge you, then it says about you, unless you choose to buy into what they are saying about you. You don’t have to. It doesn’t feel good when you let someone else’s judgments of you impact how you feel about your life and yourself. So why do it? Can you see how you will move into that space and belief of infinite possibilities for your future, when you make the choice to disregard others judgments of you and just improve on what you think about yourself? It’s a powerful place to create anything you desire to have in your life.

Are you a worst-case scenario wizard or do you expect the best, no matter what situation is in front of you?

Isn’t it ironic how you can worry about something “bad” happening and actually visualize the worst-case scenario in your mind, but when it comes to flipping that around and imagining the best case scenario, you don’t do that as often (or you never do it). Why would that be?

You choose …

You can use the same brain cells to cook up the positive scenario.

It just takes some practice and discipline. You have to retrain the brain to play a new game called the “What if UP” game as opposed to the “What if DOWN” game. I play this game with all my clients and over time, it begins to be your default way of thinking and as a result, doors of opportunity open up and you are well on your way to the best-case scenario or even better.

How to respond to any one of life’s adversities (health challenge, loss of job, break up, financial difficulties, etc.)

You choose …

This brings to mind the title of one of Kelly Clarkson’s songs “What doesn’t kill you” … makes you stronger. It’s your choice to look at any adversity as something that will take away your power OR make you even more powerful than you were before you experienced it. Sure, while you are experiencing those challenging moments of life, it may feel tough, but at the same time you can choose to believe that there is a light at the end of that adversity tunnel! When you do, it’s not about calculating the probabilities of whether you will get through it or not, it’s about stepping into the infinite possibilities that you absolutely will get through it with flying colors.

To believe in others more than you believe in yourself.

You choose …

Believing in YOU is the ticket to shifting anything you desire to change. That one belief opens up doors of possibilities that you never imagined would be opened.

To allow someone else’s mood to impact your own.

Believe it or not, you have a choice to either take on someone else’s mood or let them go through whatever emotional journey they are going through, and remain relatively neutral through it all. Remember, how someone else is feeling is their stuff, not yours. So, you choose whether that person is going to influence how you feel for the rest of the day. Now, of course, if your loved one or friend is in a rockin’ mood and you are feeling inspired and light-hearted when you are around them, then GREAT … choose to embrace the positive vibe! But when someone you know is in a negative mood, you can choose to hop on board that negative train or say “next stop please”!

Wishing you a Lovin’ Life day!

This one is a biggie!

Have you ever noticed how you are great at giving others that “pep talk” and you always tell them that they have what it takes, but when it comes to you, you don’t choose to embrace that same belief system? Hmmm. Why is that? You are just as worthy and deserving as your family and friends … so why can they DO IT, succeed, get through the tough times, but you have that doubt when it comes to you? Start to believe more in yourself, your strength and your ability to make anything happen in your life.

Choice … it’s something you are presented with each moment of the day. Do you leverage your power to choose your thoughts and feelings to your advantage? Do you live in the probabilities of life, feeling that the “odds are against you” OR are you ready to join me right now by …

BREATHING IN the infinite possibilities and abundance that awaits you & BREATHING OUT all the worry, doubt and resistance that stops you from living your most fabulous life.

Breathe in. Breathe out. Now … count to Zen!

To find out more about Maria’s Life Coaching Services, visit her website www.LovinLifeNow.com or contact her at Maria@MariaLesetz.com.

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LGBT in

America d n a l y Mar

by Edward Truth

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his November, Maryland voters will decide on an anti-gay proposition that would repeal the marriage equality law passed in the state earlier this year.

The National Organization for Marriage (NOM), the same Mormon group that funded Proposition 8 in California, is pouring big bucks into other campaigns, seeking to "protect religious liberty" by shutting down the institution of marriage to same-sex couples. NOM's objective is to pit key Democratic groups against each other by purchasing outspoken community leaders—like Bishop Harry Jackson, a man who is now waving scriptures to the tune of $20,000, according to a recent report from Mother Jones. Jackson told CNN that the gay movement had hijacked the civil rights movement, to which he added, "You can't equate your sin with my skin"—a catch phrase most-likely conjured up by his nefarious benefactors.

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History has proven time and again that progress is rarely welcomed unanimously. So it is with LGBT life in America. Compelling and controversial, the civil rights saga spans geography and generations, binding each new chapter to the last, embracing diversity, building from blueprints yet undrawn.

This "divide and conquer" strategy from conservative groups like NOM, however insidious, only signifies the great potential progressive voters have, should they choose to work together. Will Maryland couples survive the hate tsunami projected for this election? One way to predict future behavior is to look at the past.

In the early 20th century, just as many northern states responded to the eugenics movement by passing more restrictive marriage laws, Maryland remained independent, resulting in an influx of interracial couples seeking marriage there. Beginning in 2010, the state government recognized the validity of same-sex marriages performed out of state, and later the Maryland General Assembly voted in favor of legalizing same-sex marriage; the new law takes effect in 2013.

An abbreviated timeline of marriage in Maryland: 1658 - Marriage can only be performed by either a minister or magistrate.

1662 - A fee is imposed on all who are married. Pastors or magistrates are allowed to charge 100 pounds of tobacco as a fee for marriage.

1664 - Maryland passes the first British colonial law banning marriage between whites and slaves. The law also orders the enslavement of white women who have married black men.

1692 - Maryland follows Virginia in passing a law that forbids free blacks and whites to intermarry.

1884 - Marriages between whites and blacks or "people of Negro descent" to third generation inclusive is forbidden.

1967 - Anti-mscegenation laws are deemed unconstitutional by the United States Supreme Court. Maryland repeals its law in response to the start of the Supreme Court proceedings.

1973 - State statute defines marriage as a union between a man and a woman.

2006 - Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Brooke Murdock rules that the 1973 statute defining marriage as between a man and a woman violates the state constitution.

2010 - Attorney General Doug Gansler issues an opinion that the state can now recognize same-sex marriages performed out-of-state.

2012 - Maryland General Assembly passes bill to legalize same-sex marriage in the state.

2013 - Same-sex couples are permitted to marry, beginning January 1st.

Even when Maryland laws were less inclusive, progressives there looked beyond "sin and skin" to fight discrimination. The state saw its first public gay demonstration in April 1976, after attempts to repeal Maryland's law prohibiting sodomy between consenting adults were shot down by the state legislature. Gay activist David Aiken writes that it was Clarence Mitchell III, a black Democrat from Baltimore, who agreed with demonstrators and yelled, "Gays have rights, too.�

Is this latest effort by conservative hate groups to pit religious African-Americans in the state against the LGBT community, enough to nullify nearly 40 years of progress? We'll see in November. Meanwhile, the apparent decline of religion in America suggests a growing desire for cooperation among seemingly disparate groups. As the struggle over marriage in Maryland illustrates, it's time to nail marriage and move on.

For more information: Serwer, Adam. "You Can't Equate Your Sin With My Skin," Mother Jones.

September/October 2012 Issue. www.motherjones.com Aiken, David L. (David Lews), 1945-1986, "maryland : typescript of article on first gay rights demonstration in Annapolis, Maryland," Rainbow History Project Digital Collections, http://rainbowhistory.org Briggs, David. "Is Religion In America in Decline?" The Huffington Post, April 2, 2011. www.huffingtonpost.com Timeline information provided by: NPR www.npr.org & Teaching American History In Maryland http://teachingamericanhistorymd.net

Edward Truth is a New York City-based journalist and critical theorist.

Follow him on Twitter @EdwardTruth.

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A message from

Mr. Gay USA 2012 Burnz Fernandez

“I often wonder why so many people are so against "Non-Traditional" families. I did place quotation marks on "Non-Traditional" because that in itself does not really make sense to me.

There are varying types of families, and each one has their own traditions that they believe and live by, so isn't every family "Non-Traditional"? For me, a family is a family, whether it's spear-headed by a mother and a father, two mothers, or two fathers.

The most important part is that the whole family must be surrounded by LOVE and COMPASSION: two of the most valuable virtues I have gathered from my own family. I honestly think that in order for us to live in a better society, we have to start within our own family. Think about it, a family is what comprises our society.

