Thursday, February 12, 2015
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
Trending in the Fast Lane 2.0
Awareness Impact Addresses Agency Sustainability
Arkansas RAPPS,( Reaching, Affirming, Positive, Progressive, Systems) a Community Connector contractor is
sponsoring it's second Awareness Impact session, Thursday, February 12, 10 am - 2pm, 6401 West 12th Street. The session will address challenges and barriers of the changing healthcare landscape in regards to the impact on those living with HIV and AIDS by area agencies.
The sessions were the result of a focus group effort resulting in additional sessions to offer both a platform and forum for service providers and clients to dialogue concerning recent funding cuts, HOWPA service waiting lists, prevention funding initiatives and gaps in both linkage or retention in care. Organizers have invited Mr. Ezell Breedlove, of the Division of Volunteerism & Non-Profit Services to facilitate discussion on capacity building and agency assessment.
Concurrent to the forum, FREE HIV Testing will be available and open to the general pubic in recognition of Black HIV AIDS Awareness Day 2015. "We are all our brother's and Sister's Keeper," is this year's theme that also serves as a foundation for the Awareness Day Impact Summit being held during this testing opportunity.
Limited Seating is still available. Complimentary beverages and lunch will be provided. For more information or RSVP to 501-349-7777 Arkansas RAPPS is a proud contractor of the Community Connector initiative.
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/800223246703554/
Affordable Care Act 101 Webinars for Small Employers, Including Nonprofit Organizations
The 35th Annual National Convention of Black and White Men Together, July 14-18, 2015 in Newark, New Jersey. Watch this platform for some exciting news about why should want to attend! Stay tuned...!! Oh heck, why wait, get going to www.nabwmt2015newark.com Tell you heard it here first!
Arkansas RAPPS,( Reaching, Affirming, Positive, Progressive, Systems) a Community Connector contractor is
sponsoring it's second Awareness Impact session, Thursday, February 12, 10 am - 2pm, 6401 West 12th Street. The session will address challenges and barriers of the changing healthcare landscape in regards to the impact on those living with HIV and AIDS by area agencies. The sessions were the result of a focus group effort resulting in additional sessions to offer both a platform and forum for service providers and clients to dialogue concerning recent funding cuts, HOWPA service waiting lists, prevention funding initiatives and gaps in both linkage or retention in care. Organizers have invited Mr. Ezell Breedlove, of the Division of Volunteerism & Non-Profit Services to facilitate discussion on capacity building and agency assessment.
Concurrent to the forum, FREE HIV Testing will be available and open to the general pubic in recognition of Black HIV AIDS Awareness Day 2015. "We are all our brother's and Sister's Keeper," is this year's theme that also serves as a foundation for the Awareness Day Impact Summit being held during this testing opportunity.
Limited Seating is still available. Complimentary beverages and lunch will be provided. For more information or RSVP to 501-349-7777 Arkansas RAPPS is a proud contractor of the Community Connector initiative.
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/800223246703554/
Affordable Care Act 101 Webinars for Small Employers, Including Nonprofit Organizations
SBA and Small
Business Majority will host a free Affordable Care Act 101webinar so small
business owners can learn the basics of the Affordable Care Act and how they can
enroll in health insurance marketplaces. Deadlines for open enrollment is February 15, 2015. Need local information call 379-8203.
- February 12 at 2:00 PM ET: Click to Register
- February 19 at 2:00 PM ET: Click to Register
- February 26 at 2:00 PM ET: Click to Register
- March 5 at 2:00 PM ET: Click to Register
- March 12 at 2:00 PM ET: Click to Register
- March 19 at 2:00 PM ET: Click to Register
- March 26 at 2:00 PM ET: Click to Register
In addition,
Spanish-speaking small employers throughout the country can join representatives
from SBA, HHS and Small Business Majority for an ACA 101 webinar in Spanish.
Below is the registration link.
- February 24 at 4:00 PM ET: Click to Register
- March 10 at 4:00 PM ET: Click to Register
- March 24 at 4:00 PM ET: Click to Register
| This email was sent to nealix101@comcast.net using GovDelivery, on behalf of the U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services · 200 Independence Avenue SW · Washington DC 20201 · 1-877-696-6775 |  |
The 35th Annual National Convention of Black and White Men Together, July 14-18, 2015 in Newark, New Jersey. Watch this platform for some exciting news about why should want to attend! Stay tuned...!! Oh heck, why wait, get going to www.nabwmt2015newark.com Tell you heard it here first!
Have you liked us on Facebook yet? No, well should!! Check us out at www.facebook.com/corneliusonpoint
Tuesday, February 10, 2015
Trending In the Fast Lane
Arkansas On Blast....Again!
This week has taken off like a bullet and COP 24/7 watching all the fast trending news, updates, chatter, Twitter and Buzz feeds galore! So what's all the hub bub about, it's actions taken by our state legislature that has gone "viral" around the world! Yes my pretties, I have seen news feeds posted on sites in the United Kingdom all the way to information being translated into Japanese. Gosh, can you believe that our little old state gets to join the awkward judicial mess done in Alabama as the south gets the hot glare of being put on blast.
Who needs Kanye West, when you've got these set of folks supporting Hester's bill which would prohibit local governments from extending civil rights protection to any class not covered in state law. Undoubtedly, this is a response to the Fayetteville civil rights ordinance extending protection in employment, housing and public accommodations to LGBT people. It's pretty basic, let's make sure that this type of move doesn't happen again anywhere in our backyards. As we've been chided by some of our readers, to the fact that they "don't read" their news, they "watch it," COP 24/7 will scale up our video posting to help those reading challenged people to understanding what's really going on.
This week has taken off like a bullet and COP 24/7 watching all the fast trending news, updates, chatter, Twitter and Buzz feeds galore! So what's all the hub bub about, it's actions taken by our state legislature that has gone "viral" around the world! Yes my pretties, I have seen news feeds posted on sites in the United Kingdom all the way to information being translated into Japanese. Gosh, can you believe that our little old state gets to join the awkward judicial mess done in Alabama as the south gets the hot glare of being put on blast.
