Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada

Stonewall's 10th Anniversary Celebration!

2011-09-06T18:42:00.001-07:00

June is LGBT Pride Month!

2011-06-01T10:18:00.000-07:00

Below is the Presidential proclamation announcing June is LGBT Pride Month!

LGBTQ Nevadans and their allies have a lot to be proud of: Domestic Partnerships, repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell and Nevada's trans-inclusive Employment Non-Discrimination bill was signed into law just last week. We have a long way to go until we reach full equality, but we shouldn't be shy about celebrating what we've accomplished.

We also have to take the time to thank the organizations who have been extremely effective in working equality bills during the legislative session: The Progressive Leadership Alliance of Nevada, ProgressNow Nevada, the ACLU of Nevada, Nevada Women's Lobby, The Gay and Lesbian Center of Las Vegas, Equality Nevada, The Gay and Lesbian Task Force, TransForm Nevada and Translation.

And we also must give a huge thank you to all the legislators in Carson City who have fought for equality!

--
Laura

THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release May 31, 2011

LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL, AND TRANSGENDER PRIDE MONTH, 2011

- - - - - - -

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

The story of America's Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) community is the story of our fathers and sons, our mothers and daughters, and our friends and neighbors who continue the task of making our country a more perfect Union.It is a story about the struggle to realize the great American promise that all people can live with dignity and fairness under the law. Each June, we commemorate the courageous individuals who have fought to achieve this promise for LGBT Americans, and we rededicate ourselves to the pursuit of equal rights for all, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

Since taking office, my Administration has made significant progress towards achieving equality for LGBT Americans. Last December, I was proud to sign the repeal of the discriminatory "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy. With this repeal, gay and lesbian Americans will be able to serve openly in our Armed Forces for the first time in our Nation's history. Our national security will be strengthened and the heroic contributions these Americans make to our military, and have made throughout our history, will be fully recognized.

My Administration has also taken steps to eliminate discrimination against LGBT Americans in Federal housing programs and to give LGBT Americans the right to visit their loved ones in the hospital. We have made clear through executive branch nondiscrimination policies that discrimination on the basis of gender identity in the Federal workplace will not be tolerated. I have continued to nominate and appoint highly qualified, openly LGBT individuals to executive branch and judicial positions. Because we recognize that LGBT rights are human rights, my Administration stands with advocates of equality around the world in leading the fight against pernicious laws targeting LGBT persons and malicious attempts to exclude LGBT organizations from full participation in the international system. We led a global campaign to ensure "sexual orientation" was included in the United Nations resolution on extrajudicial execution -- the only United Nations resolution that specifically mentions LGBT people -- to send the unequivocal message that no matter where it occurs, state-sanctioned killing of gays and lesbians is indefensible. No one should be harmed because of who they are or who they love, and my Administration has mobilized unprecedented public commitments from countries around the world to join in the fight against hate and homophobia.

At home, we are working to address and eliminate violence against LGBT individuals through our enforcement and implementation of the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act. We are also working to reduce the threat of bullying against young people, including LGBT youth. My Administration is actively engaged with educators and community leaders across America to reduce violence and discrimination in schools. To help dispel the myth that bullying is a harmless or inevitable part of growing up, the First Lady and I hosted the first White House Conference on Bullying Prevention in March. Many senior Administration officials have also joined me in reaching out to LGBT youth who have been bullied by recording "It Gets Better" video messages to assure them they are not alone.

This month also marks the 30th anniversary of the emergence of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, which has had a profound impact on the LGBT community. Though we have made strides in combating this
devastating disease, more work remains to be done, and I am committed to expanding access to HIV/AIDS prevention and care. Last year, I announced the first comprehensive National HIV/AIDS
Strategy for the United States. This strategy focuses on combinations of evidence-based approaches to decrease new HIV infections in high risk communities, improve care for people living with HIV/AIDS, and reduce health disparities. My Administration also increased domestic HIV/AIDS funding to support the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program and HIV prevention, and to invest in HIV/AIDS-related research. However, government cannot take on this disease alone. This landmark anniversary is an opportunity for the LGBT community and allies to recommit to raising awareness about HIV/AIDS and continuing the fight against this deadly pandemic.

Every generation of Americans has brought our Nation closer to fulfilling its promise of equality. While progress has taken time, our achievements in advancing the rights of LGBT Americans remind us that history is on our side, and that the American people will never stop striving toward liberty and justice for all.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim June 2011 as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Pride Month. I call upon the people of the United States to eliminate prejudice everywhere it exists, and to celebrate the great diversity of the American people.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.

BARACK OBAMA

# # #

Stonewall Municipal Election Guide

2011-05-20T17:04:00.000-07:00

Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada strongly asks that our members not only vote, but make sure that all of your friends, family, coworkers and neighbors vote as well.

At the bottom of the page is a link to Early Voting sites throughout the Valley.

“Show Our Strength” at an LGBT Early Voting event that will take place from 11am -1pm Saturday May 21st at Meadows Mall.

Show Our Strength
Meadows Mall (an early vote location!)
Saturday, May 21, 2011
11a-1pm
4300 Meadows Lane
Las Vegas, NV
http://on.fb.me/ShowOurStrength

Please let your friends and networks now that Early Voting will start on May 21st!

DEMOCRATS RUNNING FOR OFFICE
2011 MUNICIPAL ELECTION:

BOULDER CITY: No Democratic candidates

HENDERSON CITY COUNCIL WARD 4: SAM BATEMAN

Sam has come to several Stonewall events and asked for our support. He received the endorsement of the club unanimously. He deserves the full support of all Democratic elected officials in his race against someone who is not a Democrat, or good on the issues that matter to Stonewall and its members.

LAS VEGAS MAYOR: CHRIS GIUNCHIGLIANI

Chris G is a longtime friend of the LGBT community. Her leadership has resulted in several historic changes in the way Nevada government treats the LGBT community. Her opponent has never been a friend of the LGBT community and in fact has exhibited a complete lack of knowledge of LGBT issues including her reference to “transvestites” at a recent LAMBDA luncheon. Stonewall has enthusiastically and unanimously endorsed Chris Giunchigliani for Mayor of Las Vegas

CITY COUNCIL WARD 3: BOB COFFIN & ADRIANA MARTINEZ

Stonewall has not endorsed in this race. This has been a particularly nasty contest. In fact, it’s been embarrassing to the Democratic Party to see two Democrats fighting each other so fiercely. Longtime LGBT community leaders such as Bob Forbuss, Senator David Parks have lavishly praised Bob Coffin for his long time commitment to the LGBT community and full equality for all Nevadans. We don’t know Mr. Coffin very well, but, we hope to get to know him better in the future.

Here is an email sent on behalf of Bob Coffin by LGBT leader Bob Forbuss:

Over the years you have called on me several times for advice and help in promoting Stonewall Democrats. It has been my honor to assist you. Now I want you to consider Bob Coffin for City Council.

I have known Bob for over 50 years...yes I am over 60 now! We grew up in the same neighborhood and his brother was my close friend. His human rights record as a Nevada Senator precedes the work on the Domestic Partnership legislation. Repeal of the sodomy statutes, employment discrimination, and work on behalf of women and the helpless, whether young or elderly has always been his focus. Bob supports all the issues on Stonewall's agenda. I am certain that David Parks feels the same way towards Bob.

Your support would be appreciated

Robert Forbuss

Here is an email from a former Stonewall Chairman:

During the initial D party organization to create the Stonewall Caucus, Adriana was the party chair and I asked her personally to introduce a motion from the chair to create the Nevada Stonewall Democratic Caucus to represent lgbt interests. Governor Dean had sent letters to all party chairs and ed's suggesting that state lgbt caucus's be formed. Though I was in your chair at the time I was not given or informed of Gov Dean's letter. I found out about it at a National Stonewall meeting. The DNC background info about the letter was that Gov Dean had just wiped out all the constituency desks at the DNC, which included the LGBT desk as well. And his decision regarding those desks was intended to send the organizing back to the states. Which is what Nevada Stonewallers were doing asking for support and help to create, what Gov Dean wanted; a statewide lgbt caucus.

Bottom Line, even though she was directed to help create an lgbt caucus: Adriana would not help us whatsoever. When I asked if she would introduce the motion to create - she looked at me kind of funny, shrugged her shoulders to say I can't, and she walked away to do other stuff. Laura Grotz, Northern Stonewall Club President introduced the motion from the floor, there were no objections and the motion to create the Nevada Stonewall Democratic Caucus was passed unanimously with no help from the chair. Politically, there was no way she could stop us from doing what we wanted. I was the party secretary at the time and all hell would have broken loose if she would have tried to deny that motion.

Adriana Martinez is absolutely not qualified for a city council seat. Not just because she is not very smart but because she is not able to make sound independent decisions. Simply put - she's a tool who will easily be told just what to do. And on a personal note - she would be my cc; and that would just suck big time.

Best,

Dan

The following is a statement from Adriana Martinez:

Thank you for giving me an opportunity to respond. I have to admit, I was saddened when I heard these allegations. I took my responsibility as State Party Chair very seriously, furthering our organizing structure by promoting and empowering our clubs and caucuses and reaching out to groups around the state to ensure they had the resources they needed to thrive.

As those of you who participated in the Stonewall Democratic Caucus during the years I was State Chair will remember, I often attended meetings at the Flamingo Library, reminding the group that bickering is counter-productive and encouraging members to unite, seek out additional members, and claim your political power.

When I was a wedding photographer in the early 90s, I was one of the few photographers in a male-dominated profession who was willing photograph civil union ceremonies. At the time, this was frowned upon and too many couples found themselves turned down by the wedding vendor industry. Many times, I found myself organizing the event itself, seeking out the very few progressive clergy members who would to participate in the civil unions.

The reason I tell this story is to illustrate what many of you already know: I support equal rights for every Nevadan. I have always been a strong supporter of LGBT causes and organizations. As I said at the candidate forum co-hosted by the Stonewall Democrats last week, we are all guaranteed equal treatment under the law and equal means equal. Whether in an official capacity, such as my role as State Chair, or simply from the bully pulpit, I have always fought and will continue to fight for everyone to be included and respected.

If members of the Stonewall Democrats are troubled by these charges, as I was, I hope they will take the time to reach out to me directly and discuss this. You can reach me at my campaign office at (702) 624-3833 or on my personal email at LVAdriana@aol.com. I hope you will consider supporting me when you cast your vote for Ward 3 City Council. Thank you.

Adriana

MUNICIPAL COURT JUDGE DEPT 2: SONNY BONAVENTURE

The Bonaventura family has been around forever in Nevada politics. Stonewall has no opinion on this race.

MUNICIPAL COURT JUDGE DEPTARTMENT 3: HEIDI ALMASE

Heidi Alamase is a Stonewall member and has received the clubs’ full endorsement. She is also a breath of fresh air against a candidate who exemplifies old school Las Vegas (not in a good way). She worked her way from a hard existence and would take her life experiences with her to a seat on the bench thereby assuring Las Vegans that they are appearing before someone who understands the issues of the average person.

MESQUITE CITY COUNCIL: CYNTHIA “CINDI” DELANEY

Stonewall has no opinion on this race

NORTH LAS VEGAS CITY COUNCIL WARD 2: PAMELA GOYNES-BROWN

Pamela is a progressive who deserves to win.

CITY COUNCIL WARD 4: RICHARD CHERCHIO

Mr. Cherchio had never bothered to contact Stonewall until he began his run for office. While he is a Democrat, Mr. Cherchio should be aware that in the future we at Stonewall expect that Mr. Cherchio will reach out to the LBGT community to learn its issues and concerns. We also hope that ALL Democratic politicians from this election going forward will understand that Stonewall will not support you just because there is a “D" behind your name.

MUNI COURT JUDGE DEPT 1: MARSHA KIMBLE-SIMMS

Stonewall has not endorsed in this race, however, Kimble-Sims has reached out to Stonewall and attended several of our events whereas her opponent has not.

Early Voting – Saturday, May 18 – Friday, June 3

Early Vote Sites by city can be found on Clark County's website LINK

Election Day – Tuesday, June 7. Polling Sites are open 7am – 7pm

Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada
@LVStonewallDems
http://on.fb.me/SDCSN
http://sdcsn.blogspot.com/

It's so hard, to say goodbye, to yesterday

2011-04-21T18:30:00.000-07:00

STONEWALL DEMOCRATIC CLUB OF SOUTHERN NEVADA
SAYS GOODBYE TO RETIRING SENATOR JOHN ENSIGN

Las Vegas, NV - The Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada has learned of Senator John Ensign’s premature retiring and like most of the state, we are relieved.

Ending the chapter one of the most embarrassing Senate careers in our state’s history is what is best for the state of Nevada. Our focus should be jobs, diversifying our economy and preparing our children to compete educationally with their peers world wide.

What Nevada doesn’t need, and never wanted, is a Senator who’s name can not be mentioned without saying “affair” “cheated” or “federal indictment” in the same sentence.

But we must give respect when it is due. Members of Stonewall Dems spent many days in Senator Ensign’s Reno, Las Vegas and DC office, asking that he support the repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell. Eventually (re: reluctantly) he voted in favor of repealing the discriminatory law. It may be one of a few lone examples of “things John Ensign did to benefit Nevada”.

Congressman Dean Heller (R-CD2) will most likely beg to be appointed to Senator Ensign’s seat, knowing he will not defeat Congresswoman Shelley Berkley (D-CD1) with his lack of name recognition, popularity or clout. This means, a special election for Congressional District 2.

Members of all three of Stonewall’s clubs in Nevada look forward to working with the Nevada State Democratic Party and the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee to recruit a pro-equality candidate.

Nevada needs a representative who will go to our nation’s capitol and fight for all Nevadans and not just the TEA Party or other fundamentalist Republican factions who want to gut education, destroy medicare and essentially make it illegal to be gay in America.

Stonewall Democrats have proven their worth and effectiveness in elections across the state of Nevada. If a pro-equality Democratic candidate is chosen to run in this election, we will not hesitate to devote our full resources to winning.

###

--
Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada
@LVStonewallDems
http://on.fb.me/SDCSN
http://sdcsn.blogspot.com/

Steve Ross: No friend to Vegas' LGBTQs

2011-03-30T15:58:00.000-07:00

STEVE ROSS ONCE AGAIN DEMONSTRATES
HE IS NOT A FRIEND OF LAS VEGAS' LGBTQ COMMUNITY

Las Vegas, NV -- Steve Ross would support legislation to repeal SB283, the Domestic Partnership Act that was passed during Nevada’s 2009 legislative session.

Ross’ response to the following question on the Nevada Concerned Citizen’s questionnaire was “support”:

Would you support or oppose legislation to repeal the “Domestic Partnership Act” passed during the 2009 legislative session, which extends the benefits of marriage to same-sex or unmarried partners?

SB283 states domestic partners "have the same rights, protections and benefits, and are subject to the same responsibilities, obligations and duties under law, whether derived from statutes, administrative regulations, court rules, government policies, common law or any other provisions or sources of law, as are granted to and imposed upon spouses."

Ross proudly tweeted news of his endorsement from the Nevada Concerned Citizens (NCC) organization and issued a press release stating in part:

"The NRA & NCC endorsements speaks volumes about the broad support my campaign is attracting. Democrats and Republican voters want a mayor with a plan to create jobs now, protect their freedom and keep their taxes low.”

Steve Ross has made it clear that he will not protect your freedom if you happen to be lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer.

During a mayoral debate early this month Ross laughed as he told voters in the audience he had done nothing for LGBTQ community in Nevada.

He issued a statement to SDCSN afterwords and managed to scrounge up a few vague examples of his LGBTQ advocacy, but obvious indifference to LGBTQ concerns, his responses to the NCC questionnaire and the fact he’d even take the time to respond to it, once again calls into question Ross’ commitment to LGBTQ rights, diversity, equality and inclusion.

Nevada Stonewall Democratic Caucus and Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada does not endorse in primaries where multiple Democrats are running; however, we will ensure our membership knows which candidates support their rights and which do not.

"I am deeply disappointed that a fellow Democrat thinks that my very limited rights should be further reduced and I cannot understand his being proud of his ignorance and bigotry which is apparent by his "tweeting" of his endorsement by this group."

- Derek Washington, chair, Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada

"A coalition of LGBT and allied groups worked for years with the leadership of State Senator David Parks to pass Domestic Partners legislation in Nevada. To see that a Democratic candidate for mayor of our largest city wants to reverse our hard work, and that of the resort industry, is truly surprising as it goes against everything the Democratic Party of Nevada stands for."

- Chris Miller, president, Nevada Stonewall Democratic Caucus

###

Organizing for America and Stonewall team up!

2011-03-12T12:03:00.000-08:00

Organizing for America Community Action Night

DATE/TOPIC:
Wednesday, March 16th
LGBTQ with Guest Speaker Derek Washington, Chair Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada

WHERE:
OFA Headquarters
2475 S. Jones Blvd #7 Las Vegas, NV 89146
(NW corner of Jones and Sahara, by Taco Bell)

TIME:
5:00–8:00 PM
5:00–5:30 PM Mix & Mingle
5:30–6:30 PM Educational Portion
6:30–8:00 PM Action Portion

What is the Idea Behind OFA CAN?
Our intent for OFA Community Action Night is simple: Knowledge + action = activism. The first portion of each OFA CAN allows you to mix and mingle with fellow supporters. From there we learn about a particular legislative issue and then break up into small groups to immediately organize around the issue.

Every OFA CAN concludes by giving you time to take action on the spot! If you like writing letters to the editor/blogs or even just talking to other supporters, then this Community Action Night is for you! Please bring a laptop or pen/paper.

Really? You couldn't think of ONE thing?

2011-03-10T22:21:00.000-08:00

WORKING MAN STEVE ROSS:
NOT WORKING HARD FOR LGBTQ LAS VEGANS

Las Vegas -- This evening during “The People’s Debate” of Las Vegas mayoral candidates at the Santa Fe Hotel and Casino, Democratic candidate Steve Ross shrugged his shoulders and smugly giggled and admitted he could not think of one thing he’s ever done that has benefited the LGBTQ community in Las Vegas.

Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada (SDCSN) co-sponsored the debate with several other diverse--politically, ethnically and by issue--organizations and submitted four questions to the 10 candidates who participated. Candidates were asked what they’ve done within in the LGBTQ community of Las Vegas, not counting marching in a Pride parade or attending the annual HRC dinner. Other candidates quickly rattled off steps they’ve taken toward inclusion, diversity and combating discrimination.

We are appalled that an elected official like Steve Ross--an elected Democrat--would admit he has done NOTHING for, to or with the LGBTQ community in Las Vegas.

“I find it sad that a fellow Democrat would so glibly admit his lack of interaction with the LGBTQ community of Las Vegas. I am disappointed in Councilman Steve Ross.” - Derek Washington, SDCSN chair

SDCSN was not the only ones left feeling disappointed, Ross’ answer was met with scattered boos and hisses from the crowd.

Under normal circumstances SDCSN would invite all Democratic mayoral candidates to our monthly meetings to meet and interact with our members; however, our next meeting is the day after the municipal primary.

While Steve Ross finishes his term as councilman, we hope he can find the time and motivation to get to know Las Vegas’ diverse and politically active LGBTQ community.

--
Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada
@LVStonewallDems
http://on.fb.me/SDCSN
http://sdcsn.blogspot.com/

SDCSN March Meeting

2011-03-07T18:21:00.000-08:00

The second Wednesday of each month is Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada's general membership meeting

This month we have some very special guests: Former Congresswoman, Professor Dina Titus, Clark County Commissioner and candidate for Las Vegas Mayor, Larry Brown and Kelly Smith of QVegas Magazine

We hope you can join us this Wednesday, March 9th, at The Hot Dog Guy (http://hotdogguylv.com/) on 1122 E. Charleston Boulevard (cross street is Maryland Parkway) at 6pm

Reports will be given on the following:
-Transform Nevada and the Gay and Lesbian Task Force's AB211 (Nevada's employment non-discrimination act) phone-banking

-PLAN's AB211 lobbying

-Testimony on SB180 (Nevada's hate crimes bill).

-Volunteer opportunities for the Democratic Party and candidates

-Equality Days

-regular business (treasurers report, membership, etc)

We hope to see you Wednesday for some activism, fun and free hot dogs!

--
Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada
@LVStonewallDems
http://on.fb.me/SDCSN
http://sdcsn.blogspot.com/

An important message from Nevada Stonewall

2011-02-25T14:48:00.000-08:00

IMPORTANT MESSAGE ABOUT EDUCATION
From
NEVADA STONEWALL DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS

Chris Miller, President Olivis Gobert-Hicks, Vice President Karen Grayson, Treasurer Andrew Davey, Secretary & Political Director

At Large:
Sandy Eddy, Derek Washington, Daela Gibson, Angela Brooks

Whether you are a student yourself, a parent of young ones in school, or just a concerned citizen hoping for a sustainable economy in Nevada's future, you are affected by the state budget and whether or not we allow Brian Sandoval and his far right "Tea Party, Inc." friends to abuse the budgetary process to destroy public education in this state. Already those in college are being hit by tuition and other fee increases and K-12 students have to endure overcrowded classrooms and inadequate classroom resources. We can't take any more cuts... Now is the time to let our state heal and build a brighter future!

Brian Sandoval's budget would take $270 away from every Nevada student if allowed to pass. Since Nevada's schools are already among the most underfunded in the nation, this would mean even fewer resources for needed textbooks, after school programs, sports programs, other extracurricular activities and much, much more! Since everyone from the London School of Economics & The Brookings Institute to local business leaders have stated that Nevada must invest MORE (not less!) in K-12 and higher education to develop the kind of workforce that companies will want to locate here for, it is imperative that we save our schools in order to finally diversify our economy and create more lasting jobs in this state.

This is why this is an "LGBTQ issues" that our community should care about, and this is why we ask you to join us next Monday at 5:00 PM for a special Nevada Legislature Town Hall at Green Valley High School. Please come and let your voice be heard if you're free Monday evening, and please consider testifying if you are a student and/or you have children in public school.

Please stay tuned for future updates from Stonewall on this and other important Nevada issues. As the 76th Legislature rolls on, the Nevada Stonewall Democratic Caucus and Stonewall Democrats Southern Nevada will keep you informed on important legislation pending in Carson City, and what we can do about it.

Blog: www.nvstonewalldems.blogspot.com
Facebook: NV Stonewall Dems
Twitter: @NVStonewallDems
Email: NVstonewalldems@gmail.com

--
Nevada Stonewall Democratic Caucus was founded in 2005. Our membership consists of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer Nevadans and our straight allies. We will lobby and educate members of the Nevada State Legislature to protect the rights and advocate on behalf of Nevadans who are routinely discriminated against because of their sexuality and gender identity.

SDCSN & AFAN Recognize Black History Month With New Awareness Program

2011-02-04T17:41:00.000-08:00

During the month of February, Aid for AIDS of Nevada commemorates Black History Month by encouraging awareness and education among the African-American community of southern Nevada. This demographic is among the highest risk group to be infected with AIDS.

According the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one out of sixteen African-American men and one out of thirty African-American women will be diagnosed with HIV during their lifetime. In 2008, an estimated 18,328 African-Americans received an AIDS diagnosis. This is 46 percent of the overall population diagnosed with the disease that year.

Because of these startling statistics, AFAN is making a significant effort to increase its outreach by instating a new program that will assist and educate members of the African-American community on HIV/AIDS. Leading up to National Black HIV/AIDS Day on February 7, AFAN along with Stonewall Democrats of Southern Nevada will launch, What God’s Trust Says About Your Truth, a series of lectures and interactive classes hosted by Pastor Pat Spearman (Stonewall Director of Faith Outreach). The series will explore various faiths and their relation to the LGBT community, especially for African-Americans, intended to provide a place to learn more about their own faith and the faith of others through this non-denominational lecture series.

