S.A. Scouts prepared to admit gay youths
San Antonio Express-News, May 24, 2013
A decision Thursday to allow gay youths to join the Boy Scouts without the threat of being ousted because of their sexual orientation will not change the organization's mission in San Antonio, local Scout leaders said.

Rolando Briones says LGBT ordinance changes impose 'unwanted values'
QSanAntonio, May 23, 2013
Rolando Briones, candidate in the runoff election for City Council District 8, has aligned himself with Pastor Gerald Ripley and his followers in opposing the inclusion of LGBT protections in the city's non-discrimination ordinances.

Pride San Antonio to allow HIV testing at festival
KROVFM.com, May 23, 2013
After 10 years of trying, HIV/AIDS advocates are finally able to provide free HIV testing and counseling at San Antonio’s Gay Pride Festivities.

Sexually confused: LGBT ordinance opponents
San Antonio Current, May 22, 2013
Pastor Charles Flowers says he plans to fight for his right to discriminate. That is, against “the homosexuals, the transsexuals,” and any other permutation of human sexuality that doesn’t fit the man+woman=child patch he and other supporters wore on their lapels in the City Council chambers Tuesday afternoon.

Video: City council subcomittee discusses anti-discrimination policy
KENS5.com, May 22, 2013
A city council subcommittee met Tuesday to discuss expanding anti-discrimination protection to include sexual orientation and gender identity.

LGBT ordinance changes slowed by Governance Committee vote
QSanAntonio, May 22, 2013
The City Council Governance Committee voted unanimously on May 21 to have the city attorney create a draft of proposed changes to the city's anti-discrimination ordinances and then discuss the issue with the entire City Council at a "B" session, sometime in June.

Anti-bias proposal for S.A. provokes a battle
San Antonio Express-News, May 22, 2013
Groups of evangelical Christians and human rights advocates clashed Tuesday at City Hall, where a City Council subcommittee deliberated adding anti-discrimination protection for sexual orientation, gender identity and veteran status.

Bernal gets support, backlash on anti-discrimination expansion proposal
Texas Public Radio, May 22, 2013
The San Antonio City Council could soon take up an anti-discrimination ordinance to include additional groups. District 1 Councilman Diego Bernal proposed a policy that would also be consolidated with other anti-discrimination regulations that he said are scattered about in a constellation of codes and ordinances.

LGBT community supports anti-discrimination ordinance
San Antonio Express-News, May 19, 2013
Community organizations rallied Saturday to discuss steps toward achieving justice for San Antonio's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender residents as city council members prepare to deliberate updating the city's anti-discrimination policies this week.

Equality Texas Brunch, Sharon Gless Guest Appearance
By Lee Cusenbary, San Antonio Express-News, May 19, 2013
My wife and I were pleased to attend the Equality Texas Brunch fundraiser at The Witte Museum this morning to learn more about the lobbying to end discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity/expression.

Anti-LGBT pastor and followers want rollback of city's DP benefits
QSanAntonio, May 17, 2013
Pastor Gerald Ripley of Voices for Marriage and Phillip Sevilla, president of the Texas Leadership Coalition, are demanding the city cease giving benefits to same-sex partners of city employees because the Texas attorney general has said such benefits are unconstitutional under state law.

Faith as a cudgel to assault gays
By Ricardo O. Pimentel, San Antonio Express-News, May 17, 2013
Disdain based on hate and disapproval based on faith are shades of the same hurtful bias if the effect of both is to deny benefits and rights. These range from health insurance coverage to the right to wed whom you wish.

Equality Texas brunch and Rick Perry’s “Pop Culture” video
By Lee Cusenbary, San Antonio Express-News, May 17, 2013
Some friends of ours asked my wife and I to attend an Equality Texas Spirit of Texas Brunch 2013 this Sunday at The Witte Museum. I don’t know much about the group yet except that I like the idea of equality for everyone so we’re going to attend and learn some more. As a general rule, I try to learn about something before having an opinion about it.

Groups demand end to city's domestic partner benefits
San Antonio Express-News, May 16, 2013
Leaders of two Christian groups want City Council to stop extending benefits to domestic partners of city employees, now that the state attorney general has called the benefits unconstitutional. City officials reject the demand, at least for now.

Barry Manilow holding instrument drive for SAISD
KSAT.com, May 16, 2013
Barry Manilow will not only be performing in concert on Saturday evening, but the music legend will also be holding an instrument donation drive, benefiting the San Antonio Independent School District.

Reviving la CAUSA
San Antonio Current, May 13, 2013
Last week, with much of City Council stuck in campaign season crunch time, downtown Council member Diego Bernal sought to deliver on a promise he made to the LGBT community nearly two years ago.

Fiesta Frenzy nets $4500 for Pride Center
QSanAntonio, May 14, 2013
Organizers of the 14th Annual Fiesta Frenzy were beaming this week with the announcement that the April 24 production at the Woodlawn Theater raised $4500 for Pride Center San Antonio.

Local Lutheran synod votes to support LGBT-related resolutions
QSanAntonio, May 9, 2013
The Southwestern Texas Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America voted in favor of three LGBT-related resolutions at its annual Assembly in Kerrville, Texas May 4 and 5.

Bernal outlines path to LGBT ordinance changes
QSanAntonio, May 8, 2013
In remarks made at the May 7 meeting of CAUSA (Community Alliance for a United San Antonio), City Councilman Diego Bernal outlined a timeline and the bureaucratic steps needed to enact changes to city ordinances to include LGBT protections.

'Governor' Van de Putte an advocate for equality
San Antonio Express-News, May 6, 2013
Sights and sounds of San Antonio poured into the Texas Senate on Saturday as state Sen. Leticia Van de Putte became governor for a day. In her address, Van de Putte urged colleagues to pass her Senate Bill 237, which would ban employers from discriminating based on sexual orientation or gender expression.

Dining on a budget - W.D. Deli
San Antonio Express-News, May 5, 2013
If you don't get to W.D. Deli before noon, good luck snagging a table. It's been like that from the time it opened in 1990 in a small space in Olmos Park, and it continued after it moved to Broadway in 2002. Most days, it's not unusual to see the line to order extend to the front door.