Similar to each cell within our human bodies. Each of those cells must work together, side-by-side, in harmony, in order for our bodies to thrive and live healthy. Families are the same! If we start teaching our children to have LOVE and COMPASSION for others, our society will have a stronger foundation which will enable us to live harmoniously.�

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Burnz Fernandez, Olivia Harper & Steve Price www.connextionsmagazine.com

Fashion

Butch owear e d u l c n i o t e es not hav d

flannel

HAUTE BUTCH

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Ocean City,Maryland

Unforgettable Family Fun for All The 3 mile long boardwalk that stretches along the beach, offers entertainment day and night. With food, shopping, arcades, games, attractions, amusement rides, and of course, the ocean, this is the place where it’s hard to imagine hearing the kids say “I’m bored.”

photo courtesy Town of Ocean City Tourism Office

From free daily activities on the beach, to exhibits and concerts, the schedule of entertainment in Ocean City, is outstanding.

Including, but not limited to, the OC Airshow, the multi-million dollar White Marlin Open, Springfest, car shows, power boat races, and even free movies beneath the stars. There is an event or activity going on every day of the week, either on the boardwalk or on the beach, so make sure to pick up a schedule as soon as you arrive or prior to your travel.

The teens will enjoy strutting up and down the boardwalk, or hanging at the arcade, making new friends, while the younger kids

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remain entertained at Jolly Rogers, a theme park dedicated to the small children. There’s mini golf on every 3rd corner, parasailing, and speedboat rides that are a safe thrill for kids, which will certainly give them something to talk about when school starts and they are asked about their summer vacation.

For those less interested in thrill-seeking, simply rent a bicycle and ride the boardwalk, enjoy the morning sunrise, enjoy over 200 choices of dining options, or just enjoy the sun on your face, the cool ocean breeze and all the happy people surrounding you.

Outstanding Customer Service with a Smile at Ocean City’s

Howard Johnson Plaza Hotel on 12th Street When traveling, the most important detail that can make or break your entire experience, is how you were treated by the people. Whether its the restaurant you dined in or the accommodations you spent the night at, one thing is for sure –you will remember the customer service.

At the Howard Johnson Plaza Hotel on 12th Street, the lobby is light-filled and inviting, and the rooms are spacious and include all the amenities you would expect, such as internet and TV, although you most-likely won’t bother with them. There’s an indoor pool and a parking garage, along with balcony views of the bay and the beach.

Every time we walked through the lobby, the staff would say hello WITH A SMILE, or engage in conversation, WITH A SMILE. They were not only knowledgeable about the area and activities available, but proud and thankful that we chose to spend time in their hotel and

their town. It’s important to note that we made no mention about the possibility of writing an article, or that we were traveling for business purposes. We stayed incognito until check-out.

Kudos to General Manager, Mary Susan Jones. It was obvious that her personality set the example for the rest of her staff. Although busy with managerial duties, whenever there were guests walking about or standing at the lobby counter, she was front and center, ready to offer personal attention WITH A SMILE. Grab the family and head to Ocean City in Maryland, a vacation destination with endless possibilities and five-star customer service from the Howard Johnson Plaza Hotel on 12th.

Please take note that there are two Howard Johnson hotels in Ocean City. One is on 12th Street and the other is on 24th street. Although they share the same name, there is a world of difference between these two hotels, so if you plan to take our recommendation, make sure you are at the 12th street location!

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One of them is not in Copenhagen, Denmark. Magnus is fluent in the languages of Icelandic, Norwegian, Danish, Swedish, English and Spanish.

His start in the entertainment industry began at the age of 15, modeling for Piaff--an agency based in Norway. Currently signed

by KB1111 Modeling Agency and attending school at the New York Film Academy, Magnus has dreams of acting on stage or in film. Magnus has an ever-growing resume in film and photo shoots, most recently he can be found in Italian Vanity Fair.

agnus Jonsson is a 28 year old stunningly M gorgeous male model, with an enchanting

personality that will sweep you off your feet.

Nikolai Danielsen is a 21 year old, intensely beautiful male model, with a charming and inviting persona. Magnus is from Iceland, Nikolai is from Norway, and both are currently in the modeling industry, starting their careers in New York City. Both are fabulously flirty with a gentlemanly manner and if that isn’t enough to make you smile, they were both born with a witty sense of humor.

Meet Magnus Jonsson, pictured to the left.

This half Icelandic, half Mexican, adorable sex-symbol, made his way to America in 2010. Before his life adventures brought him to the United States, Magnus completed a languages degree from Menntaskoli Kopavogs in Iceland, and has held positions as a fitness instructor and flight attendant.

In 2008, he studied photography at VERA

24 courtesy www.connextionsmagazine.com photo Harol Baez

Magnus was blessed with a heart of gold and most important to him, are his family and friends. He is the oldest sibling of five, with two younger brothers in Mexico and a younger brother and a sister in Iceland.

Magnus says, “When you realize family is all you have, you realize, family is all you needed in the first place.” facebook.com/MagnusActor Meet Nikolai Danielsen, pictured to the right. This half Italian, half Norwegian bombshell, made his first trip to the free world, in August of 2012 to explore a career in modeling. Originally from the tiny Island of Nøtterøy, just one hour from the capital city Oslo, Nikolai comes from a large family and is the middle child, with a younger brother and an older sister. With hobbies such as running, boxing, traning, basketball and hockey, kickboxing is his real passion and living the American dream is his main goal. Nikolai looks forward to a family someday and says: “I would like as many kids as possible… and a dog.”

like the other

photo courtesy Peyton Steitz

Nikolai was crowned Mr. Norway International 2011 and he will represent his country at one of the biggest male pageants in the world, Mister International 2011, in Bangkok, Thailand. Dedicated to being the best he can be at all he does, Nikolai was most recently named Top Champion in the sport of Kickboxing in Norway, and he has won the Nordic Championship on several occasions.

photo courtesy Peyton Steitz

Nikolai is currently represented by JB Talent Management, out of New Jersey and within his first 5 days in the US, he was cast in 4 out of 5 auditions. facebook.com/Nikolaijbmodel

Though similar in many ways, both Magnus and Nikolai have unique qualities and talents of their own, but what really shines is the beauty that they both radiate –from the inside out.

photo courtesy Harol Baez

Oh, and one more thing‌ one of them is a proud member of the gay community and one of them is a proud ally to the gay community. But does that really matter?

photo courtesy Peyton Steitz

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An Island Adventure for All Ages at

Hawks Cay Resort

M

by: Desiree Sousa

Meander through the 402 villas and suites, five restaurants, beautiful saltwater lagoon, five lavish swimming pools and the award-winning Calm Waters Spa, which was ranked top 25 in North America by Travel & Leisure's "World's Best Awards" in 2009 and 2010. Enjoy the relaxed charm of island life, while the kids make memories to last a lifetime.

Hawks Cay Resort is located midway down the Florida Keys on the secluded island of Duck Key, which is 60 miles north of Key West and 90 miles south of Miami. This AAA Four-Diamond Award winning resort is also a member of the Preferred Family Certified program of hotels and resorts worldwide. Thanks to a $35 million dollar renovation in 2008, Hawks Cay Resort boasts a tropical elegant décor that captures the true essence of the Florida Keys.

Unique to Hawks Cay Resort Encounter bottlenose dolphins in their natural environment.

The Dolphin Connection program, located in an ocean-fed saltwater lagoon, is home to a family of friendly dolphins that visitors can interact with. Hawks Cay Resort is the only hotel or resort in the continental United States that features an on-site dolphin research facility.

Fun for kids of all ages!

Recognized by Travel & Leisure readers as one of the "Best Hotel Kids' Programs," Indies Club –a program offered by Hawks Cay –delivers a full day of supervised activities specific to kids, tweens & teens, as well as special events for each age group. Camp Hawk (ages 5-12), The Cove for teens (13-17) and babysitting for infants, ensures a vacation that every member of the family will enjoy.

The centerpiece of the Indies Club is the Pirate Ship Pool, complete with slides, tunnels and water shooting canons.