Who needs Kanye West, when you've got these set of folks supporting Hester's bill which would prohibit local governments from extending civil rights protection to any class not covered in state law. Undoubtedly, this is a response to the Fayetteville civil rights ordinance extending protection in employment, housing and public accommodations to LGBT people. It's pretty basic, let's make sure that this type of move doesn't happen again anywhere in our backyards. As we've been chided by some of our readers, to the fact that they "don't read" their news, they "watch it," COP 24/7 will scale up our video posting to help those reading challenged people to understanding what's really going on.
February PFLAG Meeting
Saturday, February 14, 2015
2:30pm-4:30pm
Satchemo’s – 1900 W. 3rd St., Little Rock 72205
Join PFLAG for a late lunch! Since last month’s meeting was so successful, we have decided to do it like this again!
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/609987589134820/
2015 Pride Fest Community Meeting
Saturday, February 21, 2015
4:00pm-6:00pm
Satchemo’s – 1900 W. 3rd St., Little Rock 72205
Want to be involved in making the 2015 Little Rock Pride Fest a success this year? Join us for the first community meeting! We have formed an Executive Board and are seeking members for our Advisory Committee!
We'll have our latest sponsorship packets ready to go, give a brief overview of where we are currently at with regards to this year's plans (budget, entertainment, ect.), and will be seeking your suggestions/feedback.
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1562866210624413/
Do you have testing questions? Need information about where to go or what to do? Need a FREE HIV Test? All this and more will be available
February 12, 10 am- 2pm, 6401 West 12th Street.
Call 501-404-2367 ext 102 for more information.
Get tested, Be informed, Stop HIV infections in Arkansas!!
Monday, February 09, 2015
The Monday Call To Actions
The Call To Action Continues
As promised, COP 24/7 is on its job to keep our readers updated on legislative moves and chicanery that is going on under the dome. It appears that HB 1228 (http://goo.gl/rcDdai) will be heard again tomorrow morning at 10 am in Room 149 as an order of special business and will be the first item on the agenda. As weve posted, this bill will allow the use of religion to discriminate against others.
Can you imagine that lawmakers would entertain such a measure as we continue to see law suits and all manner of judicial breakthroughs around equality across the nation. Most notably marriage equality now being stymied by a judicial actions despite rulings from other courts.
As promised, COP 24/7 is on its job to keep our readers updated on legislative moves and chicanery that is going on under the dome. It appears that HB 1228 (http://goo.gl/rcDdai) will be heard again tomorrow morning at 10 am in Room 149 as an order of special business and will be the first item on the agenda. As weve posted, this bill will allow the use of religion to discriminate against others. Can you imagine that lawmakers would entertain such a measure as we continue to see law suits and all manner of judicial breakthroughs around equality across the nation. Most notably marriage equality now being stymied by a judicial actions despite rulings from other courts.
HB 1273 (http://goo.gl/u0VDXL) will also be heard tomorrow in Room 138 at 10 am. This bill will allow a student to express their religious viewpoints in coursework, artwork, verbal or presentations, through their student religion club, and on any clothing, accessories, and jewelry.
This bill is problematic on numerous levels as a means to restrict personal expression which could range from not only what you are saying but perhaps what you may be wearing.
This bill is problematic on numerous levels as a means to restrict personal expression which could range from not only what you are saying but perhaps what you may be wearing.
As another Call to Acton, please call and write to your representatives and legislators. Your pride begins with your sharing your voice and not waiting for some one else to do it for you.
Arkansas Awareness Funds MIA
Over the past weeks COP 24/7 has been busy with seeking answers and explanations as to HIV/AIDS Awareness day funding that was piece meal awarded during the 2014 cycle. To date despite our outreach effort directly to parties involved, we have been amazed at the lack of response or sense of outrage at this dismal of local entities whom submitted proposals without any formal explanation to their denial.
Yes you heard that right. The folks who were denied funding don't seem interested in asking why? We sent out a "Call to Action," that appears to have fallen on deaf ears of most. So exactly what are we to take from all this non-action? If this forum is posting the facts from numerous credible sources concerning the disproportionate impact of infection rates among BMSM in Arkansas juxtaposed to being 1 percent of population isn't enough, then what is? Of course this forum believes that everyone should know their status and that any and all access to care should be available, however, we can't and won't dispute what Paul Kawata, Executive Director of National Minority AIDS Council states,
The statistics are mind numbing. At current rates of infection, 50% of black gay men will have HIV by the time they are 35 (8% of white gay men are infected). I’ve been accused of caring more for the black community then I do for my own people. I love being Asian and I will always be concerned about my community, but the numbers don’t lie. As an Asian gay man, I am fighting for black gay men because it’s the right thing to do. I am fighting for black gay men because like the civil rights movement, it’s going to take a rainbow of people fighting together to make a difference."
Amazing testimony that he shared as Black HIV AIDS Awareness Day 2015 came and went in Arkansas with those whom should be a part of recognizing this day sat on the sidelines in silence or found other distractions to their liking. This speaks volumes to why ADH takes a position that "you ask not, you get not," and that includes not only explanations but it seems a "whatever," attitude to make the point. NMAC's call to action is loud and clear. It is vital that we not take for granted that our public health officials are fully engaged. NMAC outlines that "innovative and strategic" measures should be pursued including looking at incentive programs for either the PLWH or healthcare providers.
As of right now, the newly launched Community Connectors initiative has been mired in barriers as to what constitute an "incentive" and how they can be used or not. More layers of impediment to doing what can be done within a system that finds all manner of barriers that fuel disinterest and lack of participation. Then we've got the 'big data," issue which this state is just now getting up to speed on scrubbing its numbers to make any sense. Where are the discussions on Prep usage and what about STI testing access? So all of this demands each of us to stay vigilant in understanding "what's not going on."