Sharon Gless to headline Spirit of Texas Brunch
QSanAntonio.com, May 4, 2013
Organizers of the Equality Texas Spirit of Texas Brunch this week announced that Emmy-award winning actress Sharon Gless will be a guest speaker at the annual fundraiser on May 19 at the Witte Museum. It was also announced that State Senator Leticia Van de Putte and San Antonio PFLAG founder Yvonne Jonas will be honored with awards.

30-year sentence for killer who targeted cross-dresser
San Antonio Express-News, May 2, 2013
A San Antonio man who admitted to brutally attacking and killing a cross-dressing man who he thought was a woman agreed Wednesday to a 30-year sentence. Morris, who was serving a four-year term for an unrelated aggravated assault, acknowledged to detectives that he was the one who hit Sanchez, 49, over the head with a beer bottle and stabbed him more than a dozen times in the head, neck and torso.

AG says city workers' same-sex benefits 'unconstitutional'
San Antonio Express-News, April 30, 2013
San Antonio officials on Monday were analyzing an attorney general's opinion saying the Texas Constitution prohibits the city and other local entities from creating a legal status of domestic partnership and offering benefits to same-sex partners. Mayor Julián Castro issued a statement late Monday disputing the opinion.

Alva testifies in favor of equal employment bill
San Antonio Standard Times, April 26, 2013
Retired Marine Staff Sgt. Eric Alva, a prominent LGBT advocate, gave his testimony Wednesday morning to the House Economic and Small Business Development Committee, where lawmakers laid out bills that would prohibit sexual orientation discrimination.

Political support grows for same-sex marriage
By Mayor Julian Castro & Paul Wolfowitz, Houston Chronicle, April 26, 2013
We stand together, the Democratic mayor of San Antonio and a senior appointee in three Republican presidential administrations, united in our support for the freedom to marry and an end to the discrimination caused by the Defense of Marriage Act which treats one legally married couple differently from another.

Cornyation 2013 sold out
KSAT.com, April 23, 2013
Cornyation has been a sold out Fiesta tradition for the past 30 years. Since its inception, it has raised more than a million dollars to local charities such as San Antonio Aids Foundation, Beat Aids, and many other organizations.

No sacred cows at Cornyation
San Antonio Express-News, April 24, 2013
“Glitter heals all ills,” Cornyation co-host Rick Frederick said at the top of Tuesday's opening performance. If that's true, the packed house at the Charline McCombs Empire Theater was feeling no pain by the end of the night. (The long lines at the bars may have had something to do with it, too.)

Cornyation: Fiesta's Lewd, Crude And Rude Celebration Of The Offbeat
Texas Public Radio, April 25, 2013
For three days the traditional Fiesta is turned upside down as an event known as Cornyation rips apart political correctness and turns it into a stage act dramatizing current events. Cornyation may be lewd, but the party with the purpose is left intact.

San Antonio GLBTQ Publications: A Portal to the City’s Queer Past
By Melissa Gohlke, UTSA Libraries, April 22, 2013
As interest in queer history grows, the need to provide broad access to GLBTQ publications has intensified efforts to digitize queer materials. Last year, UTSA Libraries Special Collections began ongoing digitization of queer periodicals housed in its repository as well as those held by the Happy Foundation Archives.

Sen. Van de Putte invites community to Governor for a Day ceremonies
QSanAntonio, April 15, 2013
State Senator Leticia Van de Putte (D-San Antonio) has invited San Antonio's LGBT community to her swearing-in ceremony as Governor for a Day on May 4 in Austin. She is even providing free transportation to the event.

Photos: Illusions of Opera
QSanAntonio Facebook Album, April 21, 2013
The second annual Illusions of Opera presented a spoof of the opera Aida. The 30-minute production included belly dancers, drag queens, opulent costumes and starring Miss Kitty Litter.

Photos: Webb Party - Pop Candy
QSanAntonio Facebook Album, April 19, 2013
The annual Webb Party benefiting the San Antonio AIDS Foundation brought a couple of thousand revelers to the Lambermont Estate in Government Hill.

Latina lesbian is candidate for mayor
QSanAntonio, April 20, 2013
In what is no doubt a first for the city of San Antonio, a Latina lesbian has thrown her hat into this year's mayoral race.

GetEqual's Craigslist help-wanted ads another form of outreach
QSanAntonio, April 20, 2013
GetEqual Texas initiated a unique outreach this week by placing want-ads on Craigslist in Texas cities that do no offer their citizens protection from discrimination based upon sexual orientation and gender identity. The job ads were distinctive in that they said, "Heterosexuals need not apply."

For a fiesta, remember San Antonio
Advocate.com, April 19, 2013
When you visit San Antonio, you’ll no doubt remember the Alamo, but you’ll also find much more that’s memorable about this beautiful, diverse, LGBT-friendly South Texas metropolis: delicious Mexican-influenced food, culture high and low, and a readiness to party, especially for a good cause. And springtime, a perfect season to visit San Antonio, is when the city hosts its annual “party with a purpose,” Fiesta San Antonio.

Q Fest Brings LGBT-themed films closer to home
San Antonio Current, April 17, 2013
On April 21-23, San Antonio Q Fest will make its inaugural pitch to be the next incarnation of a local gay and lesbian film festival. Of the 18 short and feature-length films that will screen at the three-day Q Fest, most have LGBT themes and storylines. The few that do not are either directed or written by someone in the LGBT community.

Generosity is the norm at Sparky's Pub
San Antonio Current, April 17, 2013
Located on the Main Strip, and catering to the LGBT community seven days a week, Sparky’s Pub stays true to its English inspiration, albeit with a few twists.

'Rainbow Lounge' documentary to screen at San Antonio Q Fest
QSanAntonio, April 18, 2013
"Raid of the Rainbow Lounge," a documentary that recounts the 2009 police raid of a Ft. Worth gay bar, will receive a screening at the San Antonio Q Fest on April 23 at the Josephine Theater.

Tea party PAC: Democrats simply more corrupt
By Brian Chasnoff, San Antonio Express-News, April 16, 2013
The group is retaliating against the council's decision in 2011 to offer benefits to domestic partners of city employees. Or, as the group's Facebook page puts it: “San Antonio City Council Object of Wrath for Allowing Homosexual Benefits.”

