It was brought to my attention that Panera Bread allegedly blocks my blog because it falls into the category of pornography and nudity. I say allegedly because I haven't tried for myself, not because I doubt the veracity of the report.  I appreciate the feedback and will be investigating. 

So I'm going to try hitting up the local free wi-fi spots to see if I can access my blog.  You can help by giving it a shot when you whip out the laptop at a local spot and letting me know. 

I would guess it happens at corporate spots more than local coffee houses. 

So far I can Voluto in the East End and the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh do not block my blog.  Last time I checked, The Quiet Storm and the Square Cafe also did not block my blog.

Why does it matter?  It is clearly annoying to me because it is my blog and I care about it.

But this is also about liberty and equality. My blog is about the LGBTQ community and the words "lesbian" "gay" "queer" are not offensive, pornographic or sexual.  To be lumped into those categories based on words is demeaning to our identities and offensive to me, both as a member of the community and a blogger.

It is not about free speech.  No one made a law saying Panera Bread or any other corporation has to block my site, so be careful.  But we as a community need to know when our views, opinions and information are being suppressed to "protect" people from being offended.  Then we need to speak up.

I'll keep you informed.  And I'll be taking my laptop with me more often. 

Michael Lamb

Rich Fitzgerald

Mark Flaherty

I'm not sure we can go too wrong with any of these candidates for Allegheny County Chief Executive.  I see domestic partner benefits on the horizon for Allegheny County employees (we are thiiiiiis close) which will pretty much seal the deal in terms of our region being a true leader with regard to equality. 

This is more important than ever when a local elected state official wants to write discrimination into the Commonwealth constitution.  We need to rally local Democrats in the House to stand up to this hate and insist they focus on our economy, healthcare, environment and so forth.  A strong ally in this office will prove valuable in this regard.

There is also the inevitable march of non-discrimination ordinances through Pennsylvania's municipalities.  Allegheny County's LGBTQ community needs to shore up our base so we can assist our sisters and brothers in Washington, Westmoreland, Butler, Beaver, Armstrong, Greene, Fayette and so forth.  It is their turn so we owe it to them to elect a County leader who will lead on our behalf.

Some day, we'll seat more LGBTQ folks at the tables, alongside our champion Bruce Kraus.  For now, we must insist that the women and men we do elect represent our community in their roles. 

Impulse Pittsburgh bills itself as a new monthly women's social event.  "The Girls are takin' back the 'Burgh!"

With the holidays over, the upcoming winter months may prove to be quiet and somber. The weather may bring a storm or two, and we'll naturally want to stay within the safety of the indoors. However, that doesn't mean we can't have some fun and be within the company of the most diverse and beautiful group of women in Pittsburgh! The burgh's newest monthly girl party is coming: January 15! and will prove to lift your spirits. Hence why our first theme will be: Winter Wonderland! Whether you're trying to get out of the house, love meeting new people, or just want to celebrate with your fellow LGBTQ crowd, you won't want to miss out! Impulse: Winter WonderlandDate and Time: January 15 from 9PM-2AM
Location: Tonic Bar @ Downtown! 971 Liberty Ave.
Door Fee: $5
Drink Specials: From 9-11PM!
Parking: Plenty of parking on the street or across the street at the David L Lawrence center for only $5 the entire night! 

Get ready for: 

-2 Floors will be all ours, and each will be decorated with winter splendor!
-Not 1, not 2, but 3 DJs from the Operation Sappho Crew! A warm intro to mary mack, drop that, and square peg, who will be spinning the beats all night.
-Drink Specials from 9-11PM - Dollar off all drinks in the bar, $2 off all speciality drinks!
-Photographers to capture the moments (of course, they will ask first!)
-Raffle Giveaways and Contests. Proceeds will go to The Trevor Project!

There is no dress code- come as you are. No pressure- only a good time! 

An RSVP is not necessary but appreciated! RSVP at our event group here: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=174887479200179

"When Winter wages her war
Don't show her mercy
Instead, act on your Impulses
And Dance the night away!"

Interesting development.  Pittsburgh is already home to Lez Liquor Hour which is more of Happy Hour held on a monthly basis, complete with some of the most erotic written imagery demonstrating the intense creative power of the organizer.