Impressions...by David Mixner

 

 

-"White Collar" star Matt Bomer has officially come out of the closet and powerfully acknowledged his family at a Palm Springs Awards ceremony. Bomer was fantastic in "Normal Heart" and he proclaims that role moved him to be more active in the community. The LGBT family just gained another wonderfully talented out and proud actor. Not to mention drop-dead gorgeous.

-Speaking of 'out actors' Broadway star Howard McGillin has been out for years. As "Phantom of the Opera" celebrates it 10,000th show, he will be remembered for playing the Phantom longer than any other actor. On February 27th he will be guest of honor for a fundraiser for Missouri Democratic United Senator Claire McCaskill. She deserves our support and hope you all can make it or send a check.

-California's "Love, Honor and Cherish" has decided not to proceed with their attempt to place on the ballot a measure to repeal Proposition 8. The timing was tough and the court case is moving along.

-Michigan has been considered for months one of Romney's safest big states. Guess they will have to rethink that strategy since Public Policy Polling has him trailing Santorum by astounding 15 points! Santorum does well in every part of the state except Oakland County, which includes some of the wealthy suburbs of Detroit. The New York Times is reporting that one of Romney's 'Super Pacs' is getting ready to spend $500,000 in Michigan.

-AmericaBlog is reporting that former HRC and SLDN Communications Director Trevor Thomas is joining the ever expanding list of out candidates for US Congress. He will be seeking the seat of incumbent Michigan Republican Justin Amash. The distract is in Western Michigan and you can find out about his race on his website.

-In Georgia, Romney might as well pack it up and head to Ohio. In the latest poll, Gingrich is first with 35%, Santorum coming on strong with 26% and Romney way behind at 16%.

-Redondo Beach, California firefighters need a kitchen badly in their station. So they have made a musical video which is both cute and funny. Take a look.

-Traditional and extremely Conservative magazine The National Review, is calling for Gingrich to get out of the race. Remember the days when Gingrich was charging Santorum with being the spoiler?

-Both the art world and the LGBT community is deeply saddened by the early death of Canadian artist Steve Walker at the age of 50. Here is an example of his art called "Rain".

-Count another state for Santorum in Tennessee where he has surged into the lead according to the American Research Group poll. Santorum has 34% and Romney is now second at 27%. Gingrich is third at 16%. Ron Paul makes a decent showing with 13%.

-In California where Romney has held wide margins in the past, the latest poll shows Santorum has come within 2 points of Mitt who has 33% to Santorum's 31%.

-Busy week at the Glass House Tavern located on 47th Street off Times Square. Andrew Garfield and Emma Stone (photograph) were breaking bread at the eatery several times in the past couple of weeks. Others seen at the celebrity filled restaurant were Judith Light, Robert Desiderio, Thomas Roberts, John Glover, and  Bob Shrum and Marylouise Oates.

-Whitney Houston was a star one last time at the Grammys. The award show had its second highest rating in the history of the program and in good part it was because of Whitney.

-The New Jersey State Senate passed marriage equality by a 24 to 16 vote on Monday. It now heads to the Assembly where it is expected to pass. Governor Christie has promised to veto the legislation. According to The Washington Blade, we have until next January 2014 to override the veto!

-The United States Chamber of Commerce has just launched a $400,000 smear campaign against open lesbian United States Senate candidate Tammy Baldwin. Time for you to open up your wallets and give to Tammy one more time! Click here.

-Here is an interesting Gallup Polling chart showing the Santorum surge and the ups and downs of this Republican Presidential Primary race.

Impressions.....by David Mixner

 

 

-Thank God, now we can all relax! Todd Palin, Sarah's husband, has let it be known he is supporting good ole Newt. He proclaims it is not an indication of how the former Vice Presidential candidate is going to endorse...if she endorses.

-Political Insider reports that for the fifth day in a row in the Suffolk Tracking Poll Mitt Romney has lost ground. Sunday he was at 33% and falling.

-National Wildlife Foundation has five pictures of adorable baby animals. The one above is a bison with her baby calf who was born that very day. Check the others out!

-Appears the National Stonewall Democrats are really getting their act together in preparation for the upcoming election. They have just appointed as their new Executive Director political wizard Jerame Davis. Congrats, Jerame!

-The entire LGBT community is sending best wishes and life long love to actor Alan Cumming and illustrator Grant Shaffer (photograph) as they got married in New York after registering for civil unions in Great Britain five years ago!