Lackland trainer on trial for abuse charges
San Antonio Express-News, April 16, 2013
A former Air Force training instructor faces life in prison on charges of sexually assaulting an airman and abusing 16 other recruits in basic training after giving bizarre orders to the victims — all men.

Texas should ban job bias against gays
Editorial, San Antonio Express-News, April 16, 2013
Texas has laws to protect employees from discrimination based on race, color, disability, religion, gender and national origin. Conspicuously absent from that list is sexual orientation. A bill by state Sen. Leticia Van de Putte, D-San Antonio, would add that and gender identity or expression. It deserves approval.

Castro, 8 council members face ethics complaints
San Antonio Express-News, April 14, 2013
A Southeast Texas political group has filed complaints alleging improper reporting and other infractions in campaign finance documents against nine City Council members, including the mayor. The group says it's retaliation against the council's 2011 decision to offer benefits to the domestic partners of city employees.

Cornyation's cause a winner for King Acvhovy
San Antonio Express-News, April 14, 2013
Most people wouldn't want anchovies on a pizza, nor would they want a bowl of them heated up in the office break room, but if you're going to tear American society and high society to shreds, you need at least one. Enter former U.S. Rep. Charlie Gonzalez, who serves as King Anchovy XLVIII for this year's Cornyation, known as the drunk uncle of Fiesta events.

Rabbi Barry Block lands job in Arkansas
San Antonio Express-News, April 14, 2013
Next month, the congregation will bid Rabbi Barry Block farewell at a Friday service, thanking him for a 21-year tenure and congratulating him on his new post as senior rabbi of Arkansas' largest Jewish congregation. Block is credited with helping to accommodate diverse worship preferences and members, including gay and interfaith couples and Jewish converts.

Commentary: We still support equality
By Orlando E. Gutierrez, QSanAntonio, April 12, 2013
The Stonewall Democrats of San Antonio strives to be an organization that is actively “Leading the Fight for Equality.” In a recent meeting, open to the public, our members heard from candidates seeking our endorsement for mayor and city council. After hearing from 23 of the 31 candidates on the ballot our members then convened to vote on the endorsements for these city council positions.

Commentary by Darrell Parsons: I still support Mayor Castro
By Darrell Garcia Parsons, QSanAntonio, April 11.
This week, a local LGBT political organization reaffirmed their decision to not endorse San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro's re-election bid. As a member of the LGBT community, I strongly disagree with their position and their decision does not speak for me.

Stonewall Dems vote 'no' on mayoral endorsement
QSanAntonio, April 9, 2013
The board of directors of the Stonewall Democrats of San Antonio confirmed on May 8 that they will make no endorsement in this year's mayoral race.

Photos: Cornyation fundraiser at The Luxury
QSanAntonio Facebook Album, April 8, 2013
Former Congressman Charlie Gonzalez donned the crown of King Anchovy XLVIII for an afternoon, al fresco cocktail party on April 8 at The Luxury, Andrew Weissman's newest eatery adjacent to the San Antonio Museum of Art on the San Antonio River. King Charlie seemed to have no trouble adjusting to his two-foot-high, red velvet and gold crown. One of his former Washington staffers who was at the party commented the ex-Congressman might like wearing the crown a bit too much. Proceeds from the party benefited Cornyation charities including Beat AIDS and the San Antonio AIDS Foundation.

WEBB finds home at the Castle
San Antonio Express-News, April 9, 2013
It appears the WEBB Party has found a home in Government Hill. For the second year, the shindig, one of Fiesta’s most irreverent, will settle into the Lambermont Estate, 950 E. Grayson St. in the Government Hill neighborhood just north of downtown.

Charlie Gonzalez: From Congressman to King (Anchovy)
QSanAntonio, April 6, 2013
QSanAntonio caught up with King Charlie Gonzalez-Anchovy recently and he happily answered our questions about his upcoming time in the limelight as the monarch of what has been called "the raunchiest, cheapest event of Fiesta."

HRC official discusses trans flag controversy with SAGA
QSanAntonio.com, April 5, 2013
An official from the Human Rights Campaign who is at the center of a controversy in which a man was asked to remove a transgender flag during a pro-gay marriage rally outside the U.S. Supreme Court, spoke to the San Antonio Gender Association at their meeting this week.

Commentary: Castro has earned the patience of Stonewall Democrats
By Brian Chasnoff, San Antonio Express-News, April 4, 2013
As unusual political calculations go, this one stood out like a rainbow flag: The Stonewall Democrats of San Antonio, in releasing its City Council endorsements last month, declined to support anyone for mayor.

Mayor Julián Castro rattles community by endorsing anti-LGBT councilman
By Jay Morris, New Civil Rights Movement, April 4, 2013
In spite of his past support for the LGBT community and as the election season heats up, his support seems to be wavering. For the first time, Castro has failed to complete an equality survey distributed by the Stonewall Democrats, in spite of numerous requests by the organization. As if pouring salt into the wound, news broke that he has now endorsed Councilman David Medina for re-election.

Mayor Castro endorses Medina in District 5 race
QSanAntonio, April 1, 2013
Calling him "a transformative leader for the City of San Antonio," Mayor Julian Castro has endorsed David Medina for City Council District 5.

300 march in downtown S.A.to show support for equality
San Antonio Express-News, March 27, 2013
Chanting in support of marriage equality and carrying signs, flags and banners, more than 300 people marched a half-mile through downtown Tuesday night — from Milam Park past City Hall and on to the Bexar County Courthouse.

We need trans history
By Lauryn Farris, TransTexas.org, March 27, 2013
It is imperative that we recognize that we of the trans community have always been present in all aspects of human life. Historical interpretation has removed us and many accountings have determined us to have no history in an attempt to hide our very existence. This refusal to acknowledge our being has existed since the beginning of time and has cascaded to today.

Eyes of Texas on national same-sex debate
San Antonio Express-News, May 28, 2013
San Antonio attorney Rosie Gonzalez and professor Amy Stone of Trinity University are interviewed in this article by Scott Huddleston and Craig Kapitan.