COP 24/7 urges all to continue to "ask the hard questions about what is Arkansas' plan to decrease infection rates? What exactly is our Linkage to Care results and how do we really know? Where is the Awareness Day funding that has been rolling from year to year without much awareness produced? Who is now accountable for any and all of this especially if we have additional infections or deaths due to the failures of public health? Is this thing on? Is anybody damn listening? Can I get a hell yeah! The floor is always open and light stays on at COP 24/7! Thank Paul Kawata for sharing your insights and passion that continue to ignite this forum around addressing this health dilemma.
Pride in the City
The 2015 Little Rock Pride Fest committee is preparing for its first community meeting, Feb. 22, from 4 -6pm at Satchemo's Bar and Grill, 1900 West 3rd. They have formed an Executive Board and are seeking members for our Advisory Committee as they move forward with planning this years festival.
According to organizer, Jenifer Pierce, sponsorship packets are ready to go which give a brief overview of this year's plans (budget, entertainment, ect.), and how the day long event will unfold. Last year up to 500 people were in attendance to both the pre-parade and other activities held on the Clinton Library grounds. Check out there web page at www.centralarkansaspride.com for more information on how you can help.
According to organizer, Jenifer Pierce, sponsorship packets are ready to go which give a brief overview of this year's plans (budget, entertainment, ect.), and how the day long event will unfold. Last year up to 500 people were in attendance to both the pre-parade and other activities held on the Clinton Library grounds. Check out there web page at www.centralarkansaspride.com for more information on how you can help.
COP 24/7 Zip Stream Message...
SAVE THE DATE, FEBRUARY 12, 2015
FOR FREE HIV TESTING AVAILABLE
FROM 10 AM -2PM, 6401
WEST 12TH STREET
INSIDE THE CENTRE AT UNIVERSITY PARK.
THIS COMMUNITY TESTING EVENT IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY
ARKANSAS RAPPS,
MOBILIZING ARKANSAS BROTHERS
WITH SUPPORT FROM COMMUNITY CONNECTORS INTIATIVE AND LINQ FOR LIFE, INC.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 501-404-2367
Friday, February 06, 2015
Fast Forward Friday
As this forum struggles to stay relevant and fight more those important "eyeballs," of social media readers. We continue to hear that "folks don't read." Especially the younger set which have opted to getting their news from "video" snippets and You Tube clips that "talk at them," instead of individuals taking the traditional time to "read" for clarity or that all important comprehension which could be the reason so much "misinformation," gets tossed around. Interesting enough is the fact that we added, should I dare say several years ago, a direct link to some of our favorite YouTube video's as well as COP 24/7 was among the first to post podcast to our page.
So it seems to me that we have been on the cutting edge for some time, yet we barnstorm forward as Arkansas' LGBTQ information leader. If you are not following us, then please opt-in subscribe, bookmark, "like" our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/corneliusonpoint or you can join our Circle of Friends through sharing your donation via our secured Pay pal portal. In the meantime, we'll see just how much more further we can go with this digital town square.
Legislative Call To Action Update
Two bills introduced yesterday morning that could make a significant impact on not only the LGBTQ set but from the wording it could have an impact on all Arkansans rolled through committee meeting onward for future consideration.
HB1228 (http://goo.gl/rcDdai) which seeks to allow religious-based discrimination and SB202 (http://goo.gl/Agd8yO)seeking to allow to prohibit cities from enacting fairness ordinances, came from the mindset of Hindsville's Rep. Ballinger (HB1228) and Rep. Hester of Cave City ( SB202). Although there was circulated "call to action," at post time, COP 24/7 was unaware to the depth of participation or impact.
Mainstream media offered "sound bites," from HRC State Director, K. Johnson and other local activist took to social media to share their concerns. As more developments around this "call to action," are assessed, COP 24/7 will break it out as we learn about it. Stay tuned...
OPEN ENROLLMENT ENDS FEBRUARY 15
Having Trouble Getting Care? Speak Up!
Are
you or a client having problems accessing HIV care or services with a health
plan? We want you to Speak Up!
The Speak Up project wants to hear about difficulties people living with HIV are having accessing health care, such as:
Go to the Speak Up web page and report any problems you or a client face with new Affordable Care Act health plans, or existing plans. When you Speak Up, you'll help thousands of others across the country.
This national project, led by AIDS Foundation of Chicago and the Center for Health Law and Policy Innovation at Harvard Law School, will monitor, catalogue, and analyze the problems experienced by people with HIV in the new system. Speak Up will identify issues that need to be addressed, bring them to the attention of state and federal policymakers, advocate for change, and report back to the community.
Let your voice be heard. If you can't get the care you need, Speak Up! Need more information call 501.379-8203.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) has developed step-by-step guides for people with loved ones who might have an addiction problem, or for people seeking to help themselves. They are in simple, "Q and A" format, and include easy-to-understand videos. These guides focus on the steps needed to determine if a person needs treatment; how to find it; what happens in treatment, how to find help paying for it; privacy issues, and more. The guides are on our Web site's Treatment section at http://www.drugabuse.gov/related-topics/treatment.
Note that these guides are customized into 4 categories:
Please spread the word about these useful guides, and look for a Spanish language version soon.
So it seems to me that we have been on the cutting edge for some time, yet we barnstorm forward as Arkansas' LGBTQ information leader. If you are not following us, then please opt-in subscribe, bookmark, "like" our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/corneliusonpoint or you can join our Circle of Friends through sharing your donation via our secured Pay pal portal. In the meantime, we'll see just how much more further we can go with this digital town square.
Legislative Call To Action Update
Two bills introduced yesterday morning that could make a significant impact on not only the LGBTQ set but from the wording it could have an impact on all Arkansans rolled through committee meeting onward for future consideration.
HB1228 (http://goo.gl/rcDdai) which seeks to allow religious-based discrimination and SB202 (http://goo.gl/Agd8yO)seeking to allow to prohibit cities from enacting fairness ordinances, came from the mindset of Hindsville's Rep. Ballinger (HB1228) and Rep. Hester of Cave City ( SB202). Although there was circulated "call to action," at post time, COP 24/7 was unaware to the depth of participation or impact.