Spearman will lead the group through a two month program, beginning on February 5. The first session, Looking at the Origin of Religious Myths of Homosexuality, will be held from 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. at the AFAN office at 701 Shadow Lane.

Because the infection rates of homosexual African-American men are the highest compared to all other racial groups, AFAN hopes that the program will help the community become more knowledgeable on the disease and encourage all to get tested.

AFAN & Stonewall Democrats of Southern Nevada understand the increased risk of HIV/AIDS among the African-American community and will continue to work with the population in hopes of providing better education on the disease and promoting positive sexual health.

Save the Date! Chris G Will Be Joining Us February 9 for Our Mixer & Officer Elections!

2011-01-27T18:56:00.000-08:00

Our February Stonewall mixer is coming up, and Clark County Commissioner Chris Giunchigliani will be joining us to discuss the state of our county and what we can do to advance our equal rights locally.

We will also be holding Officer Elections at next month's mixer. Please email lvstonewalldems@gmail.com if you are interested in running for Chair, Vice-chair, Secretary, or Treasurer.

Time	Wednesday, February 9 · 6:00pm - 9:00pm

Location	LGBT Center of Southern Nevada 953 E Sahara Ave

Please RSVP here: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=105630439512962

Check our bylaws for more info on qualification rules, and feel free to email lvstonewalldems@gmail.com if you have any more questions.

Legislative Lobby Training on Saturday

2011-01-27T12:57:00.001-08:00

lobbying training announcement

"how to effectively advocate for transgender inclusive legislation and civil rights"

saturday 29 january

3p to 430p

gay and lesbian community center of southern nevada

953 e. sahara

las vegas

trainers:

mel goodwin

jane heenan

jackson nightshade

SDCSN Chair Gets Aid For AIDS Of Nevada Appointment

2011-01-25T07:34:00.000-08:00

(From National)

Aid for AIDS of Nevada has appointed Derek Washington as the New Media and Diversity Outreach Consultant. Washington’s chief responsibilities include development of new media strategies and creating new programs that better serve the African-American and Latino communities in Nevada. In addition, he will spearhead AFAN’s new Community Gardens project that will educate the public about personal health and HIV/AIDS prevention.

“We are proud to welcome Derek Washington to the AFAN family,” said Executive Director Jennifer Morss. “His unyielding devotion to the community and eagerness to make a difference makes him a tremendous asset to our organization.”

Prior to joining AFAN, Washington was a producer for a Los Angeles television fashion segments. In 2006, he was diagnosed with HIV and now dedicates his life to community activism and politics surrounding the disease. Washington was a national delegate for Hillary Clinton in 2008 and former director of LGBT outreach for the Clark County Democratic Black Caucus.

Currently, Washington is the chairman of Nevada’s largest LGBT political organization, Stonewall Democrats of Southern Nevada. He recently was honored for his work on the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” with an invitation to the historic ceremony in Washington, D.C., where President Barack Obama signed the repeal. Washington continues to make a difference in the Las Vegas community and hopes to continue AFAN’s mission of enhancing the physical health and psychosocial wellness of the individuals they serve, while promoting dignity and improving the quality of their lives.

About AFAN

Aid for AIDS of Nevada (AFAN) was founded in 1984 and is the oldest and largest AIDS service organization in the state of Nevada. 2009 marked AFAN’s 25th anniversary of practicing its unyielding commitment to the community by providing unparalleled health expertise, support and advocacy for adults and children living with and affected by HIV/AIDS in southern Nevada. Over the years, AFAN has created various programs that offer consistent and comprehensive assistance including direct client service programs, food programs, prevention and education programs and community outreach. For more information, please visit www.afanlv.org.

Stonewall State of the State watch party

2011-01-23T16:29:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow night is Governor Brian Sandoval's first State of the State address.

Nevada Senate Majority Leader Steven Horsford encourages us all to watch the State of the State with friends, family, neighbors and fellow activists. Our state is facing an unprecedented revenue crisis and it's important that we work together to fight for practical solutions. Just saying "no", cutting social services & education and refusing to make big corporations (that use our state's resources to make billions in profit) pay their fair share is not a solution, it's a gimmick. And it's why our state is at the top of every bad list, and the bottom of every good one.

Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada is hosting a watch party.
Let's get together and talk about how the governor's plans effect us, and what Stonewall can do to protect our families and our community.

Refreshments will be served!

WHO: Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada

WHAT: State of the State watch party

WHEN: Tomorrow, Monday 01/24 -- speech starts at 6pm, arrive in time to grab a snack and a seat!

WHERE: SATAY - Asian Bistro and Bar
3900 Paradise Road (in the same shopping center as Firefly on Paradise)
Las Vegas, NV 89119

If you're live tweeting the speech (or if you want to see what others are tweeting), use the tags #NVSOS (Nevada state of the state) and/or #NVLEG (Nevada legislature).

Follow Stonewall on Twitter: @LVStonewallDems

[NOTE: The State of the Union (President Obama's address to the nation) is Tuesday 01/25. A watch party hosted by Organizing for American, Nevada State Democratic Party and Clark County Democratic Party will be held at the Porchlight Grille located at 8416 West Desert Inn, Las Vegas, NV 89117 (cross street Durango). The speech starts at 6pm. Food and drinks are available for purchase.]

Message from Senator Reid on Dr. King

2011-01-17T14:33:00.000-08:00

Dear Stonewa,
“I have a dream.”
These four words and an unwavering devotion to their promise are why today we honor the life, the courage, and the dream of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Dr. King envisioned a better America, courageously leading our fractured nation to achieve the greatness he saw within. And though we still grieve for his untimely death, Dr. King’s faith in our boundless potential to join together and raise ourselves beyond the ordinary is a radiant legacy that will never dim.
Today, violence and tragedy have cast a pall over our country. We mourn together for the families and friends of Arizona’s victims and rejoice in the news of each recovery. And on this day of remembrance for one of our country’s greatest heroes, we are reminded of the heroism carried within each of us as we recognize the bravery of those who walk amongst us every day.
As we honor Dr. King’s memory, let us work together to achieve his dream by being a little bit kinder, a little bit more compassionate, and a little bit more forgiving. Let us become the America he knew we could be.
Sincerely,

National Stonewall Statement on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

2011-01-17T08:42:00.001-08:00

Honoring the Life and Work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Today we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on this 25th anniversary of the creation of this day as a Federal holiday.

We observe this day as a memorial to a transformational leader, but we also remember all people who have felt the sting of discrimination because of the color of their skin, the accent with which they speak, where they were born, where they worship, or even who they love.

Here at the National Stonewall Democrats, we recognize the incredible debt we owe to Dr. King and the brothers and sisters who fought alongside him, and to those who continue to fight to this day. The singular struggle of the Civil Rights movement reverberates today in many other struggles, including our own as lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in America. We are incredibly grateful for those who have gone before us, cutting through the thicket of discrimination and cowardice, and shining a light toward freedom and justice.

Today, we especially hold in our hearts the words of Dr. King, "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere." We hope that you will take some time today to think about ways in which you can join us in recommitting yourself to work for freedom, justice and equality of all people.

STONEWALL DEMOCRATIC CLUB OF SOUTHERN NEVADA STATEMENT ON 01/08/11 ARIZONA SHOOTINGS

2011-01-10T18:17:00.001-08:00

We at the Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada, along with the rest of our LGBTQ & allied community, are horrified by what happened on Saturday, January 8. We stand with all the victims of this horrific terrorist attack, including the families of those lives lost.

We will all be hoping, wishing, and praying for full and speedy recovery for all the surviving victims, including Representative Gabrielle Giffords (D-Tucson, AZ). Rep. Giffords is not only a member of Congress dedicated to doing what’s best for her community and her state, but she is also a strong and steadfast ally of LGBTQ Arizonans who never hesitated to give her principled support to legislation that protects our families and affirms our Constitutional rights.

We are also incredibly proud of Gabrielle Giffords’ intern and out University of Arizona student Daniel Hernandez, and his bravery in saving Giffords’ life and helping others survive the attack as well. Daniel Hernandez, along with other Arizona heroes, such as Dorwin Stoddard giving up his own life so he can save his wife’s, remind us of what can happen when we look beyond ourselves to serve others. Even out of the terrifyingly brutal carnage of Saturday’s attack, these heroes remind us that the compassion, the caring, and the spirit of service of our people is what continues to make America great.

Moving forward, we at Stonewall hope all of us remember this. We also hope that we all remember that our representative democracy is based upon the civil and peaceful discussion of policy and sharing of ideas. Even as campaign rhetoric heats up, we must always ensure that cooler heads prevail and prevent incendiary rhetoric from encouraging further violence like we have seen this past weekend.

Rep. Shelley Berkley (D-Las Vegas) Thanks Stonewall

2011-01-10T18:15:00.001-08:00

New Year, New Venue, New Stonewall Spirit

2011-01-07T11:58:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year! We had quite the momentous year in 2010. We had plenty of ups and downs, but through it all, you were there. And thankfully, we worked to make some great things happen, everything from bringing forth a bigger than ever Stonewall presence at community events to ensuring Harry Reid's reelection to pushing for passage of DADT repeal. And believe it or not, even more is in store for us in 2011! We know we have plenty of challenges, but we also have great opportunities in the coming year.

Here's just a sample of Stonewall in the media: We've been featured in Las Vegas CityLife, EDGE Boston, This Week in Blackness, QVegas many timesover (!!!), and much more!

We hope you will join us for the first Stonewall mixer of 2011, which will be at a new time (Wednesday at 6:00 PM) AND coming to a new location: OFA Nevada Headquarters!

2475 S. Jones Blvd
Suite 7
Las Vegas, NV 89146

We also promise to have some very special guests as we recognize our Latin@ friends, community partners, and allies who have worked alongside us to guarantee equal rights for all. State Senators Ruben Kihuen and Mo Denis, along with Assembly Members Olivia Diaz, Lucy Flores, and Irene Bustamante Adams, will be joining us to discuss the important decisions that will have to be made in this next legislative session that will affect all of us, Latin@ and LGBTQ, here in Nevada. We'll also be joined by community activists, such as local immigrant rights activist Astrid Silva, UNLV student advocates Mallory Cyr and Xuan Espinoza-Cuellar, Si Se Puede Latin@ Democratic Caucus Chair Vicenta Montoya, and ProgressNow Nevada's Michael Flores, to let us know what we can do to defend our rights this year.

We're really looking forward to next week and the start of this new year, so we hope you'll join us at OFA next Wednesday!

And by the way, let us know if you have a Flip video camera to spare. We're planning to up the ante on our multimedia projects this year, and we'd very much appreciate the donation of any kind of compact video recorder. Thanks!

Join PLAN, EQNV, & The Center to Prepare to Work for Equality!

2011-01-04T17:52:00.000-08:00

Here's a very special event coming up this weekend that we hope you can attend. In the coming weeks and months, you'll find out what Stonewall has in store. And major props to our own Karen Grayson, who's also busy working with Equality Nevada, for everything she's doing to advance transgender inclusive civil rights in this next legislative session.

JOIN US!!

Training for folks wanting to support inclusive change in the 2011 legislative session

Combating "Bathroom Panic" and more:

Effective Responses to the Opposition

Trainers:
Mel Goodwin of the Center
Jane Heenan of Equality Nevada

what to say when the infamous “bathroom question” comes up,

and how to keep your cool while doing so –
All while meeting and working with others who share your interests and concerns!

Friday, January 7th, 7PM (right after Trans.lation!)
PLAN office at 732 S. 6th Street (at Gass), Suite 200
In beautiful Downtown Las Vegas!

(Call 702/810.4159 or email VegasCounselor@aol.com for more information.)

**********************

WE NEED YOU!
SPEAK YOUR VOICE and BE HEARD!

Please take a few minutes to respond to the brief Transgender Needs Assessment
that the Progressive Leadership Alliance of Nevada (PLAN) has created:

https://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?formkey=dG1HbVFQOXNQR2xEMHdIVW1WWnRqLXc6MA

This survey is anonymous and will be used to support our communities’ work
both in the Spring 2011 Legislature and beyond.

We are seeking at least 200 responses in the coming few weeks,
so please offer a few minutes of your time to respond to the survey.

To help further,
pester your trans and gender non-conforming friends to fill out the survey –
personally asking and following up with others
is the most effective way to ensure that we have our voices heard.

Many good persons are working very hard to secure our civil rights –
the support we are receiving goes beyond anything I could have imagined possible
only a few short years ago.

Nevada Stonewall and Allies Statement on Repeal of DADT

2010-12-18T10:53:00.000-08:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 18, 2010

CONTACT:
Laura Martin
Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada Communications Director
702-292-1279 laurakmmartin@gmail.com

Chris Miller
Nevada Stonewall Democratic Caucus President
702-569-6744 chrisisademocrat@gmail.com

Derek Washington
Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada Chair
702-576-4978 derekisademocrat@gmail.com

NEVADA STONEWALL AND ALLIES STATEMENT ON
REPEAL OF 'DON'T ASK, DON'T TELL'

Las Vegas -- Today’s historic vote means that thanks to the leadership of Nevada’s Senator Harry Reid, the discriminatory policy of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell is going to be repealed once and for all. Though the opponents of equality did everything possible to keep delaying this vote through cynical political maneuvers, Senator Reid’s extraordinary leadership ensured that they did not succeed.

The repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell is not only the right thing to do, but it is also critical for our nation’s security. It will end the discriminatory policy of forcing gay service members out of the military even though they are willing to serve and die for their country. In fact, the Pentagon released an in-depth study at the end of November finding that repealing the ban would not harm long-term effectiveness. The vast majority of the country also supports the repeal of DADT, with poll after poll showing a huge pro-repeal sentiment. Last week, a Washington Post-ABC News poll found that almost 8 in 10 Americans favor repealing DADT.

We are proud to have worked hard on Senator Reid’s reelection efforts because we have always trusted that when it comes to doing what’s right for America, the “Man from Searchlight” will lead the battle. And today, he did.

Nevada State Democratic Party
Clark County Democratic Party
Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada
Stonewall Democratic Club of Northern Nevada
Nevada Stonewall Democratic Caucus
Sam Lieberman, Chairman Nevada State Democratic Party
Roberta Lange, Chairwoman Clark County Democratic Party
David Parks, Nevada State Senator and Veteran
Vicenta Montoya, Chairwoman Si Se Peude Latino Democratic Caucus
North Valley Democratic Club
Asian American/Pacific Islander Democratic Caucus
Pastor Pat Spearman, Stonewall of Southern Nevada Director of Faith Outreach and Veteran
Ronald Washington, Veteran
Jonathan Abbinett, Veteran
Ronald Ramsey, Veteran
Richard Powell, Veteran
Dennis Dunn, Veteran

###

--
Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada
@LVStonewallDems
Facebook http://bit.ly/97WBD1
http://sdcsn.blogspot.com/

DADT: What Happens Next

2010-12-17T09:27:00.000-08:00

Thankfully, we saw The House pass DADT ("Don't Ask Don't Tell") repeal earlier this week. So now, the bill moves to The Senate, where prospects are improving for repeal to pass. Our Senator & Majority Leader, Harry Reid, has scheduled a cloture vote for tomorrow and will be ensuring anti-repeal Republicans don't try to insert "poison pill amendments" into the bill. If the vote succeeds, and the filibuster halting progress finally ends, then the end of discrimination in our military is in sight!

Again, Harry Reid has been working tirelessly to get this done. Despite all the grumbling from certain Senators over being "forced" to stay in Washington this weekend, Senator Reid is making them stay anyway so that DADT repeal, and for that matter other important bills like the DREAM Act, the START Treaty, and the next federal budget, can be accomplished. If you'd like, you can call Senator Reid's office at (202) 224-3542 and/or email him here, and thank him for keeping his promise to us to make DADT repeal happen.

However, our work isn't done yet. Last month, the Las Vegas staff of our other Senator, John Ensign, told us he was planning to support DADT repeal. He then released public statements saying he thought it was time for discrimination in the military to end. But in last week's vote on the defense authorization bill with DADT repeal, he voted against allowing the bill a final vote for approval.

Ensign has since couched his reasoning on this vote with his take on Senate procedure and other legislation. But now that this is a standalone bill, there are no more excuses left. The cloture vote tomorrow, along with the final vote expected Sunday or Monday, will be strictly on the DADT policy. These votes will be just about whether to finally end the practice of unjustly firing good soldiers simply because of who they are. We must make it clear to Senator Ensign that if he truly supports ending DADT, this is his one last chance to actually prove it.

Please call Senator Ensign's office at (202) 224-6244 and/or email him here, and ask him to follow through on his promise to put DADT to an end, once and for all. This is our last chance to make DADT history, so let's do it!

DADT repeal passes in the house!

2010-12-15T15:47:00.001-08:00

STONEWALL DEMOCRATIC CLUB OF SOUTHERN NEVADA CELEBRATES HOUSE PASSAGE OF DADT REPEAL

Las Vegas -- The Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada salutes the 250 members of the US House of Representatives who voted to repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell", the military's 17 year old policy that bans gay service members from serving openly.

Representative Shelley Berkley (CD-1) and Representative Dina Titus (CD-3) were among the 250 "yay" votes this afternoon. They showed that they have listened to the advice of military leadership, the voices of our brave men and women in the military and residents of Nevada with their support for repeal. Needless to say, Stonewall and the people of Nevada continue to be disappointed in and embarrassed by Representative Dean Heller (CD-2), who once again voted with Republican party leadership and ignored the will of the people. Rep. Heller has proved time and time again that he does not share or respect our values.

The fate of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" now lies with the US Senate. It is up to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid to show us the same tenacious support we gave him during his reelection bid, and do all that he can to whip together the votes needed to repeal this embarrassing practice of institutional discrimination.

Senator John Ensign will continue to receive daily phone calls, emails and office visits from our members and supporters in Nevada and Washington, DC until he votes for repeal. We hope that Sen. Ensign sees this as an opportunity to respect our troops and not an opportunity to score points with Republican primary voters in Nevada.

“We are sick and tired of Senator John Ensign playing games with our soldiers and our national security. He has done us wrong and this is his last chance to make it right. DADT repeal will be coming up for a vote in the Senate again, and Senator Ensign must choose whether to support repeal and stand with the strong majority of Nevadans, or continue to play games with our lives by continuing to obstruct.

The choice is his to make, but his political future is for us to decide. Senator Ensign, we'll be watching you." - Derek Washington, Chairman of Nevada’s largest LGBTQ political organization, Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada.

###

STONEWALL DEMOCRATIC CLUB OF SOUTHERN NEVADA STATEMENT ON MOVING FORWARD ON “DON’T ASK DON’T TELL” REPEAL

2010-12-09T18:43:00.001-08:00

STONEWALL DEMOCRATIC CLUB OF SOUTHERN NEVADA STATEMENT ON MOVING FORWARD ON “DON’T ASK DON’T TELL” REPEAL

We at Stonewall Democrats of Southern Nevada are deeply disappointed that a minority of US Senators were able to block the repeal of the odious and discriminatory “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” (DADT) policy that does nothing but forces good soldiers out of the military in a time when we are waging two wars simply because of who they are, thereby endangering our national security. It is extremely pathetic that a handful of Senate Republicans decided to put arcane procedural gimmicks above good policy and the well being of our Armed Forces and our nation.

Make no mistake – a no vote today on DADT was simply that: a no vote for equality, fairness, and our nation’s national security. Today, Republicans voted nearly in lockstep to kill the legislation and had the audacity to blame Senate procedure as the reason. That is just an excuse, and quite a poor one, as there has been ample time for debate.

The bottom line is this: If one believes in the legislation, one votes for it. If one believes in ending discrimination, one votes for it. If one believes in strengthening our national security, one votes for it. No one should be able to hide behind Senate procedure to mask one’s unacceptable vote.

Nonetheless, we express our deepest gratitude for our Senate Majority Leader, Harry Reid, and all the effort he put into repeal. We know Senator Reid negotiated in good faith and worked his hardest to end this dangerous and discriminatory policy, and we hope he will keep up the good fight and not relent in the extremely limited amount of time left in the 111th Congress. We are encouraged that Senator Reid will be working with Senators Joe Lieberman (ID-Connecticut) and Susan Collins (R-Maine) on standalone legislation to repeal DADT, and we urge them and their fair minded colleagues to work swiftly to pass this before this session of Congress comes to an end. If this means Senators may have to delay their holiday travel plans, we believe the civil rights of our soldiers and our national security are worth it.

Our members at the Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada, along with many others throughout the state, are hoping that Senator Reid will keep up the good fight.

SDCSN/CSN Capitol Club Joint Meeting Agenda

2010-12-06T06:35:00.000-08:00

STONEWALL DEMOCRATIC CLUB OF SOUTHERN NEVADA & THE CSN CAPITOL CLUB JOINT MEETING
Monday 06 December
6-830pm The Arts Factory #215 upstairs 107 E Charleston 89104 at Casino Center
Derek Washington 702-576-4978
Justin McAffee 702-374-6009

Stonewall will be having its monthly meeting as a joint event with the CSN Capitol Club. We are going to be discussing various issues including the first day of the Prop 8 appeal trial in California after watching some of the day’s highlights. We are honored to have legal expert Ari Ezra Waldman via Skype for a Q&A session as well as UNLV Constitutional Law expert Thomas B. McAffee to discuss our various topics throughout the evening.

This meeting (with help from Progress Now Nevada’s Brian Fadie) will be an experiment in taking Stonewall to an entirely new level by using technology to expand our range and influence. There is a whole new world of opportunities for Stonewall to explore in both political and community activism, and with online technology we can exploit these opportunities in a way never before done in Nevada by any Democratic political club or caucus. We’re proud to be joined in this first endeavor by CSN’s Capitol Club.

GUESTS:

Nelson Araujo from Senator Reid’s office will join us for updates on Senator Reid’s efforts to pass The DREAM ACT.

Sue Fulton of Knights Out (an LGBT organization of “Out” former Armed Service members) will join us via Skype to talk about the latest DADT news.

Linsey Peckonis and Jerame Davis of National Stonewall will join us via Skype to tell us about what Stonewall chapters around the country are doing.

Shannon Cuttle will speak about the need for all inclusive SAFE SCHOOLS.

Stonewall’s Director of Hispanic Outreach Leo Murrieta will fill us in on his exciting new project, The Nevada Youth Coalition. The Nevada Youth Coalition (NYC) is an organization whose primary goal is to get and keep young people engaged in civics and community service projects. The NYC and its members have actively participated in community events and phone banks in support of the DREAM ACT, the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell, and will be engaging Nevada's legislature on behalf of our state's education system in next year's legislative session.

Karen Grayson is our Director of Transgender Outreach and she’ll be asking us to brainstorm with her about better outreach through technology to America’s Transgender community. Her “One Step Closer” project will aim to reach out to those people who are not comfortable with a public display of being Transgender and really just need someone to talk to about being Transgender.

Our Vice-Chair Sandy Eddy will give us a report on the very successful Stonewall led Team BATTLE BORN at the Rock & Roll Marathon and tell you how you can support Stonewall when you shop online.

Chris Miller will explain his vision for the Nevada Stonewall Democratic Caucus. This vision includes The Stonewall State Caucus taking an active role in the State of Nevada’s political future while making sure that the issues of LGBT Democrats and progressives are on the agenda of our elected representatives.