The Cove features Wii, Guitar Hero, Baja Speedway and more, with camp activities such as nature trail hikes, swimming, snorkeling, scavenger hunts and a dockside fish feeding frenzy scheduled daily. Arts and crafts projects, interactive games, stories and more are perfect for rainy days or more leisurely pursuits. Other popular activities include stand-up paddleboarding, kiteboarding, kayaking, jetskiing and Segway tours.

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photos courtesy: Hawks Cay Resort

To learn more about Hawks Cay Resort in the Florida Keys, visit www.HAWKSCAY.com For help planning your next getaway to Hawks Cay Resort, visit www.gaytravelpros.com This travel highlight has been brought to you by: Desiree Sousa, Author of Gay Travel Information (www.gaytravelinformation. com) and Owner of Out & About Travel (www.gaytravelpros.com).

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6 Pitfalls in Gay and Lesbian Financial and Estate Planning

by Lisa D. Miller, CFP & Michael Leonelli

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inancial and Estate Planning for Gay and Lesbian couples can be both challenging and rewarding. Six states and the District of Columbia have legalized same-sex marriage, creating a complex and changing tax and legal landscape.

Besides, getting married does not solve everything. While our clients may had wed in their state and gained some benefits, The Federal Defense of Marriage Act prevents them from realizing all the benefits of legal marriage at the Federal level. Social Security and the IRS, being regulated by the Federal government, do not recognize the marriage.

Furthermore, if the couple relocates to a state where there is no recognition of same-sex marriage, they will be treated as strangers.

While every situation will be different, the following are 6 common pitfalls found in the plans of gay and lesbian couples.

Making unintended taxable gifts. Couples often change the title of an asset from individual to JTWROS (Joint Tenants with Rights of Survivorship). This change would accomplish the estate planning objective of leaving an asset to your partner with going through probate, but most people don’t realize that a title change may involve making a taxable gift in the eyes of the IRS (to the extent that the property exceeds $13,000). EXAMPLE: You add your partner to the title of your home, valued at $500,000. Upon a death, 100% of the asset belongs to the survivor, but 100% is included in the decedent’s estate.

And upon a divorce, 100% of the asset belongs to both parties until proven otherwise. Be aware of the annual and lifetime gifting limits, and don’t co-mingle assets without consulting a professional first.

Beneficiaries not Designated on Group Retirement Benefits/Life Insurance Plans. The “default” on these plans is almost always your next-of-kin (blood relative) or Estate. Because many of these plans are subject to Federal ERISA rules, they do not recognize your same-sex marriage. Do not rely on “default” beneficiaries-Put your request to designate your beneficiary in writing to the plan administrator.

Not knowing the benefits or marriage/civil unions/domestic partnership in your state. While you wouldn’t get married just for tax reasons, you may be able to avoid state estate and inheritance taxes, and state income tax on the cost of your partner’s health insurance provided by your employer. Your partner may also have some inheritance rights in the event you die without a will. Some insurance companies may offer a “spousal” or “partner” discount on some insurance plans. These tax and inheritance benefits vary by state.

EXAMPLE: Civil Union partners in NJ avoid paying inheritance tax (up to 16% on assets inherited from your partner over $500), as they are considered Class A Beneficiaries. Married Couples in New York enjoy an unlimited marital deduction on the State of NY Estate tax.

Not having proper documentation. There are fewer laws that outline the benefits of gay partners, and while marriage/civil union/domestic partnership has its benefits, it is also important to know what it is not.

You should have a will, power of attorney, living will and health care proxy. You may also want to have a Domestic Partnership Agreement that outlines financial responsibilities and other details. Do not assume that all members of your family will be cooperative with your wishes. Have a qualified attorney draft these documents for you so that they stand up in court if the need arises.

Not saving enough for retirement. Social Security, being a Federal Program, does not recognize your same-sex partner/spouse for Survivor or spousal benefits. Many company/union pensions do not provide survivor benefits to same-sex partners/spouses. You must fill this benefit gap yourself by saving more and using beneficiary strategies such as Stretch IRAs and pension maximization.

Owning Life Insurance on yourself. You and your partner may own life insurance policies to provide a mortgage payment fund or to provide survivor income. If you own your own policy, the death benefit of your policy will be included in your Estate, and may be taxed at rates up to 35% in 2012. Opposite-sex couples can avoid this pitfall thanks to an Unlimited Marital Deduction. A solution may be to cross-purchase coverage on each other, seeking out an insurance company that recognizes the “insurable interest” of a same-sex couple.

Each couple is unique, and adding a family to the picture brings in even more opportunities for pitfalls and strategies. Your Financial Professional must look at the “Big Picture” and use all available techniques to fill benefit gaps and achieve goals.

Please be advised that this document is not intended as legal or tax advice. Accordingly, any tax information provided in this document is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, by any taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be impose don the taxpayer. The tax information was written to support the promotion or the marketing of the transaction(s) or matter(s) addressed, and you should seek advice based on your particular circumstances from an independent tax advisor. GE-67874 (06/12) (Exp. 06/14) This article is provided by Lisa D. Miller, CFP and Michael Leonelli. Lisa D. Miller offers securities and investment advisory services and Michael Leonelli offers securities through AXA Advisors, LLC (member FINRA, SPC) 120 Madison Street, Suite 1900, Syracuse, NY 13202 and both offer annuity and insurance products through an insurance brokerage affiliate, AXA Network, LLCX and its subsidiaries.

For more information, Lisa-D.Miller@AXA-Advisors.com www.LisaDMiller.com

www.purpleroofs.com

Tilghman Island Maryland Serenity On The Chesapeake Bay

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eave your ego and your expectations at the drawbridge before crossing onto Tilghman Island. If you are looking for an upscale resort town, where the concierge or cabana boy is at your beck and call, you’ve crossed the wrong bridge. Residents are kind and welcoming, and they will certainly roll out the red carpet when you arrive, although it will be lined in oyster shells.

The customer service we experienced at the Black Walnut Point Inn, The Tilghman Island Inn, Two if by Sea Restaurant, and even the local stop n’ shop, (the Tilghman Island Country Store), was top-notch and there is a ‘real-ness’ on this island that is to be appreciated. This place hasn’t been touched by corporate America. There are no chain restaurants, no big-box stores, nor any high-rise hotels. What you will find, is old-world relaxation, a rich history and kind-hearted residents, who are more

than overjoyed that you have chosen to experience all this island has to offer.

The natives, which are the third and fourth generations of families who still reside on the island, will tell you that this is an island full of working class people. Meaning: Everyone who lives on the island, works on the island. Mainly ‘watermen,’ which we were informed, are the folks who have made their living by working the waterways, be it seafood-dredging and fishing; processing and wholesaling oysters, crabs, clams and fin fish; or boating.

Enjoy fishing, kayaking, biking, or cruising charters, while visiting Tilghman Island, which is home to the last commercial sailing fleet in North America, the skipjacks…on display at Dogwood Harbor. Dogwood Harbor is a park that reflects the work ethics of Chesapeake Bay watermen, as

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well as a place where the day's harvest can be viewed by visitors, and guests can talk with multi-generation watermen to learn about the Bay aboard an authentic skipjack.

For more island history, visit the Tilghman Island Waterman’s Museum, open on weekends from April through December.

Take a romantic sunset sail with Captain Wade on the Rebecca T. Ruark or Captain Jeff Mathias on the Lady Patty. Maybe you prefer a Lighthouse Tour with Captain Mike Richards? The marina rents jet skis and pontoon boats, and the Phillips Wharf Environmental Center offers sunset cruises and eco tours.

Peaceful, relaxing, calming, and tranquil are words that come to mind when reminiscing about our visit to the island. The next thought is ALWAYS, “When can we make the time to return?”

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Black Walnut Point Inn

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o you need to be constantly entertained, or can you handle sitting quietly with the comfort of your partner nestled by your side, watching boats passing on the calm water, and a vast array of birds flying about in the huge sky? The Inn is known as ‘a secret place of peace.’ Renew your spirit, relax and breathe deep without the hustle and noises of the busy city.