Mainstream media offered "sound bites," from HRC State Director, K. Johnson and other local activist took to social media to share their concerns. As more developments around this "call to action," are assessed, COP 24/7 will break it out as we learn about it. Stay tuned...
OPEN ENROLLMENT ENDS FEBRUARY 15
Having Trouble Getting Care? Speak Up!
Are
you or a client having problems accessing HIV care or services with a health
plan? We want you to Speak Up! The Speak Up project wants to hear about difficulties people living with HIV are having accessing health care, such as:
· Problems getting prescription drugs
· Trouble accessing primary care
· Difficulty accessing HIV specialists
Go to the Speak Up web page and report any problems you or a client face with new Affordable Care Act health plans, or existing plans. When you Speak Up, you'll help thousands of others across the country.
This national project, led by AIDS Foundation of Chicago and the Center for Health Law and Policy Innovation at Harvard Law School, will monitor, catalogue, and analyze the problems experienced by people with HIV in the new system. Speak Up will identify issues that need to be addressed, bring them to the attention of state and federal policymakers, advocate for change, and report back to the community.
Let your voice be heard. If you can't get the care you need, Speak Up! Need more information call 501.379-8203.
New Step-By-Step Guides Available from NIDA
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) has developed step-by-step guides for people with loved ones who might have an addiction problem, or for people seeking to help themselves. They are in simple, "Q and A" format, and include easy-to-understand videos. These guides focus on the steps needed to determine if a person needs treatment; how to find it; what happens in treatment, how to find help paying for it; privacy issues, and more. The guides are on our Web site's Treatment section at http://www.drugabuse.gov/related-topics/treatment.
Note that these guides are customized into 4 categories:
- For teens seeking help
- For adults seeking help
- For parents or guardians seeking help for their teen or young adult child
- For people trying to help an adult loved one
Please spread the word about these useful guides, and look for a Spanish language version soon.
Thursday, February 05, 2015
The Thursday Take Out No.1
Crazy Button 2015
Arkansas Legislature Goes to the Deep End
Well here we go! Just when we thought possibly that we just might squeak by without being nationally put on full blast by our legislative folks, it just couldn't hold. I was so hoping that I would not have to get out the "we're crazy" button this year but it seems that I need to add on the "we're really crazy pills," too.
Two bills were introduced this morning that could make a significant impact on not only the LGBTQ set but from the wording it could have an impact on all Arkansans. Let's begin with
HB1228 (http://goo.gl/rcDdai) which seeks to allow
religious-based discrimination and SB202 (http://goo.gl/Agd8yO)seeking to allow to prohibit
cities from enacting fairness ordinances. Who thought this up right? They must be reveling in their brilliance. Just for the record, these two bills are brought to by Hindsville's Rep. Ballinger (HB1228) and Rep. Hester of Cave City ( SB202).
Let's make it simple, If these bills pass and allow for people to use their religion to dictate how they serve the public, it will not only disenfranchise LGBTQ Arkansas, it will lead to the discrimination of many other people across the board.
If for a moment can we even imagine in this day and time that a business owner can refuse service to someone with a religious affiliation which differs from their own. Haven't we already been outraged with the antics of the Clarkdale Church of Christ congregation whom decided that even in death there can be those who decide if you are worthy of respect.
LGBTQ students could be denied equitable access to education because their of teacher's beliefs or lack of competence such as the Pea Ridge incident where HIV status was used as weapon on young students. Currently the U.S. Constitution already protects a litany of freedoms including those around religion. So why in the heck are these bills being proposed as an attempt to allow people to openly discriminate against whomever they choose. Another "Lordt please let these folks come to their senses and don't embarrass even more than the Huckster!"
As much of this will already be in motion as we post. However, COP 24/7 stands with local activist and advocates in openly opposing these bills. We urge all of readers to contact ALL committee members as well as your own senator and representative and demand that they take a "eyes open wide," approach to this dastardly roll on human rights. Watch COP 24/7 for the latest breaking news on this and so much more!!!
Appeals Court Clears Way for Same-Sex Marriage in Alabama
By Pete Williams, NBCnews.com
North Carolina-based group releases online 'LGBT Rights Toolkit' for the South
By Matt Comer, qnotes (North Carolina)
The Campaign for Southern Equality’s new LGBTRightsToolkit.org focuses on 12 southern states, offering directories of LGBT-friendly attorneys and physicians, information on name and gender changes and copies of state-specific forms including healthcare power of attorney, wills and hospital visitation forms.
The group said the toolkit is designed to help LGBT southerners better understand and protect their rights.
“LGBT people in the South live with great dignity and courage and are often savvy navigators of the legals system, but the reality of discrimination persists and must be addressed,” the Rev. Jasmine Beach-Ferrara, executive director of the Campaign for Southern Equality, said in a press release on Monday.
The South, the Campaign said, continues to provide a hostile legal climate for LGBT people, despite a third of the nation’s LGBT people calling the region their home. The toolkit will help connect individuals with the proper resources and empower them to take the necessary steps to protect themselves and their families.
The need for the toolkit became more apparent as the Campaign for Southern Equality traveled across the region presenting their Community Law Workshops. At the events, volunteers and lawyers assist individuals in navigating legal questions, preparing wills and power of attorney forms, among other protections. At one such workshop at Charlotte Pride last year, just one of 13 such events, 144 people were able to complete healthcare power of attorney forms for free.
“We’ve really bulked up the resource lists over the past 18 months,” Campaign Communications Director Aaron Sarver told qnotes. “We get a good amount of calls and emails looking for LGBT-friendly attorneys. We’re always updating and building out those lists. And we’re just scratching the surface really.”
Sarver said some lists and resources on the Campaign’s main website have been gaining a lot of traffic over the past two years. They decided to take the resources among the most popular and provide easier access to them.
“We decided to make a more web friendly version and specifically build out the healthcare power of attorney forms and name change docs; there is a very high demand for those resources,” Sarver said.
The Campaign’s online resource is among the first of its kind in the South, though Sarver noted several other groups have been working in the South, as well, including Lambda Legal, state ACLU chapters and the Southern Poverty Law Center.