The club will hear about a proposed partnership with Michael Flores of Progress Now Nevada and Aid For AIDS Nevada on community gardens and other possible projects. These projects will not only help the LGBT community through providing healthy and fresh vegetables for those with HIV, but also help inner city dwellers take charge of their sexual health through innovative HIV awareness projects partnering with the African American and Latino Communities.

Michael will be telling us about a very successful project that he has initiated in on of the impoverished inner city housing projects that was recently featured in a profile in the Las Vegas Review Journal.

Our elected and newly elected Democrats are STRONGLY urged to attend this meeting as well as anyone who has never been to a Stonewall meeting.

ORGANIZING FOR AMERICA DADT / DREAM ACT PHONEBANK

2010-12-02T04:38:00.001-08:00

Hi All,

Over the next couple of days we will be sending out several emails regarding "calls to action". We aren't sending them all at once because many of these "actions" are time sensitive.

Forgive us for sending out so much information, however, these are the times when Stonewall and you can show our commitment to our community and country with direct action.

ORGANIZING FOR AMERICA DADT / DREAM ACT PHONE BANK

“LET’S ROLL!”

This Thursday, December 2nd, Organizing for America will have its first post-election legislative push. Across the country, OFA volunteers will be calling into districts with members of Congress who are either “no” votes on Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell & DREAM act or who are “fence-sitters”.

Get back into the fight with OFA this week as we ask voters to share their support for some overwhelmingly popular legislation. We need to make sure our voices are heard through all the noise and distraction in DC. Join us to amplify your voice by calling our supporters and making sure we all take action on the repeal p DADT and the passage of the DREAM act. There will also be an informative session before our phone bank, to give you the latest developments on our fight for a more just America.

**Celebrate Juan's 21st birthday in the office as well!**

WHEN: Thursday, December 2 · 4:30pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION: OFA Nevada HQ 2475 S Jones Blvd Suite 7 Las Vegas, NV (CROSS ST SAHARA)

If you have any questions feel free to msg/call/email:
JUAN ORTEGA

702.497.0363 | Ortegaj@dnc.org

TRANSGENDER EDUCATION FORUM ON FRIDAY

2010-12-01T07:44:00.000-08:00

JOIN STONEWALL & THE LGBT COMMUNITY!

Training for folks wanting to support inclusive change in the 2011 legislative session

First Session: How to Lobby and Speak Out for Transgender Rights

Find out what's happening and how you can participate in supporting innovative work
drawing on local and national research to help create inclusive legislative change.
Attendees will receive useful tips and tools to increase their capabilities including
effective languaging and speaking techniques, information regarding pending legislation,
ways to coordinate your efforts with others for greater impact –
All while meeting and working with others who share your interests and concerns!

Friday, December 3rd, 7PM (right after Trans.lation!)
PLAN office at 732 S. 6th Street (at Gass), Suite 200
In beautiful Downtown Las Vegas!

Trainers:
Launce Rake of PLAN

GET INVOLVED!

STONEWALL DEMOCRATIC CLUB OF SOUTHERN NEVADA STATEMENT ON WORLD AIDS DAY DEC 1ST 2010

2010-11-26T19:58:00.001-08:00

Media Contact: Laura Martin 702-292-1279 / lauraisademocrat@gmail.com

World AIDS Day recognizes those who are currently living with HIV/AIDS along with education and prevention of the spread of the disease. “While we have made great strides in making HIV/AIDS a manageable disease, we must not let our guard down when it comes to making sure that all communities, especially LGBT, African American, youth and Latino, are fully aware of educational options and prevention measures available to them. Education is the key to all of those communities turning back the rising tide of HIV/AIDS infections as the general populace has become complacent over the last few years”, said Derek Washington, Chairman of The Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada.

Washington was diagnosed in 2006 with HIV/AIDS and has been very public and vocal about his situation in the pursuit of educating people, one on one, about the facts of the disease and educating young people on how to prevent infection. “Our ethnic communities, especially, need more outreach efforts and Stonewall will be very active in the coming year to serve our various communities in Southern Nevada", said Washington.

The Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada asks that everyone take a few moments and Google search “HIV/AIDS prevention” so that they will be educated ,and, be able to educate others to help stem the rising instances of HIV/AIDS infections in Nevada.

http://www.lasvegascitylife.com/articles/2010/10/05/news/local_news/iq_38462690.txt

President Obama Welcomes New HIV Prevention Research Results

2010-11-23T09:53:00.001-08:00

THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
___________________________________________________________________________
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 23, 2010

President Obama Welcomes New HIV Prevention Research Results

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the National Institutes of Health announced findings on recent HIV prevention research. The study finds that a daily dose of an oral antiretroviral drug taken by HIV-negative gay and bisexual men reduced the risk of acquiring HIV infection by 43.8 percent, and had even higher rates of effectiveness, up to 73 percent, among those participants who adhered most closely to the daily drug regimen.

“I am encouraged by this announcement of groundbreaking research on HIV prevention. While more work is needed, these kinds of studies could mark the beginning of a new era in HIV prevention. As this research continues, the importance of using proven HIV prevention methods cannot be overstated,” said President Obama.

One of the President’s top HIV/AIDS policy priorities was the development and implementation of a National HIV/AIDS Strategy (NHAS), which was released in July 2010. As underlined in the NHAS, no HIV prevention method is 100 percent effective, and a combination of approaches including, among other steps, consistent condom use, will be necessary to prevent HIV infection. Nevertheless, the research results announced this past summer of an effective microbicide and today’s results fall directly in line with priority recommendations in the NHAS. Moreover, today’s study suggests that antiretroviral medication may serve as one more valuable tool as we seek to develop the best combinations of effective approaches to prevent HIV infection.

###

JOHN ENSIGN (R-NV) Supports DADT Repeal

2010-11-19T15:29:00.000-08:00

JOHN ENSIGN (R-NV) SUPPORTS REPEALING DON'T ASK DON'T TELL

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

SENATOR JOHN ENSIGN SUPPORTS THE REPEAL OF DON'T ASK DON'T TELL

A coalition of Nevada's LGBTQ activists and veterans met with John Ensign's Las Vegas staff to discuss the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell

Las Vegas, NV -- This afternoon US Senator John Ensign's (R-NV) Regional Representative Margot Allen told a group of local LGBTQ activists and veterans Senator Ensign will vote to pass the National Defense Authorization Act with the repeal of the discriminatory "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy, that bans gays from serving openly in the military.

Led by Nevada State Senator David Parks, a veteran and the state's first openly gay legislator, Ms. Allen was pointedly asked several times if Senator Ensign supported the repeal and she said under no uncertain terms: Senator John Ensign does not support the Don't Ask Don't Tell policy and will vote to repeal it. Ms. Allen explained that after the Pentagon releases the findings of its study on the effects of repealing the ban, he will vote "YES" to pass the National Defense Authorization Act with the repeal included. Ms. Allen also stated that any news reports citing Senator Ensign as against the repeal were false.

Prior to meeting with Senator Ensign's staff, Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada's chairman Derek Washington arranged for the group to meet with US Senator Majority Leader Harry Reid's Las Vegas office.

The group was assured that Senator Reid continues to work hard to get the Defense Authorization Act passed with Don't Ask Don't Tell repeal. Senator Reid wants the bill passed in a reasonable amount of time, but wants to also work with Republican leadership to have a fair and rational amendment process.

It is with great pride that we can now say both of our Senator's from Nevada support the repeal of one of the most blatant examples of institutionalized discrimination. We have watched with sickened hearts as people like Senator John McCain of Arizona act like petulant children and continue to defy and disrespect military generals, the Secretary of Defense, President Obama and worst, our troops.

In a press release issued last week Senators Joe Lieberman (I-CT), Mark Udall (D-CO), and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) stated:

“The Senate should act immediately to debate and pass a defense authorization bill and repeal ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ during the lame duck session. The Senate has passed a defense bill for forty-eight consecutive years. We should not fail to meet that responsibility now, especially while our nation is at war. We must also act to put an end to the ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ policy that not only discriminates against but also dishonors the service of gay and lesbian service members.

“The National Defense Authorization Act is essential to the safety and well-being of our service members and their families, as well as for the success of military operations around the world. The bill will increase the pay of all service members, authorize needed benefits for our veterans and wounded warriors, and launch military construction projects at bases throughout the country.

“The process established by the defense bill would also allow ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ to be repealed in an orderly manner, and only after the President, Secretary of Defense, and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff have certified to Congress that repeal is ‘consistent with the standards of military readiness, military effectiveness, unit cohesion, and recruiting and retention of the Armed Forces.’ If Congress does not act to repeal ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ in an orderly manner that leaves control with our nation’s military leaders, a federal judge may do so unilaterally in a way that is disruptive to our troops and ongoing military efforts. It is important that ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ be dealt with this year, and it appears that the only way that can happen is if it is on the defense bill.

“We are pleased that Secretary of Defense Robert Gates has also called on Congress to repeal ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.’ We must act upon our responsibility to our troops and their family members and to the thousands of gay and lesbian service members who serve their nation bravely and honorably by passing the National Defense Authorization Act before the end of the year.”

We call on all LGBTQ activists, allies and veterans to call on their Senators, especially those who live in Maine, Ohio and Arkansas, and tell them that they can not, with good conscious, end the year without passing this bill, with the inclusion of the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell

Organizations present:

Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada

Stonewall Democrats of Nevada

Progressive Leadership Alliance of Nevada

Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network of Southern Nevada

Equality Nevada

Last Chance to Elect Equality! GOTV This Weekend!

2010-10-29T18:59:00.000-07:00

HELP ELECT EQUALITY THIS WEEKEND!
WE NEED YOUR HELP TO ELECT EQUALITY!

East Las Vegas Canvass & Call location
501 N. Lamb Blvd, Las Vegas, NV
corner of Lamb & Bonanza

Spanish speakers especially needed!
Call Genevieve Flores with any questions
805-754-1942

shifts--
Saturday
10am to 2pm
2pm to 6pm
6pm to 9pm

Sunday
10am to 2pm
2pm to 6pm
6pm to 9pm

Monday
10am to 2pm
2pm to 6pm
6pm to 9pm

Tuesday
9am to 1pm
1pm to 4pm
4pm to 7pm

If you live in Henderson, call Andrew Davey at (702) 806-1340 for canvass and phone banking in your area.

Join us for an Elect Equality walk for Dina Titus and Harry Reid on Sunday morning at 10:00 AM. We'll be meeting at 2758 Woodbine in Henderson (89074, near Pecos & Robindale). You can also phone bank tomorrow and Sunday at Dina Titus' Henderson office (2925 N Green Valley Pkwy, Henderson 89074) from 10:00 AM until 8:00 PM.
- Hide quoted text -

POTLUCK CELL PHONE PARTY TO REELECT HARRY REID! Almost 30 came last night, let's double that! 6-9pm at The Arts Factory 107 E Charleston 89104. Bring a dish, your cell phone/charger and a laptop (if you have one). Let's party while we make sure it's Harry not Scary who triumphs on election day!

Questions?
Derek Washington
702-576-4978

Official General Election SDCSN Endorsements

2010-10-15T22:03:00.000-07:00

We met as many of the candidates as possible, and we consulted with allies like ProgressNow, our union friends, QVegas & Las Vegas NightBeat, and the Black Caucus in considering all these candidates. And now, we proudly present you with our official November 2010 SDCSN endorsements.

Click here to check the Early Voting schedule starting tomorrow, and don't forget to check our Facebook page to see what we will be doing to Elect Equality!

STONEWALL “ELECT EQUALITY” ENDORSEMENTS

CANDIDATES WITH (B)* MEANS THAT WE HOPE TO DEVELOP A RELATIONSHIP WITH THEM.

US SENATOR: HARRY REID
CD 1: SHELLEY BERKLEY
CD 2 : NANCY PRICE (B)*
CD 3 : DINA TITUS

GOVERNOR : RORY REID
LT GOVERNOR : JESSICA SFERRAZZA
SECRETARY OF STATE : ROSS MILLER

STATE TREASURER : KATE MARSHALL
STATE CONTROLLER : KIM WALLIN
ATTORNEY GENERAL : CATHERINE CORTEZ MASTO

STATE SENATE

DISTRICT 5 : JOYCE WOODHOUSE (WE CAN ALWAYS COUNT ON HER FULL SUPPORT FOR OUR EQUALITY. WE CAN'T SAY THE SAME ABOUT HER OPPONENT.)
DISTRICT 7 : MARK MANENDO
DISTRICT 8 : TAMMY PETERSON (B)*
DISTRICT 9 : BENNY YERUSHALMI (HIS OPPONENT IS 100% PRO-"TEA PARTY" AND ANTI-EQUALITY. BENNY HAS OUR FULL SUPPORT.)
DISTRICT 10 : RUBEN KIHUEN
DISTRICT 12 : AARON FORD

STATE ASSEMBLY

DISTRICT 1 : MARILYN KIRKPATRICK (B)*
DISTRICT 2 : DAVID LERNER (B)*
DISTRICT 3 : PEGGY PIERCE (B)*
DISTRICT 4 : GARY FISHER
DISTRICT 5 : MARILYN DONDERO LOOP (B*)
DISTRICT 6 : HARVEY MUNFORD (B)*
DISTRICT 7 : DINA NEAL (B)*
DISTRICT 8 : JASON FRIERSON
DISTRICT 9 : TICK SEGERBLOOM
DISTRICT 10 : JOE HOGAN
DISTRICT 11 : OLIVIA DIAZ (B)*
DISTRICT 12 : JAMES OHRENSCHALL
DISTRICT 13 : LOUIS DESALVIO
DISTRICT 14 : MAGGIE CARLTON (B)*
DISTRICT 15 : ELLIOT ANDERSON
DISTRICT 16 : JOHN OCEGUERA
DISTRICT 17 : KELVIN ATKINSON (B*)
DISTRICT 18 : RICHARD CARRILO
DISTRICT 19 : STEVEN BROOKS
DISTRICT 20 : LYNN GOYA
DISTRICT 21 : ELLEN SPIEGEL (DON'T BE FOOLED, HER OPPONENT IS 100% ANTI-EQUALITY AND IS SUPPORTED BY RICHARD ZISER AND HIS HOMOPHOBIC/TRANSPHOBIC CABAL. ELLEN, OTOH, WAS ALWAYS THE CRITICAL VOTE WE NEEDED TO ADVANCE PRO-EQUALITY LEGISLATION LIKE SB 283 DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIPS.)
DISTRICT 22 : KEVINN DONOVAN (B)*
DISTRICT 23 : MONICA LEIJA BEAN (B)*
DISTRICT 28: LUCY FLORES
DISTRICT 29 : APRIL MASTROLUCA (B)* (HER OPPONENT MAY BE "RIGHT PRIDE", BUT HE HAS THE WRONG IDEAS THAT WOULD HURT NEVADA'S LGBTQ FAMILIES.)
DISTRICT 34 : WILLIAM C. HORNE (B)*
DISTRICT 37 : MARCUS CONKLIN (B)*
DISTRICT 41 : PAUL AIZLEY (MAJOR FRIEND OF THE LGBT COMMUNITY AND HAS LED THE FIGHT FOR FULL INCLUSION OF THE TRANS COMMUNITY IN LGBT RELATED ISSUES)
DISTRICT 42 : IRENE BUSTAMENTE ADAMS (B)* STONEWALL

COUNTY COMMISSION:

DISTRICT E : CHRIS GIUNCHIGILIANI (GREAT FRIEND OF THE LGBTQ COMMUNITY & STONEWALL)
DISTRICT F : SUSAN BRAGER (B)*
DISTRICT G : NO ENDORSEMENT (THE "DEMOCRAT" DIDN'T WANT TO TALK WITH YOU ABOUT OUR ISSUES, AND THE REPUBLICAN JUST DOESN'T CARE ABOUT US.)

CLARK COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY : DON CHAIREZ
CLARK COUNTY ASSESSOR : MICHELE W. SHAFE
CLARK COUNTY CLERK : DIANA ALBA
CLARK COUNTY RECORDER : DEBBIE CONWAY (B)*
CLARK COUNTY TREASURER : LAURA FITZPATRICK (B)*
CLARK COUNTY PUBLIC ADMINISTRATOR : JOHN CAHILL

CONSTABLE, BUNKERVILLE : ERIK LAUB (B)*

CONSTABLE, LAUGHLIN : PATRICK KETTERER (B)*
CONSTABLE, NORTH LAS VEGAS : HERB BROWN (B)*

CONSTABLE LAS VEGAS : NO ENDORSEMENT (THE "DEMOCRAT" HAS A LONG HISTORY OF OPPOSING PRO-EQUALITY LEGISLATION. THE REPUBLICAN HAS REACHED OUT TO SOME STONEWALL BOARD MEMBERS. HIS RECORD ON OUR ISSUES IS UNCLEAR, BUT QVEGAS DID ENDORSE HIM.)

JUSTICE OF THE SUPREME COURT SEATS
A : JAMES W. HARDESTY (B)*
E : RONALD D. PARRAGUIRRE (B)*

DISTRICT COURT JUDGE DEPARTMENTS
26 : GLORIA STURMAN
27 : NANCY ALLF
28 : RON ISRAEL
29 : SUSAN SCANN
30 : JERRY WIESE (REACHED OUT VERY EARLY TO STONEWALL)
31 : PHIL DABNEY & JOANNA KISHNER (BOTH ARE GOOD DEMOCRATS & STRONG PRO-EQUALITY VOICES, SO FEAR NOT ABOUT SUPPORTING EITHER.)
32 : ROB BARE

DISTRICT COURT JUDGE FAMILY DIVISION
DEPARTMENT S : VINCE OCHOA
DEPARTMENT T : GAYLE NATHAN

STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION

DISTRICT 2 : JOSE SOLORIO & ANNIE YVETTE WILSON (EITHER WOULD BE GOOD FOR OUR COMMUNITY)
DISTRICT 5 : STEVAN CORBETT

UNIVERSITY BOARD OF REGENTS

DISTRICT 3 : KEN LANGE
DISTRICT 12 : MARK NEWBURN (B)*
DISTRICT 13 : JOE PITTS (B)*

CLARK COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT

D : JAVIER TRUJILLO
F : CAROLYN EDWARDS (B)*
G : ERIN EARLENE CRANOR (B)*

CLARK COUNTY SHERIFF: LAURIE BISCH

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE LAS VEGAS TOWNSHIP DEPARTMENTS
3 : NO ENDORSEMENT
6 : KRISTINE KUZEMKA (OUR SPECIAL “ELECT EQUALITY” CANDIDATE. SHE’S NOT ONLY OPENLY LGBT, SHE IS THE BEST CANDIDATE FOR THE JOB.)
7 : KAREN BENNETT (AN AMAZING WOMAN WHO STONEWALL SHOULD GET TO KNOW BETTER.)

Senate debate watch party tonight, Early Vote this weekend!

2010-10-14T12:49:00.000-07:00

We have all been working so hard to Elect Equality this year and the moment is finally upon us! Early voting starts this Saturday, October 16th. You can vote at any early vote location throughout Clark County. Pick one here

Tonight is the only debate between Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and his republican opponent Sharron Angle. The debate will air live on Las Vegas' PBS channel 10 from 6-7pm, You can also watch the debate live online Immediately following the senate debate will be a debate between congressional district 3 Elect Equality candidate Congresswoman Dina Titus and her republican challenger Joe Heck.

We invite all Stonewall Democrats to the debate watch party hosted by the Nevada Democratic Party:
Thursday October 14, 6-8pm
Paymon's Mediterranean Cafe and Hookah Lounge
4147 S Maryland Parkway, Las Vegas 89119

Saturday Si Se Puede Democratic Club is hosting a Early Vote Fiesta!
There will be mariachi, food, prizes, voting and more!
Saturday 10/16 Noon-2pm
East Las Vegas Community Center (Early Vote site!)
250 North Eastern Avenue (cross street is Stewart)
Las Vegas, NV

Sunday there's a GOTV rally for Senator Reid with South Carolina Congressman/Democratic majority whip James Clyburn
Hosted by African Americans for Reid and Organizing for America
Sunday October 17 1-4pm
Pearson Community Center (Early Vote Site!)
1625 West Carey Avenue (cross street is Martin Luther King Blvd)
Las Vegas, NV
Food, fun and voting!

Questions about who to vote for, or what's going on with the ballot questions? Check out ProgressNow Nevada's progressive voter guide for some help: http://www.nevadavoterguide.org/

We look forward to seeing everyone out there campaigning and voting. Two more days until Early Voting, 20 days until Election Day.

GOTV, Yes We Can!

Letter from Congresswoman Dina Titus & Stonewall on "It Gets Better"

2010-10-07T07:58:00.000-07:00

Thank you so much for coming to our community's "It Gets Better" rally. This wasn't just for Stonewall. This was for everyone who's been bullied, including remembering those who were bullied to death. We can't allow any more of that.

And as so many of us said on Monday, one of the most effective things we can do in the next few weeks to stop the hate is to ensure we have allies in Washington and in Carson City who will have our backs and make sure we finally see progress on making our schools safe for LGBTQ students. DNC Chair Tim Kaine will be in town tonight to host a phone bank for Dina Titus at the campaign office (2925 N Green Valley Pkwy, Henderson) starting at 5:00 PM, and State Senator Joyce Woodhouse will be doing an Activate phone bank (1701 Ramrod, Henderson) tonight starting at 6:00 PM. And don't forget our Elect Equality phone banks for Dina every Saturday starting at 1:00 PM at the Henderson office (2925 N Green Valley Pkwy), and now every Wednesday starting at 6:00 PM in Henderson and at the Las Vegas office (1215 S Valley View Blvd). And if you'd like to help some more with walking or with anything else, let Gen know by shooting her an email at ggxflores@gmail.com.

And without further adieu, here's the letter from Congresswoman Dina Titus on Monday's rally.

Earlier this week, Stonewall Democrats hosted a forum to highlight the “It Gets Better” project and shine a light on the six tragic deaths of young LGBT individuals that took their own life as a result of the bullying and harassment they endured just because of their sexual orientation. Gathered at the Arts Factory in Las Vegas, we made a stand against hatred and intolerance and let young people who are struggling with their sexuality know that they are not alone and it does get better.

We were proud to have the support of local and federal leaders who have fought for the rights of the LGBT community for years. One of those leaders was Congresswoman Dina Titus. She has long been a friend to our community since her days in the state legislature where she worked to expand hate crimes penalties for crimes committed against people because of their sexual orientation. As an ElectEquality candidate, Dina has supported legislation including the Employee-Non Discrimination Act and the repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell. And critical to our efforts to put an end to the tragedies that have occurred all too often recently, Dina is a cosponsor of the Safe Schools Improvement act to help end bullying and harassment, the Student Non-Discrimination Act to prohibit discrimination in public schools based on sexual orientation or gender, and the Megan Meier Cyberbullying Prevention Act to crack down on those who use electronic means to intimidate, harass, or cause emotional distress.

Stonewall’s efforts and Rep. Titus’ comments at this important event were not only featured here in Las Vegas, but nationally as well. Click here to read MSNBC’s coverage of our forum that calls attention to these tragedies and a community’s call to end intolerance.

Thank you so much for your support.

--
Andrew Davey
Blogger, Nevada Progressive
http://nvprogressive.blogspot.com
http://twitter.com/atdleft
(702) 806-1340

Secretary & Political Director,
Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada
http://sdcsn.blogspot.com
http://twitter.com/lvstonewalldems

Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada and Congresswoman Dina Titus Invite You to "It Gets Better"

2010-10-03T22:08:00.000-07:00

Here's a very special message from the Chair on tomorrow's monthly meeting:

Monday, October 4 · 6:00pm – 8:30pm

Location Bar Bistro (outdoor patio) at The Arts Factory

107 E. Charleston Blvd.

Las Vegas, NV 89104

During the month of September over half a dozen LGBTQ youth, unable to bear the brunt of constant bullying, committed suicide, or, were attacked and injured.