How many times have you returned from a vacation and said “I need a vaca from my vaca before I have to go back to work.”

This is typically true for me, although I returned from my visit to the Black Walnut Point Inn on Tilghman Island, more relaxed than on any previous retreat I can recall. My mind had a chance to slow down, unwind and re-charge. I was left clear-minded, rested and inspired!

We arrived just after a father-son weekend at the Inn. Now, let me tell you that my over-charged, technically obsessed, drama-filled teenagers, would be lost if I had brought them on this trip. But you better believe I have plans to return, with them in tow. America has given our kids gadgets, games, and action movies to keep them entertained, and I still hear them say, “I’m

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Tilghman Island 33

bored.” REALLY? When I was a kid, we were outside, playing with our friends from sunrise until sunset, and had to be home before the street lights came on. I never remember being bored. I know it to be true for my kids, that they have no desire for a life like we had as children, nor do they have an interest in history or old-world charm, but a trip to the Inn would really give them an opportunity to relax, enjoy the great outdoors, and spend some much needed quality time with their family. Children also need to unwind and re-charge. Just make sure the kids are old enough to understand the meaning of ‘unwind’ since children under 12 are not permitted, because of the nesting birds and lack of fencing on the property. The safety of the children and wildlife are important to Innkeepers, Bob & Tracy.

Bob and Tracy are Owners and grateful Innkeepers of The Black Walnut Point Inn Bed & Breakfast. Both gentlemen are happy, content, uplifting, welcoming, and an all around pleasure to be around. I enjoyed their company so much so, that I found myself following Bob around the garden, as he picked vegetables for our planned barbeque later that evening.

So, besides time to enjoy your company, free from distraction, or sit with your own thoughts for a while, what is there to do during your stay? How about a stroll through the 52-acre Black Walnut Point Bird Sanctuary, filled with eagles, owls, osprey, heron, migrating butterflies, waterfowl and songbirds? Cameras and binoculars are suggested carry-ons, to replace your cell phone and ipad. Thankfully, cell service is

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limited on the ‘point’ which gives guests a perfect opportunity to say “sorry I missed your 14 phone calls and 22 text messages, I wasn’t in range.”

Sit in a hammock, an Adirondack chair or chaise lounge by the pool, overlooking the water, viewable from every direction. Wander the property’s trees and gardens, which offer peaches, pears, apples, cherries, plumbs, and fruits & vegetables such as cucumbers, tomatoes, Doc Martin lima beans, watermelons and cantaloupe.

The B&B is open year-round, which is perfect for visiting in the fall, which bring in the Monarch butterflies and raptors; including hawks, falcons and peregrins, as well as the resident great horned owl. Enjoy 21 different species of ducks, or if you’re interested in taking one home, duck hunting season on the Island, begins in December.

Does the picturesque cross that stands at the end of the point, intrigue you or frighten you?

No worries, this is not a religous compound, it is a truly unique bed & breakfast, that comes with some interesting history and several intriguing stories. Bob & Tracy are more than happy to tell you the story of how this cross, in its entirety, just washed right up onto the shore one fine day. Who knew it would become such a glorified attraction, not to mention, a perfect backdrop for a wedding on the great lawn. For some great photos of past weddings held at the Inn, I recommend a click to their website. With four rooms in the main house, and 3 private cabins, there is plenty of room to house your closest family and friends, while celebrating an unforgettable moment in time.

Black Walnut Point, sitting pretty at the end of the world, (as the locals would say) is truly a place filled with family and friends where no one, not even first time guests, are treated as visitors.

We’ve come up with a motto-song for the Inn: Otis Redding’s “Sittin on the Dock of the Bay.” Although this song refers to the San Francisco bay, we listen and fondly remember the Black Walnut Point Inn, at the very end of Tilghman Island, on the Chesapeake Bay.

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Two if by Sea Located on the main drag of the Island, it’s not hard to spot the adorable 1950’s style café, Two If By Sea. Comfort food cooked to perfection, such as a meat lovers frittata or spinach feta omelet for breakfast. Afternoon delights include the chicken Chesapeake sandwich, pan seared rockfish sandwich, or perhaps the chef ’s soft shell crab sandwich more appeals to your taste buds.

We were welcomed with open arms by Scott Spittler, Manager of the café, and Henry Miller, Chef and Owner. Henry graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in 1982 and has worked in restaurants along the east coast, as well as a 7-year stretch at Williams-Sonoma, until fulfilling his dream of restaurant ownership. Henry is the island’s newest business owner. A full service restaurant has always been Henry’s dream, however, his passion is baking. You will always find fresh pastries baked on the premises to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Monthly cooking classes offered by Henry at the café have reached national attention, as he was recently featured in an article by Melanie D.G. Kaplan for The Washington Post. Kaplan writes about a December class with the theme of cocktail party appetizers. Henry told

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us that after this article was released, he began receiving calls from some of the regular class attendants, asking to book ahead for the entire year.

Of the 5 restaurants on Tilghman, Two If By Sea has been ranked #1 and given 4.5 stars on TripAdvisor. Personally, I give them 5 stars. Not only for the food, service, value and atmosphere, but also included in a restaurant review, should be the cleanliness factor. Wandering with our eyes while waiting for our lunch, we admired the sparkling clean stainless steel pots, pans and utensils that hung from the pot rack. The counters were clean from debris and organized, and the photos that hung on the wall behind us were free from dust. Even when fine dining and enjoying a fabulous meal, if the restaurant is unclean, it leaves a bad taste in your mouth.

Although during our 3-day visit to the island, we had already eaten at the café twice, we couldn’t resist the urge to stop by on our way out of town. We placed a to-go order of their fresh baked croissants for our long drive ahead. We unfortunately could not resist them and the bag was empty before we even got to the bridge. twoifbyseacafe.com

The Tilghman Island Inn Walking up the oyster driveway of The Tilghman Island Inn, gives you a good indication that you are miles from home. “We are close to DC, Baltimore & Philadelphia… just 2 hours and 50 years away,” as stated by David McCallum, Executive Chef and Owner of The Tilghman Island Inn. The Tilghman Island Inn offers 18 luxury rooms, waterfront and dock access, a spa and tennis courts, including a fine dining restaurant. This is a pet friendly Inn, so don’t be surprised when the resident dog nudges you for a pet. The restaurant has continued to receive the Wine Spectator's 'Award of Excellence' since 1996.

We enjoyed an evening full of laughter with friends, including Chef McCallum, who prepared for us, the most delicious array of ´ appetizers and entrees.

Bittersweet Chocolate Cake with House Made Raspberry Ice Cream & Chocolate Ganache

Crab Fritters

Tilghman Island

Crab Cakes 1 lb. Jumbo Lump Crab Meat 2T Chopped Parsley 3-6 Saltine Crackers 1 egg 2 T Mayonnaise 2 T Dry Mustard White Pepper Toss 1st three ingredients.

Mix remaining ingredients in a separate bowl. Gently fold into crab meat. Shape into 6-8 cakes. Sear each cake in olive oil or butter.

Finish in 350 degree oven about 8 minutes.

Caprese Salad Fresh Tomatoes, Buffalo Mozzarella Cheese, Basil Oil, & Balsamic Reduction

Recipe courtesy Executive Chef David McCallum

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“They say once you get that oyster mud under your fingernails,

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you’ll always come back.”

- Gary Fairbank, local resident featured in the DVD Growing Up On Tilghman

Tilghman Island 39

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A

pproaching the Blue Ridge Mountains, one can not help but to be inspired by the beauty of such a wonderful place in this Country. The towering trees with their lusciously thick canopy, sprinkles streams of bright sun light onto the creatures beneath.

Seemingly untouched by civilization, the smog of the city melts away into the crisp, clean, fresh mountain air.

Tucked quietly away in its own corner of beauty, sits the Inn at Red Hill Bed & Breakfast. While comfortably relaxing on the beautiful wooden deck, sipping coffee or tea, the cool mountain breeze wisps away any heavy thoughts or concerns as if they are nothing more than dust.