Facebook sees red over marriage equality
San Antonio Express-News, May 28, 2013
As the Supreme Court ponders two major cases concerning marriage equality, the Internet continues to see red. Make that a red square housing a pink equal sign. “Everyone is very excited about this. So it's definitely the hot topic,” said Jennifer Ingram, Web content chair for the San Antonio chapter of the HRC.

S.A. Chick-fil-A feathered in signs supporting same-sex marriage
KENS5.com, May 28, 2013
The battle for same-sex marriage equality took an interesting turn in San Antonio late Wednesday night as gay rights advocates ambushed a Chick-fil-A with signs and posters.

Same-sex couples rally in S.A. as high court weighs gay marriage
KENS5.com, May 28, 2013
Dozens of same-sex couples like, Jade Cortez and Vanessa Salinas, gathered at Milam Park on Tuesday night as the Supreme Court began hearing arguments for and against gay marriage.

S.A. advocates hope for bold decision on marriage equality
San Antonio Express-News, March 26, 2013
As the Supreme Court begins hearing arguments Tuesday on the constitutionality of same-sex marriage, members of San Antonio's gay and lesbian community are expressing optimism that their right to marry might soon be the law in every state in the union.

Four District 5 candidates support LGBT protections
QSanAntonio.com, March 23, 2013
Four of the five candidates who are challenging incumbent David Medina in the District 5 City Council race support amending local ordinances to include LGBT protections.

PdA Live: Jade Esteban Estrada interviews Dan Graney
PlazaDeArmasTX.com, March 20, 2013
Dan Graney, co-chair of the Endorsement Committee for the Stonewall Democrats of San Antonio, takes questions regarding LGBT issues from Plaza de Armas TX's Jade Esteban Estrada.

Project Fiesta t-shirt sale to benefit Any Baby Can
QSanAntonio.com, March 20, 2013
For the fifth year in a row, Chad Nall and Brian Lopez-Rosas, proprietors of Suburban Spaces Real Estate, are selling Fiesta-themed t-shirts to raise money for a local charity. The couple, who moved to San Antonio eight years ago, this week announced that this year's beneficiary is Any Baby Can.

Erica Andrews: SA's brightest LGBT star is gone
San Antonio Current, March 20, 2013
As we wrapped up the two-hour-long session, we sat down, and Erica Andrews — San Antonio’s premiere drag queen — told me her story.

San Antonio Marine reflects on Iraq War anniversary
KSAT.com, March 19, 2013
Now 42, former Marine Staff Sgt. Eric Alva, of San Antonio, said the start of the Iraq War 10 years ago also marks a milestone in his life. After the "shock and awe" bombing of Baghdad on March 19, 2003, Alva lost his right leg the next day three hours after arriving in the country. He was among the first wounded in the war.

Stonewall endorsements follow candidate forum
QSanAntonio.com, March 18, 2013
Members of the Stonewall Democrats of San Antonio spent several hours on Sunday, March 17 listening to and questioning candidates running in the May 13 municipal election.
Office seekers for City Council and for School District races made their pitches in hopes of snagging Stonewall's endorsement.

Texas Stonewall Dems announce 2013 awardees
By Dan Graney, QSanAntonio.com, March 16, 2013
The Texas Stonewall Democratic Caucus (TSDC) announced that it will present four awards at its Third Biennial Statewide Conference in conjunction with the Equality Forward Summit in Austin on April 5-7.

Fiesta Frenzy to benefit Pride Center
QSanAntonio.com, March 16, 2013
Organizers of the 14th Annual Fiesta Frenzy announced this week that the beneficiary of this year's show will be Pride Center San Antonio. The event will be held on April 24 at the Woodlawn Theater.

Pontiff's record offers new hope for HIV/AIDS ministry in S.A.
San Antonio Express-News, March 15, 2013
Sister Mary Muldowney works the residence hall of the San Antonio AIDS Foundation like a mother hen tending to her chicks. This has been her ritual — Mondays and Thursdays for the past decade.

Female illusionist a star who paved way for others
San Antonio Express-News, March 14, 2013
A talented makeup artist, designer and female illusionist, Erica Andrews was regarded as a kind, open-hearted founder of the local transgender community. Andrews died Monday in Chicago from a lung infection.

San Antonio drag icon Erica Andrews dies
QSanAntonio, March 12, 2013
Multi-talented drag performer and beloved San Antonio icon Erica Andrews died on March 11 in Chicago from a lung infection. She was in her early 40's.

For Erica Andrews, as your spirit fills us
By Anel Flores, QSanAntonio.com, March 12, 2013
San Antono author and artist, Anel Flores, recalls that Erica Andrews taught her that we must stand tall, even in high heels, if we are to survive and thrive in this world.

Chefs prepare gourmet fare for AIDS group
San Antonio Express-News, March 11, 2013
Neil Hajji is one in a series of chefs to participate in the Nourishing SAAF-Chef of the Month Program, which invites chefs to prepare a meal for the HIV/AIDS community at the foundation's offices, 818 E. Grayson St. near Brackenridge Park and Pearl.

Stonewall Dems host endorsement forum for City Council candidates
By Dan Graney, QSanAntonio.com, March 9, 2013
The Stonewall Democrats of San Antonio will host a Candidate Endorsement Forum for mayor and city council candidates on Sunday, March 17. Candidates on the ballot for the May 11 municipal elections have been invited to complete a questionnaire and attend the forum.

From Corpus Christi to the capital, Texas has a marriage movement
By Jay Morris, New Civil Rights Movement, March 8, 2013
On Valentine’s Day, HB 1300 was introduced in Texas. If passed, the bill would amend relevant provisions of the Texas Family Code to remove references to “husband and wife” in exchange for “spouse,” essentially providing for same-sex marriage in the State. And with hope Texans are marching forward to more events and actions leading up to a possible vote on HB 1300.

Women's Day march set for Saturday
San Antonio Express-News, March 8, 2013
San Antonio women's rights advocates, girl activists in tow, will march across the Hays Street Bridge and then through downtown streets Saturday morning in the 23rd annual San Antonio International Women's Day March & Rally.

San Antonio AIDS Foundation is stiffed by LaborFest
FoxSanAntonio.com, March 7, 2013
The San Antonio AIDS Foundation was promised $2,500, with the potential of more, by the organizers of LaborFest, held over the Labor Day weekend last September. However, neither SAAF nor San Antonio Fighting Back, the other beneficiary, have received any of the promised monies.