-Praise the Lord and pass the collection plate! Rick Santorum has those old time religion folks opening up their pocketbooks. He took in one million dollars in twenty-four hours after the Iowa caucuses and according to sources is approaching three million dollars by the New Hampshire primary.

-Allow me to give a 'shout out' to Lincoln Business Machine on West 68th Street in New York City. They have been coming to my rescue all week with my series of constant computer problems. Thanks to Boris, Jose and Milton! (212) 769-0606

-In the hotly contested Democratic primary in California's 50th Assembly District, grassroots activist and open lesbian Torie Osborn had a debate with establishment candidate Betsy Butler. Afterwards, the prestigious Malibu Democratic Club voted to endorse Osborn with 41 votes. Betsy Butler received 5 votes.

-China is testing a new high speed train that will travel at 500 km! Soon no one will want to fly in those cattle cars they call planes and enjoy a great system.

-Governor Andrew Cuomo's "State of the State" speech was powerful, articulate and filled with policy. He showed graciousness to the legislature and clearly demonstrated he heard the concerns of New Yorkers. This one should be shared with every Democratic leader as a paper on how it should be done!

-Here is an interesting statistic from the Center for Disease Control (CDC): Forty-Four per cent of straight men and thirty-six percent of straight women say they have had anal sex at least one time in their life.

-The Glass House Tavern had a busy week. Glee cast member Mark Salling and Lauren Bacall (photograph) were dining at different tables with friends.

-London's The Telegraph has picked the top ten ciites to live in the world. Victoria, Canada is on the list. Take a look at the rest!

-The Telegraph is also running a story coming out of France. Soccer's Manchester United player Eric Cantona is seeking a place on the ballot to run for President of France.

-What is Mitt's real first name? Vanity Fair took a poll and very few of their readers could nail it. Some actually thought it was "Mittens!" His first name is Willard!

-The marriage equality debate has come to Washington State with Democratic Governor Chris Gregoire. In a powerful and elegant speech she said she intended to bring it up in the upcoming special session of the Washington legislature. Keep your fingers crossed.

-Think about this statistic: There has been more snow in El Paso, Texas than in Chicago, Detroit or New York. What is wrong with this picture?

-The National Geographic announced the winners of this years photograph contest. Here is the Grand Prize winning photograph taken by Shikhei Goh. You can see more winners by clicking here.

Impressions....by David Mixner

 

 

-Sexy actor Daniel Craig has a very low opinion of elected officials. Craig is quoted by "Politico" as say that "politicians are shitheads." Craig was had a few more choice words when he also stated “That’s how they become politicians, even the good ones. We're actors, we're artists, we're very nice to each other. They'll turn around and stab you in the fucking back.

-Republican candidate for President Ron Paul evidently has a problem using rest rooms that homosexuals use. Hmmm, wonder if he uses the one in his own campaign headquarters?

-Broadway's hit musical "Jersey Boys" just passed "Ave Q" to become the 21st longest running show in the history of Broadway. On Monday, December 26th, they will have played 2,535 performances!

-More lists are coming out about the last year. GLBTQ.com has published their compilation of "The Top Ten Stories of 2011". It is an interesting list.

-The New York Times published a moving and long obituary for John Lawrence who was the plaintiff in the famous Supreme Court Case -Lawrence v. Texas who passed away on November 20th. Please read since this our history and our heroes.

-Since it is still holiday time and we can be frivolous, Greg in Hollywood published the result of poll of readers on Soaphunks.net. Winning 'Best Eyes" was Brandon Beemer (photograph above) of "The Bold and Beautiful".

-In the latest rankings, Brazil has overtaken Great Britain and has the world's sixth largest economy. The United States is still number one followed closely by China.

-Given up the cutbacks in budgets around the country, the mentally ill are seeing their services and support vanish. The problem is so severe that emergency rooms are being flooded by those mentally challenged and desperately seeking assistance.

-For the first time in quite awhile, Gallup Poll shows that President Obama has more people approving of his job performance than disapproving. It's about time!

-Not everyone was happy with their Christmas Cards this year. Lulu the Cat was not a happy camper at all with her greetings.

-OutTraveler.com has picked the "Top 20 Gayest Destinations In the USA" for the year 2011. You will be surprised to hear that P-Town is number 20!

-Insideline.com picked the "100 Worst Cars Of All Time". Going through the list and pictures I was shocked at some of their picks. The number one pick of worst car ever was the 2001 Pontiac Aztek.

-A little historical fact from OMG Facts. In 1979, homosexuality was classified as an illness in Sweden. One day thousands of Swedish citizens called in 'sick' to work giving as their reason "homosexuality'. As a result of that action, Sweden became one of the first countries to say homosexuality is not a mental illness.