Stonewall's October meeting will instead be a community town hall co-hosted by QVegas Magazine to tackle this issue and to let our youth know "It Gets Better".

We will be joined by:

Congresswoman Dina Titus (D-Henderson)
State Senator David Parks (D-Las Vegas)
Cindy Reid, Wife of Gubernatorial Candidate Rory Reid (D)
Nevada State Democratic Party Chair, Sam Lieberman

Kristine Kuzemka, Justice of The Peace Candidate

Kelly MacFarlane-Smith, QVegas Magazine

Candice Nichols, Gay & Lesbian Center of Southern Nevada

Mel Goodwin, Gay & Lesbian Center of Southern Nevada

Karen Grayson, Stonewall Director of Transgender Outreach

Adan Campos, MECHA
Nathaniel Phillipps, GLSEN & Stonewall Director of Youth Outreach

Malory Cyr, Activist

Xuan Carlos Espinoza-Cuellar, Writer & Activist

J.Son Dinant, QVegas Magazine
Eliza Naomi Abrams from Green Valley High School will perform a monologue from "The Laramie Project"

We hope you can join us and provide input to help us put an end to the bullying and the hurt and start the healing. You’ll also be able to make your own “It Gets Better” video to give encouragement to kids everywhere.

Any questions? lvstonewalldems@gmail.com

*It Gets Better Project is a YouTube channel set up by blogger Dan Savage. You can upload a video to reach out to LGBTQ youth. Share your story so that they can see that it does get better. http://www.youtube.com/user/itgetsbetterproject

Derek Washington

--
Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada
@LVStonewallDems
Facebook http://bit.ly/97WBD1
http://sdcsn.blogspot.com/

Stonewall Update: Letter from the Chair on Mixer THIS MONDAY- Jessica Sferrazza, Elect Equality, & More!

2010-09-11T07:00:00.000-07:00

Hello, again! Below is a letter from our Chair on our next Stonewall Mixer on Monday. Don't forget, we'll be announcing our new Elect Equality outreach efforts! Join us on Monday for the mixer, then join us next weekend as we take action to reelect Dina Titus and Elect Equality all the way up and down the ballot!

And if you can't wait that long, LGBT for Harry Reid will start phone banking on Wednesday and from now on will be at the Henderson NSDP office (2925 N Green Valley Pkwy, Henderson) every Wednesday starting at 6:00 PM. Please support our fellow LGBTQ activists in helping our Senator win this fall!

http://dereksbigfatdemocraticadventure.blogspot.com/2010/09/coming-up-at-stonewall-of-southern.html

HI All,

We at Stonewall Democrats of Southern Nevada are proud to announce that our September meeting will take place this Monday from 630-8pm at The Arts Factory 107 E Charleston 89104 @ Casino Center (upstairs). Our very special guest will be Democratic Lt. Governor Candidate Jessica Sferrazza! Please let your friends and networks know about the event so that they may come and meet Jessica and ask her your questions about her positions as she runs for the second highest office in the state.

We will also be introducing you to Daniel Leskow who is working with "LGBT for Harry Reid". He'll be giving you information on how you can help Harry Reid get reelected.

And our new "ELECT EQUALITY" staffer Genevieve Flores will be on hand to talk about what Stonewall can do to help Dina Titus win her race again.

Also on our agenda is an update on the new David Parks Library that Stonewall is working on with the Clark County Democratic party. If you're free this weekend, come on down and pick up a paint brush at the Gay & Lesbian Center 953 E Sahara to help us finish the library in time for next Wednesday's unveiling. We'll have volunteers helping 9am - 4pm on Saturday and Sunday.

C'mon down for an evening with friends!

And don't forget, Saturday means it's time for The Sausage Factory!

Join your hosts Derek Washington, Chris Miller and Laura Martin for a show that will make you think, laugh and just maybe answer the question..."What's actually in that sausage?"

Saturday, September 11, 2010 10am to 1pm Pacific Time www.vegasallnetradio.com

Mike Rogers. Blogger, Activist and star of the Documentary "Outrage" www.blog.blogactive.com

Jon Ralston. Nevada's top political reporter, writer for the Las Vegas Sun, www.ralstonflash.com and Host of Face to Face

Progressive Political Blogger Desert Beacon www.desertbeacon.blogspot.com

Wayne Besen From Truth Wins Out www.truthwinsout.org

Brad Listi, Founding Editor of The Nervous Breakdown and Author of "Attention Deficit Disorder www.thenervousbreakdown.com

Ari Ezra Waldman our "Legal Eagle" to tell us the latest on DADT.

Don't forget our regulars... J. Webb with Sports / Ask a Tranny / Twitter Trenz

Please Join Us & SENATOR HARRY REID This Friday!

2010-08-30T17:42:00.000-07:00

Stonewall is very proud to co-host this very special event with many of our fellow LGBTQ equality organizations, along with our Senator and friend, Harry Reid.

You’re Invited

To a “Meet and Greet”

Reception with

Senator Harry Reid,

The LGBT Community, and Allies

Friday, September 3

3:30 p.m.

The Arts Factory

107 East Charleston Blvd.

Las Vegas, NV

There is no cost to attend,

but please RSVP online at http://www.harryreid.com/page/s/sept3artsfactory

Please call 702-699-7343 with questions.

Thank you, and we look forward to

seeing you this Friday!

AFANLV cuts ties with Canyon Ridge Christian Church

2010-08-26T09:15:00.001-07:00

Great job Stonewallers! Once again your activism has made the difference. Thank you for contacting AFAN and expressing your concern with Canyon Ridge.

See our press release below:
Contact Derek derekisademocrat@gmail.com
or Laura laurakmmartin@gmail.com
if you have any questions

AID FOR AIDS NEVADA OF LAS VEGAS CUTS TIES WITH CANYON RIDGE CHRISTIAN CHURCH
Church's controversial relationship with Ugandan pastor Martin "kill the gays" Ssempa has also caused them to lose their working relationship with the Southern Nevada Health District.

Las Vegas--August 26, 2010--Aid for AIDS Nevada of Las Vegas announced on their facebook page this morning that they will "dissolve" their relationship with Canyon Ridge Christian Church (1). Canyon Ridge, one of the largest Christian churches in the state of Nevada, provides financial support to Ugandan pastor, Martin Ssempa.

Ssempa is the bombastic spokesperson for the Ugandan Anti-Homosexulaity Bill (2) which calls for the death or life imprisonment of gays and individuals who support gay rights.

Ssempa's controversial method of condemning homosexuality--showing same sex pornography during his church services and burning cases of condoms "in the name of Jesus"--have cost him his reputation as an HIV/AIDS activist and his working relationship with evangelicals around the country; most notably, Rick Warren of Saddleback Church in Orange County.

In July, after pressure from activists in Las Vegas and around the country, the Southern Nevada Health District also severed all ties with Canyon Ridge (3).

"We must give thanks to AFAN for its swift response to our city's shared outrage at Canyon Ridge's continued support of a man we consider a human rights terrorist," said SDCSN chair, Derek Washington.

A coalition of activists including SDCSN, Michael Ginsburg of PLAN and bloggers around the country are to thank for reaching out to AFAN.

Warren Throckmorton (4), Jason Whited of City Life Magazine (5) and NPR's State of Nevada (6) also deserve praise for helping bring attention to Canyon Ridge's puzzling relationship with Martin Ssempa and their unwavering protection of him.

1. http://bit.ly/9Pz6xM
2. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uganda_Anti-Homosexuality_Bill
3. http://wthrockmorton.com/2010/07/09/southern-nevada-health-district-severs-ties-with-canyon-ridge-christian-church/
4. http://wthrockmorton.com/
5. http://www.lasvegascitylife.com/articles/2010/07/01/news/local_news/iq_36675261.txt
6. http://www.knpr.org/son/archive/detail2.cfm?SegmentID=7044&ProgramID=2005

Stonewall Update: Obama Brunch, Call with Dina Titus, SAVE THE DATE Sep 3, & More!

2010-08-24T07:40:00.001-07:00

Can you believe summer is already coming to an end? For some of us, it means back to school. For others, it means even more work coming. And for all of us, it means we have much to do in these last two months before the election!

So let's get started!

First off, we have some good news. Back in April, Clark County Democratic Hispanic Caucus Chair Ray Pedraza was injured in a horrible accident while on his day job with the Nevada Highway Patrol. Fortunately, he's been recovering from this accident and the caucus will be celebrating his recovery and the installation of CCDHC's new executive board this Wednesday at Las Palmas Mexican Restaurant at Commercial Center (953 E. Sahara, Las Vegas) at 6:00 PM. Tickets for this fundraiser are $50, and include full buffet dinner and live entertainment. Just remember to RSVP to Ray via email or by calling (702) 290-0572. Welcome back, Ray, and welcome back Clark County Democratic Hispanic Caucus!

The Women’s Democratic Club of Clark County will be celebrating their 55^th anniversary this Thursday with a very special event honoring Myrna Williams and past presidents. Congresswoman Shelley Berkley will emcee, and Congresswoman Dina Titus will also be speaking. The celebration will be held at the Nevada Partner’s Culinary Training Academy (710 W. Lake Mead Blvd, Las Vegas) this Thursday from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. Tickets are $55 and can be purchased either in advance or at the door. Help celebrate Women’s Equality Day by attending or supporting this event. All proceeds go to help candidates in the general election. You can RSVP by emailing Womensdemoclarkcounty@gmail.com and/or calling (702) 615-4522.

And don't forget, the Clark County Democratic Black Caucus will be presenting their fabulous Obama Brunch this Saturday! The theme is “Recognizing Blacks in Politics”, and their very special guest of honor will be Nevada Senate Majority Leader Steven Horsford. Congresswoman Barbara Lee, a Civil Rights icon and chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, will be the featured guest speaker, along with our own Congresswoman Shelley Berkley. Tickets are priced at $65 for non-members, $55 for caucus members, and $100 for VIP reception. A portion of the proceeds benefits the CCDBC youth caucus programs. Please remember to RSVP today by emailing ccblackcaucus@gmail.com.

Also this weekend will be a very special joint phone bank at the NSDP Henderson office (2925 N. Green Valley Pkwy, Henderson) on Saturday helping (and friends of Stonewall!) Congresswoman Dina Titus and State Senator Joyce Woodhouse, who will both be with us on Saturday. Calls start at 1:00 PM, and you can call (702) 256-3462 for more info.

And as always, if you'd like to start off your Saturday with a great walk around the neighborhood (if you're in the Henderson area) to help two of our good Stonewall friends, both State Senator Joyce Woodhouse and Assembly Member Ellen Spiegel would really appreciate your help! Both walks start at 9:00 AM this Saturday. To walk with Joyce, email her at senatorjoycewoodhouse@gmail.com. And to walk with Ellen, email gena@ellenspiegel.com.

Oh, and before we forget, save the date for Friday, September 3. We'll be hosting a very special dinner with none other than Senator Harry Reid! More details will be coming soon... Stay tuned!

--
Andrew Davey

Secretary & Political Director,
Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada
http://sdcsn.blogspot.com
http://twitter.com/lvstonewalldems

Blogger, Nevada Progressive
http://nvprogressive.blogspot.com
http://twitter.com/atdleft
(702) 806-1340

REMINDER: Kristine Kuzemka Fundraiser at Krave TONIGHT

2010-08-11T14:42:00.000-07:00

Remember to support one of our own, Stonewaller Kristine Kuzemka for Las Vegas Justice of the Peace. We hope we'll be seeing you tonight at Krave.

Please join Kristine Kuzemka for Justice of the Peace Dept. 6

Today · 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Krave (at Planet Hollywood Miracle Mile Shops)
3663 S Las Vegas Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89109

With the host committee:
Kelly & Michael Smith
Terry Hernandez & Frank Del Toro
Chris Campbell
Jarrod Meistle
Michael Ginsburg & Tod Story
Michael Caprio
Stonewall Democratic Club
Bill Jacobs
Kaye Taylor
Charles Beraud
David Parks
Dawn Christensen
Robert D. Smith
James Healey
Edwards Family
Tom Bruny & Daniel Burnett
Robert Rueter
Jeremy Tyler
Tony Arias
Chris Nelson
Mel Pohl & Rich Merritt
Randy Reinoso
Jayson DiCotignano
Scott Ramer & John Saksa
Robert Blood
Princess Anne Mulford
Rod Kerezsi
Patrick Lucas & Marc Garcia
Ken Solis & Ron Quinn
Merrell Virgen

Suggested Minimum Contribution: $25

Sponsored by:
Krave
QVegas

Please make checks payable to
Committee to Elect Kristine Kuzemka
415 S. Sixth St., Ste. 200F
Las Vegas, NV 89101

Sharron Angle (R-Area 51) continues to expose her radically Christian views

2010-08-05T14:38:00.000-07:00

Days after she claimed social service programs were an affront to the 10 Commandments, My News 4 out of Reno reports Ms. Angle has exposed more of her dangerously bizarre views in a survey completed for the Political Action Committee Government is Not God.

LOS ANGELES (AP) -- Nevada GOP Senate hopeful Sharron Angle believes the clergy should be allowed to endorse candidates from the pulpit and opposes laws allowing gays to adopt children.

(...snip...)

Angle says she would oppose making sexual orientation a protected minority in civil rights laws.

God wants nothing to do with Sharron Angle, or any other so-called Christian who refuses to assist the least among us (Matthew 25) or those who viciously judge people on something so superficial as sexual orientation, rather than the content of their character.

Sharron Angle's wildly radical views are dangerous for Nevada and our country. Her idea of how government works is perverse and misguided. According to her definition of government, she is committing a mortal sin by even wanting to be a US Senator. Is that considered bearing false witness, or just being a lunatic?

See ya in hell Sharron.

Laura

Stonewall Update: Dina Titus BBQ on Saturday, Rory Reid Fundraiser Wednesday, Family Fest Weekend, & More!

2010-08-02T19:45:00.000-07:00

Ah, it's August already. Is it hot enough for you? Well, we're heating things up some more at Stonewall this month.

We hope you'll be joining us on Saturday for our Elect Equality Kickoff BBQ in Henderson! Clark County Democratic Party Chair Roberta Lange will be hosting us at her beautiful home near Legacy Golf Course, and of course our very special guest of honor will be the one and only Congresswoman Dina Titus! We'll also be joined by Las Vegas Justice of the Peace candidate Kristine Kuzemka, State Senator Joyce Woodhouse (D-Henderson), Assembly Members Ellen Spiegel (D-Henderson) and April Mastroluca (D-Henderson), and many more LGBTQ & allied community leaders from across Congressional District 3 and across the valley. The festivities begin at 6:30 PM on Saturday, and we encourage you to learn more and RSVP at our Facebook page.

And if you'd like to get a head start on your activism Saturday morning, Ellen Spiegel is always looking for willing and able volunteers. Volunteers will start meeting up at 9:00 AM, and if you'd like to join me and other "Team Spiegel" volunteers in helping to reelect our good Stonewall friend and ally, ask Gena atgena@ellenspiegel.com and/or (702) 557-0756.

Another great pro-equality friend of Stonewall deserving of our help is our next Governor, Rory Reid. Rory will be doing a very affordable $25 fundraiser (you're always welcome to give more, but this is the minimum) at Origin India (4480 Paradise Road, Las Vegas) on Wednesday starting at 5:30 PM. If you'd like to drop by, say hi to Rory, enjoy some great food, and meet up with other Stonewallers like Derek and Sandy, let Leah know at leah@roryreid.com.

Also on Wednesday is the Henderson Democratic Club's very special forum on mining issues, featuring Michael Ginsburg from PLAN, Tim Crowley from the Nevada Mining Association, and more. This will be starting at 7:00 PM on Wednesday at the Painters' Hall (1701 Whitney Mesa, Henderson).

And don't forget our friends at Si Se Puede on Thursday! They'll be doing a candidate meet & greet mixer at 6:00 PM at El Patron Restaurant (2797 S Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas).

And finally, we hope we'll be seeing you at Family Fest this weekend. Family Fest is one of the largest and most diverse LGBTQ social events in the country, and you can check their web site to see all the parties, the gospel brunch, and more!

Thanks again for all you do, and we hope to see you on Saturday at the barbeque. Hey, you deserve a day off as well!

Stonewall Update: Volunteer This Weekend!

2010-07-22T09:05:00.000-07:00

Hello again, and happy Thursday! Boy, we have an exciting weekend coming up and we'd like to let you know all about it.

First off, let's give you an update on Netroots Nation. If you're still interested in going this weekend, they have a local's rate of just $95. And if you're interested in volunteering during the convention, you'll pay even less... Or even get totally comped! And if you can volunteer tomorrow and/or Saturday, they'd especially appreciate it. If you want to attend and/or volunteer at Netroots Nation at The Rio this weekend, please contact Austin Adams at (512) 228-1936 or austinadams@yahoo.com.

Also on Friday at The Rio is a very fun fundraiser with our next Governor, Rory Reid! For just $25, you can hang out with Rory and a few other friends at McFadden's, and enjoy some drinks and complimentary hor d'oeuvres. Oh, and the first drink is also on Rory! The fun starts at 6:00 PM tomorrow, and you can RSVP by calling (702) 373-8665 or emailing leah@roryreid.com.

And for something a little closer to home, especially if you're in the Henderson area, two very special pro-equality Democrats would definitely appreciate your help on Saturday. Starting at 9:00 AM, both Assembly Member Ellen Spiegel and State Senator Joyce Woodhouse will be meeting with volunteers at their (respective) homes and going out to walk and talk with our neighbors here in the community. When we've needed strong advocates to stand up for our civil rights, whether it was testifying in support of SB 283 domestic partnerships or stopping Jim Gibbons' attempt to defund and shut down the Nevada Equal Rights Commission, they've been there for us. Now, we need to stand up for them. If you'd like to join Ellen on Saturday, contact Gena at (702) 557-0756 or gena@ellenspiegel.com for more info. And if you'd like to join Joyce on Saturday, contact her at (702) 896-1453 or senatorwoodhouse@gmail.comfor more info.

And finally, save the date for these two exciting upcoming events! On Wednesday, August 4, the Henderson Democratic Club will be hosting a forum on mining issues (flyer is attached), featuring Michael Ginsburg, Southern Nevada Director of PLAN, Tim Crowley, President of the Nevada Mining Association, and Pete Dronkerf, State Coordinator for Environment Nevada. Now this should be quite interesting. And of course, our very own Stonewall BBQ with Dina Titus will be Saturday, August 7, at 6:30 PM. We're looking forward to seeing you here!

Oh, and one more thing... If you'd like to resume daily Rapid Response and Action Alerts, please join Stonewall Daily Updates. Otherwise, these emails and the main Facebook group are only for weekly updates and official Stonewall event announcements.

Thanks again for all you do, and keep up the great work.

Stonewall Update: Activities This Weekend, Elect Equality Plans Coming Up, & Save the Date for These Exciting Events!

2010-07-16T15:34:00.000-07:00

Thank you again for coming to join us at Stonewall on Monday. We had a great chance to learn about Elect Equality, what we can do to end Martin Ssempa's dangerous homophobic agenda in Uganda (by the way, Derek spoke about this on KNPR yesterday!), and the pro-equality Democrats we need to help win in November. As always, check our Twitter page for meeting minutes, and board meeting recordings are always available upon request.

If you would like to help us with Elect Equality, please let us know. As I said on Monday, we're presently working on putting together our priority contact list. If you're up for some "computer work" and looking to help, please let me know. And in the coming days and weeks, we will also be looking for callers and walkers.

Otherwise, there are great events happening throughout the valley that we'd love to see you at. Tomorrow, the Nevada State Democratic Party will be walking for Harry Reid and Elect Equality winner Dina Titus in Henderson. Please RSVP to Elspeth at ecordua@nvdems.com if you'd like to get some exercise, possibly meet your neighbors, and help two of our favorite pro-equality Democrats win in November. They will be meeting at 9:00 AM at the NSDP office at 2925 N Green Valley Pkwy (just north of Sunset) in Henderson.

Also tomorrow morning, Assemblywoman Ellen Spiegel will be walking Henderson, and she'd love to have you join her. She's our incumbent Democrat in the 21st Assembly District (Henderson), and she provided the critical 28th vote to pass SB 283 (domestic partnerships), along with other crucial pro-equality legislation. This is a fiercely contested race, so Ellen really appreciates all of our help! If you'd like to join Ellen tomorrow, please RSVP to Gena at gena@ellenspiegel.com. They will be meeting at 9:00 AM at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf at The District (Green Valley Ranch), 2220 Village Walk Dr (near Green Valley Pkwy & Paseo Verde) in Henderson.

And for all of you in the Summerlin area, don't worry... We haven't forgotten you! In fact, Harry Reid's campaign will be hosting a very special volunteer day of action at their new Summerlin office featuring none other than Grammy winning recording artist and environmental activist Carole King! Please RSVP at jbrandt@nvdems.com if you're interested. The Reid Summerlin HQ is at 810 S Durango Rd #109 in Las Vegas.

Also, don't forget to mark your calendar for next Wednesday! As a Stonewall member, you're invited to the hottest Netroots Nation party in town!

"WHAT HAPPENS IN VEGAS GETS BLOGGED ABOUT" Pre Opening Night Netroots party!

REMINDER: Stonewall Monthly Mixer TOMORROW, Lambda Election Forum Wednesday, & New Stonewall Daily Updates Group Up & Running

2010-07-11T19:11:00.000-07:00

We just wanted to send you this little reminder to let you know that our July monthly mixer will be tomorrow at 6:00 PM inside Bar & Bistro:

The Arts Factory

107 E Charleston Blvd

Las Vegas, NV 89104

(702) 202-6060

Derek will provide an update on the latest developments at Canyon Ridge Christian Church, the local church whose leadership still supports "Africa's most notorious anti-gay evangelical pastor". I'll have an update on Elect Equality coming here to Southern Nevada, and special guests from Dina Titus' campaignwill also be joining us to thank you for your support and let us know how they'll be ready for Elect Equality. Oh, and we'll have another "special surprise guest" come to announce a very special event to kick off the Elect Equality Nevada campaign next month!

Also note that Wednesday will be Lambda's Monthly Community Luncheon featuring their election forum. Steve Friess from VegasHappensHere.com will be moderating, and our State Senate Majority Leader, Steven Horsford, will be representing the Democratic Party. The luncheon starts at 11:30 AM on Wednesday, and it will be at Las Palmas Restaurant at 953 E Sahara Ave (Commercial Center) in Las Vegas. The cost is $15, and it's open to the general public.

And finally, due to the mixed responses to our recent "rapid response" Facebook messages, we'll now be doing something we hope will please all our members. If you prefer ONLY receiving our official Stonewall Update emails and monthly mixer reminder emails, you need not do anything else. From now on, this email list and our main Facebook page will ONLY be for weekly Stonewall Updates and meeting reminders. However if you've enjoyed our weekday rapid response messages and regular action alerts, please join our new Stonewall Daily Updates group to receive the rapid response and action alerts.

Thanks, and we hope to see you tomorrow evening!

NV-03: Joe Heck, Drinking from the Public Trough

2010-07-07T15:16:00.000-07:00

Andrew,

When Joe Heck said "the role of Congress is not to create jobs," the former legislator - who hastaken as much as $1.1 million in taxpayer money through government funded jobs - apparently wasn't talking about his own.