Transitioning tablets
San Antonio Express-News, March 7, 2013
W.D. Deli co-owner Wayne Beers started using iPads at his cafe in October. Customers swipe a credit card through an aptly named Square card reader plugged into an iPad at each register. A deli staffer then flips the iPad over on a stand so patrons can sign the screen with a stylus. Diners can have a receipt texted or emailed to them or printed the old-fashioned way.

Veteran eliminates 'can't,' as he fights for equality
Journal and Courier, March 6, 2013
An equality advocate and decorated veteran helped Purdue University’s Office of Institutional Equity kick off its slate of Disability Awareness Month events Monday night. Retired Staff Sgt. Eric Alva, the first American injured in the Iraq war and recipient of the Purple Heart, talked about overcoming obstacles for an audience at the France A. Córdova Recreation Center.

Brennan High Schooler says pulled pic is discrimination
San Antonio Express-News, March 1, 2013
A Brennan High School student is gathering signatures for a petition in response to what she believes is a case of discrimination. Felicia Rivera, 16, was incensed when a fellow classmate told her last Friday that the school's yearbook supervisor, Amey Graybeal, pulled a photo depicting Felicia and her girlfriend, Lialani Hernandez, 17, cuddling at school.

Joaquin Castro, the other Texas twin, takes center stage
New York Times, March 3, 2013
Speaking last week at a conference on dropout prevention a few miles from his new Congressional office here, Representative Joaquin Castro, Democrat of San Antonio, cracked a self-deprecating joke. “In case you’re wondering,” he said, “you’re not talking to the mayor of San Antonio.” He may need new material.

Barney Frank to keynote Texas Stonewall 'Equality Forward' conference
QSanAntonio.com, March 2, 2013
Former Massachusetts Congressman Barney Frank will be the keynote speaker of the Texas Stonewall Democratic Caucus' Equality Forward Summit, slated for April 5 to 9 in Austin, Texas. Houston Mayor Annise Parker will introduce Frank, who is the first openly gay member of Congress

Elena's war
By Gilbert Garcia, San Antonio Express-News, February 27, 2012
Former City Councilwoman Elena Guajardo lately has become something of a campaign finance vigilante. Guajardo, who served a single term in District 7 from 2005-07, concedes that she reads campaign finance reports for enjoyment. (Scroll down page to read.)

World War II and San Antonio's queer community
By Melissa Gohlke, UTSA Top Shelf Blog, February 25, 2013
Military mobilization during World War II boosted San Antonio’s population by sixty percent. Of the approximately one million armed forces personnel that passed through San Antonio during the Second World War, many were gay and lesbian.

Photos: Leticia Ozuna fundraiser
QSanAntonio Facebook Album, February 22, 2013
District 3 City Councilwoman Leticia Ozuna had a fundraiser on Friday, February 22 at the home of Kerry and Lauryn Farris. A special guest at the event was District 1 City Councilman Diego Bernal who introduced Ozuna before she spoke. During her comments the councilwoman talked about the different types of families we have in San Antonio and mentioned the city having the highest percentage per capita of same-gender parents raising kids.

Review of campaign finance reports yields errors by City Council incumbents
QSanAntonio.com, February 23, 2013
A review by Elena Guajardo of the campaign finance reports of City Council members yielded an array of errors, large and small. One councilman even reported his campaign had no expenses for an entire six months.

Gay romantic crooner Matt Alber to perform concert in S.A.
QSanAntonio.com, February 23, 2013
Grammy-award winning singer-songwriter Matt Alber likes to tell the story of the time Madonna first listened to his music. Larry Flick, a music/talk-host and executive producer at Sirius XM radio had given the pop diva one of Alber's CDs. Madonna reportedly said upon hearing it, “That is so sweet. He has a lovely upper register. I want to hear it again.”

Ban at odds with Scouting doctrine
By Donagher, San Antonio Express-News, February 22, 2013
As a gay man who is an Eagle Scout and a former Scoutmaster, the Boy Scouts of America's continuing ban of gay and lesbian Scouts and Scouters saddens me beyond measure.

Alamo City Men's Chorale closes doors
QSanAntonio.com, February 22, 2013
It appears that the Alamo City Men's Chorale has fallen victim to a large debt and shrinking audiences. On February 21, board president Gary Sartor circulated an email announcing that group "is no longer able to exist."

Local chefs bring culinary flair to SAAF's meal program
QSanAntonio.com, February 23, 2013
Every month, a new program at the San Antonio AIDS Foundation, dubbed Nourishing SAAF, will invite a local chef to offer their expertise and talent to cook up a culinary treat for the agency's residents and clients.

Filmmaker to screen documentary on wrongly imprisoned San Antonio lesbians
San Antonio Current, February 20, 2013
The San Antonio Four, as they're known, now have the Innocence Project of Texas in their corner. Last year, one of the "victims" recanted, telling IPOT lawyers and Austin filmmaker Deb Esquenazi, on camera, that she was coerced and threatened into making up the whole story.

Esperanza hosts homage to Golden Age songstress Eva Garza
QSanAntnonio.com, February 14, 2012
Eva Garza was a fast playing basketball star and an excellent baseball player when she attended Lanier High School in the 1930s. However, the young woman, hailing from the streets of San Antonio’s Westside, had another exquisite talent, her beautiful sultry voice.

Fox San Antonio interviews Eric Alva on same-sex military benefits
FoxSanAntonio.com, February 13, 2013
Now, that the military has announced they are extending benefits to same sex partners, retired Marine Sergeant Eric Alva says it's the moment he's been waiting for.

SAC students gain opportunities to 'Create Change'
Story and photos by Richard Farias, QSanAntonio.com, February 9, 2013
Imagine for a moment over 3,000 LGBT people from all walks of life and from all over the country gathering to meet, share ideas, grow from one another, and—most of all—get re-energized about our work for equality. Luckily for me and my students from San Antonio College, we haven’t had to imagine it for the last four years.