-Former "Today Show" host Meredith Vieira (photograph above) was dining at the Glass House Tavern with her husband journalist Richard Cohen. At another table was pioneering table show host Phil Donahue and Marlo Thomas. Finally the beautiful actress Blythe Danner graced one of the tables at the Tavern.

-There is new site called "Celebrities on the Subway." People send him their pictures of celebrities riding the trains or subways. Love the one of Hugh Jackman!.(via JoeMyGod)

-When we first heard about the reports of the tropical storm hitting the Philippines the death toll was projected to be 600 from the flash floods. Now fisherman are finding bodies sixty miles out to sea that were washed away in the storm. The toll is near 1,300 dead and counting.

-One of my favorite sites for this year has been Boston.com's Big Picture which is the modern day version of the old "LIFE" magazine. They recently published "Best Photos From The Natural World" for 2011. Here are my favorites and you can click to see the rest and received the all important photographer credits

Impressions....by David Mixner

 

 

-You know it is the holidays when you can start giving the gift of a basketball court around the 'john.' The question is who wants it the most. The man who loves basketball or the woman who is tired of the man missing the basket!

-If you want to be more supportive in the efforts to combat anti-Muslim hysteria in America you can go to this wonderful website, myfellowAmerican.us and join the battle against hate.

-There was a story that the Art and Culture Center in Denver wouldn't use the word "Gay" on its sign outside the facility for a performance by the Denver Gay Men's Chorus. Turns out the sign was a mistake and the center had been advertising and printing programs with the word 'gay' all over them. Gregory Ward, in response to an inquiry by my sister, Patsy, said, "It is an inexcusable error but an accidental one none the less."

-Ryan Gosling has been picked as the "Best Dressed Man In America". Who cares what he has on? The less the better.

-Mike Signorile got an amazing and informative interview with Rosie O'Donnell in his new position as the new editor of "The Gay Voice" section of The Huffington Post. The interview is chocked full with new information

-Richard Socarides has a post on The New Yorker site about " Obama, The Courts and Gay Marriage" which makes for a good read.

-Love, Honor and Cherish has decided to see if they obtain the one million signatures needed to qualify for the November, 2012 ballot and repeal Proposition 8. The signatures have to be into the Secretary of States office by May 14. This is an uphill effort but admire their determination.

-Is Barack Obama preparing to endorse marriage equality? Unlikely but the rumors are spreading especially after his Presidential International memorandum and Secretary Clinton's speech. Joseph Williams of Politico.com has written a detailed article about Obama's outreach to the LGBT community.

-There are so many college bowl games over the holidays it no longer means an automatic sell-out like in the old days. Both Virginia Tech and West Virginia are having a very hard time selling tickets for their respective appearances in the games. At last count both has only sold about half their tickets!

-Al Jazeera English has a really excellent video story on Politics, Religion and the Tea Party. It is among the best reporting on the issue I have seen this year.

-Weather.com has a story of the "Five Weirdest White Christmases Ever" Number one is South Corpus Christi along the Gulf of Mexico in Texas receiving 4.4 inches of snow on Christmas Day in 2004. Here are the rest.

-Democratic Congressman Martin Heinrich (above) is the Party's likely nominee for the open U.S. Senate seat in New Mexico. He holds a solid 7 point lead over likely Republican nominee Heather Wilson.

-The National Journal has a story about how easy it would be to end up with an Electoral College tie in 2012. The outline is very scary.

-Virginia is looking better for the Democrats this coming year. Not only is the President holding strong but former Democratic Governor Tim Kaine has taken a five point lead over former Republican US Senator George Allen in the last poll.

-Foreign Policy Magazine has picked the "Top 100 Global Thinkers." There are some really interesting names on the list.

-Have you ever wondered what President Benjamin Harrison sounded like? He is the first President in history to have his voice recorded.

Impressions.....by David Mixner

-Well President Obama's team doesn't have to do any work in the next election. The re-elect campaign just has to run Ron Paul's anti-Gingrich ad over and over again. As they say back home, bless your heart, Mr. Paul.

-Speaking of campaign ads, Rick Perry's anti-LGBT ad continues to receive widespread disapproval. The latest count on YouTube is that almost 650,000 people disapprove of the ad and only close to 20,000 people approve of it. Who needs focus groups with those kind of record breaking numbers!

-Those of you who hadn't been able to see "Venus in Fur" starring Nina Arianda and Hugh Dancy (photograph below)at the Manhattan Theater Club before it closes on this coming Sunday can breathe a sigh of relief! The award winning play is transferring to the Lyceum Theater on Broadway. Tickets will go on sale December 15th for the February opening at the Lyceum.