Cindy Neugebauer, Owner and Innkeeper, radiates her welcoming personality which only magnifies this already embracing and wonderfully peaceful atmosphere. She takes great care to ensure that every detail of your stay is heart warming, relaxing and adventurous, for those who are interested, right down to the extra soft toilet paper.

Bailey, Cindy’s chocolate lab, is delightfully well mannered and a genuinely unique companion to every visitor.

Although Bailey is not permitted inside the common areas or bedrooms, she is allowed to make personal appearances upon request.

The Inn itself is decorated in a modern country theme with a cottage feel. Upon walking in, you immediately feel at home and want to curl up on the couch with a good read or the remote.

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The Inn at Red Hill Bed & Breakfast

Maryland

The bedrooms follow suit for a cozy stay in a comfy bed covered with plush bed linens. Cindy provides a lavishly healthy breakfast and obtains all the food from local

sources, including the morning coffee!

Whether visiting for a secluded rest, personal exploration or specific event, the Inn at Red Hill B&B can provide for your needs.

The Inn overlooks Antietam National Battlefield. These lands are enriched with Civil War history. The battle grounds and museums stretch for miles along the main road into town, and historic markers can be read by pulling over on the shoulder of the road for more insight into the people who gave their lives in

building our Nation. Walk through the historic Cornfield, Bloody Lane and Burnside Bridge. A driving tour in the comfort of your own vehicle, while being guided by CD brings to life your surroundings as you listen to the sounds of cannons and gunfire behind the narration of different soldiers from the era, who landmark the turning of events.

Enjoy the July 4th spectacular fireworks show, Civil War reenactments in September and the Annual Antietam National Battlefield Memorial Illumination in December, where a brilliant array of 23,000 luminaries are lit in honor of those solders who fell in battle. Fall is peak leaf peeping season and the mountain roads are a prime place for bicyclist to train.

No matter what your plans are, or if there are no plans at all, just submerge yourself in the western mountain region of Maryland. Your mind and body will thank you.

Cindy Neugebauer and Bailey

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In Review Anyone But Me Web Series The award winning drama web series, Anyone But Me, which first aired in 2008, focuses around the lesbian relationship of “Vivian and Aster,” played by Rachael Hip-Flores and Nicole Pacent. After 3 seasons and over 13 million views, along with accolades from a multitude of press outlets and multiple awards, the series has come to an end.

Just not ready to let go of the lesbian duo? No worries, get your copy of season 2 and 3, on DVD and meet the girls… all four of them!

Both Rachael and Nicole, along with Executive Producers Susan Miller and Tina Cesa Ward, will appear in person on November 7th from 6:30 to 8:30 at Candy Bar in the heart of the Soho district in London for the signing of Season 2 & 3 DVD’s.

“One of the 25 web TV shows you need to see!” -The Guardian www.AnyoneButMeSeries.com www.candybarsoho.com

Some people have two Dads Childrens Book by Luca Panzini & Fabri Kramer Illustrated by Luca Panzini Some people have two Dads is an inspiring educational childrens book that conveys the message of love no matter what the dynamics of family may be. Daisy is the young birthday girl with the gift of two loving Dads, who express the meaning of love with the story of how Daisy was born and how important family is, no matter the combination. Sensible, heartfelt and warming, this childrens book brings forth a smile from all of us. facebook.com/SomePeopleHaveTwoDads

Welcome to New York Short Film by Steven Tyler O'Connor Starring: Sherry Vine This short film, written and directed by Steven Tylor O’Connor, is a humorous look into the lives of five characters, who are trying to balance daily life, while looking for love and following their dreams in the big apple. At the start of the film, each of the characters have one thing in common, their unconventional, eccentric and humorous therapist. By the end of the film, O’Connor cleverly depicts how each of the five characters lives are intertwined.

I especially appreciate how Dr. Rosenblatt gives her patient (Mick) a dumbfounded look, after a conversation where Mick explains his profession about performing as a “man in a dress.” This particular part, gives a clear understanding, with unspoken words, just how ‘normal,’ the LGBT community sees itself.

O’Connor has a unique ability in his script writing, to give any audience something to smile about and relate to, not to mention, a craving for the sequel. Kudos on another successful film!

WelcomeToNewYorkTheMovie.com

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United in Anger: A History of ACT UP Documentary Producers: Jim Hubbard & Sarah Schulman Screenwriters: Ali Cotterill, Jim Hubbard Director of photography: James Wentzy Editor: Ali Cotterill This incredible documentary, using period footage from the activist group ACTUP, gives viewers a clear understanding of the battle that was fought when the AIDS crisis first surfaced in 1987.

Produced in chronological order, the movie documents how individuals began gathering to discuss the common goal of injustice and what actions were taken to fight for the equality of individuals with AIDS. The movie depicts how the organization began, what the initial goals were, and how over a long span of time and quick growth of the group, it struggled internally with an ever growing agenda. And although not the focus of the movie, it also portrays how, at this time period in American history, these meetings were the ‘hip’ place to be. All the gays attended and it was a safe haven as a popular pick-up joint.

If you are of the younger queer generation, this movie is a must-see to gain an understanding of the heroic individuals who fought for the rights we currently have.

The 92-minute movie will bring you to the edge of your seat with rage, tears, and excitement.

For more information or to find a showing in your area, click to: https://www.facebook.com/UnitedinAnger http://www.unitedinanger.com

Songs of Fire Songs of a Lesbian Anarchist by Kathy Fire Folkways Records FS 8585 From the Smithsonian Folkways Archival, comes a 1978 recording by Kathy Fire, a self-proclaimed lesbian anarchist, who used her songs to fight the labels of society, such as "lady, dyke, commie, sinner, and crazy."

This singer-songwriter-guitarist uses her musical voice, modeled on the tradition of American folk ballad singing, to make plain her political persuasion and anti-authoritarian ideals.

There is very little information documented about Kathy Fire and her colorful past full of activism for women and lesbian rights. In an article published by Philadelphia Gay News, on December 15, 1978, she explains her involvement in the National Organization for Women and the radical lesbian group Dyketactics!, founded by Fire.

In a 1975 review by the Lesbian Tide, Nanette DeMasters writes: “Kathy gives us songs full of strength and revolutionary conviction, rooted in her history of personal struggle, in an unpretentious folk style.”

Smithsonian Folkways Recordings is the nonprofit record label of the national museum of the United States. To purchase your copy of “Songs of Fire”, or learn more, click to www.folkways.si.edu

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Niagara FALLS

a

mong the first of hundreds of same-sex marriages performed across the state of New York in July of 2011, were Kitty Lambert and Cheryle Rudd, and their marriage was made official by Mayor Paul A. Dyster.

Without question, knowing that the Mayor of Niagara Falls performed the first same-sex marriage, we know that he is in full support of equality. But the larger question is, whether the local business owners are truly in support of the legalization of gay marriage, or if they are just happy knowing their business profits will now be increasing, as more couples visit the City to wed and honeymoon. When I asked Mayor Dyster this question, I was pleasantly surprised with his unexpected answer. The Mayor said: “Not only do we welcome their same-sex wedding, we welcome their relocation to our City.� So, not only does he want lesbian and gay couples to feel comfortable being married in Niagara Falls, or spending their honeymoon in Niagara Falls, but he wants the LGBT community to be so comfortable, in fact, that they want to live in Niagara Falls!

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Is it still the Honeymoon Capital of the World? photos courtesy Stu Gallagher Photography

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He explained, “There was a lot of trepedation about what was going to happen during the first weekend of the new law, allowing same-sex marriages to take place. We, as a community, were pleasantly surprised that everyone who came here to get married in those opening days and weeks after the change in legislation, conducted themselves in such a dignified fashion. After the first weekend, it all seemed so normal that you wondered why you were worrying about it anyway.”

Niagara Falls is a city ready to establish its reputation as a diverse community, raising the bar in beautiful yet affordable living, with a strong music scene, a growing population that is dedicated to the arts and historic preservation, and has incentive programs in place to draw in the newly graduated college generation. All this, including an invitation from the Mayor, it seems only fair that Niagara Falls be included in the list of the best cities for LGBT relocation.

Shelly Straub with Mayor Paul A. Dyster.