Heck has time and again advocated slashing government, saying he would cut the vital Department of Education and the Homeland Security Department. But despite his calls for less government, Heck has no problem drinking from the public trough. On two separate occasions, Heck has collected three government checks at once.

Over the years Heck stood to make more than a million in legislative compensation and payouts from the Southern Nevada Health District, the Metro Police Department and even a federally funded medical facility in Maryland.

Check out Heck's history of triple dipping here: www.heckschecks.com. The new site chronicles Heck's history of hypocrisy - triple dipping on the taxpayer dime while deriding government spending to create jobs.

Joe Heck is running for Congress, but says it's not Congress' job to create jobs for ordinary people. Meanwhile, he has no problem living large off your taxpayer dollar. But Heck can't run from the fact that he has lined his pockets on the government's dime. If Joe Heck is going to attack government spending, he should start with his own paycheck.
Sincerely,

Sam Lieberman
Chairman, NSDP

P.S. Help us continue to spread the word of Senator Heck's legacy of triple
dipping. Make a contribution today of $25, $50, $100, or more and help get out
the word!

Sign the petition, Today Show banning gay couples from their wedding contest

2010-07-06T15:08:00.001-07:00

NBC’s Today Show is taking applications for its “Modern Day Wedding Contest” through Friday, July 9th. The winning couple will be awarded a wedding to be broadcast live on the Today Show in October and an all-expense paid honeymoon. Unfortunately, the Today Show won’t allow committed gay and lesbian couples to participate.*

Sign the petition

Today show staff twitters:

@klgandhoda

@todayshow

@hodakotb

@NBCNewsIntern

@rlytle

@anncurry

@alroker

@jeffrossen

@AliciaYbarbo

Stonewall Update: Happy Independence Day Weekend!

2010-07-02T20:28:00.000-07:00

Hello again, and Happy Independence Day! Wow, our nation celebrates its 234th birthday. And we keep getting better with age.

Below are two special letters, one from Clark County Democratic Party Chair Roberta Lange and one from Stonewall Chair Derek Washington. But before we get to those, we just want to make sure you know about three special holiday events happening tomorrow.

First off, we're still welcoming volunteers to come walk with us and our pro-equality Democratic candidates at the Boulder City Damboree tomorrow. If you'd like to join us, please call Chris at (702) 569-6744. And after the parade, there are two great "after parties" happening that we'd love for you to join. If you're in or near Summerlin, please join Stonewaller and Justice of the Peace Candidate Kristine Kuzemka at her house at 12:00 PM for a very special BBQ. Go ahead and RSVP at (702) 873-4162. And if you're closer to Henderson, our friends at the Henderson Democratic Club are doing the official Damboree Parade Democratic After-party at 2010 Bobtail Cir (near Green Valley & Paseo Verde) starting at 11:00 AM. You can RSVP for this by emailingHendersonDemocrats@yahoo.com.

And finally, congratulations to Congresswoman Dina Titus for winning a slot on the National Stonewall Elect Equality team! We're so proud to see her make it, and we're so proud to see that you helped put her over the top! (She made the Top 6 in online member votes.) Thanks to your vote and your messages to friends and family, National Stonewall will soon be sending a paid staffer, along with additional resources, here to Southern Nevada to help us and the Titus Campaign win NV-03 (and in turn, help us reelect Senator Reid and provide us with more down-ballot opportunities). Stay tuned for more details coming soon on Elect Equality how you can keep helping us from now until November.

So enjoy your Fourth of July holiday, and we hope to see you again at our July 12 mixer.

Andrew Davey

Secretary & Political Director,

Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada

http://sdcsn.blogspot.com

http://twitter.com/lvstonewalldems

(702) 806-1340

First I would like to wish each of you a wonderful Independence Day celebration. When you see the Fireworks take a moment to reflect on just what they mean - the birth of a nation! Your nation! We have always had struggles and we have always overcome them - because of patriots like YOU! Thank you for all you do!

Next, I would like to extend an invitation for you to stand with President Obama and show your support for Senator Harry Reid on Thursday, July 8th, 2010. The event is being held at City Center's ARIA Resort with doors opening at 4p.m. There is no cost to attend the event but you must RSVP online or by phone to attend.

Call (702) 699-REID (7343) to RSVP by phone.

Happy Independence Day and I hope to see all of you standing with our President in support of our Senator, Harry Reid ..

Sincerely,

Roberta Lange
Chair
Clark County, Nevada, Democratic Party
702-586-6402

Hi Stonewallers!

Wow, So far this summer has been full speed ahead for Stonewall! Best news? Leo Murrieta, Sandy Eddy, Laura Martin, Carolyn Essex, & Sanje Sadera, all Stonewall members, were elected as Members at Large to The Nevada State Democratic Party Board! Never in the history Stonewall in Nevada have so many Stonewall members been in positions with the State board. Our hard work is paying off!

Senator Reid began the month along with President Obama by proclaiming June “LGBT Pride Month”. We also received a very nice certificate from the Senator in honor of The Gay & Lesbian Center from the Senator.

Major congratulations go out to the new State Stonewall board officers! They are: President Chris Miller, Vice President Olivia Golbert-Hicks, Treasurer Alfred Walking Bull and Secretary Andrew Davey. As you may know, in the past State Stonewall has not been a very active organization. With the election of this new group of officers, you can bet that our community will now have a statewide organization that will be a key part of Stonewalls strategy to make sure the LGBT and progressive activist communities have a seat at the table of Nevada governance. I know that I can’t wait to see what Chris and his crew come up with!

Stonewall hosted We Are Family, a local group for LGBT families at The Arts Factory with a screening of “The Incredibles”. Our partnership with We Are Family will be a monthly event, stay tuned for more news.

We also raised $50 in a raffle for the Youth Group at The Gay & Lesbian Center at my weekly CAMP 107 Classic Cinema series during a screening of “Auntie Mame” at Bar Bistro @ The Arts Factory. Every week I donate the raffle to a local organization on behalf of Stonewall and I hope you’ll be able to make it out. Listings of the movies are in each weeks LV Weekly.

Please support Kristine Kuzemka at her BBQ to raise funds for her historic race to win a seat on the bench.

Stonewall has been asked by several candidates to help out at the 3rd of July Boulder Parade tomorrow. Call Chris Miller to find out how you can participate @ 702 576 4978

Tommy Ross coming to meet with Stonewall on DADT

We are proud to announce that Stonewall will be having a private meeting with Tommy Ross who is Senator Reid’s point person on DADT. This is a must for anyone who wants to know where repealing DADT is right now in DC and what we at Stonewall can do to make repeal move forward. The event will take place at Stonewall member, Gary Vroomans’ home. Address 4121 Scotmist Ct, Las Vegas, NV 89129

Directions from DT.. take the 95 north to Craig. Left on Craig. Left on Buffalo. Rt on Excalibur. Rt on Featherstone lane. go 3 blocks to Scotmist Ct and turn Rt. 2nd house on the left.

Next meeting: Stonewalls July meeting will be on July 12 at our unofficial clubhouse, The Bar Bistro at The Arts Factory. 107 E Charleston Blvd 89104 @ Charleston & Casino Center. We will meet from 6-830pm and will have special guests we’ll be telling you about next week. As always, appetizers will be served and a full bar and dinner menu will be available.

Stonewall got a great mention in this weeks City Life Magazine for its work on making the community aware of the involvement of local mega church, Canyon Ridge, in helping support Uganda’s “Kill The Gays” bill. Check out “Test of Faith” http://www.lasvegascitylife.com/articles/2010/07/01/news/local_news/iq_36675261.txt

Stonewall will be representing the Democratic party in a big way at the monthly LAMBDA luncheon which , this month, will be a political forum featuring both Democratic & Republican Candidates. We will have as our sides speaker representing the Democratic viewpoint Senator Steven Horsford, Nevada’s Senate Majority Leader! We will also be joined by candidates (or their Reps) Ruben Kihuen, Kristine Kuzemka, Gloria Sturman, Jason Frierson, Shelley Berkley & Harry Reid. I strongly urge every Stonewall member to attend this event and show how diverse our group and party are! The cost is $15 and takes place at Las Palmas Mexican Restaurant at The Commercial Center 953 E Sahara @ Maryland Pkwy. Price does include a delicious lunch!

May I say a personal word of thanks to all of you who have supported Stonewall and its efforts to move the LGBT community in Southern Nevada forward. I never thought being Chairman would be this much work, however, now that we are seeing the hard work come to fruition, I wouldn’t trade places with anyone on the planet.

Thank you,

Derek Washington

Chairman Stonewall Democrats of Southern Nevada

--
Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada
@LVStonewallDems
Facebook http://bit.ly/97WBD1
http://sdcsn.blogspot.com/

Stonewall Update: NSDP Convention Tomorrow, July 4th Events Coming Up, Next Mixer Will Be July 12th

2010-06-25T14:54:00.000-07:00

We're back, and so is summer! We have some great activities coming up at Stonewall, and we want to give you a heads up on what's happening. First, here's a letter from our Chair regarding the NSDP Convention tomorrow:

Hello, Fellow Stonewallers!

I just wanted to give you all a heads up on some important things coming up. We have several great Stonewall members running for positions for members-at-large at the Nevada State Democratic Party convention tomorrow at the Flamingo Hotel. Registration for the convention begins Saturday June 26^th at 7am in the El Dorado Ballroom.

They are:

ANDREW DAVEY

ALFRED WALKING BULL

SANDY EDDY

LEO MURRIETA

LAURA MARTIN

Good friends of Stonewall also running:

Sanje Sadera

Marla Turner

In addition the State Stonewall caucus will be having elections for two year terms on Saturday June 26, 2010 at 8AM at the Flamingo Lobby Bar at the Flamingo Hotel. This election is open to members of Stonewall who are members of State in addition to being members of Southern and Northern Stonewall.

Candidates for Executive Board positions are:

Chris Miller – President

Pamela Brooks – Vice President

Alfred Walking Bull – Treasurer

Andrew Davey – Secretary

Please make sure that you come by and give them your votes so that State Stonewall can move forward with the great ideas on LGBT related legislation that this group has come up with.

Saturday Night Stonewall is hosting the official Democratic Convention after party with the Clark County Democratic Party at The Arts Factory Bar Bistro 107 E Charleston Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89104 (@ Main St.). The Party will feature a live Jazz Combo and free appetizers. There is no cost to attend this fun and casual event.

Our next Stonewall meeting will be Monday July 12^th from 6-830pm at The Bar Bistro at The Arts Factory 107 E Charleston Blvd 89104. We’ll let you know who our special guest speaker is in a bit.

Make sure you save July 4^th so you can spend it with Kristine Kuzemka! Attached is the party flyer. Kristine is poised to make history in the 2010 elections and we want to make sure that Stonewall is there to help her!

Tonight, I’m hosting a screening of the Camp Classic “Auntie Mame” starring Rosalind Russell. We’ll be having a Stonewall raffle with the proceeds going to the Gay & Lesbian Center of Southern Nevada. That’s at The Arts Factory, 107 E Charleston 89104. Cost is $10.

Hope you’re not letting the heat get the best of you because we’ve got a long hot summer ahead of us!

Derek Washington

Chairman Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada

And btw, attached in this email are flyers for me, Sandy, and Leo. And remember, these are NOT official endorsements from the club. Derek just wants to let you know about the Stonewallers running in tomorrow's NSDP elections.

Also coming up next weekend is the Fourth of July, and we want to give you a heads-up on two very fun, festive, and patriotic events happening. First off, State Senator Joyce Woodhouse would love for you to join her in walking in the Boulder City Parade next Saturday, July 3rd:

Hey, Stonewallers! We hope you can join us to walk with Senator Woodhouse in this year's Boulder City July 4th Parade! The actual parade is taking place on July 3rd, and it starts at 9:00am (volunteers are suggested to be there at 8:30am). Unfortunately, this is all the info we have as of right now, but we will send you the complete info with our staging location as soon as we get it from the Parks & Rec Dept. (Stay tuned for next week's Stonewall Update for more details!) Thanks again- We, and Senator Woodhouse, really appreciate it! Please call Michelle White at 978-337-4979, or email her at mwhite@nvsenatedems.com, for more info or to RSVP.

And after the parade, you're invited to join our friends at the Henderson Democratic Club for a potluck house party!