-The Williams Institute has released data showing that marriage equality in Iowa has pumped up to $13 million dollars into the Hawkeye State.

-While Mitt Romney says he was opposed to the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell' he has proclaimed to The Des Moines Register editorial board that he would NOT seek to reinstate the horrible policy.

-JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon is just baffled by all the uproar around the issues of economic justice. At a speaking event when he was asked about the unrest among the masses he said, "Acting like everyone who's been successful is bad and that everyone who is rich is bad. I just don't get it." Yes, clearly he doesn't...

-All that in Spain is not 'mainly on plain.' The Spanish Royal family is being rocked by scandal. King Juan Carlo's son-in-law, Inaki Urdangarin, has been cashing in on the Spanish monarchy's good name and is likely to be charged with committing fraud.

-History is being made again in Hollywood as Trangender Actress Harmony Santana (below)has received a "Best Supporting Actress " nomination in the prestigious "Independent Spirit Awards". She was nominated for her role in "Gun Hill Road".

-Handsome Cleveland Browns Linebacker Scott Fujita has come out for marriage equality in the latest of HRC's YouTube program.

-Towlroad.com reported the businessman and space pioneer Richard Branson has spoken out publicly against the horrible anti-LGBT legislation being pushed in Nigeria. On his blog, Branson said:

Like everyone else in society, gay people have an enormous amount to offer and Nigeria should embrace them not prosecute them.

All of us with influence in Nigeria must do what we can to stop this cruel law. I would urge educated Nigerians all over the world to do what they can to help fight this discrimination.

-This year has been one of the mostly costly ever for the United States in weather disasters. So far there have been a dozen that have caused more than a billion dollars in damage. This is an all time record for the United States in one year

-"Mother Jones Magazine" has published an extraordinary article about life inside of Uganda for the LGBT community. As that nation debates the death penalty for the nation's LGBT citizens, "The Love That Dares" captures of the heroism of the community(photograph below) as it struggles to survive under such oppression.

-Author, political genius and commentator Robert Shrum has a great new column in The Week. In "The GOP Establishment Better Get Used To Newt" , he points out that Newt is likely here to stay.

-Is actor Tim Allen's new Fall show on ABC, "Last Man Standing" a winner or loser? The Daily Beast just published its list of television's winners and losers for the Fall Season. Check them out.

-Now this is taking 'home schooling' to a new level. Actor J.D. Lewis is taking his two sons, Jackson and Buck, to twelve countries in twelve months to teach them about the world. You can follow their wonderful adventures by clicking here.

-Sarah Palin is learning finally what it is like to be out of the limelight. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the former Alaska Governor has been pitching a new reality show about her husband Todd and his snowmobile racing. How quickly things change....there are no takers so far from any cable outlet.

-Public Policy Polling is reporting that for the first time marriage equality has pulled into the lead in Colorado. The states voters approve 47% to 43% in favor of same sex marriage. Making progress one step at a time.........

-Totally was absorbed by this YouTube.com video of "Hubble Ultra Deep Field in 3D". Sit back and be amazed by our ever expanding universe.

Impressions...by David Mixner

 

 

-The world is about to have its second openly LGBT Prime Minister. Joining Iceland's lesbian Prime Minister Johanna Siguroardottir will be Elio di Rupo of Belgium (above). The Socialist should be sworn in today and form a government at the request of King Albert II. When asked if he was gay he simply said, "Yes, so what?" He has his work cut out for him in the deeply divided and economically troubled nation.

-In a teaser on Twitter, Public Policy Polling says that Newt Gingrich in North Carolina will be the first candidate to get above 50% in a state that is not their home state. This always has been one of Newt's strongest states.

-Big news coming out of Maine! In just twelve weeks, Equality Maine has gathered over 100,000 signatures to put marriage equality on the ballot. The Pine Tree State will vote next year and the polling is looking good.

-A social worker, Carol Mapley, will be the first Transgender person running for public office in Scotland. She will seek a seat on the Castle Douglas and Glenkins Council.

-Scottish sculptor Martin Boyce has won the very prestigious Turner Prize. The award is given to a British artist under 50 who had the best exhibit in the last year.

-Did you know that archaeologists estimate that there are over 20,000 slaves in different burial sites in New York City?

-AllOut.org has collected and presented over 55,000 signatures to the Nigerian consulate in New York to protest anti-LGBT legislation in that nation.  They collected them in just a long weekend.  This is an amazing organization and you can still sign the petition by clicking here.