Focus on southern LGBT equality and organizing has grown over the past couple years, with national groups like the Human Rights Campaign launching their own southern organizing efforts. HRC’s Project One America has run advocacy and education ads on Mississippi TV stations, as well as placing field organizers in three states — Mississippi, Alabama and Arkansas.
River Valley Goes through Looking Glass
The River Valley Equality Center cordially invites you to join Alice, the Mad Hatter, the Queen of Hearts and more for an evening of tea and revelry at our 3rd Annual Equality Gala and Silent Auction on Saturday, March 14th from 6:30 - 10:00 pm at the Fort Smith Riverfront Pavilion.
Tickets can be bought in-person from a Board member for $50 or online in February for $55. A reserved table for 8 is $400. Buy your tickets now!
http://gala.rvecark.org/
Arkansas Legislature Goes to the Deep EndWell here we go! Just when we thought possibly that we just might squeak by without being nationally put on full blast by our legislative folks, it just couldn't hold. I was so hoping that I would not have to get out the "we're crazy" button this year but it seems that I need to add on the "we're really crazy pills," too.
Two bills were introduced this morning that could make a significant impact on not only the LGBTQ set but from the wording it could have an impact on all Arkansans. Let's begin with
HB1228 (http://goo.gl/rcDdai) which seeks to allow
religious-based discrimination and SB202 (http://goo.gl/Agd8yO)seeking to allow to prohibit
cities from enacting fairness ordinances. Who thought this up right? They must be reveling in their brilliance. Just for the record, these two bills are brought to by Hindsville's Rep. Ballinger (HB1228) and Rep. Hester of Cave City ( SB202). Let's make it simple, If these bills pass and allow for people to use their religion to dictate how they serve the public, it will not only disenfranchise LGBTQ Arkansas, it will lead to the discrimination of many other people across the board.
If for a moment can we even imagine in this day and time that a business owner can refuse service to someone with a religious affiliation which differs from their own. Haven't we already been outraged with the antics of the Clarkdale Church of Christ congregation whom decided that even in death there can be those who decide if you are worthy of respect.
LGBTQ students could be denied equitable access to education because their of teacher's beliefs or lack of competence such as the Pea Ridge incident where HIV status was used as weapon on young students. Currently the U.S. Constitution already protects a litany of freedoms including those around religion. So why in the heck are these bills being proposed as an attempt to allow people to openly discriminate against whomever they choose. Another "Lordt please let these folks come to their senses and don't embarrass even more than the Huckster!"
As much of this will already be in motion as we post. However, COP 24/7 stands with local activist and advocates in openly opposing these bills. We urge all of readers to contact ALL committee members as well as your own senator and representative and demand that they take a "eyes open wide," approach to this dastardly roll on human rights. Watch COP 24/7 for the latest breaking news on this and so much more!!!
Appeals Court Clears Way for Same-Sex Marriage in Alabama
By Pete Williams, NBCnews.com
Marriage
equality is set to begin in Alabama on Monday, February 9, when a stay will
expire in a federal court ruling that invalidated the state's ban on same-sex
marriage. The 11th Circuit Court of Appeals denied the state's request to extend
the stay.
"Same-sex marriages could begin as soon as next week in Alabama after a federal appeals court Tuesday decided not to suspend an earlier ruling that struck down the state's gay marriage ban. The state had asked the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to put a federal judge's ruling on hold while the Supreme Court is expected to take up four similar same-sex marriage cases from Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky and Tennessee — and definitively settle the issue nationwide.
"Same-sex marriages could begin as soon as next week in Alabama after a federal appeals court Tuesday decided not to suspend an earlier ruling that struck down the state's gay marriage ban. The state had asked the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to put a federal judge's ruling on hold while the Supreme Court is expected to take up four similar same-sex marriage cases from Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky and Tennessee — and definitively settle the issue nationwide.
"In a short,
unsigned order, the 11th Circuit court denied the state's appeal with no
explanation or noted dissent. The state could still ask the Supreme Court to
issue a stay."
North Carolina-based group releases online 'LGBT Rights Toolkit' for the South
By Matt Comer, qnotes (North Carolina)
The Campaign for Southern Equality’s new LGBTRightsToolkit.org focuses on 12 southern states, offering directories of LGBT-friendly attorneys and physicians, information on name and gender changes and copies of state-specific forms including healthcare power of attorney, wills and hospital visitation forms.
The group said the toolkit is designed to help LGBT southerners better understand and protect their rights.
“LGBT people in the South live with great dignity and courage and are often savvy navigators of the legals system, but the reality of discrimination persists and must be addressed,” the Rev. Jasmine Beach-Ferrara, executive director of the Campaign for Southern Equality, said in a press release on Monday.
The South, the Campaign said, continues to provide a hostile legal climate for LGBT people, despite a third of the nation’s LGBT people calling the region their home. The toolkit will help connect individuals with the proper resources and empower them to take the necessary steps to protect themselves and their families.
The need for the toolkit became more apparent as the Campaign for Southern Equality traveled across the region presenting their Community Law Workshops. At the events, volunteers and lawyers assist individuals in navigating legal questions, preparing wills and power of attorney forms, among other protections. At one such workshop at Charlotte Pride last year, just one of 13 such events, 144 people were able to complete healthcare power of attorney forms for free.
“We’ve really bulked up the resource lists over the past 18 months,” Campaign Communications Director Aaron Sarver told qnotes. “We get a good amount of calls and emails looking for LGBT-friendly attorneys. We’re always updating and building out those lists. And we’re just scratching the surface really.”
Sarver said some lists and resources on the Campaign’s main website have been gaining a lot of traffic over the past two years. They decided to take the resources among the most popular and provide easier access to them.
“We decided to make a more web friendly version and specifically build out the healthcare power of attorney forms and name change docs; there is a very high demand for those resources,” Sarver said.
The Campaign’s online resource is among the first of its kind in the South, though Sarver noted several other groups have been working in the South, as well, including Lambda Legal, state ACLU chapters and the Southern Poverty Law Center.