In order to answer the question of whether Niagara Falls is still dubbed as “Honeymoon Capital of the World,” we engaged in conversations with Historian Paul Gromosiak, who it turns out, is not only a very knowledgeable author of over 10 books relating to the rich history and magnetism of Niagara Falls, but quite an entertaining gentleman as well.

Paul began our history lesson with a very popular song from the year 1841, titled “Niagara Falls.” A clip of the song lyrics read:

See Niagara’s waters rolling See the misty spray See the happy lovers strolling It’s everybody’s wedding day.

Mayor Dyster described the three key targets of people who would make good candidates for re-populating the area.

• Young people – Niagara Falls has an innovative program underway that has received national attention, which offers incentives for housing, with a preference to home ownership in targeted neighborhoods, and it’s geared toward student loan debt.

• Empty Nesters – Some may be concerned about safety and crime in urban locations, but they would like to be closer to medical care, shopping, neighbors and they no longer want to mow a 3-acre lawn.

• Gay & Lesbian community - We have excellent schools and safe neighborhoods, along with cultural diversity and aesthestically pleasing areas, such as the “garden walk” that once seemed to be a crazy idea, but has grown into a wonderful community experience and beautifies the downtown area. The garden walk allows locals and visitors to take a self-guided tour of a variety of gardens that Niagara Falls residents maintain on their private property. Mayor Dyster says, “the gay and lesbian community is an important part of the creative class of people.”

Paul continued to explain that due largely in part of the attention from the song, and the newly built railroad system, which gave the middle class population the opportunity to afford travel, Niagara Falls was becoming a popular destination.

The stunts that are performed over the falls, also attracted much public attention, then and still today. Paul said, “Most notably (as far as I’m concerned) was, Blondin, who walked a tightrope over the Niagara Falls gorge in 1859.” The most recent daredevil act was successfully performed by Nik Wallenda, who, in June of 2012, was the first person ever, to walk a tightrope directly over the falls.

He then told us, “In the late 1960’s, the Mayor at that time, as a promotional idea, coined Niagara Falls as the Honeymoon Capital of the World.”

Paul recounted the history of Niagara Falls as always being a place of romance. “When I was a boy, and we would walk down this old Falls Street, you would see young couples holding hands, from all over the world, headed for the falls.” He continued, “This place is romantic to not just couples, but romantic to artists, writers, and musicians.”

Perhaps it’s all the negative ions in the air, that bring about the euphoric, romantic feelings and draws open the door to creativity. For generations, researchers have been exploring the health benefits of being in places like forests, mountains and near cascading waters, due to the negative ions, or rather - positive energy - that is released in the open air.

There’s still no concrete answer as to whether these negative ions are the natural draw for many folks, or if the 1960’s Mayor, who began the City’s self proclamation as Honeymoon Capital of the World, is the attention getting draw. Possibly it’s something as simple as a new law passing, that allows another population in America to marry, that brings masses of people to Niagara Falls. Either way, local business owners and residents alike are still pleased to call their home, the World’s Honeymoon Capital.

Business is booming!

Owner of Rainbow Bells, Shanie McCowen, who created her business because of the marriage equality bill passing, has served clients in the past year from: Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Louisiana, North & South Carolina, Georgia, Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Florida, California, Washington, and even a couple from Australia.

Sally Fedell, Falls Wedding Chapel Owner, has seen a 20% increase in business due to same-sex weddings.

Sally says that it is a sign the economy is improving.

Business in general was better over previous years, but this opportunity truly gave her business a “boost”. She feels that these weddings are so much more emotional than heterosexual weddings, and has truly been enlightened by these experiences.

City of Niagara Falls Marriage Licenses: July 14, 2010 - July 14, 2011 – 382 licenses sold July 14, 2011 - July 14, 2012 – 459 licenses sold

What if there were no safe spaces?

The LGBT Center of Greater Cleveland

by Nathan David

Tucked in the heart of the Gordon Square Arts District just west of Cleveland, you will find a distinct community center that welcomes everyone regardless of gender, race, sexual orientation or economic status. With a welcoming store front on Detroit Avenue, the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Community Center of Greater Cleveland is

a modest beacon of equality for Cleveland residents and visitors. Upon entering, the community space is peppered with educational material and the walls are adorned with inspirational quotes. Even more encouraging than the space, is its refreshing collection of

diverse individuals. With each individual emitting pride, it is clear that this group embraces the safe environment of the center.

To support these community members, the LGBT Center of Greater Cleveland has provided an assortment of services for over 35 years. Their vital services currently include senior programming, counseling, HIV testing, youth programming and support groups.

These community resources are administered and led by a small staff of four, with the support of volunteers and the center’s Board of Directors. With limited resources, the LGBT Center of Greater Cleveland has seen success through the dedication of all these individuals.

As the demand for LGBT services and support continually increases, the center is always open to volunteers wishing to help progress its mission of advancing the rights, respect and diversity of the LGBT community.

The future looks bright for the center. With a newly appointed Executive Director, Phyllis Harris, the center’s focus and energy has only increased. When asked what to expect from the center down the road, Ms. Harris said “We are currently focused on solidifying our bedrock programs of youth and senior services.

Looking to the future, we hope to increase our visibility and impact by providing programing for every stage in an LGBT person’s life cycle.”

Stop by the next time you are in the Greater Cleveland Area –Everyone is welcome!

Nathan David, founder of Rings of Equality, is a youth mentor and marketing volunteer at the LGBT Center of Greater Cleveland.

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share your message of hope with LGBt youth around the worLd

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Science Vacation Think anywhere, anytime

by Christopher de la Torre

"The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn."

Alvin Toffler

T

here's no doubt, the future of prosperity is about change, and science provides an answer. If there's a fire inside of you that longs for something more, something exciting and spiritually motivating, something that draws you into the natural world instead of isolating you from it, then science is for you. Science is about ideas, and the universe of ideas is limitless. So if you're embarking for the first time on what I call "the critical thought journey", chances are you might feel overwhelmed at first. Ask any scientist and they'll tell you it's no big deal. What's big is what follows.

You've heard it—the talk about "the power inside of you" and "being the one to make the change"—and it's true: changing the world begins with changing how you look at the world— developing an ability to envision the space around you and inside of you on your own terms and as you go—free of bias and fear. For a moment, imagine there is no believing, only observing, and that your power comes from asking questions and formulating hypotheses. Imagine that the journey never ends. If you know science, you get what I'm saying.

If you don't know science, consider this: when you delve into critical thinking for the first time, or perhaps before—at the very moment that science happens to you—the world both ceases as a mystery and becomes a new mystery, giving you (the observer) a sense of peace—knowing, yet not knowing, the nature and course of space and time—the pulse around us and inside us that guides the human collective through calamity and toward conciliation. Science is fun and, believe it or not, it's never been easier to get into it.

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Here are five venues worth checking out before you embark: io9

RSA

web: http://io9.com/

web: http://www.thersa.org/

tagline: We come from the future

tagline: 21st century enlightenment

the skinny: Launched by Gawker Media in 2008, io9 is about science, sci-fi and the future, and its clever brand of "smart escapism" aggregates trending technology, science news, movies and literature—giving credence to the notion that "geeks are cool." Because we are.

the skinny: The Royal Society for the encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce (RSA) is committed to finding innovative solutions that can help us realize a better future.

the hook: Irreverent journalistic style and a balance between current, quirky and cool (think Gawker for science) makes this a good read, every time.

the hook: The RSA Animate series has revolutionized knowledge visualization, making ordinary lectures fun for visual learners. It's the coolest thing since sliced bread, really.

Big Think

TED

web: http://bigthink.com/

web: http://www.ted.com/

tagline: What’s the big idea?

tagline: Ideas worth spreading

the skinny: Takes the “infinite data points” of the web and spins a list of must-haves from the minds of innovators and thinkers worth listening to.

the skinny: TED started in 1984 as a conference on technology, entertainment and design. The mission to spread ideas has since made TED a go to venue for the latest and greatest in science and tech. The TED community is an inclusive social venue that lets visitors engage with the speakers and topics they like the most.

the hook: signature infinite white background vids float the brand, and brevity encourages a rich experience for site visitors.

the hook: Speakers are knowledgeable and charismatic, and knock-your-socks-off concepts are commonplace.