Gay couple claim Converse police retaliating over complaint
KENS5.com, February 8, 2013
Shannon Callaway claims Converse police surrounded his apartment home last month. They were searching, he says, for a missing teenage girl. He said he was grabbed and pushed down twice by the same officer.

Webb party a 'Pop Candy' treat for Fiesta
QSanAntonio.com, February 9, 2012
The Webb Party is one of the city's most popular Fiesta events and the single-largest fundraiser benefiting the LGBT community and the San Antonio AIDS Foundation. This year, the party, with the theme Pop Candy, will be held on April 19 at the Lambermont Estate.

Catholic university In Texas revises student handbook to protect LGBT persons
By Jay Morris, New Civil Rights Movement, February 6, 2013
Under the leadership of its former President, Amanda Benton, The Alliance at Our Lady of the Lake University led the way toward a revision to the university’s student handbook to protect students from discrimination based upon sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, becoming one of the first Catholic schools in Texas with fully inclusive policies.

Gay marriage a question of justice
By Julian Castro, Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and Christopher Cabaldon
USA Today, January 29, 2013
The freedom to marry is a cause that impacts all Americans. As mayors, we know the harmful effects of discrimination against gay couples and their families all too well: the difficulties of visiting loved ones in the hospital or even securing health coverage, the financial toll of being categorized as less than a family for tax purposes, the psychological damage of being singled out as different – and unequal – in schools and businesses.

Joan's Holy Ground by Jade Esteban Estrada
QSanAntonio.com, February 2, 2013
Jade Esteban Estrada interviews local comedienne Joan Riviera who recently outed herself as a transgendered woman.

Love's Day a Valentine tradition for MCC
QSanAntonio.com, February 2, 2012
When the Metropolitan Community Church of San Antonio holds the annual Love's Day Dinner and Dance this year, it will be following in a tradition started years ago by now-deceased activist Jim Isaman.

Some still fear bias by Scouts
San Antonio Express-News, January 30, 2013
People who are part of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered community of San Antonio say the possibility that the Boy Scouts of America would drop its national ban on gays, leaving it to local chapters to decide, is a big move forward, though it still could leave the door open to discrimination.

OLLU student handbook amended to include LGBT protections
QSanAntonio.com, January 26, 2012
Thanks to the efforts of the gay/straight alliance at Our Lady of the Lake University, the school's student handbook has been amended to include sexual orientation and gender expression or identity in its non-discrimination policy.

Representative Villarreal pushes for LGBT equality in the workplace
MyFoxAustin.com, January 24, 2013
In the state of Texas it is perfectly legal to fire someone because they're gay. So says San Antonio's Representative Mike Villarreal who's trying to change that.

President of Palo Alto gay/straight alliance is student of the month
Alamo.edu, January 24, 2013
Michel Torres is the recipient of the January 2013 La Prensa Foundation Inspirational Student of the Month award and will receive $500 funded by La Prensa Foundation founded by Amelia and Tino Duran. He is pursuing an Associates of Arts in Social Work at Palo Alto College and maintains a 3.5 G.P.A. He is hoping to work with LGBTQ homeless youth in the future with non-profit management.

LGBT liaison in Castro's corner
San Antonio Current, January 23, 2013
When the Human Rights Campaign released its 2012 Municipal Equality Index, San Antonio scored a 48 out of 100, compared to Austin's and Dallas' scores of 91 and 76, respectively. As a reaction, Mayor Julián Castro last week appointed senior policy advisor Adam Greenup to act as an LGBT liaison for his office.

S.A. gay and lesbian leaders cheered by Obama speech
San Antonio Express-News, January 22, 2013
President Barack Obama's mention of marriage equality Monday in his inaugural address encouraged members of San Antonio's LGBT community, who described it as “emotional,” “beautiful” and “momentous.” Several of the city's gay and lesbian leaders said it was important that the president mentioned three U.S. civil rights landmarks — Seneca Falls, Selma and Stonewall — in the same breath.

Preacher keeps mass wedding role
San Antonio Express-News, January 18, 2012
Despite a 2012 controversy over his anti-gay remarks, the Rev. Joe Sullivan has been authorized to perform free Valentine's Day weddings once again on the Bexar County Courthouse steps.

Mayor and his liaison see need for LGBT protections in city code
QSanAntonio.com, January 19, 2013
Senior policy adviser Adam Greenup, Mayor Julian Castro's recently-appointed liaison to the LGBT community, says he hopes that in the coming year "we will work on updating the city’s non-discrimination ordinance to include protection of members of the LGBT community with regard to city employment, contracting, fair housing, boards and commission appointments and public accommodations."

Transgender activist to preach at local Lutheran Church
By Dan Graney, QSanAntonio.com, January 18, 2013
Transgender activist Katy Stewart will be the guest preacher on Sunday, January 20, at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd in southeast San Antonio.

Castro adviser named city LGBT liaison
San Antonio Express-News, January 17, 2013
Adam Greenup, a senior policy adviser to Mayor Julián Castro, has been appointed the city's chief liaison to San Antonio's LGBT community. Greenup said he'll serve as the main point of contact for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community and help facilitate their issues through city government channels.

Q&A: Mayor Julian Castro’s LGBT liaison, Adam Greenup
San Antonio Current, January 17, 2013
This past week, Mayor Julian Castro named Adam Greenup as his LGBT liaison. The decision came after reviewing San Antonio’s score on the Human Rights Campaign’s new Municipal Equality Index. The Alamo City scored a paltry 48 out of 100.

Castro adviser named city LGBT liaison
San Antonio Express-News, January 17, 2013
Adam Greenup, a senior policy adviser to Mayor Julián Castro, has been appointed the city's chief liaison to San Antonio's LGBT community.

Three men put on the list of sexual victims at Lackland
San Antonio Express-News, January 16, 2012
The Air Force said Tuesday that two more basic-training instructors are being investigated for misconduct and their alleged victims were men — a first among dozens of sex-abuse cases at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland.

Bishop Cantu's anti-gay legacy
QSanAntonio.com, January 12, 2013
As Auxiliary Bishop Oscar Cantu departs San Antonio to become the Bishop of Las Cruces, New Mexico, he leaves behind him an anti-gay legacy that includes his banishment of Dignity S.A. from the pews of St. Ann's Catholic Church.