Focus on southern LGBT equality and organizing has grown over the past couple years, with national groups like the Human Rights Campaign launching their own southern organizing efforts. HRC’s Project One America has run advocacy and education ads on Mississippi TV stations, as well as placing field organizers in three states — Mississippi, Alabama and Arkansas.
River Valley Goes through Looking Glass
The River Valley Equality Center cordially invites you to join Alice, the Mad Hatter, the Queen of Hearts and more for an evening of tea and revelry at our 3rd Annual Equality Gala and Silent Auction on Saturday, March 14th from 6:30 - 10:00 pm at the Fort Smith Riverfront Pavilion.
Tickets can be bought in-person from a Board member for $50 or online in February for $55. A reserved table for 8 is $400. Buy your tickets now!
http://gala.rvecark.org/
Wednesday, February 04, 2015
Rolling Full Steam into February
Wow! January stumped out with a Super Bowl Weekend and now its time to roll full steam ahead into February with a fireworks display of topics, issues, highlights, spotlights and our ever ready "hot light" on what's really going on. Time is fleeting and we are keeping it "100" as we continue to post as to "what's really going on," and so much more. We have stood firm on that promise since our 2004 beginning.
If you are not a subscriber, then opt-in subscribe, want to support this effort through our Circle of Friends," then by all means use our PayPal portal to do so. Got content, send it. Want to back talk us, do it. We are COP 24/7 the states only daily LGBTQ blog now running for 10 years. With all that said, now let's dive deep to begin this weeks offerings...
Awareness Day Funding MIA
Last week this forum outlined the case of around our discovery that 4 local non-profit organizations were denied 2014 HIV/AIDS Awareness Day funding from the Arkansas Department of Health's Hepatitis /HIV Section. In a quick recap, a funding announcement was forwarded by Program
Manager, C. Hampton., five groups submitted proposals for funding with only one getting a partial award. Subsequently, other entities were denied funding, not officially notified in writing and no further explanations to the decisions. To date, LinQ for Life, Incorporated was sent a "e-mail" after a informal and unscheduled in-person Q&A about the snub, which cited that "additional information as to the denial would be requested."
According to the agencies founder Mr. L. Brown, " this was all that we received from ADH. And the only reason that we were sent this, was most likely due to the brief meeting where I inquired as to the rationale behind the decision. He continued, " we met their time line, submitted as requested and then got nothing but silence until recently. Is this how this agency works with possible community partners trying to assist with what I thought was their business to do?"
Apparently, this is business as usual as we continue to hear from other local entities who have all but decided to abandon working with this state agency in addressing health disparities. COP 24/7 actively sought out comments or observations from those who have encountered challenges and barriers working with this entity. As they continue to come in, we will post them, unedited and as examples to illustrate that these folks got some issues as well as explaining to do.
January 30, 2015
Hello Cornelius,
I wanted to chime in on your current situation with the
Arkansas Department of Health (ADH). As a person who came to the conclusion long
ago that there was no intersection between the community, ADH and public health,
I would like to thank you for calling it out.
In 2009 I read in the Arkansas
Democrat Gazette that after opening an office for a year, employing 3 people and
reaching over 1,500 high risk people with HIV awareness, testing and counseling
on a $50,000 dollar budget, only to be told that I then owed the state $6,000
for not documenting expenses correctly and having $14,000 held up for almost a
year by the governor at that time and to be sent an e-mail saying we found
nothing wrong, this is par for the course because no good deed will go
unpunished.
Still believing that the good of the people was the mission of ADH,
I still tried to operate within their guidelines which were never clear. In
return we got audits and myopic scrutiny. Policies were made up on the fly. The
planning group was a dog and pony show that never was supposed to do anything
except fulfill the obligation to have one.
Most of the programming was simply
meant to check the box so that the funding could continue from the Center for
Disease Control to fund salaries. Volunteering for every single committee that
I thought would help move HIV prevention into an era of better living for people
living or affected with HIV/AIDS, I found that no one sincerely cared.
Some
would act as if they cared but most just wanted their jobs. In essence, it has
been a smooth operating farce. A place where you could hide under the guise of
fear from legislators, low capacity community organizations, and limited
funding without ever admitting that it all was an excuse not to do your job of
preventing HIV and STD infections.
When there isn’t a single entity that has anything good to
say about an institution like this, what conclusion can you come to? Is everyone
wrong? No, the people are not wrong. There is a deadly virus feeding off the
host of public health and it is the section in which you speak.
Good Luck with this
Diedra Levi, CEO/Exec. Dir
The Living Affected Corporation
diedra@livingaffected.org
Social
Entrepreneurship Boot Camp Application Period Now Open
The
Winthrop Rockefeller Institute, the Clinton School of Public Service, the
Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub and the University of Arkansas Office of
Entrepreneurship are proud to announce a Social Entrepreneurship Boot Camp to be
held July 17-19, 2015, at the Institute on Petit Jean Mountain. Applications for
the boot camp will be accepted now through Jan. 31 and can be found at www.rockefellerinstitute.org/SEbootcamp.
The boot camp will provide training for new and aspiring social entrepreneurs, focusing on such topics as business skills, legal issues, scalability, measuring impact, ethics and benefit corporations. Participants will also receive one-on-one mentoring from established business leaders and social enterprise experts.Click here to read more...
The boot camp will provide training for new and aspiring social entrepreneurs, focusing on such topics as business skills, legal issues, scalability, measuring impact, ethics and benefit corporations. Participants will also receive one-on-one mentoring from established business leaders and social enterprise experts.Click here to read more...
Don't forget that February 15 is the last day of open enrollment for the ACA! Call 501-379-8203 for direct assistance and details. 
Also Save the Date, February 12th if you need to access FREE HIV testing at 6401 west 12th Street, 10am -2 pm Call 501-349-7777
for more information.