The Conversation web:http://theconversation.edu.au/pages/ technology tagline: Academic rigour, journalistic flair the skinny: An independent source of analysis, commentary and news from the university and research sector, written by acknowledged experts.

Where appropriate, published work on the site discloses potential conflicts of interests and sources of funding, and all work carries attribution of the authors' expertise. the hook: Taming the academic beast is tough, and these folks do it well.

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"Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos into order, and confusion into clarity....

It turns problems into gifts, failures into success, the unexpected into perfect timing, and mistakes into important events. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow."

- Melodie Beattie

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Fair Comparison

Making a

Hearing the noise of activity all around you, enticing smells of a variety of food, animals to see and touch, along with amusement rides for a thrill –There’s so much excitement for a child, all wrapped up in one location, why wouldn’t you take your kids to the State Fair? A day of walking, people-watching, and learning what makes your state unique MUST be a better idea than just another day of gaming in front of the TV. Depending on how many children tag along, your fun-filled day at the fair doesn’t have to break the bank. Taking advantage of daily entrance discounts or purchasing advance tickets, along with unlimited amusement ride wristbands, can make your fair day more affordable.

Maryland State Fair

The Maryland State Fair - 2012 Celebrating 131 years, The Maryland State Fair is a fun and educational resource complete with daily exhibits, presentations and entertainment that is sure to captivate visitors of all ages.

4‐H/Home Arts Buildings, the Cow Palace, Horse Show Ring, and other agricultural buildings, as well as the Exhibition Hall for commercial exhibits.

Midway: Approximately 40 rides Celebrity Entertainment and Concert series: Food Network Challenge Winner - Pumpkin Carver Ray Villafane; Newsboys with The Afters; Victoria Justice; The Band Perry Attractions: Largest crab cake competition, Live Thoroughbred horseracing and simulcast racing; Miss Maryland Agriculture Contest; 4‐H/FFA Costume Animal Contest, Livestock Sale & Fashion Revue; Arm Wrestling USA/Maryland Classic ; The J Bar W Ranch Battle of the Beasts professional bull riding; Masters of the Chainsaw demonstrations; Swifty Swine Pig Racing Shows; the Univ. of MD Agriculture Fair Tours, U Learn Center, Univ. of MD Dairy Educational Display and the MD Guernsey Association’s Milk It Cow Milking Clinic in the Cow Palace; the Birthing Center, where fairgoers have the opportunity to witness the miracle of birth of calves and piglets; culinary demonstrations, photography exhibits, arts and crafts and more!

Overview: The Maryland State Fair offered a relaxed, non-crowded atmosphere, with parking right across the street. Entry was free, because it was military day and anyone in the armed forces received complimentary admission for themselves and one other person. There was no waiting in line for food or rides, and plenty of room to watch the horse show and pig racing competitions up close! www.marylandstatefair.com

Location: Timonium Fairgrounds, Baltimore County Dates: Aug 24, 2012 – Sep 3, 2012 (11 days) Admission: Admission to the Fair is $8.00 for adults, $6.00 for seniors and $3.00 for children. Children five‐years‐old and younger are admitted free.

Attendance: Research shows a total attendance of somewhere between 380,000 – 450,000 in previous years, but the 2012 total is not verified.

Buildings: Maryland State Fair Museum and Dept. of Natural Resources Building, Farm & Garden and

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Maryland State Fair

New York State Fair

Maryland State Fair

Yo rk Sta te Fai r Ne w

each. Children 12 and under are admitted free every day. Students 16 and under are admitted free on Friday, August 31, 2012. Senior Citizen’s free days are August 27 & 28, 2012 & free admission to the New York State Fair is included with the advance purchase of any concert ticket.

Attendance: 845,595 total for 12 days in 2012 Midway: Approximately 83 rides, provided

by James E. Strates Shows, America’s only remaining railroad carnival Celebrity Entertainment and Concert series: More than we can mention, but here’s a few that were on the lineup in 2012: Keith Urban with David Nail; Rockstar Energy Drink UPROAR Festival with Shinedown, Godsmack, Staind, Papa Roach, Adelitas Way and more; Larry the Cable Guy; Jason Aldean with Luke Bryan; American pop duo Karmin; Alternative band Neon Trees; British Boy Band, The Wanted; The J. Geils Band; The Charlie Daniels Band; The Band Perry; Sawyer Brown; Victoria Justice; Bridgit Mendler; Former Syracuse University basketball player Gerry McNamara; Edgar Hansen from the Discovery Channel’s “Deadliest Catch”; Teresa Guiduce from “Real Housewives of New Jersey” and “Celebrity Apprentice”.

The Great New York State Fair - 2012 The primary purpose of the New York State Fair is to conduct an annual celebration of the economic, cultural and institutional strengths indigenous to New York with a special emphasis on agriculture as one of the State’s largest and most important industries. Along with twelve-days of expositions, the Fair offers various forms of affordable entertainment and amusement for families and friends, and showcase the talents, skills and aspiration of our youth. The Fair also promotes agricultural growth and awareness through educational programs, Statewide competitions in breeding and showing of livestock, and by promoting and supporting the sale of the State’s agricultural and food products. New York’s first state fair was held in 1841.

Location: State Fairgrounds in Syracuse Dates: Aug 23, 2012 – Sep 3, 2012 (12 days) Admission: Daily admission tickets are $10.00

Attractions: Monster trucks, the Demolition Derby, the Walker Brothers Circus; the Eudora Farms Petting Zoo; the Mike Steidley BMX Stunt Show; Bixby’s Rainforest Experience; The Witter Agricultural Museum; the Carriage Museum; An antique tractor display; culinary demonstrations, photography exhibits, arts and crafts; a daily parade; a petting zoo; lumberjack shows; hardwood carvers; German jugglers; an annual butter sculpture; an historic train exhibit; the horticulture building; the Indian Village; an International Food pavilion; Moo Country and a butterfly garden; the lottery pavilion; horse shows; police exhibits; the Pan-African village and great potato booth; farmers markets; sand sculptures; sea lions; an uncork NY wine village; the veterans & 9/11 memorial, as well as strolling performers around every corner.

Overview: With such a wide variety of attractions and exhibits, you could spend 2 or 3 full days keeping yourself and your family entertained.

At times, the fair can be exhausting in the hot weather and massive crowds of people, but

thankfully there’s plenty of places to find shade and a seat. Pushing the limits of the technologically advanced, fairgoers can visit nysfair.org, and view an interactive map, food finder and personal itinerary planner. Also offered, is a pre-purchasable coupon book with over $3,000 worth of savings. www.nysfair.org

New York State has long been seen as a giant within the State Fair industry, and claims to be one of the oldest state fairs in the Country. Most recently, Philly.com, an affiliate of The Philadelphia Inquirer and Daily News, named the New York State Fair as one of the “10 for the Road,” and Country Living Magazine recently identified the New York State Fair as one of the five best state fairs in America.

It is important to remember that these fairs are not competing against one another, but merely showing off the abundant offerings that makes each state unique.

Be proud of your home state and support its heritage by visiting your next State Fair!

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The

AB C’s of Sailing in Maryland

"Wherever there's a lot, and I mean lot of boats, there's usually a good reason for it. And that's certainly the case with these areas. Good marinas, good sailing, consistent wind, and all of the services you'd come to expect from a world-class sailing center. There's good sailing for everybody here." Larry Jacobson, Circumnavigator & author of the award-winning book, The Boy Behind the Gate.

A

Annapolis Self-proclaimed as “America’s Sailing Capital,” Annapolis is a premier maritime center. Worldwide visitors enjoy the historic seaport for water activities such as: 74-foot schooner cruises, breakfast boat charters, fishing, or explore the bay by canoe or kayak.

Not getting wet today? No worries, as you can visit the Annapolis Maitime Museum, tour the U.S. Naval Academy or stop by The National Sailing Center & Hall of Fame.

Established in 2006, The National Sailing Center & Hall of Fame, is a non-profit educational institution dedicated to preserving the history of sailing and its impact on the culture.