-In the NBC/ Marist Poll, Gingrich has jumped 20 points in New Hampshire and is in striking distance of Romney .

-Buckingham Palace has had the first reception for the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee. Everyone seem to be able to make it with Kate and William smiling throughout. This kicks off a year of activities.

-Oh God, don't you wish you were an investor? On November 29, the Broadway smash musical Book of Mormon recouped its entire capitalization. It is all profit from now on and last week they played to a 102% house.

-The Los Angeles Times has a terrific story on openly gay philanthropist David Bohnett (below). He is currently the Chair of the Los Angeles Philharmonic and has given nearly $20 million to LGBT causes over the years. Be sure to read this wonderful article.

-Dr. Jeff Masters of WeatherUnderground.com writes that if Hurricane Irene's winds had just been 10 mph higher the subways of New York City would have completely flooded. The entire article is amazing about the consequences of the Hurricane in the New York City area.

-You can find hope in Massachusetts! Elizabeth Warren is leading incumbent Republican Scott Brown by 4% according to UMass Amherst Poll.

-ArtForum.com had director John Waters select his ten favorite movies of 2011.

-Sundance Film Festival will premiere the documentary on Bishop Eugene Robinson - "Live Free or Die." This film reunites the team of Macky Alston and Sandra Itkoff.

-Bil Browing of the "Bilerico Project" has a good article that will make you think twice before putting any money in the Salvation Army's little red buckets this holiday season.

-The second Presidential candidate to endorse marriage equality is a Republican. Former New Mexico Governor Gary Johnson joins openly gay presidential candidate Fred Karger in supporting same sex marriage.

-Love this youtube.com spot from Canada celebrating the nation's embracing of marriage equality.

Impressions...by David Mixner

 

 

Los Angeles
City Councilman Bill Rosendahl and City Council President Gil Garcetti Endorses Torie Osborn

-The race in California's 50th Assembly District is dividing the LGBT community in Los Angeles. Pitting long time lesbian activist and visionary Torie Osborn against a more establishment straight ally, Betsy Butler. Blogger Karen Ocamb of LGBTPOV has written an interesting article about the race.

-With the addition of former Equality California's Development Director Eric Harrison, the California organization "Love Honor Cherish" is still hoping to place marriage equality on the California ballot next November. Harrison will serve as Executive Director. At this stage, they face an uphill battle.

-In New York, three term Mayor Matt Alexander of Wappingers Falls has announced he is seeking the 19th Congressional district seat as an openly gay Democrat. The district lies just north of New York City and is currently held by a Tea Party Republican! The town, by the way, named after a native American tribe, lies in Duchess County,

-Climate change is all about extremes and not necessary being warm all the time. In a massive report, the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change says that extreme weather events are already occurring, inflicting great damage and loss of life. They urge all governmental entities to start preparing immediately for extreme weather events.

-The last week or two has been like an award show at the Glass House Tavern. Seen breaking bread at the West 47th Street eatery was Tony-nominated actor Bobby Cannavale (photograph), The Good Wife's Alan Cumming, Patti LaPone, Mandy Patinkin, Angela Bassett, Courtney Vance, Frances McDormand and husband Joel Coen , jazz legend Dave Koz and NBA's Commissioner David Stern!

-Herman Cain is the gift that keeps giving - at least to Newt Gingrich. As news of an alleged long term affair surfaced this weekend, Cain supporters are flocking to Newt. This strengthens the momentum that Gingrich is building. By the way, Iowa is just 33 days away....that's right...a little over a month!

-Speaking of Newt, the latest National poll has him at 32% and Romney at 23%. The spread keeps getting larger as Cain's gets smaller. Also a new CNN Poll has him with a seven point lead over Romney in Iowa. He lays it out for Iowa Conservatives by saying, "I don't claim to be the perfect candidate. I just claim to be a lot more conservative than Mitt Romney."

-Legendary blogger and radio personality Michelangelo Signorile has been anointed by the Huffington Post as the new "Editor-at-Large" on their "Gay Voices" page. This is a real coup for the Post.

-Former Massachusetts State Senator and President of GLAAD, Jarrett Barrios, has been selected to be the new head of the Massachusetts Red Cross.

-Universal Pictures cracked one billion dollars domestic gross so far in 2011 and another $1.3 billion in overseas revenues. Someone is getting a nice holiday bonus!

-Violent floods swept Italy this month and the following video will give you a taste of them.