Independence Day Party - POTLUCK house party

~~~Saturday, July 3rd (NOT the 4th)~~~
11am to 3pm
2010 Bobtail Circle, Henderson, NV 89012
RSVP to
 hendersondemocrats@yahoo.com

Thanks again for sticking with us and helping us get out the Democratic vote for the primary. Keep up the great work, and never give up the good fight.

Oh, and by the way, we're moving our next Stonewall Monthly Mixer to Monday, July 12th, so you'll have more time to enjoy the July 4th holiday weekend.

Please Vote for Reid & Titus at Elect Equality... VOTING ENDS TOMORROW!

2010-06-17T19:44:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is the last day for folks to cast their votes in Stonewall Democrats ElectEquality program. As of last week, Dina Titus and Harry Reid were two of the "Top Ten" vote getters out of a shortlist of 30 candidates nationwide. But as of this morning, Dina and Harry have slipped off the radar screen and out of the all-important "Top Ten."

WE NEED YOUR HELP TODAY TO GET DINA AND HARRY BACK AT THE TOP OF THE LIST. Being one of the final ten will mean staff on the ground helping with LGBT turnout/outreach, coordinated online and offline actions, volunteer recruitment, fundraising assistance, canvassing and phone banking.

You can cast up to a total of 10 votes for Dina Titus or Harry Reid (how about 5 votes each?) by clicking the link below:
http://electequality.org/

While each person can only vote once, you can really help your favorite candidates by asking your friends and family to vote.

Please help us make this happen for Dina and Harry! Remember: the deadline for you to vote is midnight Eastern time tomorrow June 18, so please take a few seconds and vote now: http://electequality.org/

Thank you for your help!

PRIDE MONTH - JUNE 2010

2010-06-15T09:25:00.000-07:00

Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada Statement On Pride Month

For Immediate Release Tuesday, June 15, 2010

CONTACT: Laura Martin 702-292-1279 or Derek Washington 702-576-4978 or lvstonewalldems@gmail.com

Las Vegas, NV - President Barack Obama has proclaimed June 2010 as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Pride Month.

More than 40 years ago, the Stonewall Inn in New York City was the scene of the Stonewall riots. Gay patrons and their supporters, fed up with persistent harassment from the police, fought back. What resulted from this bloody clash was a movement; an empowered LGBT community fighting for and demanding equal treatment under the law.

The President stated in his proclamation: "Much work remains to fulfill our Nation's promise of equal justice under law for LGBT Americans." It is clear that Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid is ready, willing and able to do that work. As it says in the forwarded email below, Senator Reid worked hard to to pass the Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Prevention Act, despite stubborn and misguided resistance from social conservatives and republicans. Senator Reid supports the Employment Non-Discrimination Act and the repeal of the the military's discriminatory policy, Don't Ask, Don't Tell.

Stonewall Democrats of Southern Nevada agrees with the president, there is MUCH more work that lies ahead of us before we finally reach the day when all US citizens are treated equally and fairly. Stonewall is committed to electing Equality Democrats, keeping them in office and keeping them honest.

We will use all our resources and energy to win this fight. We are are lucky to have Senator Harry Reid in our corner fighting for, and with us.

###

---

Laura Martin

Communications Director

Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada

@LVStonewallDems

Facebook http://bit.ly/97WBD1

http://sdcsn.blogspot.com/

There will be LGBT events planned throughout month for Southern Nevada

Saturday June, 19 @ 7:30pm

LGBT Family Movie Night ***FREE***

The Arts Factory (patio/terrace area)

107 East Charleston Boulevard (cross, Casino Center)

Las Vegas, NV 89104

"Cats and Dogs" rated G

For Immediate Release Monday, June 14, 2010

CONTACT: Jon Summers / Tom Brede

REID STATEMENT ON PRIDE MONTH

Reid is committed to ending “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”

Washington, D.C. – Nevada Senator Harry Reid made the following statement in support of National Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Pride Month:

“Our state and our country have always been strengthened by diversity in our workforce, businesses and our military. This month we celebrate that diversity and the people who have worked so hard to create a more just and equal society in Nevada and across the country.

“I stand with President Obama and military leaders in support of ending the policy of 'Don’t Ask Don’t Tell,' which often prevents qualified and willing individuals from honorably serving their country because of their sexual orientation. Our nation’s security is too important to deny those who want to serve because of this flawed policy. I am encouraged by recent steps in the Senate and House to repeal this policy, and I will continue to advocate for the a fair review of for distinguished military service members who face dismissal until this policy is ended.

“I have pride in our nation and in Nevada’s LGBT community. We must end discrimination in the workplace and in our military. I will continue to fight to ensure dignity and equality for all Nevadans.”

Senator Reid has a long record of supporting Nevada’s LGBT community. He was instrumental in passing the Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Prevention Act, which gives more support and funding to federal law enforcement to investigate and prosecute hate crimes. Reid supported the creation and reauthorizations of the Ryan White CARE Act, which provides care, treatment and support for those living with HIV/AIDS. Additionally, Reid supports the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, which prohibits discrimination against employees on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity.

###

Stonewall Update: Recap of Rally w/ President Clinton, Shelley Berkley BBQ on June 19

2010-06-11T16:25:00.000-07:00

Wasn't yesterday's rally with President Clinton amazing? Well in case you missed it, both The Sun and The R-J did write-ups, with The R-J even featuring a front-page pic with our Chair, Derek Washington! And don't worry, Senator Reid's campaign will be doing more events this summer and you can sign up at their web site to get word on what else they have planned for this summer.

And speaking of summer events, our other favorite Congresswoman, Shelley Berkley, has something exciting coming up next week:

Hello, everyone! We are planning a BBQ Meet and Greet in Las Vegas (Saturday June 19th at 2:00 PM) with Congresswoman Shelley Berkley, and would love for you all to come and spread the word to your friends and family! Attached is the invitation, and to RSVP either email Mary Sibert (mary@sberkley.com) back with your information, or give her a call at (702) 686-9364. Thanks, and the Congresswoman looks forward to seeing you there!

We hope to see you there on the 19th! Thanks so much for all your hard work these last few weeks in getting out the vote for the primary, and we look forward to working with you to make it happen again to win in November!

Stonewall Update: NO MEETING TONIGHT, But Please Vote & Get Out the Vote!

2010-06-07T15:56:00.000-07:00

In case you were wondering, there will be no Stonewall meeting tonight. In fact, we're taking June off so you can vote and help get out the vote! So instead of worrying about where we'll meet, please check the Clark County Election Department to see where your polling place is if you didn't vote early, and check Progress Now Nevada's Progressive Voter Guide for more info on all the races we're voting on. And if you have already voted, then go ahead and check out the "Get Out The Vote" (GOTV) efforts that our pro-equality Democrats are doing tonight and tomorrow.

Congresswoman Dina Titus will drop by at tonight's NSDP phone bank at 2925 N. Green Valley Pkwy. in Henderson, and the phone bank will be running from 5-8 PM tonight. Email Leora at lolivas@nvdems.com for more info on tonight's GOTV phone bank with Dina! And if you want to help Rory Reid's campaign, they're looking for "visibility helpers" t tomorrow. Call Tony at (702) 376-2534 if you'd like to help Rory tomorrow.

And tomorrow night, reap the rewards of all your hard work:

Please Join

Congresswoman Dina Titus

for a 2010 Election Night Watch Party

Tuesday, June 8, 2010
6:30pm-9:00pm

Daddy Mac’s
2920 North Green Valley Parkway
(Between Sunset and Patrick, across the street from the new CD3 Headquarters)
Las Vegas, NV 89014

To RSVP
Call (702) 256-3462 or Click Here

We look forward to watching the Election Results with you as the polls close on Primary Night.

And don't forget, there's another election coming up soon! That's right, National Stonewall will be ending its Elect Equality voting on June 11th, so we only have three more days to vote for Harry Reid and Dina Titus. If you haven't voted yet, just go to the Elect Equality vote page and choose Harry and Dina for Vote #1 and Vote #2 (whichever order you'd like). You can even give all ten of your votes to Harry and Dina if you'd like! Whatever you decide, just fill out the info and top and you're done. Remember that having National Stonewall's support will be a major boost for us and for Nevada Democrats in general, so it's crucial that we vote for Harry Reid and Dina Titus to "make the cut" for Elect Equality! Even if you've already voted (and no, you can't vote again), please forward the link to friends and family and urge them to vote for Reid and Titus.

OK, now that we've talked about that, let's do a quick recap of Saturday's BIG debate! Thanks for coming, and we hope you had a great time and a chance to learn more about the Lieutenant Governor candidates. But in case you missed it, or you just want to listen again, Radio Xan now has the full audio archives available online.

And let's talk poll results! Here's what you thought of the candidates' performance on Saturday, and specifically who you thought "won the debate":

Paul Murad 15 42.9%

Robert Randazzo 13 37.1%

Robert Goodman 0 0%

Jessica Sferazza 0 0%

No choice 7 20%

So there you have it! We also want to let you know that we've been asking candidates in a host of other races throughout Clark County on where they stand on LGBTQ issues, and all the candidates' answers (that we recived) to our questionnaire are available on our web site. So if you have any questions, please feel free to check our guide.

And stay tuned after the primary for more on LGBTQ Pride Month! Our own Chair, Derek Washington, will be doing giving daily insight on the history and meaning of Pride. We'll also be working with the Clark County Democratic Party on special events coming up later this month. Please stay tuned, and please stay involved.

Happy Voting!

2010 Primary Voter Guide: SDCSN Questionnaire Candidate Answers

2010-06-07T15:37:00.000-07:00

STONEWALL DEMOCRATS OF SOUTHERN NEVADA CANDIDATE QUESTIONS FOR VOTER GUIDE

Hi,

Thank you for taking the time to fill out this questionnaire in the final days leading up to the primary election. You may or may not know that the Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada does not issue endorsements. However, as the most respected LGBT source of Democratic information, we will be issuing a voters guide that YOU will write.

We will be sending out your answers unedited. We believe in letting the LGBT community decide for themselves who they should support and vote. With your help, we hope the LGBT community will play a strong role in keeping Nevada solidly Blue.

Please have this questionnaire returned to us within 7 days of receiving it.

Thank You,

Derek Washington
Chairman Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada

Candidate Responses

Dina Titus (CD 3):

Do you support SB 283 which allows Domestic Partnership in Nevada?

YES

Do you support Anti-Discrimination legislation that is all inclusive (Gender, Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression)?

YES, and I am a co-sponsor of ENDA.

Do you support the repeal of DADT (Don't Ask Don't Tell)?

YES. I recently voted to end DADT.

Do you support The Safe Schools Act (HR 2262) and The Student Non Discrimination Act (HR 4530) both of which provide for funding and training to educate all students and faculty to ensure all students receive an education free of harassment based on sexual orientation , gender identity and / or expression?

YES. I am a co-sponsor of both HR 2262 and HR 4530.

Do you support FULL EQUALITY for ALL Americans?

YES

Are you a member of The Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada?

YES

What is the number one issue that you want to address in the office you are seeking?

Since my election to Congress in 2008, I have been working around-the-clock to address the foreclosure crisis that has gripped Southern Nevada much harder than the rest of the nation. My office was one of the first congressional offices in the country to help homeowners on an individual basis when they were having trouble with their bank. I have introduced legislation requiring banks to give homeowners facing foreclosure more options to save their homes; and I have successfully pressed the administration to make foreclosure mitigation measures more inclusive, allowing more Southern Nevadans to access mortgage assistance programs. With one out of 33 homes in Nevada having received a foreclosure notice, I will continue to focus much of my efforts in Congress on solving this crisis which is affecting not only individual homeowners but entire neighborhoods.

Why should you be elected rather than your opponent(s)?

From the time I first started serving in the Nevada Senate in 1989 to my current service in Congress, I have been a passionate advocate for the rights of individuals, including the right to be free of discrimination in the workplace or the community at large.

In the 1999 session of the Nevada Legislature, I was a staunch defender of AB 311, a measure introduced by Assemblyman David Parks to put in state law a ban on discrimination in the workplace based on sexual orientation. In 1995 and 1997, I supported legislation establishing enhanced penalties for crimes committed against people based on their sexual orientation. In 1993, I backed legislation repealing Nevada’s archaic sodomy law. I have been a strong and consistent supporter of the rights of individuals in choosing their lifestyles.

Please use this space for a message (200 word limit) to our members on why you feel you are the best person for the job.

I am the best person for this job because I have the interests of the people in Congressional District 3 at heart, not the interests of banks, health insurance companies, or other big special interests. I want to help rejuvenate our Southern Nevada economy through the growth of small businesses that can generate the new jobs we need. I have supported tax credits and other incentives to make this happen and will continue to do so because ultimately the creation of new jobs is critical to solving our foreclosure crisis as well. I have been a strong supporter in Congress of incentives to jump-start the renewable energy industry in Nevada which can be a linchpin of our economic future, spurring the creation of small businesses and jobs for workers displaced from the construction and hospitality industries. Our challenges require the commitment that I have demonstrated in Congress over the last two years to do the right thing for Southern Nevadans.

Randy Spoor (AD 22):

Do you support SB 283 which allows Domestic Partnership in Nevada?
YES

Do you support Anti-Discrimination legislation that is all inclusive (Gender, Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression)?
YES

Do you support the repeal of DADT (Don't Ask Don't Tell)?
YES

Do you support The Safe Schools Act (HR 2262) and The Student Non Discrimination Act (HR 4530) both of which provide for funding and training to educate all students and faculty to ensure all students receive an education free of harassment based on sexual orientation , gender identity and / or expression?
YES

Do you support FULL EQUALITY for ALL Americans?
YES

Are you a member of The Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada?
         NOT YET

What is the number one issue that you want to address in the office you are seeking?
Equality, not withstanding, I want to push for a state Lottery

Why should you be elected rather than your opponent(s)? First, the incumbent is a Republican! I have a clearer understanding of the issues than my Democratic opponents. He wants to fund education first (a plan constructed in 2003) and wants Nevada school funding on a par with states around the country but don’t we all want that?   He also states he wants to look at the budget for waste. Both the SAGE Commission and a Legislative Examination Committee do that on a daily basis. Put simply, I am tired of ONLY looking at how to cut. I know we have to cut. Everyone knows that. I want to increase the income to our state by bringing business to create jobs and home buyers, to protect our schools, to protect our senior programs and to protect the arts. I want to work with the gaming industry and find a way for everyone, especially our schools to benefit from a State Lottery.
Visit my web site at www.randy4assembly22.com

Please use this space for a message (200 word limit) to our members on why you feel you are the best person for the job. After reading the above and visiting my website, this is where I would like to give the members some of my background. I am a 20 year resident of Clark County and run a small consulting company in the gift and home décor industry. At age 12 my first political campaign was California’s Fair Housing Equality Act. From very young, my parents taught me to say “welcome” to everyone I meet in life.
In 1992, I became a founding member of Gift For Life, created by gift industry professionals who felt compelled to respond to the loss of friends and colleagues. Since then Gift For Life has raised more than $5 Million for aids research and education. I am proud of my involvement.

I believe if you are not part of the solution, you are part of the problem. This is my opportunity to make a difference. You need a pro equality representative and I have proven my commitment my entire life.

Randy Spoor
Candidate for Assembly D-22

Randy4assembly22@aol.com

www.randy4assembly22.com

702-361-3955

Thank you for participating. We will be sending these out before the primary elections. Please do know that anyone who chooses not to answer the questionnaire will have that noted next to their name.

Lou Toomin (AD 15):

Hi,

Thank you for taking the time to fill out this questionnaire in the final days leading up to the primary election. You may or may not know that the Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada does not issue endorsements. However, as the most respected and primary LGBT source of Democratic information, we will be issuing a voters guide that YOU will write.

We will be sending out your answers unedited. We believe in letting the LGBT community decide for themselves who they should support and vote. With your help, we hope the LGBT community will play a strong role in keeping Nevada solidly Blue.

Please have this questionnaire returned to us within 7 days of receiving it.

Thank You,

Derek Washington
Chairman Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada

Do you support SB 283 which allows Domestic Partnership in Nevada?
YES
Do you support Anti-Discrimination legislation that is all inclusive (Gender, Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression)?
YES

Do you support the repeal of DADT (Don't Ask Don't Tell)?
YES

Do you support The Safe Schools Act (HR 2262) and The Student Non Discrimination Act (HR 4530) both of which provide for funding and training to educate all students and faculty to ensure all students receive an education free of harassment based on sexual orientation , gender identity and / or expression?
YES

Do you support FULL EQUALITY for ALL Americans?
YES

Are you a member of The Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada?
YES

What is the number one issue that you want to address in the office you are seeking?
The implementation of annual sessions with the interim session being a minimum of 60 days.
It has become impossible to process a 3 billion dollar budget using 2 year old numbers for 2 years in the future in a 4 month session every other year.

Why should you be elected rather than your opponent(s)?
Because i have the most experience business wise( 50 years of running three very sucessful  business's)    and having served in the Legislature in the '93 session where I was the highest freshman Legislator of that session.

Please use this space for a message (200 word limit) to our members on why you feel you are the best person for the job.
I have always believed in equal rights for all regardless of gender,race or religion.
Proof of this was my casting the deciding vote in the '93 session,on the "infamous crimes against nature bill".
My reputation in this community,having lived here for 42 years, is one of honesty and ethical behavior and always doing the right thing. I have lived in district for 26 years and  i'm  very familiar with the needs of the people that live here as well.

Kathy McClain (SD 7):

Kathy McClain for Senate District 7
Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada Questionnaire

Do you support SB 283 which allows Domestic Partnership in Nevada?
YES, I’m proud to say I voted for SB283 and voted to successfully override the governor’s veto.

Do you support Anti-Discrimination legislation that is all inclusive (Gender, Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression)?
YES, gender equity is one of my top priorities, and by that, I mean inclusive equity as you have described.

Do you support the repeal of DADT (Don't Ask Don't Tell)?
YES, members of the LGBT community are sometimes wrongly treated as second class citizens. It offends me that they should be treated as second class soldiers. It is time for repeal.

Do you support The Safe Schools Act (HR 2262) and The Student Non Discrimination Act (HR 4530) both of which provide for funding and training to educate all students and faculty to ensure all students receive an education free of harassment based on sexual orientation , gender identity and / or expression?
YES, absolutely. I strongly oppose harassment, sexual harassment, and bullying of any kind.

Do you support FULL EQUALITY for ALL Americans?
YES, again, absolutely. This is non-negotiable. There are no exceptions noted in the Constitution or the Bill of Rights, nor should there ever be.

Are you a member of The Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada?
NO, I rarely join organizations unless I know I can make all the meetings and have the time to help make the organization stronger.

What is the number one issue that you want to address in the office you are seeking?
I’m deeply concerned that this economic downturn will be used as an excuse for stepping back from our commitment to education, seniors, veterans and social safety net programs which provide all ages an opportunity to learn, retrain, and grow and which protect our most vulnerable citizens. With my experience as a legislative leader and my acknowledged expertise in taxation and budget matters, I will be in a position to make a difference in these issue areas.

Why should you be elected rather than your opponent(s)?
Two words: effectiveness and trust. During my service in the Assembly, I have earned my way up through promotion and trust. My colleagues respect me, ask me to take on tough assignments, and work as part of the leadership team. That makes me effective in drafting, negotiating and passing legislation. While my record is one of promotion and trust, my opponent has a record of demotion and shame. It is telling that 20 of my Assembly colleagues signed on to help my campaign while my opponent does not have the support of a single legislator.

Please use this space for a message (200 word limit) to our members on why you feel you are the best person for the job.
My life and my legislative career have focused on equal rights for all people. As a single mom, working jobs and putting myself through school, I quickly grew to understand that not everyone was treated equally, held in equal respect, or given an equal opportunity.

If I wanted equality, then I was obligated to fight for equality for all. That is what I have done for my entire adult life. I am an ardent supporter of LGBT issues, of equality issues, and I abhor those who, through their actions, cause a person to feel harassed, intimidated or bullied.

My opponent and I have almost identical voting records. What I do have that my opponent does not, and what makes me the best choice, is my proven effectiveness. If you want the job done, I am the one who can deliver.

Signed, Kathy McClain

Thank you for participating. We will be sending these out before the primary elections. Please do know that anyone who chooses not to answer the questionnaire will have that noted next to their name.

Paul Aizley (AD 41):

Do you support SB 283 which allows Domestic Partnership in Nevada?
YES YES

Do you support Anti-Discrimination legislation that is all inclusive
(Gender, Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression)?
YES YES

Do you support the repeal of DADT (Don't Ask Don't Tell)?
YES YES

Do you support The Safe Schools Act (HR 2262) and The Student Non
Discrimination Act (HR 4530) both of which provide for funding and
training to educate all students and faculty to ensure all students
receive an education free of harassment based on sexual orientation ,
gender identity and / or expression?
YES YES
Do you support FULL EQUALITY for ALL Americans?
YES YES
Are you a member of The Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada?
YES Not sure - I think as a non-voting member
What is the number one issue that you want to address in the office
you are seeking?
Nevada's system of collectiong revenue and spenidng need a complete overhaul

Why should you be elected rather than your opponent(s)?
I have far more experience in Nevada and Las Vegas:
A UNLV prof for 40 years; owned a business (Tiny Doubles) for about
three years; Started a non-profit (CLASS! Inc) organization benefiting
high school students; managed millions of dollars as dean of Summer
Term and Continuing Edcuation; worked with the Strip hotels bringing
in conferences and hosting major fundraising dinners; worked with
hospitals to improve and grow UNLV's certificate in Radiography;
brought a Learning in Retirement program to UNLV; and administered
many other community related programs at UNLV as dean of Continuing
Education.
I dealt blackjack one summer at the Nob Hill Casino: sold travel for
Prestige Tavel; was president of Tropicana Villas Homeowners
Association; was president of NV ACLU for 4 years.

I've been in all 50 of the United Sates and traveled to about 30
foreign countries.

Please use this space for a message (200 word limit) to our members on
why you feel you are the best person for the job.
I have a proven record of support of the LGBT community. In the 2009
Legislative Session I introduced legislation that would have prevented
workplace discrimination against transgender persons.

Thank you for participating. We will be sending these out before the
primary elections. Please do know that anyone who chooses not to
answer the questionnaire will have that noted next to their name.

I do not have a primary opponent. Save the survey for the General Election

John Cahill (CC Public Administrator)

STONEWALL DEMOCRATS OF SOUTHERN NEVADA CANDIDATE QUESTIONS FOR VOTER GUIDE

From John J Cahill, incumbent Clark County Public Administrator and the Democrat who will be on the Ballot in November - NO primary race for John.

Do you support SB 283 which allows Domestic Partnership in Nevada?
YES - And I provided Senator Parks a letter from me as Clark County Public Administrator supporting that Legislation and that letter was circulated in the Senate and Assembly and I was thanked personally by Speaker Buckley for my letter and my support.

Do you support Anti-Discrimination legislation that is all inclusive (Gender, Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression)?
YES - I don’t think it anybody’s business what a person’s orientation is and no person should be denied rights because of their choices or their genetic disposition.

Do you support the repeal of DADT (Don't Ask Don't Tell)?
YES - and so do most, maybe now all, of the leadership of our Armed Forces.

Do you support The Safe Schools Act (HR 2262) and The Student Non Discrimination Act (HR 4530) both of which provide for funding and training to educate all students and faculty to ensure all students receive an education free of harassment based on sexual orientation , gender identity and / or expression? YES, but ... I have not read those bills and sometimes details matter greatly. When it comes to “training to educate all students” you may touch on curriculum issues about what get taught in the classroom and that can create problems. An “education free of harassment” should be a rule now that administrators, teachers, and students must follow. We should not necessarily have to educate or train someone into a position of accepting another’s rights. Rights are protected by law and in school by rules. Nobody has to like it, or understand it , or agree with it - rights are protected by law. So I guess I am stuck with a qualified YES until I invest the time to study more that particular legislation.

Do you support FULL EQUALITY for ALL Americans?
YES - and rights for all persons everywhere.

Are you a member of The Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada?
YES - well I joined some time back but I don’t know if I am current. I would be happy to bring my membership to date.

What is the number one issue that you want to address in the office you are seeking? I have two particular issues that I am working with to get legislation on, one is the right of children to inherit from the parent after a termination of parental rights and the other is keeping heir hunters from signing up heirs and taking 30% or more of their inheritance before I get a chance to locate them. But right now the number one issue is managing the office with significant budget cuts and more coming down the road. It’s tough laying people off, and it’s tough to get the work done with fewer staff.

Why should you be elected rather than your opponent(s)? I don’t know right now who my opponent will be in November. I have no primary race. But I do know that nobody can match my record of performance and service to families in Clark County. We should always elect the best and that will be me in November.

Please use this space for a message (200 word limit) to our members on why you feel you are the best person for the job. Answer: You can check with Legislators that worked pass the Domestic Partnerships and you will find that John J Cahill supported this legislation. And my support may have helped because I stressed that DP was not only for same gender couples. Many senior men and women live together without marriage because they feel it would trouble the children or disrespect their departed spouse to remarry. Or they may not want to lose financial benefits that they receive as a single person - widow or widower. I urged the members of the Legislature to acknowledge that the Domestic Partnership status could benefit seniors of any gender who are partners without marriage. I believe that information allowed some to support the change who might not have if it was only for “gay” couples.

Vote for John J Cahill, Clark County Public Administrator in November, and THANK YOU!

John Oceguera (AD 16):

John Oceguera, Majority Leader
Assembly District 16

Do you support SB 283 which allows Domestic Partnership in Nevada?

YES, I voted in support of SB 283 and I voted to override the governor’s veto.

Do you support Anti-Discrimination legislation that is all inclusive (Gender, Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression)?

YES

Do you support the repeal of DADT (Don't Ask Don't Tell)?

YES, I believe the Secretary of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff have both stated that it is time to end DADT.

Do you support The Safe Schools Act (HR 2262) and The Student Non Discrimination Act (HR 4530) both of which provide for funding and training to educate all students and faculty to ensure all students receive an education free of harassment based on sexual orientation , gender identity and / or expression?

YES I do. The legislature has taken steps to insure that all students are free of harassment and bullying in school. These acts of discrimination affect not only the student or students the acts are aimed at, but create a hostile environment for all students. I want our schools safe for everyone.

Do you support FULL EQUALITY for ALL Americans?

YES

Are you a member of The Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada?

NO, I’ve devoted all of my available time to recruiting, training and supporting strong Democrats for the Nevada State Assembly. I believe the team we have in 2010 is committed to fairness, equality and doing what we can to move Nevada forward.