Plan on getting in the water? Make a stop at one of the most prestigious Yacht Clubs, The Moorings.

Their newest location in Annapolis, opened in 2012, which offers bareboat sailing, as well as powered and skippered charters on the Chesapeake Bay. They have been providing fantastic powerboat and sailing vacations worldwide for over 40 years.

Action packed water events include an Annual Classic Wooden Boat Rendezvous & Race in September, the annual United States Sailboat Show in October, or sailing races at sunset that take place every Wednesday from April through September.

As home to “The Star-Spangled Banner”, the national anthem of the United States, written by Francis Scott Key in 1814, it would be appropriate while visiting during the month of June, to check out the Star-Spangled Sailabration.

During this annual week-long event, an international parade of more than two dozen ships sail into Baltimore to launch the celebration of the Bicentennial of the War of 1812 and the penning of the National Anthem.

C

Chesapeake Bay Encompassing both the eastern and western shores of Maryland, The Chesapeake Bay is the largest estuary in the U.S. and is surrounded by Virginia and Maryland It has more than 150 rivers and streams flowing into it, which makes this location a boater’s paradise!

Enjoy hour long cruises, full day excursions or week long adventures, traveling to several different ports along the bay.

With breathtaking views, sailing the bay is an adventure never to be forgotten and most certainly an experience you will want to relive.

Baltimore Boats, boats and more boats in Baltimore! From historic military ships and yachts to cruise ships and charter boats, set sail in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor.

The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum is located on St. Michaels and has in depth knowledge of the local oystering industry and boat building. The working boat yard and floating fleet provide an interactive experience. Also featuring the Hooper Strait Lighthouse, a rare screwpile lighthouse, with its intriging history on the treacherous waters of the Hooper Strait.

As one of America’s oldest seaports, welcoming ships since the 1600’s, finding a place to tie up for the night won’t be a problem in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. The harbor boasts some world-class marinas and one top-rated service and repair yard for boats and yachts.

Chesapeake Lights also offers various tours of the Lighthouses in Chesapeake Bay aboard the M/V SHARPS ISLAND. Great photo opportunities and all day tours are available illuminating the bay, its history and its wonders.

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If one of the most impressive collections of military vessels in the world brings you some excitement, take a tour with HistoricShip.org, (located on Pier I - 301 East Pratt Street) and climb aboard floating museums, such as: the US Sloop-of-War Constellation (the last Civil War Vessel afloat,) the US Submarine Torsk, the US Coast Guard Cutter Taney, and the Lightship Chesapeake. Also included in the tour is the Seven Foot Knoll Lighthouse, which marked the entrance to the Patapsco River and Baltimore Harbor for over 130 years.

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i s n E o i t v e a t r y n thin e s er g!

P Here are some helpful sites to wrap your next gift with love and creativity.

www.do-it-yourself-gifts.com Forget the traditional way to wrap, find creative ideas for wrapping gift baskets, bags and boxes.

Long Link: http://www.do-it-yourself-gifts.com/creative-gift-wrapping-ideas.html

www.hgtv.com Head over to hgtv.com for 10 clever do-it-yourself gift wrapping ideas that are sure to impress.

Long Link: http://www.hgtv.com/handmade/10-creative-gift-wrap-ideas/pictures/index.html

http://formalfringe.com Need a gift on the run? Grab a bottle of wine and a pair of knee socks (preferably new).

FormalFringe.com will show you how to wrap it!

Long Link: http://formalfringe.com/2011/09/02/gift-wrap-a-wine-bottle-with-a-pair-of-cute-knee-socks/

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NON-PROFIT/SERVICES/ ORGANIZATIONS

NON-PROFIT/SERVICES/ ORGANIZATIONS

American Civil Liberties Union of Maryland Advocacy & Human Rights, Homeless & Housing, Justice & Legal, LGBT, Race & Ethnicity 3600 Clipper Mill Road Ste 350 Baltimore, MD 21211 www.aclu-md.org Freedom To Marry Campaign to win Marriage Equality Nationwide www.freedomtomarry.org

LODGING/RESTAURANTS LODGING/RESTAURANTS Black Walnut Point Inn 4417 Black Walnut Point Road, PO Box 308 Tilghman Island, MD 21671 www.blackwalnutpointinn.com

Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Community Center of Baltimore and Central Maryland http://www.glccb.org

NYC-JC Luxury Hotel Alternative 70 Greene Street Jersey City, NJ 07302 646.662.2797 www.nyc-jc.com

GLAAD Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation www.glaad.org

Tilghman Island Inn Tilghman Island, MD 21671 www.tilghmanislandinn.com

GLSEN Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network www.glsen.org

Two If By Sea 5776 Tilghman Island Road Tilghman, MD 21671 www.twoifbyseacafe.com

Hearts & Ears, Inc. Providing support, advocacy, education, and social and recreational opportunities to GLBTQ individuals with mental health and recovery concerns www.heartsandears.org Human Rights Campaign Civil Rights for LGBT 1640 Rhode Island Avenue Washington DC, DC 20036 202.216.1500 www.hrc.org Maryland Suicide & Crisis Hotline www.suicidehotlines.com/maryland.html NYC LGBT Chamber of Commerce Rev Carmen Hernandez www.nyclgbtcc.com PFLAG Columbia-Howard County, MD Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays to provide opportunity for dialogue about sexual orientation and gender identity www.pflagmd.org SPCAI Advancing the safety & well-being of animals www.spcai.org The Maryland Network Against Domestic Violence http://mnadv.org The Taylor-Wilks Group Minority Health Programs; Substance Abuse, Mental Health; Behavior Modification; Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Modernization Act; Cultural competency and diversity Baltimore, MD 21202 www.taylor-wilksgroup.com

BOOKSTORES/RETAIL Giovanni’s Room 345 South 12th Street Philadelphia, PA 19107 215.923.0813 www.queerbooks.com

NAGLREP National Association of Gay & Lesbian Real Estate Professionals www.naglrep.com

RETAIL

RETAIL

Stickboy Coffee www.stickboycoffee.com Tasty Made Simple with Linda 315.668.1011 linneelou@yahoo.com www.facebook.com/LindasSimpleDinners TRAVEL/EVENTS TRAVEL/EVENTS NYC Up & Out! NYC Arts Entertainment & Culture www.nycupandout.com

PHOTOGRAPHERS PHOTOGRAPHERS

Out & About Travel 800.842.4753 www.gaytravelpros.com

Monica Everdyke Photography PO Box 388 Clay, NY 13041 315.380.7791 www.monicaeverdykephoto.com mje@monicaeverdykephoto.com

WEDDING SERVICES WEDDING SERVICES EnGAYged Weddings A place for same-sex partners to plan their dream wedding! www.EnGAYgedweddings.com

Stu Gallagher Photography Fine Photography/prints for sale 315.663.7811 sdgallagher@gmail.com www.stugallagherphotography.com

OTHER OTHER Camarenna Graphic Designer, Brand Identity, Editorial, Advertising, Packaging, Web www.camarenna.com

PRIDE ORGANIZATIONS PRIDE ORGANIZATIONS Baltimore Pride 241 W. Chase Street Baltimore, MD 21201 http://baltimorepride.org

Mr. Gay World USA www.mrgayworldusa.com

Chesapeake Pride Festival P.O. Box 6159 Annapolis, MD 21401 http://chesapeakepridefestival.org info@ChesapeakePrideFestival.org For a complete list of Pride organizations in the US, click to www.connextionsmagazine.com/pride.html

REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE Allison Hogue NYS Lic. Real Estate Sales Person Warren Real Estate (607) 269-7172 Allison@WarrenHomes.com 830 Hanshaw Road Ithaca, NY 14850

Professional

Directory

A Place for Same-Sex Partners to Plan Their Dream Wedding.

Verified LGBT-Friendly Wedding Vendor Directory & Forum.

www.EnGAYgedWeddings.com twitter.com/EnGAYgedWedding

facebook.com/EnGAYgedWedding

pinterest.com/EnGAYgedWedding

GAYWeddingsForum.com

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