-George W. Bush had to cancel a trip to Switzerland for fear of being arrested on torture charges. Just when you think it is all behind you, that pesky 'War Criminal' sobriquet rears its ugly head....

-Believe it or not, this is not good news. The Brazilian Wandering Spider can cause a four hour erection. Sound good? Not so fast buddy.....it also can cause intense pain and inflammation.

-If the Russian election for President were held today, Vadimir Putin's party would get only 53% according to the latest national poll.

-According to Sky News at least six people are dead in England after some evangelical churches had convinced them that they had been healed of HIV/AIDS by Jesus. They insisted the members of their churches stop taking their meds!

-At least 7% of American homeowners have lost their homes to foreclosure. Take a look at these listings for some homes selling for as much as $100 million and they are being bought by the 1%!

-Over 1,300 Germans were arrested (photograph above) as they attempted to stop a shipment of nuclear waste by rail across their country.

-Really bad news has arrived from the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. They have run out of money to fund any new grants around the world and won't be making any new ones until 2014!

- Meanwhile, according to CNN, southern American cities such as Atlanta, Memphis, New Orleans, Orlando and Charlotte are showing a dramatic increase in the number of new case of HIV/AIDS

-Incumbent Democratic Senator Bob Casey looks good for re-election in Pennsylvania. The latest Public Policy Poll has him with the closet Republican candidate still trailing by 11 points.

-To fully understand the impact of the great Japan earthquake watch the following video. It might appear confusing at first because of the language barrier but when it reaches the end of March you will have a shock. You only have to watch the first two and a half minutes. Be patient and check it out.

Impressions...by David Mixner

 

 

-The play that packed celebrities into the theater in New York City is now heading to the West Coast. The LA premiere of "8" will take place on March 3 at the Wilshire Ebell Theatre. The one night event again will be a benefit for the American Foundation for Equal Rights which is fighting Proposition 8 in the courts. Actor and Director Rob Reiner (above) will direct the Dustin Lance Black play.

-My friend Kenneth Walsh of "Kenneth in the (212)" fame has spectacular, fun and witty coverage of the OUT 100 party held this past week. Kenneth misses nothing that is going on in New York City.

-The Republican movement toward Newt Gingrich continues and for the first time "the Newt" leads in a CNN National poll. He leads Romney 24% to 20%. Pizza King Cain is at 17% and Rick Perry still manages somehow to find 11% of the voters who think he is smart enough to be President. Even more interesting is that the poll shows that 70% of Republicans would be pleased if he won the nomination. That is up from 51% in May!

-Continuing the Newt bandwagon is the Public Policy Poll from California which had "The Newt' at 33% and Romney at 23%!  Among Cain voters, 42% say Newt would be their second choice compared to only 12% for Romney.

-As we listen to the all the ranting from the Republicans, now would be a good time for you all to donate to Obama for President.

-NASA has released the most detailed and sharpest map of the moon ever. It is so beautiful that it makes you want to pick out a spot for your vacation home!

-Jazz legend Dave Koz has been nominated for a "Soul Train Award" for his classic "Hello Tomorrow." You can vote for him by just clicking here. Voting took me just five seconds - it is that easy.

-"Light Box" at Time.com has amazing portraits of American poverty. You suddenly realize it is your neighbor next door.

-For the first ever, student loan debt has passed American credit card debt. Seems to me if we wanted to 'stimulate' the economy then we should just forgive the student loan debt and watch all those young people start buying products for their homes.

-In a real academic coup, Dr. Cornel West (below)has decided to head to New York and join the faculty at Union Theological Seminary. West is one of the nation's leading intellectuals. Union took him from Princeton. West will be Professor of Philosophy and Christian Practices. Bet there are a lot of smiles at Union and not so many at Princeton!

-A tragic and horrible fire in India has devastated a celebration of 2,000 transgender people. At least 13 members of the community have died in the fire.

-The insanity gets more insane as one of the victims of alleged child molester Penn State's Jerry Sandusky was forced from his school in his senior year because of bullying. Again, the victim pays even a greater price.

-Michele Bachmann's new Iowa Chair Tamara Scott says if marriage equality continues then people can be married to objects like the Eiffel Tower according to "Gay Voices." Wonder if these people have ever heard the phrase "job creation?"

-Latest Public Policy Poll from California shows that if marriage equality was on the ballot statewide today that it would win 48% to 43% with the rest undecided.

-The Advocate is reporting that Kelly Ripa kind of got turned on by seeing her husband Mark Consuelos kiss Craig Bierko in the play 'Standing on Ceremony: The Gay Marriage Plays." Have always had a secret man crush on Bierko (photograph above).