What is the number one issue that you want to address in the office you are seeking?

There are so many issues to tackle that it is hard to single one out, but I do know that if we are not successful in providing core services to Nevadans, none of the other problems will truly be solved. That means we have to simultaneously create long term job expansion while filling a huge budget gap.

Why should you be elected rather than your opponent(s)?

I have the practical experience and leadership to move our shared Democratic goals forward. We are facing an extremely difficult legislative session, and we need a cohesive team, working hard, to deliver for Nevada. It is my hope to lead that team.

Please use this space for a message (200 word limit) to our members on why you feel you are the best person for the job.

I was born in Reno, raised in Fallon, work in North Las Vegas and live in Las Vegas. I have an appreciation for all parts of our state, our shared needs and our unique localized concerns. That perspective helps me in my leadership role.
I’m a product of Nevada schools—graduating from Churchill County High School, and earning both a Masters and a Law Degree from UNLV. I know our education system, its strengths and weaknesses.
As an EMT and first responder, I’ve seen a side of our society many never see. Not just the immediate effects of a home on fire, bad auto wreck, or family member felled by a heart attack or stroke, but the aftermath as well.   I’ve seen the immediate financial devastation and the long-term issues of recovery and rebuilding.
As an Assistant Fire Chief, I’ve learned to lead, take command, take on a challenge. I’ve learned you are only as good as your team, so I’ve built my skills in teamwork, coaching, and knowing when to let someone else step forward.
Combined, my background, training, experience and commitment to moving Nevada forward qualify me as the best choice.

Thank you for participating. We will be sending these out before the primary elections. Please do know that anyone who chooses not to answer the questionnaire will have that noted next to their name.

Sharona Dagani (SD 9):

Do you support SB 283 which allows Domestic Partnership in Nevada?
YES   X        NO

Do you support Anti-Discrimination legislation that is all inclusive (Gender, Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression)?
YES    X        NO

Do you support the repeal of DADT (Don't Ask Don't Tell)?
YES          NO   X   we need some law to protect humans from others who attack them for being themselves.

Do you support The Safe Schools Act (HR 2262) and The Student Non Discrimination Act (HR 4530) both of which provide for funding and training to educate all students and faculty to ensure all students receive an education free of harassment based on sexual orientation , gender identity and / or expression?
YES   X         NO

Do you support FULL EQUALITY for ALL Americans?
YES    X        NO

Are you a member of The Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada?
YES          NO   X

What is the number one issue that you want to address in the office you are seeking?
Increase the quality of education (increase funding, put prayer in schools, etc.)

Why should you be elected rather than your opponent(s)?
My opponents want to be career politicians which means they are most likely to receive payoffs. I, on the other hand, am a statesperson who cares and wants the best for fellow citizens, as is my husband, Rev. Gregory Nance Dagani, candidate for State Controller.

Please use this space for a message (200 word limit) to our members on why you feel you are the best person for the job.
Because unlike people who are homophobic against people who are the way that God created them, I am not homophobic. In fact, my favorite club is Free Zone I, as a State Senator, will make one promise; I will have an open door for any and everyone who may have an issue.

Thank you for participating. We will be sending these out before the primary elections. Please do know that anyone who chooses not to answer the questionnaire will have that noted next to their name.

David Lerner (AD 2):

Do you support SB 283 which allows Domestic Partnership in Nevada?
YES X         NO

Do you support Anti-Discrimination legislation that is all inclusive (Gender, Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression)?
YES X         NO

Do you support the repeal of DADT (Don't Ask Don't Tell)?
YES X         NO

Do you support The Safe Schools Act (HR 2262) and The Student Non Discrimination Act (HR 4530) both of which provide for funding and training to educate all students and faculty to ensure all students receive an education free of harassment based on sexual orientation , gender identity and / or expression?
YES X         NO

Do you support FULL EQUALITY for ALL Americans?
YES X        NO

Are you a member of The Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada?
YES          NO X

What is the number one issue that you want to address in the office you are seeking?
Ensuring that our education system is bolstered so as not to lose a generation to virtual illiteracy.

Why should you be elected rather than your opponent(s)?
A variety of solid experience in business and non-profit community groups which my opponent lacks has prepared me to deal with the major fiscal and educational problems facing the next legislature and include: Retired Chase SVP, 35 years experience in banking, finance, management and systems, responsible for ten billion of assets. Community service: Board President Courtney Children’s Foundation now merged into HELP of Southern Nevada; Chairman, United Way Access to Healthcare Committee, Treasurer K9 Therapists; President Clark County Aviation Association; past Chairman Muhlenberg College Parents Association

Please use this space for a message (200 word limit) to our members on why you feel you are the best person for the job.
My commitment is to function as an active advocate and to act with the firmness and integrity required not acting as a rubber stamp to special interests or any ill-considered legislative action. I believe in tackling our state’s difficult problems in a responsible manner with honest and open debate conducted in a civil manner.

The 2011 session of the Legislature will deal yet again with a fiscal crisis, which will impact every aspect of the community. Among the issues are:
Address a stable tax base to encourage existing and attract new business.
Examine the result and outcome of each dollar proposed to be spent.
Strengthen not cut our educational system or face the consequence of an ill trained future generation.
Fairly assess the workings and mission of each state agency.
Address major social problems ranging from job creation and growth to nutrition to pregnant teens.
End the influence of the various special interest groups who have plagued past legislatures.
We need, as a matter of necessity and pride, to move Nevada up from its low standing among the states in virtually every major category.

We can accomplish much if we are willing to stop looking backward over our political shoulders and look at our problems with a fresh unshackled and non-cynical view.

Thank you for participating. We will be sending these out before the primary elections. Please do know that anyone who chooses not to answer the questionnaire will have that noted next to their name.

Bob Blakely (CC Assessor):

The following are my responses to your questions.

Do you support SB 283 which allows Domestic Partnership in Nevada?
YES

Do you support Anti-Discrimination legislation that is all inclusive (Gender, Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression)?
YES

Do you support the repeal of DADT (Don't Ask Don't Tell)?
YES

Do you support The Safe Schools Act (HR 2262) and The Student Non Discrimination Act (HR 4530) both of which provide for funding and training to educate all students and faculty to ensure all students receive an education free of harassment based on sexual orientation , gender identity and / or expression?
YES

Do you support FULL EQUALITY for ALL Americans?
YES

Are you a member of The Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada?
NO

What is the number one issue that you want to address in the office you are seeking?

Why should you be elected rather than your opponent(s)?

Please use this space for a message (200 word limit) to our members on why you feel you are the best person for the job.

Pablo Castro-Zavala (AD 13):

Do you support SB 283 which allows Domestic Partnership in Nevada?
YES NO   MY ANSWER IS YES

Do you support Anti-Discrimination legislation that is all inclusive (Gender, Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression)?
YES         NO MY ANSWER IS YES

Do you support the repeal of DADT (Don't Ask Don't Tell)?
YES         NO MY ANSWER IS YES

Do you support The Safe Schools Act (HR 2262) and The Student Non Discrimination Act (HR 4530) both of which provide for funding and training to educate all students and faculty to ensure all students receive an education free of harassment based on sexual orientation , gender identity and / or expression?
YES    NO MY ANSWER IS YES
Do you support FULL EQUALITY for ALL Americans?
YES          NO MY ANSWER IS YES

Are you a member of The Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada?
YES          NO - NO

What is the number one issue that you want to address in the office you are seeking?
UNEMPLOYMENT RATE/ CREATING JOBS.

Why should you be elected rather than your opponent(s)?
I   FEEL THAT BECAUSE OF MY EXPERIENCE WORKING FOR THE BETTERMENT OF OUR COMMUNITY , THAT I AM THE MOST QUALIFIED CANDIDATE TO SERVE THE COMMUNITY, BECAUSE I AM THE MOST EXPERIENCED IN COMMUNITY AFFAIRS.

Please use this space for a message (200 word limit) to our members on why you feel you are the best person for the job.

I WOULD LIKE THE MEMBERS OF THE STONEWALL DEMOCRATIC CLUB OF SOUTHERN NEVADA TO KNOW THAT I HAVE DEDICATED MY POLITICAL LIFE TO IMPROVING THE LIVES OF ALL THOSE WHO ARE STRUGGLING IN TODAY'S ECONOMIC SITUATION . THE MOST IMPORTANT ISSUE IN DISTRICT 13 IS UNEMPLOYMENT THIS HAS NOW BECOME MISSION NAMELY TO MAKE EVERY EFFORT TO ATTRACT MORE INDUSTRIES TO MY DISTRICT IN ORDER TO PROVIDE JOBS TO FIGHT THE   HIGH RATE OF FORECLOSURES AND IMPROVE THE HOUSING SITUATIONS IN CLARK COUNTY .
I HAVE WORKED INCESSANTLY FOR MANY YEARS IN THE COMMUNITY SERVICE , AND I AM PROUD OF MY PUBLIC SERVICE . IT IS MY HOPE THAT YOUR DEMOCRATIC CLUB WILL SUPPORT MY CANDIDACY TO CONTINUE MY LIFE'S WORK OF PUBLIC SERVICE.
THANKS SO MUCH.

SINCERELY
PABLO CASTRO ZAVALA
CANDIDATE DISTRICT 13
STATE ASSEMBLY
702 813 8345

Ethan Kottler (Family Court Judge, Dept. S):

Do you support SB 283 which allows Domestic Partnership in Nevada?

YES

Do you support Anti-Discrimination legislation that is all inclusive
(Gender, Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression)?

YES - I successfully sued on behalf of a gay man harassed based on his sexuality.

Do you support the repeal of DADT (Don't Ask Don't Tell)?

YES - My European friends and myself always though this law was strange.

Do you support The Safe Schools Act (HR 2262) and The Student Non
Discrimination Act (HR 4530) both of which provide for funding and training
to educate all students and faculty to ensure all students receive an
education free of harassment based on sexual orientation , gender identity
and / or expression?

YES

Do you support FULL EQUALITY for ALL Americans?

YES

Are you a member of The Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada?

YES

What is the number one issue that you want to address in the office you are
seeking?

I am trying to get Family Court more efficient. As the only current alternate domestic violence judge, I have a plan to get NV into compliance with mandatory federal standards that would give our citizens more protection and bring in additional federal funds we desperately need. Currently, NV protective orders that are required to be followed nationally, are not because we are not in compliance.

Why should you be elected rather than your opponent(s)?

I have the most direct family court experience. I am the only candidate a member of and working with the Clark County Foster and Adoptive Parent Association helping foster children get placed in safe homes. I am the only current alternate domestic violence judge in the race. I was appointed to work in abuse and neglect court working with children five years old and younger who are victims of abuse. I have worked in family law for more than 15 years. I have been endorsed by law enforcement, the Asian American group, the prosecutors union, the service employees international union, and the Fraternal Order of Police, and La Voce Italian American Organization. They all recognize my commitment to the community.

Please use this space for a message (200 word limit) to our members on why
you feel you are the best person for the job.

Having a young family myself, I understand the importance of making sure our children are taken care of. That is why I volunteer my time to help foster kids. That is why I am the only candidate that works with the foster parent association. I am the only candidate endorsed the by union of the social workers and government employees who work in hospitals, social work and libraries. I have the knowledge and personality that is a perfect fit for the difficult task of working with families who unfortunately, cannot take care of themselves.

Greg Esposito (CC Commission, District G):

Do you support SB 283 which allows Domestic Partnership in Nevada?
YES

Do you support Anti-Discrimination legislation that is all inclusive (Gender, Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression)?
YES

Do you support the repeal of DADT (Don't Ask Don't Tell)?
YES

Do you support The Safe Schools Act (HR 2262) and The Student Non Discrimination Act (HR 4530) both of which provide for funding and training to educate all students and faculty to ensure all students receive an education free of harassment based on sexual orientation , gender identity and / or expression?
YES

Do you support FULL EQUALITY for ALL Americans?
YES

Are you a member of The Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada?
YES

What is the number one issue that you want to address in the office you are seeking?

Many of the issues that we are facing today are because of the economy and the unprecedented unemployment levels. Gaming has been our base for many years, but it is a cyclical industry. We can no longer stand with only one pillar supporting our community.

Clark County needs to invest in economic development. Our ample land and sound infrastructure should be marketed to growing industries.
I intend to use the position of Commissioner to promote Clark County as a haven for entrepreneurs and investors in business and industry.
New industry will provide secure jobs while encouraging growth that makes Southern Nevada a place we are all proud to call home.

Why should you be elected rather than your opponent(s)?

I am committed to being a strong leader that you can trust to make the difficult decisions that will bring us back to the level of prosperity that we once enjoyed. I am committed to making this race not about myself, but about representation of all of the residents of Clark County. The position of County Commissioner will not be mine alone, but ours together. I am going to work hard to create new solutions and fix the problems that Clark County currently faces. I am going to represent the hard working men and women of Clark County, and our respected retirees, who are all sitting at the kitchen table worried about the bills, wanting nothing more than safety, stability, and security for themselves, their families, and their future, because that is who I am and those are my concerns too.

Please use this space for a message (200 word limit) to our members on why you feel you are the best person for the job.

Clark County needs to invest in economic development. Our ample land and sound infrastructure should be marketed to growing industries.
As taxpayers we must be assured that our money is never wasted. I will stand for fiscal responsibility. Tax dollars should be handled like investments that we expect a return from.
I will make sure the programs that keep our neighborhoods clean are not cut. I will work to revitalize areas that have been hardest hit, and encourage community growth.
We need to maintain our public safety by ensuring our police, firefighters, and other safety services are given the funding needed to keep our neighborhoods secure.
I will work with our neighbors that are unfortunately close to losing their homes, connecting them with services and programs that are designed to assist those in times of need.
I will use sound judgment when it comes to our traffic concerns, and seek out innovative solutions as we address our transportation needs. Well-planned development that enhances a community will provide essential economic strength in our town.
I will insist that all government facilities and vehicles utilize the most advanced green building and transportation technologies available, helping to eliminate unnecessary energy consumption and waste.

Sam Christos (AD 42):

Do you support SB 283 which allows Domestic Partnership in Nevada?
YES

Do you support Anti-Discrimination legislation that is all inclusive (Gender, Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression)?
YES

Do you support the repeal of DADT (Don't Ask Don't Tell)?
YES

Do you support The Safe Schools Act (HR 2262) and The Student Non Discrimination Act (HR 4530) both of which provide for funding and training to educate all students and faculty to ensure all students receive an education free of harassment based on sexual orientation , gender identity and / or expression?
YES

Do you support FULL EQUALITY for ALL Americans?
YES

Are you a member of The Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada?
YES

What is the number one issue that you want to address in the office you are seeking?
- Education

Why should you be elected rather than your opponent(s)?
Please use this space for a message (200 word limit) to our members on why you feel you are the best person for the job.

My opponent had never been active in Democratic politics before she filed to run in a Democratic Primary. Her previous community experience has been with Conservative causes. She is a Democrat-in-name-only.

My opponent holds a high-ranking position with the corporate office of a major gaming company, which will serve as a conflict-of-interest when it comes time to pass legislation that may not benefit the Gaming Industry.

I have been an active Democratic grassroots activist for years. This service demonstrates my passion towards progressive causes. My opponent has performed no such demonstration.

Lynn Goya (AD 20):

STONEWALL DEMOCRATS OF SOUTHERN NEVADA CANDIDATE QUESTIONS FOR VOTER GUIDE
Do you support SB 283 which allows Domestic Partnership in Nevada?
YES xx NO
Do you support Anti-Discrimination legislation that is all inclusive (Gender, Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression)?
YES  xx       NO
Do you support the repeal of DADT (Don't Ask Don't Tell)?
YES   xx      NO
Do you support The Safe Schools Act (HR 2262) and The Student Non Discrimination Act (HR 4530) both of which provide for funding and training to educate all students and faculty to ensure all students receive an education free of harassment based on sexual orientation , gender identity and / or expression?
YES xx    NO
Do you support FULL EQUALITY for ALL Americans?
YES  xx        NO
Are you a member of The Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada?
YES          NO xx
What is the number one issue that you want to address in the office you are seeking?
We have to protect higher education from further cuts. While our university system may not be the best in the nation, I am proud of how far it has come in 50 years. We have programs that are top in the nation and the potential to be the R&D leader in green energy. That will create jobs and a growing economy for all of us. I realize that your community suffers above 50 percent unemployment as does new graduates, returning war vets and many in the construction industry. It is essential that we do not destroy, for short term stability, the very engine that will lead us out of this fine mess.

Why should you be elected rather than your opponent(s)?
Throughout my life I have reached out to people of all races, creeds, sexual orientation, ages and political parties. I think now is the time that we need to realize that when one group is oppressed, all of us suffer. In this divided time, we need to articulate our shared goals, decide to come together and solve our very real problems. Many of my oldest, dearest and closest friends are in the Stonewall community and I am very pleased to say I’ve made new friends within your club in recent months. I’ve cried with my friends when a friend committed suicide rather than tell his family he was gay; I’ve held my cousin’s hand when he talked through the decision to tell his; I’ve gone to a friend’s funeral and then listened over months and years at the frustration and pain her partner suffered when she was denied access to her partner’s estate and the personal treasures gathered in their years together; and I’ve given my support when my friend, over the years, struggled with finding his own identity from, “I’m gay.” To “I’m a flaming queen.” To I’m not gay after all.” To finding a loving relationship with a partner that has lasted for 30 years. I may not vote for every issue that you bring forward, but I do promise that I will listen, do my best and be there for you in any way I can.
Please use this space for a message (200 word limit) to our members on why you feel you are the best person for the job.
I believe in bringing people together to solve problems and that, together, we can work our way back to a sustainable economy. As a journalist, I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to study the state and meet the people who want to move Nevada. As a legislator, I’ll be able to use my skills to help solve Nevada’s problems, looking for common sense solutions that have been implemented in other communities and states; finding the people who are most knowledgeable about an issue and bringing together the people who can advocate to bring about needed change. Most importantly, I’ll be there to listen to your concerns and do whatever I can to make Nevada a better place for its citizens.

Richard Carrillo (AD 18):

Do you support SB 283 which allows Domestic Partnership in Nevada?
YES X NO

Do you support Anti-Discrimination legislation that is all inclusive (Gender, Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression)?
YES X NO

Do you support the repeal of DADT (Don't Ask Don't Tell)?
YES X NO

Do you support The Safe Schools Act (HR 2262) and The Student Non Discrimination Act (HR 4530) both of which provide for funding and training to educate all students and faculty to ensure all students receive an education free of harassment based on sexual orientation , gender identity and / or expression?
YES X NO

Do you support FULL EQUALITY for ALL Americans?
YES X NO

Are you a member of The Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada?
YES X NO

What is the number one issue that you want to address in the office you are seeking?
Job creation! We can no longer look at tourism in the gaming sense to be our biggest provider for monies for the state of Nevada. I would like to see more use of renewable energy, manufacturing of devices for the use in residential and commercial applications (solar thermal, and Photovoltaic). Let's become the number one exporter of Energy created by renewable resources. that is where our future lies. We need to give incentives to companies to relocate and utilize our people in Nevada to help them help Nevada become more than the gaming Mecca everyone see Nevada for.

Why should you be elected rather than your opponent(s)?
It all starts at grassroots effort, by helping in your community from, volunteering to cover up graffiti,or committing your personal time by service on boards for the betterment of your community, to helping those less fortunate in their time of need, like Seniors and Homeless Youth are just two groups that are taken advantage of and exploited. http://www.viewnews.com/2010/VIEW-May-25-Tue-2010/whitney/35995731.html
It's more than just the position or title that a Assemblyperson will bring, the people in District 18 are used to a "hands-on" Assemblyperson thanks to Mark Manendo. Anybody will tell you that if contact him with a concern he responds to it.
When Mark was looking for someone to replace him he reached out to my opponents and offered them the opportunity to go to meetings in District 18 and of course you can figure out who was the one that reached back. Mark has endorsed me because of what I do for the community on my own time.
It is great thing to help in the community by helping people stay in their homes and not lose them to foreclosure. But when its your job and you get "Paid" to do it are you truly helping in the community much like a doctor saving a life, its their job, and they are financially compensated for it. A certain word comes to mind when you Volunteer your time, Pro Bono? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pro_bono
Please use this space for a message (200 word limit) to our members on why you feel you are the best person for the job.
  As the people of District 18 get their sample ballots and try determine who to vote for, the one thing they have to decide on is that the candidate they pick is going to have their concerns in mind when they go to Carson City. Being on the inside looking out instead of the other way around, things take on a whole different perspective.
Alot of the decision-making that will take place won't always be from my heart and mind but from yours, what affects you and the people you love. I will be your ear when you need it and I will be the one asking you how you feel about it. I'm going to be a voice for alot of people and I look at it as the opportunity to be the pulse for community.
I'm a giver not a taker and have always been. I'm not the "chosen" one that was endorsed by leadership (Assembly Democratic Caucus), because I'm not going to always go with what Leadership in the Assembly wants me to do. They want someone that will be THEIR voice not YOURS.

Richard Carrillo
Candidate for Assembly District 18

Ron Newell (CC Commission, District G):

Do you support SB 283 which allows Domestic Partnership in Nevada?

YES

Do you support Anti-Discrimination legislation that is all inclusive (Gender, Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression)?

YES

Do you support the repeal of DADT (Don't Ask Don't Tell)?

YES

Do you support The Safe Schools Act (HR 2262) and The Student Non Discrimination Act (HR 4530) both of which provide for funding and training to educate all students and faculty to ensure all students receive an education free of harassment based on sexual orientation , gender identity and / or expression?

YES

Do you support FULL EQUALITY for ALL Americans?

YES

Are you a member of The Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada?

NO

What is the number one issue that you want to address in the office you are seeking?

Creating jobs through Public Works Projects. Renewable energy is high on my list as well as consolidation with the City of Las Vegas on certain departments and also the Fire Department.

Why should you be elected rather than your opponent(s)?

My experience with 40 years in local construction, my 20 years in zoning and planning of Clark County, 12 on the Paradise Town Board and 8 years on the Planning Commission the last 7 as the Chair.

Please use this space for a message (200 word limit) to our members on why you feel you are the best person for the job.

I am a 59 year resident of Clark County, I went through the local school system, I helped build Clark County as a Teamster’s Union 631 concrete truck driver, retired, furnishing concrete to every type of construction project in Southern Nevada, 12 years on the Paradise Town Board, 8 years on the Planning Commission and 10 years on the Flood Control CAC. I am not beholden to any special interest group. I am hard working, honest, dependable, mature and I have something I find missing in a lot of people and that’s Common Sense.

Thank you for your consideration in this matter,

Ron Newell

Elliot Anderson (AD 15):

Do you support SB 283 which allows Domestic Partnership in Nevada?
YES NO

Do you support Anti-Discrimination legislation that is all inclusive (Gender, Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression)?
YES         NO

Do you support the repeal of DADT (Don't Ask Don't Tell)?
YES         NO

Do you support The Safe Schools Act (HR 2262) and The Student Non Discrimination Act (HR 4530) both of which provide for funding and training to educate all students and faculty to ensure all students receive an education free of harassment based on sexual orientation , gender identity and / or expression?
YES    NO

Do you support FULL EQUALITY for ALL Americans?
YES          NO

Are you a member of The Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada?
YES          NO

What is the number one issue that you want to address in the office you are seeking?

My top priority will be to do more to connect the community to Carson City. Government is at a crossroads, not many people have faith in government to get things done anymore. Before we can do the monumental tasks ahead of us in broadening our tax structure, diversifying our economy, and improving our educational system we need to connect the community to Carson City. It will take a gigantic amount of work, but it is critical to moving our state forward.
Why should you be elected rather than your opponent(s)?
In general, our campaign worries about what we are doing, not our opponents. However, I can say with a certainty no one in the race has the understanding of the legislative process like I do. I was hands on every day during the 2009 regular session of the Legislature and will be starting off with much issue knowledge and experience if elected. In addition, I also have the most experience out of any candidate in selling an idea politically, and outreaching politically. I will use this experience to help push ours and our allied organizations’ agenda.
Please use this space for a message (200 word limit) to our members on why you feel you are the best person for the job.

After working in the last Legislative Session for my district, I became familiar with the issues facing our state. I have the most experience working directly with those in my community and listening to their issues and concerns. I will work to represent these concerns of our neighborhoods and businesses in Carson City.
Steven Brooks (AD 19):

Do you support SB 283 which allows Domestic Partnership in Nevada?
ü       YES         NO

Do you support Anti-Discrimination legislation that is all inclusive (Gender, Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression)?
ü       YES         NO

Do you support the repeal of DADT (Don't Ask Don't Tell)?
ü       YES         NO

Do you support The Safe Schools Act (HR 2262) and The Student Non Discrimination Act (HR 4530) both of which provide for funding and training to educate all students and faculty to ensure all students receive an education free of harassment based on sexual orientation , gender identity and / or expression?
ü       YES          NO

Do you support FULL EQUALITY for ALL Americans?
ü       YES          NO

Are you a member of The Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada?
YES          X NO

What is the number one issue that you want to address in the office you are seeking?

Education at the Top

Many having spoken about diversifying our economy. I contend if we dismantle our educational system we will never be able to achieve this lofty goal. Businesses will not relocate to a State that has a poor educational system. More importantly, though, a poor educational system results in a diminished quality of life. I will fight to fully fund education immediately!

I will oppose a State budget that robs our children of their future. We must take a stand, NOW, to ensure the quality of education at our schools is acceptable. We must train and recruit highly qualified teachers so our children will perform to their greatest potential.

Why should you be elected rather than your opponent(s)? I am more qualified than my opponents. I also believe in freedom and equality for ALL Americans. Everyone has the RIGHT to fell safe and live in peace. Please see my biography:
Steven J. Brooks II
                                                                      Chief of Staff
                                                        Mayor and City Council
Chief of Staff Steven J. Brooks II has dedicated his extensive resources to facilitate outstanding community service initiatives.  Brooks is currently responsible for overseeing the actions of the City Councilman’s staff and managing the City Councilman’s schedule. He also is responsible for advising the City Councilman on issues of politics, policy and management. Additionally, he is responsible for oversight of planning, development and community activities throughout ward five in the City of Las Vegas. Brooks also serves as the liaison between the City Councilman and nineteen departments within the City of Las Vegas.