Working in S.A. to pass a nondiscrimination ordinance
By Shelena Williams, HRC.org, January 10, 2013
On Tuesday, Southern Regional Field Director Karin Quimby and I had the pleasure of visiting the Esperanza Peace & Justice Center in San Antonio. We were there to attend a meeting with the Community Alliance for a United San Antonio (CAUSA). CAUSA is the coalition working to amend San Antonio’s city code to include protections for LGBT people.

Where are the male victims at Lackland?
Lily Casura, For the Express-News, January 9, 2013
Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland's sexual assault scandal is troubling. But what's even more troubling is how doubtful it is that all the victims involved have come forward. The victims — 56 to date — have all been women. And that's just not likely or reasonable to expect.

A gay man cost me one friendship
By Dominique Garcia, MySanAntonio.com, January 5, 2012
We all have those so-called “friends” who we consider to be ignorant. Some of us might even go as far as to avoid certain topics of discussions around those people to avoid a discussion that may turn into a heated exchange. I found myself in a similar situation and it is sad to say that I am no longer a “friend” with a certain individual because of it.

S.A. now can speak louder in Congress
San Antonio Express-News, January 4, 2013
A fortified San Antonio delegation expanded its political clout in Congress on Thursday, becoming five-strong in the U.S. House. Newcomers Joaquín Castro and Pete Gallego and redistricted veteran Lloyd Doggett were sworn in and joined Lamar Smith and Henry Cuellar in representing the city.

Welcome to the funhouse
San Antonio Current, January 2, 2013
State Rep. Mike Villarreal (D-San Antonio) talks about the Texas Legislature much the way you would a carnival funhouse — filled with smoke, mirrors, and deliberate distortion.

Rep.-elect Castro joins historic House class
San Antonio Express-News, December 31, 2012
One minute younger and typically at his twin brother's side, San Antonio's Joaquín Castro will take center stage this week when he takes the oath of office to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Continue San Antonio's progress in 2013
By Julian Castro, San Antonio Express-News, December 31, 2012
Three and a half years ago, you gave me the opportunity of a lifetime: to lead the city I love, as mayor. From the start, my vision for San Antonio has been to build a brainpower community that is the liveliest city in the United States. I've been asked more than a few times, “What does that mean?”

Man gets 15 years for fatal mugging of female impersonator
San Antonio Express-News, December 19, 2012
It was a rookie police officer who accidentally shot mugging victim James Lee Whitehead, killing him, during a confrontation with an armed assailant in August 2009. But even though Michael Martinez — one of the three robbery suspects — appeared not to have a gun that morning, he, too, is responsible for the death, prosecutors alleged Tuesday as he was sentenced to 15 years in prison.

Madison Square Presbyterian endorses marriage equality
QSanAntonio, December 15, 2012
The board of Madison Square Presbyterian Church and its interim pastor, the Rev. Gusti Linnea Newquist, decided on October 23 to accept an invitation from the national group, Stand For Love, to endorse marriage equality.

Lesbian couple settle suit over "no-knock" drug raid
QSanAntonio.com, December 15, 2012
A lesbian couple whose Leon Valley home was raided in 2009 in a fruitless drug raid have settled with the City of San Antonio and the Police Department for the total sum of $145,000.

Senator Van de Putte recovering from foot surgery
Press Release, December 13, 2012
Senator Leticia Van de Putte (District 26, Bexar County) is currently recovering from foot surgery to repair an injury sustained this past weekend. The Senator expects to be off her feet for the next two weeks, but will be ready to serve her constituents when the 83rd Legislature begins next month.

The holiday doings
By Michael Bobo, Mr. Bobo & the Deli Dish, December 13, 2012
These are the days when I feel like I have the opportunity to force my musical tastes (again) on my friends and family. I make Christmas "mix tape" CDs. I put them into people's hands when I see them at the deli, or at a party, or I might even mail them to friends and family who think they're safe because they live far enough away.

BabiO's dance club wants you to be fabulous
San Antonio Current, December 12, 2012
Anxious to seek refuge from my typical bar circuit and, well, given my ailment of the moment, I was beyond excited about the idea of hittin' the town with my best girls and checking out BabiO's, the latest addition to San Antonio's gay bar community.

Texas ENDA bill filed by Rep. Mike Villarreal
QSanAntonio.com, December 6, 2012
On December 3, State Representative Mike Villarreal of San Antonio filed legislation to amend the Texas Labor Code to provide equal employment protections for gay and transgender employees.

LGBT Chamber hosts economic summit
KSAT-TV, December 6, 2012
Hosting an economic summit at the Menger Hotel marked a first in the four-year existence of the San Antonio LGBT Chamber of Commerce. “Just like any minority chamber, we’re trying to create opportunities for our members not available normally due to discrimination,” said Chad Nall, the group’s president and a local real estate broker.

Police arrest four in brawl outside of The Saint
QSanAntonio.com, December 6, 2012
San Antonio police were called to the 800 block of Lexington Avenue, the location of The Saint nightclub, where several fights broke out in the street during the early morning hours of December 5. When all was said and done, four people were arrested.

S.A. World AIDS Day on video
NowcastSA.com, December 3, 2012
The San Antonio World AIDS Day Gathering of Remembrance and Hope was held on December 1. NowcastSA has a complete video recording of the event on their website for those who were unable to attend.

LGBT summit in S.A. to draw national leaders
San Antonio Express-News, December 3, 2012
In a gathering this week described as national validation, the San Antonio LGBT Chamber of Commerce will host several national gay and lesbian leaders at its first Texas Economic Summit.

Rep. Mike Villarreal legislation to prevent being fired for being LGBT
Equality Texas, December 3, 2012
State Representative Mike Villarreal of San Antonio today filed legislation [HB 238] to amend the Texas Labor Code in order to provide equal employment protections for gay and transgender employees.

San Antonio scores below average on HRC's Municipal Equality Index
QSanAntonio.com, Updated December 1, 2012
The City of San Antonio is rated below average in a national study by the Human Rights Campaign titled the 2012 Municipal Equality Index, the first ever rating system of LGBT inclusion in municipal law.