-Speaking of California polls, President Obama can relax about the Golden State. He beats Mitt Romney his nearest opponent by 21 points. He beats "The Newt" by 26 points. That is called a major landslide!

-Americans are still stressed and divided over the war in Iraq. A recent Pew Poll showed that 48% of Americans believe going to war there was the right decision and 46% thinks it was the wrong decision. The remaining 4% can't believe we're still having this idiotic discussion...

-My heart goes out to the people of Egypt who continue to sacrifice their lives in the battle for democracy. In an effort to remove army generals from power they have taken to rallying again in Tahrir Square. Dozens have been killed in the last couple of days. Boston.com's Big Picture has nearly four dozens incredible photographs of this struggle. Here are some and be sure to click here to see the rest and the all important photographer credits!

 

Impressions...by David Mixner

 

 

-A massive fire swept the center part of Fire Island and it destroyed the Pavilion and other structures last night. At least one home was burnt to the ground. Among the buildings affected were La Fountaine, Sip N' Twirl and the Pines Bistro.

-The New Public Policy Poll has a new frontrunner in the race for the Republican nomination.  Newt Gingrich has 28%, Herman Cain has 25% and Mitt Romney trails Newts by 10 points with only 18%.  Poor Rick Perry is just at 6%.

-A major effort will take place in Washington State to gain full marriage equality over the next year. Unions, faith based groups, national organizations such as HRC and local LGBT groups are determined to have full marriage equality.

-Texas Governor Rick Perry might be saying "Oops!" again today. The new Wall Street Journal/NBC poll shows his support diving to a just mere 4%! Romney has now broken the 30% barrier with 32% and Cain still at a surprising 27%. Good ole Newt has now reached 17%. Could Romney finally be building some momentum?

-The President and Ms. Obama attended the APEC conference in Hawaii with Asian leaders. Handling much of the logistics for the entertaining of the leaders was White House Social Secretary Jeremy Bernard.

-Ohio is a must win state in 2012 and the President should be feeling good about it this week. After Labor's huge victory in the Nov 8th election, the polls show the President leading all of his Republican opposition by a comfortable margin. Romney comes closest but still 9 points behind Obama!

-Lots of fuss about the latest 11-11-11 numbers on the calendar. A hundred years ago with the same numbers in Janesville, Wisconsin they had a tornado that day that killed 9 people and then in one hour was in the middle of a raging blizzard! Now that is suffering!

-Poz.com is reporting that donations to HIV/AIDS organizations dropped 7% in 2010 compared to the previous year. Not only is the government cutting funds but so are many private foundations and corporations.

-LGBT citizens overseas see their situation grow graver by the day . Towleroad.com reports that in two states in Malaysia the penalties for being a homosexual could double and LGBT citizens could receive horrible caning and up to 40 years in prison which for some is like a life sentence.

-Handsome David Testo has become the first out MLS player. Testo used to play for soccer's Columbus Crew. He is still an active player with the Montreal Impact which joins the MLS next year. Testo was "Most Valuable Player in 2009." You can read more about him at Outsports.com.

-Democratic Senator Bill Nelson in Florida suddenly has a serious Republican to face in 2012. Congressman Connie Mack (the son of the a former US Senator) has decided to throw his hat into the ring. Polls show them running even. Rate this as a new toss-up race

-Change.org has launched a petition drive directed at the Los Angeles Police Department. Seems some enlightened person in the department has decided that it is not possible to 'rape a gay man.' It is hard to believe a sane person can hold that belief in this day and age.

-"Other Desert Cities" has become a huge hit on Broadway running at near capacity. Expect tons of Tony nominations around this production come awards season next spring!

-This is the first picture that I have seen of a young Mitt Romney on a Mormon mission in France in 1968. What you might not know is that the young Romney used his mission work to obtain deferments so he wouldn't have to go to Vietnam!

-Head over to the San Francisco Library for an important exhibit on LGBT history. The special exhibition is displaying the story of the first LGBT person to run for office. Jose Julio Sarria ran for the San Francisco Board of Supervisors in 1961! He was a drag performer at the famous Black Cat bar and received an amazing 5,600 votes!

-Allow me to offer special thanks to all my friends who have been so kind to help promote my book, "At Home With Myself" on Facebook, Twitter and Goggle +. Being unable to make a book tour because of health reasons it meant the world to me. Thank you so very, very much.

-Susan Boyle's "Someone To Watch Over Me" became her third album to top the UK's charts. She beat out some of the leading pop stars of this generation.