Brooks was nominated as the Chairman of the Board for Las Vegas Clark County Urban League in November 2008. Brooks took the reigns of the organization at a time when the Urban League was in total disarray. The floundering organization was suffering due to lack of leadership and an inability to maintain its fiscal integrity. Many suspected the organization would not succeed. Brooks restructured, remodeled and redeveloped all upper level executive management and swiftly moved to sustain the financial stability and veracity of the organization. In eight short months, the Urban League has grown from a 4 million dollar deteriorating organization to a 32 million dollar striving organization and has branded its image throughout the City of Las Vegas.   The Urban League is now the largest community action agency in the State of Nevada.
With a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from UC- Riverside and leave of absence from his Howard Medical School candidacy, Brooks founded several organizations including Freedom Enhancement Academy, which received the 2006 Neighborhood College Youth Program of the Year Award nominated by the City of Las Vegas. It, along with the Doctor for a Day series, is designed to inspire, engage and introduce urban youth to the world of medicine by combining mathematics and science. Another creation, A&S Tutorial, bridges the learning achievement gap of all Nevada students through private tutorial.
Brooks currently serves on the Community Land Trust Board (CLT), Hispanic Art Museum Board and is a former founding member of the Southern Nevada Enterprise Community Board (SNEC).
Additionally, Brooks is a former Board member of the Community Partners for Better Health and was instrumental in the organization’s ability to lobby State Legislators for the creation of a Minority Health Department in the Nevada. His successful organizing of a voter registration drive resulted in a 20,000 person increase. Two elected candidates were the benefactors of his coordination efforts in political campaigns.

Please use this space for a message (200 word limit) to our members on why you feel you are the best person for the job.

“On the Issues”

A Real Plan to Create Jobs…NOW!

Many are wondering how we can create jobs in this troubled economy. I have a real plan to create jobs and stabilize our economy. The federal government has $30 billion in weatherization funding through the stimulus funds program. Nevada is among the most qualified States to receive these funds. The state must aggressively seek these funds to create training programs.

The stimulus funds will assist in delivering a skilled workforce to the marketplace and will, in turn, prepare us for the future in renewable and alternative energy. Through apprenticeship and training programs we can support our unions and help people looking for work get trained in the new “Green Collar job” industry. Once we create this new workforce, we will be well prepared to capture additional money for LEED development projects and upgraded retrofitting of existing structures.

How do I know this will work? We have already implemented it at the Urban League! In fact, we received $1 million for local unions to re-train unemployed individuals to install solar powered water heaters. Individuals participating in the program receive a $1,200 a month stipend while being trained and the union receives funding for conducting the training. My plan is a true win-win for all Nevadans.

Education at the Top

Many having spoken about diversifying our economy. I contend if we dismantle our educational system we will never be able to achieve this lofty goal. Businesses will not relocate to a State that has a poor educational system. More importantly, though, a poor educational system results in a diminished quality of life. I will fight to fully fund education immediately!

I will oppose a State budget that robs our children of their future. We must take a stand, NOW, to ensure the quality of education at our schools is acceptable. We must train and recruit highly qualified teachers so our children will perform to their greatest potential.

Diversifying and Stabilizing Our Economy

These two must be attacked together. Nevada can no longer sustain itself through gaming and mining. We must attract new businesses and industries so we can broaden our tax base. Only then can we begin to fill the gap that exists in our State budget. This can only be achieved by creating unique ways to attract businesses and creating a social structure that will entice them.

For instance, we can declare Nevada a free trade zone by lobbying the federal government. This will allow us to be an international trading hub and allow businesses from foreign countries to purchase products without paying a tariff. This will serve to increase our state’s bottom line, diversify our economy and create new, sustainable jobs virtually overnight.

Support for Our Working Men and Women

I believe our Unions are the most qualified entities to conduct re-training of unemployed workers. In fact, unions have been conducting this type of training long before it became popular on a global scale. I am proposing that we utilize these training and apprenticeship program dollars to train the workforce of tomorrow.

“Green energy” jobs will prepare Nevada for the future, are truly sustainable and offer good pay and benefits. I will stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the men and women of Labor and we will make certain their collective bargaining rights are not taken away and they receive a fair days pay for a fair days work.

Stimulating the Economy from the Ground Up

I will put pressure on big banks to loan money to small businesses and Nevadans going through foreclosure. I would also propose funding Community Development Coalitions (CDC’s). Theses coalitions were formed in the 1960’s and were proven effective for lending to small businesses and families in need. By strategically infusing capital into our small business community, we can further stimulate the economy, at a truly local level, and begin pulling ourselves out of this Recession.

Tammy Peterson (SD 8):

Do you support SB 283 which allows Domestic Partnership in Nevada?
YES     X   NO

Do you support Anti-Discrimination legislation that is all inclusive (Gender, Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression)?
YES     X    NO

Do you support the repeal of DADT (Don't Ask Don't Tell)?
YES      X   NO
Comment: This is federal legislation and is likely not an issue that would arise in the state legislative context; however, I do support the repeal of Don't Ask Don't Tell.
Do you support The Safe Schools Act (HR 2262) and The Student Non Discrimination Act (HR 4530) both of which provide for funding and training to educate all students and faculty to ensure all students receive an education free of harassment based on sexual orientation , gender identity and / or expression?
YES    NO
Comment: As this is federal legislation it is not an issue that the state legislature would be considering. However, I support generally the concept of training to educate students and faculty to ensure that students receive an education free of harassment
Do you support FULL EQUALITY for ALL Americans?
YES       X   NO

Are you a member of The Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada?
YES          NO    X

What is the number one issue that you want to address in the office you are seeking?
I am deeply concerned about the education system here in Nevada, and I want to ensure that our children have every opportunity for success.

Why should you be elected rather than your opponent(s)?
The current State Senator, Barbara Cegavske, has proven that she is not committed to basic rights, as shown by her vote opposing SB 283. I believe I am more qualified than any of my opponents.

Please use this space for a message (200 word limit) to our members on why you feel you are the best person for the job.
I am a lifelong Nevadan, born and raised here in Las Vegas. After graduating from Valley High School, I earned my B.A. in Economics from UCLA. I then went on to earn my J.D. from the University of Arizona, and came home to clerk for the Honorable Philip M. Pro of the United States District Court, district of Nevada. I married my college sweetheart, and we have a four year old son.   Following the clerkship with the Federal court, I then served as a prosecutor for the Clark County DA's Special Victim's Unit, focusing on cases of child sexual abuse and physical abuse. I am currently a litigation partner with the law firm Jones Vargas.   Throughout my career, I have sought to serve my community. Among many community activities, I have served as the President of the Junior League of Las Vegas, and the Chairman of the Board of the Better Business Bureau.   I believe that my career and service to our community qualifies me to serve in public office.

Lucy Flores (AD 28):

Do you support SB 283 which allows Domestic Partnership in Nevada?
X YES NO

Do you support Anti-Discrimination legislation that is all inclusive (Gender, Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression)?
X YES         NO

Do you support the repeal of DADT (Don't Ask Don't Tell)?
X YES         NO

Do you support The Safe Schools Act (HR 2262) and The Student Non Discrimination Act (HR 4530) both of which provide for funding and training to educate all students and faculty to ensure all students receive an education free of harassment based on sexual orientation , gender identity and / or expression?
X YES    NO

Do you support FULL EQUALITY for ALL Americans?
X YES          NO

Are you a member of The Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada?
X YES          NO

What is the number one issue that you want to address in the office you are seeking?
Reform Nevada’s unstable revenue system and economic development

Why should you be elected rather than your opponent(s)?
I’m the only democrat running in District 28 and a full supporter of equality issues.

Please use this space for a message (200 word limit) to our members on why you feel you are the best person for the job.

I am a native Las Vegan, and I’m seeking this office because for me, it’s about giving something back; a chance to make a difference in the very community in which I grew up - Assembly District 28.

I spent a year at the College of Southern Nevada and transferred to the University of Southern California, where I graduated with a BA in Political Science and a double minor in Spanish, and Psychology and Law

I am a fierce advocate for my community. I have volunteered for outreach programs across the state. In 2008, my community activity was realized when I was appointed to the Nevada Commission on Minority Affairs. From this position, I had the opportunity to advocate for the renewal of the state’s ombudsman for minority consumer affairs, ensuring equal protection under Nevada’s consumer protection laws. I recently earned my law degree from UNLV’s Boyd School of Law and I am now a small business owner.

Kyle Greenwood (AD 42):

STONEWALL DEMOCRATS OF SOUTHERN NEVADA CANDIDATE QUESTIONS FOR VOTER GUIDE
Do you support SB 283 which allows Domestic Partnership in Nevada?
YES

Do you support Anti-Discrimination legislation that is all inclusive (Gender, Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression)?
YES

Do you support the repeal of DADT (Don't Ask Don't Tell)?
YES

Do you support The Safe Schools Act (HR 2262) and The Student Non Discrimination Act (HR 4530) both of which provide for funding and training to educate all students and faculty to ensure all students receive an education free of harassment based on sexual orientation , gender identity and / or expression?
YES

Do you support FULL EQUALITY for ALL Americans?
YES

Are you a member of The Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada?
NO

What is the number one issue that you want to address in the office you are seeking?
Energy Independance (Solar & Geothermal)

Why should you be elected rather than your opponent(s)?
I will make it a full time jon doing Get Out The Vote for democates so the all Democrates (Harry Reid, Rory Reid) are elected.
Please use this space for a message (200 word limit) to our members on why you feel you are the best person for the job.
Rory read has a plan for better education for Nevada, bringing in more businesses and jobs and making us enery independent, but he will need assemblymen who will help get them done, and I will be there to support those goals. I also believe we can end poverty in our time, and end the welware state that creates high taxes. If elected I will be the assemblyman that everyone is talking about next year.

Kyle Greenwood
Assembly 42
808-295-1254

Jason Frierson (AD 8):

Do you support SB 283 which allows Domestic Partnership in Nevada? YES
Do you support Anti-Discrimination legislation that is all inclusive (Gender, Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression)? YES - I support efforts to further this goal and am committed to reviewing proposed language to make sure it accomplishes what it is intending to accomplish effectively and responsibly.
Do you support the repeal of DADT (Don't Ask Don't Tell)? YES
Do you support The Safe Schools Act (HR 2262) and The Student Non Discrimination Act (HR 4530) both of which provide for funding and training to educate all students and faculty to ensure all students receive an education free of harassment based on sexual orientation , gender identity and / or expression? YES - Recognizing this as a federal Act, I support its purpose. To the extent that it impacts the ability Nevada to provide for funding and training locally, I would be interested in reviewing details to make sure local considerations are included.

Do you support FULL EQUALITY for ALL Americans?
YES - I support efforts to further this goal and am committed to reviewing proposed language to make sure it accomplishes what it is intending to accomplish effectively and responsibly.

Are you a member of The Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada?
NO (But in the process of joining)

What is the number one issue that you want to address in the office you are seeking?

It is difficult to narrow it down to a single issue with such important matters like education, public safety, health care, etc. However, the clear priority must be having an active role in resolving our budget crisis in the short term and long term. Reasonable and sincere legislators who are committed to making Nevada more stable will be key in furthering this cause in our short 120 day legislative session. It will impact our ability to address all other priorities so me must first handle that task.

Why should you be elected rather than your opponent(s)?

First, I'm a lifelong Democrat, committed to public service and advancing principles important for our district, and for Nevada. I have lived in Nevada for over 22 years and I'm the only candidate with a track record of advancing the principles of the Democratic Party, as well as a dedication to active participation in the political process to actually make change. I was asked to go to Carson City on behalf of Clark County in 2007 and 2009 during the legislative session full time so I learned how the process works first hand. I think that will be key to hitting the ground running in 2011 since we only have 120 days to get work done.

Please use this space for a message (200 word limit) to our members on why you feel you are the best person for the job.

In addition to what is stated above, my commitment to public service throughout my entire life shows my belief in taking action to make positive change. I'm committed to helping to diversify our economy so that we can weather bad times more effectively. I believe it is vital that we change the way we provide public services so that when we have to make cuts, our most vulnerable aren't hurt the most. We need reasonable representatives with an ability to work with people across the table in order to come up with changes that help us get over this short term budget crisis, but also work with those same people to help develop a system for long term stability. I am endorsed by law enforcement, prosecutors, the NSEA, and workers, but I’m also endorsed by the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce as well as Seniors United. I believe this broad level of support reflects not only my commitment to Nevada, but also my ability to reach across the table and effectively work with people from diverse interests to solve real problems. I am sincere and passionate about a better future for Nevada.

Stonewall Update: Lt Gov Debate & Social THIS Saturday, Rory Reid & Ross Miller in Henderson TONIGHT, Weekend GOTV Events, & More!

2010-06-02T09:12:00.000-07:00

It's June already! Really, already? Yep, June is here, Election Day (primary edition) is near, and summer is about to begin. If you haven't voted yet, you have until Friday to vote early at locations throughout Clark County. Otherwise, you'll have to wait until next Tuesday.

And in case you're planning to wait until next Tuesday, you'll have one more chance to meet some candidates this week. Our own Lt. Governor event is set for Saturday, and I'll have more details on that shortly. But first, we'd like to remind you of some other important events coming up.

First off, the Henderson Democratic Club is doing a special pizza party tonight with Rory Reid and Secretary of State Ross Miller. If you'd like to go, please let them know. They'll be meeting at the Painters' Hall (1701 Ramrod, Henderson 89014) at 6:30 PM tonight.

And later this weekend, we'll be plenty busy with some great GOTV activity! From the Nevada State Democratic Party:

Join Congresswoman Dina Titus and Clark County Commissioner Rory Reid for a Democratic appreciation BBQ. Hear what two of our favorite Nevada Democrats have to say about education, Wall Street reform, creating jobs in Nevada and what you can do to get involved.

Where: Painter's Hall 1701 Whitney Mesa Drive, Las Vegas

When: June 5 at 2:30 p.m.
Please RSVP to rsvp@nvdems.com or by calling (702)737-8683

Join Rep. Shelley Berkley, Sen. Stephen Horsford and Commissioner Rory Reid for a primary election night celebration.

Where: The CTA Events Center at Nevada Partners, 710 W. Lake Mead Blvd., Las Vegas

When: Tuesday, June 8 at 7 p.m.

Please RSVP to mary@sberkley.com or (702)212-3350 by June 4.

Also don't forget about the GOTV phone bank with Rep. Dina Titus on Monday, June 7, starting at 5:00 PM at the NSDP Henderson office (2925 N. Green Valley Pkwy, Henderson 89014). Email Leora at lolivas@nvdems.com for more info on this.

And finally, what we've all been waiting for... The latest & greatest campaign event of primary season! Our very own Stonewall Lt. Governor meet, greet, debate, social, & more!

Final Lt. Governor Democratic Primary Debate

Stonewall Democrats of Southern Nevada is proud to be hosting the four Democratic candidates for Lieutenant Governor of Nevada, in the final debate of the primary season, moderated by Bob Forbus

Join us at the Bar Bistro at The Arts Factory in District 18b Downtown for an evening of debate, discussion, music and FUN!

Democratic candidates will be discussing the role of the Lieutenant Governor in Nevada, and their unique visions for that job.

Saturday, June 5, 2010 6pm-8:30pm

The Arts Factory

107 East Charleston Boulevard, Las Vegas, NV 89101

This is our main fundraiser for the year, so we will be charging the following admission prices:

$25 for non-members [Includes one year Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada membership]

$15 for members

$10 for students [with ID] and Seniors [65+]

Admission includes free appetizers and one free speciality cocktail [Sponsored by PAMA and HYPNOTIQ liqueurs] along with Happy Hour drink prices from The Bar Bistro @ The Arts Factory.

We will be outdoors under the setting sun listening to music and enjoying a friendly game of bocci ball.

RSVP: derekisademocrat@gmail.com or our Facebook
DRESS CODE: Outdoor Garden Party

SEE YOU SATURDAY!

QUESTIONS? LET US KNOW!

And we hope to see you there!

Final Lt. Governor Democratic Primary Debate

2010-06-01T19:50:00.000-07:00

Stonewall Democrats of Southern Nevada is proud to be hosting the four Democratic candidates for Lieutenant Governor of Nevada, in the final debate of the primary season, moderated by Bob Forbus

Join us at the Bar Bistro at The Arts Factory in District 18b Downtown for an evening of debate, discussion, music and FUN!

Democratic candidates will be discussing the role of the Lieutenant Governor in Nevada, and their unique visions for that job.

Saturday, June 5, 2010 6pm-8:30pm

The Arts Factory

107 East Charleston Boulevard, Las Vegas, NV 89101

This is our main fundraiser for the year, so we will be charging the following admission prices:

$25 for non-members [Includes one year Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada membership]

$15 for members

$10 for students [with ID] and Seniors [65+]

Admission includes free appetizers and one free speciality cocktail [Sponsored by PAMA and HYPNOTIQ liqueurs] along with Happy Hour drink prices from The Bar Bistro @ The Arts Factory.

We will be outdoors under the setting sun listening to music and enjoying a friendly game of bocci ball.

RSVP: derekisademocrat@gmail.com or our Facebook DRESS CODE: Outdoor Garden Party

SEE YOU SATURDAY!

QUESTIONS? LET US KNOW!

Stonewall Update: BBQ w/ Rory Reid TOMORROW, Lt. Gov. Event on June 5, Phone Bank w/ Dina Titus on June 7, DADT Repeal, & More!

2010-05-28T17:15:00.001-07:00

Memorial Day is Monday. This is a time for us to remember those brave men and women in the military who sacrificed it all for us, for our freedom, for our country. And this Memorial Day Weekend, we're closer than ever before to seeing "Don't Ask Don't Tell" repealed and LGBTQ soldiers getting the respect they deserve. We'll keep you posted on this historic legislation as Congress moves even closer to final repeal of DADT.

So what's happening this weekend? Well, let us give you the 411!

First off, Rory Reid will be doing a very special BBQ tomorrow at Stonewall Chair Derek Washington's house in Downtown Las Vegas. The BBQ starts at 11:00 AM, and you can click here to RSVP. And for more information on this GOTV party with Nevada's next Governor, please call Derek at (702) 576-4978. Oh, and at tomorrow's BBQ you'll also find out more about Derek doing a panel discussion on comprehensive immigration reform at a UNLV teach-in tomorrow. If you're free tomorrow afternoon, stay tuned for more details at tomorrow's BBQ!

And if that isn't enough excitement for you, next weekend is our very special Lieutenant Governor candidates' event! Because there's been so much interest in this, we're moving to a larger venue: Bar + Bistro at The Arts Factory Downtown (107 E Charleston in Downtown Las Vegas). The event will start at 6:00 PM, and admission will be only $20 for current Stonewall members and $30 for new Stonewallers wishing to attend (and join the club)! And for students, seniors, and the disabled, admission will be only $10. Just reply if you'd like more information or you want to RSVP to this event.

And finally, the Nevada State Democratic Party and the Dina Titus campaign will be doing a "super phone bank" night on June 7 starting at 5:00 PM. There will be plenty of refreshments, but please try to arrive as early as possible... Since none other than Congresswoman Dina Titus herself will be coming to join us in getting out the vote! This very special GOTV phone bank will be at the brand new NSDP office at 2925 N. Green Valley Pkwy. in Henderson starting at 5:00 PM, and you can RSVP by dropping Leora a line at lolivas@nvdems.com.

Oh, and one more thing... In case you forgot, National Stonewall will be doing its Elect Equality voting from now until June 18! Remember that the top 10 vote-getters will be getting much needed support (including extra resources to local Stonewall clubs, national phone banks, financial support, and more!), so it's critical that we get out the vote for finalists Harry Reid and Dina Titus! Please remember to vote for Harry and Dina at Elect Equality, then tweet it, Facebook it, and tell all your friends to vote for Harry Reid and Dina Titus as well. Let's win one, no TWO, for our dear Stonewall friends and Nevada Democratic team!

So enjoy your Memorial Day Weekend, and we hope to see you soon.

Democratic Events happening in the Valley

2010-05-28T16:35:00.000-07:00

We're almost through the first week of early voting, and a lot of events are going on throughout the Valley:

Questions about early voting? http://www.accessclarkcounty.com/elections

Not sure who to vote for? http://www.nevadavoterguide.org/ (These are not endorsements, provides background info on all candidates)

Check out this article in City Life Magazine. http://bit.ly/9Yox8W Thanks to the coordinated efforts of Stonewall and other Democratic organizations in Nevada, led by Amber Lamay and Equality Nevada, Equality and fairness beat discrimination and small mindedness at NV's DMV sites.

Via Facebook: Breaking News: Tonight on PBS at 8 pm, Mitch Fox interviews ALL the candidates for Governor.

Saturday May 29, 2010

Rory Reid for Governor: Please join Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada chair Derek Washington at his home for a Get Out the Vote (GOTV) community BBQ. 11am-3pm. 323 11th Street, Las Vegas, NV 89101 (between 11th and Stewart). KIDS ARE WELCOME!!! Come and enjoy great food. RSVP to Guillermo D. Elenes by sending an email to gelenes@roryreid.com or calling (702) 376-2557.

…And Justice for All? How Does Arizona Affect You. National Day of Action Planning Teach-In 2-5:30pm @ UNLV Carol C. Harter Classroom Building Complex (CBC) A and C. We seek to create an educational approach to the national day of action by organizing a teach-in where participants will engage in dialogue with one another regarding Arizona legislation and its impact on our state. We seek to build community among various identity groups at this event by showing how we are all affected by discriminatory practices and rhetoric. Should you have any questions, please contact Mallory Cyr at cyrm2@unlv.nevada.edu

Asian American/Pacific Islander Democratic Caucus of Nevada: Nevada Celebrates Asian American Heritage. 6-10pm Italian American Club 2333 East Sahara Avenue (Sahara & Eastern) Honoring Congresswoman Shelley Berkley (CD-1) and special recognition of Mr. John Hunt, former Chairman of Clark County Democratic Party for his efforts in promoting diversity and inclusion in Democratic Party. Presentation of scholarships to outstanding students. Tickets: Adults $20.00 Children under 12 $ 10.00 ( Children under 5 is free). Dinner included with no-host bar

SAVE THE DATE

Tuesday June 1st First Lady Michelle Obama will be in Las Vegas with US Senator Harry Reid. We are working on getting the details

Faithful Call to Justice Conference June 4th and 5th. Details on facebook: http://bit.ly/b1JNUL Stonewall members will be speaking and/or honored at this event

Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada Lt. Governor Debate. June 5, 2010 at the Arts Factory. More details to come soon!

Red Rock Dems Night at the Las Vegas 51s Baseball Game June 11. Tickets are $11. Great seats and LOTS of fun (and a free hat)! Contact Red Rock Dems president Frank Fopiano 289-9549

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Venicia Considine for Assembly District 18 needs phone bankers. Please call 702-278-5524

Paul Murad for Lt. Gov is phone banking everyday now through June 8th Contact Simone @ 702-688-2715 or field@PaulForNevada.com

David Parks for Clark County Commissioner District G. Needs phone bankers Call Justin at 702-374

Hope to see you guys around this weekend, if you haven't yet, EARLY VOTE!

Laura Martin

SDCSN Communications Director

702-292-1270

@LVStonewallDems

GOTV Weekend Events

2010-05-21T08:06:00.000-07:00

There are lots of events going on in and around the Valley this weekend. Early Voting starts Saturday May 22nd at noon, and ends June 4th. You can vote at almost any grocery store and mall. For more information on Early Voting in Clark County, visit: http://www.accessclarkcounty.com/depts/election/english/Pages/home.aspx

Friday, May 21, 2010

Paul Murad, candidate for Lt. Governor: Get Out the Vote (GOTV) phone banking 5/21, 5/22 & 5/23. Feel free to come by anytime between 11am and 6pm. 8170 West Sahara Avenue Suite 106, Las Vegas, NV 89117. RSVP to Simone Simpson field@PaulforNevada.com or 702-688-2715

Black Box Consulting: Drink and Debate, Where Serious Thinkers Meet: The Artisan Hotel 1501 West Sahara Avenue Las Vegas, NV 89102 5-8pm. Drink and Debate is a monthly venue for business leaders, community members, young professionals and others to discuss issues affecting our community. Meet political insiders and become civicly engaged.

Saturday, May 22, 2010

Anthem Walk to Stop the Pit Mine Project: 2256 Reunion Avenue, Henderson, NV. Meet at 9:15AM. Join us at 9:15 AM this Saturday at the Anthem Hill Park (off Reunion ) to help in our walking campaign. We are gathering at the Anthem Park to canvass and alert Anthem residents to the dangers of the Sloan Pit Mine Project and the work of Senator Reid to stop it by introducing the Senate Bill 3313. We will be provided, talking points, literature, maps and names of supportive residents.

Benny Yerushalmi for Senate District 9 and Tammy Petrson for Senate District 8: GOTV Phone banking at Nevada Democratic Party's HQ 1210 S. Valley View (closest cross is Charleston) 10am-5pm. RSVP: Michelle 702-307-9008 mwhite@nvsenatedems.com

Carolyn Essex for Assembly District 7: GOTV volunteering 5/22-6/4 9am-6pm Jimmy's Cheyenne Market, Cheyenne and MLK. Contact Carolyn to RSVP 702-714-0782

Si Se Puede Latino Democratic Caucus: GOTV Rally Rafael Rivera Park 2900 E. Stewart Avenue, Las Vegas, NV 89101. 10am-Noon. If you want to help set up, please arrive at 8am. Free BBQ, entertainment and speeches by Democratic candidates. A short two-block parade to the East Las Vegas Community Center which is serving as an Early Vote site this year--no matter where you live, you can vote anywhere during the Early Vote time period!

Reform Immigration for America: "Stomp the Strip". Meet in front of the Venetian Hotel that is off of Spring Mountain and Las Vegas Blvd at 5:30pm. Are you tired and upset about what's going on in Arizona? Do you want Comprehensive Immigration Reform now? If you are, then please join us this Saturday and stand up to tell Nevada that we won't let any racist legislation come to Nevada, and that President Obama needs to deliver Comprehensive Immigration Reform NOW!!! (Our Chair, Derek Washington, spoke at their Mayday rally held at the Federal Building).

Gary Fisher for Assembly District 4: GOTV Call 702-235-3606 or GaryFisher@Fisher4Nevada.com

Sunday, May 23, 2010

Elliot Anderson for Assembly District 15: GOTV Canvass and BBQ Winchester Cultural Center and Park, 3130 S McLeod Dr 3:30pm-6:30pm. To RSVP, or if you have any questions, call 702-733-4073 or email: Elliot@Andersonforassembly.com. For more information about this campaign for the Democratic nomination in Assembly District 15: http://www.AndersonforAssembly.com/

ProgessNow Nevada and the Sierra Club: "Drill Baby, Drill is not an option!" Protest Sarah Palin. Outside the Las Vegas Convention Center 12:30-1:30pm. Sarah Palin will be in town on Sunday, May 23 to make her latest quick grab for cash in advance of her new book. As hundreds of thousands of barrels of oil gush into the Gulf Coast, we'll be there to make sure everyone knows that Drill, Baby, Drill is NOT an option for our energy future. Water and rally signs will be provided!

See you this weekend!

Laura Martin

Communications Director

Stonewall Democratic Club of Southern Nevada

http://sdcsn.blogspot.com/

@LVStonewallDems

Facebook http://bit.ly/97WBD1

Stonewall Update: Upcoming Events This Week

2010-05-18T10:43:00.000-07:00

Hello again! I hope you've been enjoying a great May, and hopefully these upcoming events from our Stonewall friends. Also, don't forget about our own June 5 Lieutenant Governor candidates' debate and gathering. We'll have more information on this coming later.

- First off, the Nevada Democrats will be canvassing in Anthem this Saturday.

We are going to be meeting at Anthem Hills Park (2256 Reunion Avenue, Henderson, NV) at 9:15 am. At the canvass, volunteers will be talking to Democrats, Independents, and some Republicans about Senator Reid’s recent Sloan Hills gravel pit bill. This bill is another example of the Senator doing things for Nevada that nobody else can. This is an important local issue, that these voters are going to be very receptive!

If you would like to come, please email Elspeth at ecordua@nvdems.com or call 619-990-5340.

http://maps.google.com/maps?rlz=1T4FUJB_enUS350US350&q=2256+north+reunion+drive+henderson+nv&um=1&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=2256+Reunion+Dr,+Henderson,+NV+89052&gl=us&ei=F6HxS_f5N6HStQOd4oTbDw&sa=X&oi=geocode_result&ct=image&resnum=1&ved=0CBQQ8gEwAA

- If you'd like to see and support Attorney General Catherine Cortez Masto tomorrow night, here's your chance:

It's Tomorrow!!!!

The fundraiser for

Attorney General Catherine Cortez Masto

Bob Forbuss's home

2436 High Vista Circle

Henderson, NV 89014

Wednesday, May 19, 5:30-7:30 PM

Please RSVP to Erin Bilbray-Kohn at ebilbray@aol.com

- And finally, also on Saturday is the Emerge Nevada Woman of the Year Dinner.