Tuesday, February 03, 2015
Twisted Tuesday Turn Out & More
Arkansas Community Shames State, AgainIts happened again. Another Arkansas community has raise the medusa head of homophobia, ignorance, discrimination and intolerance in the name of Jesus. The story broke in the Dallas Voice yesterday as COP 24/7 was already to post another item, but diverted to put this matter front and center.
While sorting the matter out COP 24/7 went deeper to get further clarity on the actual details as outlined by Mr. Jay Hoskins husband (right) to Mr. James Stone (pictured left) who was denied the right to have his funeral services at the Clarkridge Church of Christ in Mountain Home, Arkansas.
Mr. Hoskins shares the facts in the below post on the DV webpage. There is no doubt, that this is another demonstration that in many small pockets of the state, we have citizens who exude outright discrimination and a distinct abuse of human rights. We've seen it not only in Mountain Home, but cases raging from school children in the Pea Ridge required to provide HIV test results to numerous unsolved murders of transgendered individuals in the Forrest City and Little Rock areas.
This forum fully understands that we live in a land where we have many unbridled freedoms in speech and religion, yet many call out other countries for their lack of human rights while practices of this congregation highlights otherwise. COP 24/7 abhors their actions and our condolences as well as prayers go out to the Mr. Hoskins and his extended family who have been totally disrespected by these congregants, and those who stood by and condoned this behavior. As Mr. Hoskins has ask supporters to send letters or acknowledgements to our disgust to these folks and we believe that we should also send educational information for them to review as well. Are you up to the challenge? Then do so and let COP 24/7 know what you sent and if you encouraged others to do so also.
The following item is unedited and submitted by the writer.
"I am James' "legal" husband of nearly 6 months, and we had been together for over 10 years. Yes, this incident happened. And yes, it was out of the fundamentalist Clarkridge Church of Christ, amongst others. I just learned of the media coverage of this issue in the past couple of hours on the Voice. I have been contacted by local media in the last hour.
I can tell you that there were not only issues having a service for him, but also in so much as that one or more members of the Clarkridge Church of Christ called and "CANCELLED" our family get-together after the service, and that TWO members of the Clarkridge Church of Christ, Jerry and Vicki Oels gave James grieving mother, myself and the preacher a nice big envelope each
One filled with over 10 pages of Bible passag...es condemning us to hell, referencing God's marriage laws, marriage amongst people and animals, and then a sympathy card.
I HAVE NEVER EXPERIENCED SUCH HATE AND BIGOTRY in my life. James was taught not to be bigoted, hateful, and would not have approved of this.
James did not die of Sjogren's Syndrome. He died a tragic death of suicide where his poor mother and myself found him hanging from a ceiling fan. I tried unsuccessfully to revive him, but it was too late.
To the people of Clarkridge, including his own family, RUTH STRAIN, RAY WAYE, ROY (JUNIOR) STONE and JACKIE STONE- you all will be judged just as everyone else. The same goes for VICKI and JERRY OELHS.
And for anyone who would like to send their thoughts to Jerry and Vick Oels, you can write them at
JERRY AND VICKI OELS
3843 CR 37
CLARKRIDGE AR 72623
I can be reached via email at jhoskins2 at symbol att.net
Time to get out the "We're Crazy Button 2015!"
Arkansas lawmaker proposes ban on local LGBT-inclusive non-discrimination laws
An Arkansas lawmaker on Monday proposed barring local governments from making it illegal to fire someone or evict them based on their sexual orientation or gender identity, a move that gay rights supporters said would set a dangerous precedent.
Bart Hester
State law doesn’t currently prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation.
The proposal comes nearly two months after Fayetteville voters repealed a city ordinance that made it illegal to discriminate against someone based on their sexual orientation or gender identity in the areas of housing, work and public accommodation.
Hester said his proposal was a response to that ordinance, saying he believed local governments having varying discrimination laws could deter businesses from moving to the state.
“It’s very difficult to recruit someone here when we’re going to have different civil rights ordinances in different cities,” Hester said. “We need some uniformity.”
The Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest LGBT civil rights organization, denounced Hester’s proposal and said it would take away cities’ ability to govern themselves.
“Local leaders in Arkansas should be allowed to choose what’s right for their own city or town,” Kendra Johnson, the group’s Arkansas director, said in a statement.
“It’s crystal clear that the motivation for this bill is to stifle local efforts to advance equality for LGBT Arkansans,” said Johnson. (AP sourced)
Save the Date,
February 12, 2015,
FREE HIV Testing
10am to 2pm at 6401 West 12th Street
inside The Centre at University Park.
Join Us for the Awareness Day Impact Summit sponsored by Arkansas RAPPS, Mobilizing Arkansas Brothers, Community Connectors and LinQ for Life, Incorporated.
For more info or RSVP for summit seating
call 501-349-7777
Monday, February 02, 2015
Super Bowl After Glow
Another Super Bowl has engaged the masses with high profile players, commercial's for all to either love or hate, and enough calories to keep folks running to the nearest gym for at least the next week. With all the hoopla now an after fact and non matter whether your team won or not. COP 24/7 keeps on churning out the next week of "what had happen," from items near and far. Let's not waste a minute as we unpack the latest...
God, Gays, Grits and Gravy: The Huckster Speaks
I just want to thank all my comrades around the country who couldn't help remind me that Former Gov. Mike Huckabee is from the great state of Arkansas.
It was so great to hear from them as they pondered just what the heck is the "Huck" talking about yet again, when he speaks of "having some gays as friends, even musing about not hating gays and on the Sunday talk show circuit, waxing on about his non-evolving on same-sex marriage which the rest of us call "marriage equality." Let's not forget this is the same guy that gave us the "Uncle Sugar" reference about people he felt were welfare bound to the government. "Talking about a "my sweet Jesus moment!" However let's be clear, we do live in a country where we embrace free speech and choice of religious beliefs. And with his $5 million dollar net worth, I guess he can say whatever since he's not worried about paying his gas or electricity bill.