-Should we consider letting Texas become an independent nation? Even Michele Bachmann and Rick Santorum beat Obama in that puzzling and bizarre state!

-Only 9% of American approve of Congress according to the latest poll. If it goes much lower, then we will know even the families of the elected's are voting against them!

-The Insider Poll shows that Gingrich is now in second place in South Carolina trailing Cain by only 6 points.

-The new Politico/ George Washington University Poll shows Obama is vulnerable but he still leads Romney by 6%.

-The Barracks Bar in Palm Springs had a police incident this past weekend. Seems the Fire Marshall thought the bar was overcrowded. Now, I am all for safety standards in packed bars however instead of working with management to remove some folks they sent police, lights and what seemed like the entire force. This sounds more like harassment than overcrowding.

Impressions....by David Mixner

 

 

-Interesting times in the race for California District 50 Assembly seat. The California Federation of Teachers (and for that matter an enormous number of other endorsers) endorsed LGBT legend Torie Osborn for the seat. Running in the primary against her is Assemblywoman Betsy Butler who switched from another district when redistricting was completed to take on Osborn. Ironically, one of the few organizations that has not endorsed Osborn is the LGBT one. Equality California PAC endorsed her opponent. They didn't even interview Torie!  No wonder the organization has been having problems. What are they thinking? Shame. You can contribute to Osborn by clicking here!

-Sad news. Jack the Cat that went missing at Kennedy International Airport for months and was found has passed away. His time at the airport was just too tough.

-Longtime friend of the LGBT community Gerald W. McEntee, president of the labor giant AFSCME, has announced his retirement. He has always been there for LGBT Americans and we wish him a fulfilled retirement.

-The cast for the film version of "Les Miserables" just keeps getting better and better. Already Hugh Jackman, Anne Hathaway and Russell Crowe have joined the team. The most recent addition is young, talented and handsome Eddie Redmayne (photograph below) who will play the pivotal role of Marius.

-At the Glass House Tavern this week with Matthew Broderick meeting with some folks from "Bonnie and Clyde." Also breaking bread were the stars of "Venus in Furs" Hugh Dancy and Nina Arianda.

-Karen Ocamb of LGBTPOV has written a wonderful article on why it is important to remember gay and AIDS activist Bob Hattoy.

-Congratulations to Matt Rettenmund and BoyCulture.com on their sixth year anniversary. Matt is a sensational guy who puts amazing energy into his blog and is one of the nicest guys around. Wishing you six more, Matt!

-Equality Maine is working hard to get the signatures to place on the ballot a measure that would make marriage equality legal in the state. The latest Public Policy poll shows that 51% of the voters approve of the effort and 42% oppose the measure. A real shift has taken place among independent voters who now support marriage equality by 53% to 39%!

-Usually after being in office for a while voters start to become disenchanted with you. That certainly is not the case of Governor Andrew Cuomo who has an approval rating from New Yorkers of an astounding 70%! That is not easy to achieve in these crazy times.

-Sacha Baron Cohen has created another new character called Lord Christopher Monckton and he is as irreverent as ever! Take a look!

 

-The Conservative Party in Scotland has elected an open lesbian as their new leader. Taking charge is Ruth Davidson who is viewed as a devoted ally of Prime Minister David Cameron.

-Polls are showing that 61% of Americans approve of the way President Obama has handled the situation in Iraq. Another 66% approves of his policies on terrorism. Now if we can only create some jobs!

-There was a solar flare that was a strong X-2 on November 3. Take a look at the picture of this amazing phenomenon.

-Director Rob Reiner is planning on making a movie based on the Proposition 8 Court Case. All right, who will play Boies and Olson?

- A poll taken this week in Iowa during the Cain problems with his history of sexual harassment shows him still running strong and Gingrich coming on strong. Cain has 22%, Gingrich has 18% and Mitt Romney is third with 15%! Let's see what happens since another woman, the fourth, has come forward.

-Moment of LGBT Pride with the San Francisco Gay Marching Band being picked to be lead band in that city's Veterans Day parade.

-Stockton California Assembywoman Cathleen Galgiani has come out of the closet. The lesbian legislator was first elected to her district in 2006. We wish her well in her re-election. (via Towelroad.com)

-One of the worst hate crimes this year is the story of Texan Burke Burnett. The young man was at a Halloween party in Reno, Texas. Three male partygoers beat, stabbed and set him on fire. MSNBC's Thomas Roberts has the first exclusive interview with this 26 year old young man who survived the attack. As hard as it is to watch, you must view Roberts' excellent interview with Burnett.