As usual Huckabee is making noise as we began the 2016 presidential race to 1600 Penn Avenue along with the rest of the candidate clown car. At this point the car has made a stop and exited Mitt Romney who made a early call that he's not the one. However, Huckabee's own exit from his Fox talk platform, book tour and Iowa forum stop and of course more his home spun thoughts about why Christians are being persecuted for their beliefs and so forth and so on, is terrific fodder for the media starving for the next hot topic sound bite.
Just so you know, I am extremely proud of my Arkansas roots. I proclaim it all across the country on my junkets to conferences and or other outreach efforts. Often times, since I am among the few from this state, I get remembered from that stance and hopefully my winning personality as well. Nevertheless, I never shy away from folks from my home state whether it's the recent MLK antics of Jermaine Taylor or rap artist TI being sent to the pokey or the Huckster speaking his mind. As Julia Sugarbaker said clearly. "Here in the South, we love all our crazy folk. Its just our way!" Here's one of the items that I was privy to see...
We Shall Not Be Removed: The State of HIV/AIDS Among Black Gay and Bisexual Men
a four-part Google Hangout series hosted by AIDS United, brings together experts, visionaries and thought leaders from across our LGBT and HIV communities to discuss:
God, Gays, Grits and Gravy: The Huckster Speaks
I just want to thank all my comrades around the country who couldn't help remind me that Former Gov. Mike Huckabee is from the great state of Arkansas.
It was so great to hear from them as they pondered just what the heck is the "Huck" talking about yet again, when he speaks of "having some gays as friends, even musing about not hating gays and on the Sunday talk show circuit, waxing on about his non-evolving on same-sex marriage which the rest of us call "marriage equality." Let's not forget this is the same guy that gave us the "Uncle Sugar" reference about people he felt were welfare bound to the government. "Talking about a "my sweet Jesus moment!" However let's be clear, we do live in a country where we embrace free speech and choice of religious beliefs. And with his $5 million dollar net worth, I guess he can say whatever since he's not worried about paying his gas or electricity bill.
As usual Huckabee is making noise as we began the 2016 presidential race to 1600 Penn Avenue along with the rest of the candidate clown car. At this point the car has made a stop and exited Mitt Romney who made a early call that he's not the one. However, Huckabee's own exit from his Fox talk platform, book tour and Iowa forum stop and of course more his home spun thoughts about why Christians are being persecuted for their beliefs and so forth and so on, is terrific fodder for the media starving for the next hot topic sound bite.
Just so you know, I am extremely proud of my Arkansas roots. I proclaim it all across the country on my junkets to conferences and or other outreach efforts. Often times, since I am among the few from this state, I get remembered from that stance and hopefully my winning personality as well. Nevertheless, I never shy away from folks from my home state whether it's the recent MLK antics of Jermaine Taylor or rap artist TI being sent to the pokey or the Huckster speaking his mind. As Julia Sugarbaker said clearly. "Here in the South, we love all our crazy folk. Its just our way!" Here's one of the items that I was privy to see...
"So Mike Huckabee goes on CNN State of the Union today and talks about what a tragedy it is that people who support same-sex marriage are completely intolerant of Christians--so intolerant that they won't even engage Christians in debate. But then he goes on to say that it would be impossible for him to change his opposition to same-sex marriage, and that, by definition, a Christian must be opposed. Since there is no point having a debate unless both sides are open to the other's point of view, I'm amazed at how, in the same interview, Mike Huckabee decided he was for debate before he decided he was against it." Paul Hawkins, MemphisThank you NABWMT brother Hawkins for sharing his Huckabee sighting with hopes that he will must look away before he turns to stone. And that goes for everyone else who happens upon anybody spewing rhetoric around "God, Guns, Grits and Gravy." Excuse me, I'll take some gays and gravy to go.
We Shall Not Be Removed: The State of HIV/AIDS Among Black Gay and Bisexual Mena four-part Google Hangout series hosted by AIDS United, brings together experts, visionaries and thought leaders from across our LGBT and HIV communities to discuss:
- the impact of HIV on gay and bisexual men of color;
- how this issue relates to and stems from parallel social justice movements; and
- innovative strategies that could help alleviate the epidemic.
"Legacies
and Lunch: Black History Month," a panel discussion
In partnership with the Butler Center for Arkansas
Studies
In honor of Black History Month, Legacies and Lunch will feature Henderson State University history professor John Graves, Arkansas State University history professor Cherisse Jones-Branch, community leader Freeman McKindra Sr., and Butler Center staff member Rhonda Stewart on the benefits and detriments of denoting a specific month for African American history. The panel will explore ideas of the promotion of Black History Month, building commitment to the history of African Americans, and even the idea of leading to decreased attention to this topic in other months.
When: Wednesday, February 4, 2015 at 12:00 p.m.
Where: CALS Ron Robinson Theatre, 100 River Market Avenue, Little Rock, AR 72201
*Reserve your seats by emailing publicprograms@clintonschool.uasys.edu or calling (501) 683-5239.
In honor of Black History Month, Legacies and Lunch will feature Henderson State University history professor John Graves, Arkansas State University history professor Cherisse Jones-Branch, community leader Freeman McKindra Sr., and Butler Center staff member Rhonda Stewart on the benefits and detriments of denoting a specific month for African American history. The panel will explore ideas of the promotion of Black History Month, building commitment to the history of African Americans, and even the idea of leading to decreased attention to this topic in other months.
When: Wednesday, February 4, 2015 at 12:00 p.m.
Where: CALS Ron Robinson Theatre, 100 River Market Avenue, Little Rock, AR 72201
*Reserve your seats by emailing publicprograms@clintonschool.uasys.edu or calling (501) 683-5239.
Need FRE HIV Testing? It will be available February 12, 6401 West 12th Street, 10 am. - 2pm. Join Arkansas RAPPS, Mobilizing Arkansas Brothers, Community Connectors and LinQ for Life, Inc. as we continue to provide educational outreach services to across the community. For mobile testing options, call 501-404-2367. For more information on this Awareness Day event, call 501-349-7777 or check out www.linqforlife.com
Are you following us on Facebook? Then why not, come like us at www.facebook.com/corneliusonpoint
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