For World AIDS Day, S.A. organizations testing and educating community
Texas Public Radio, November 30, 2102
At Monterrey Park on the city’s West Side, Metro Health, the San Antonio AIDS Foundation, and Centro de Vida are set up to test residents with mobile trucks, tents, and information tables. In Bexar County there are 4,312 people living with HIV as of the end of 2011 according to Metro Health.

Video: A vegan holiday
WOAI.com, November 29, 2012
Fred Anthony Garza-Trevino of the Vegeria restaurant, appeared on San Antonio Living this week to give a demonstration of vegan and allergy-free holiday recipes.

S.A. LGBT Chamber to host economic summit
QSanAntonio, November 28, 2012
The San Antonio LGBT Chamber of Commerce, in association with the Austin Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, will host its first Texas Economic Summit on December 6 with special guest Justin G. Nelson, co-founder and president of the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce

Lesbian couple targeted in alleged hate crimes
KENS5.com, November 27, 2012
A lesbian couple is pleading for their apartment management to let them out of their lease after someone carved gay slurs into their front and back patio doors. The couple said they can't afford to break their lease.

Same-sex marriage gains ground across U.S.
By Amy Stone, San Antonio Express-News, November 22, 2012
How did the LGBT movement go from a losing streak around same-sex marriage to an epic victory? I argue that the tide has turned for same-sex marriage after decades of struggle. (Editor's note: Amy Stone is a sociology and anthropology professor at Trinity University.)

Wild West ejects gay couple for dancing together
QSanAntonio.com, November 17, 2012
QSanAntonio received an email from a reader who says that on November 4, she witnessed a gay couple being asked to leave the country western bar Wild West, located at 21025 Encino Commons. This is the second time in as many years that someone has complained about Wild West. In 2011, QSanAntonio reported on a gay couple being told they would have to leave the club if they continued dancing together.

S.A. World AIDS Day observance planned for December
QSanAntonio.com, November 17, 2012
On December 1, the San Antonio Worlds AIDS Day Collaborative invites the public to join in a “Gathering of Remembrance and Hope” at the Instituto Cultural de Mexico.

Kids' removal called payback for recanting
San Antonio Express-News, November 15, 2012
A woman who recently publicly recanted a sexual assault allegation she made as a child against four lesbians, including her aunt, is now the subject of a Child Protective Services investigation that her attorney said is a result of retaliation linked to the recantation.

Army vet and FFW President asks USAA to add LGBT protections
Dallas Voice, November 15, 2012
Fairness Fort Worth President Jon Nelson used this Veterans Day to impact change at United Services Automobile Association. Nelson is an Army veteran who served as a combat infantry officer in Vietnam. He is a policyholder with San Antonio-based USAA, which doesn’t offer its employees or policyholders LGBT protections.

Freeing the San Antonio Four
San Antonio Current, November 14, 2012
Lawyers with the Innocence Project of Texas, which took on the case two years ago, say one of the two child victims, now an adult, recanted this summer, bolstering the women's claims of innocence. The now young woman claims that as a child her father coerced and coached her into making false allegations against her aunt and three friends.

Plant-based Vegeria delivers Tex-Mex everyone can enjoy
San Antonio Current, November 13, 2012
Typically, San Antonio's meaty, gravy-laden, and cheese-smothered offerings send vegans running. Cue Vegeria Vegan Restaurant, a mostly Tex-Mex vegan joint that also caters to gluten-free and raw diets.

S.A. LGBT community cheers election results
By Daniel Graney, QSanAntonio.com, November 10, 2012
President Obama's re-election Tuesday night brought with it huge victories for the LGBT community. Political activist Dan Graney offers his analysis of the election night results.

2012 election a turning point LGBT civil rights
By Eduardo Juarez, QSan Antonio.com, November 10, 2012
This 2012 election will go down in the history books as a turning point in the LGBT civil rights movement in this country!

Esperanza's Mercado de Paz slated for Thanksgiving weekend
QSanAntonio, November 10, 2012
The Esperanza Peace and Justice Center’s 23rd International Peace Market or Mercado de Paz, scheduled for Thanksgiving weekend, will offer shoppers a variety of artful, handmade items, including rugs, pottery, textiles, embroidered clothing and paintings.

Some local election judges ask for ID, though not required by law
KENS 5, November 4, 2012
Texas is not a voter ID state. By law you are not required to show your ID before you vote. But some election judges in Bexar County were asking for identification anyway.

Woman fighting to clear name in 1994 sex assault is paroled
San Antonio Express-News, November 3, 2012
Released on parole Friday after serving 121/2 years of a 15-year sentence, Vasquez is one of four San Antonio women fighting to clear their names after they were convicted of sexually assaulting two young girls in a bizarre case that even spurred talk of Satanism.

HRC president committed to making 'the lives of people better'
By Daniel T. Crotty, QSanAntonio.com, November 3, 2012
Chad Griffin, president of the Human Rights Campaign, spoke at San Antonio Gala and Silent Auction on Oct. 27. This was his first visit to the Alamo City since being named HRC’s president last June. Prior to the event, Griffin agreed to an interview with QSanAntonio where he discussed the work he's leading at HRC.

Pride Center San Antonio providing new home to LGBTQ community
By Joey Palacios, Texas Public Radio, November 1, 2012
San Antonio is one the few major cities in the country without a dedicated LGBTQ community center. While there were several attempts in the past, a collective of community members is laying the ground work to establish a new one.

'Rebozos' weaves women's stories from two languages
San Antonio Current, November 1, 2012
In an era when books are being banned, hers included, San Antonio's poet laureate Carmen Tafolla is mindfully doing what she does best: documenting the lives of those whose hard work and fierce spirit offer the preceding generations shoulders upon which we unwaveringly, if not consciously, stand.

Lara Flynn Boyle to appear at HRC Gala
QSanAntonio.com, October 27, 2012
Add actress Lara Flynn Boyle to the stellar line up of speakers for the 10th annual Human Rights Campaign San Antonio Gala and Silent Auction which is scheduled for Saturday, October 27 at the Hilton Palacio del Rio.

Clinton takes the stage in San Antonio
San Antonio Express-News, October 16, 2012
A beaming Bill Clinton visited the South Side on Thursday to argue that the nation's future depends on a strong 2012 election turnout from Democrats. The former president received a rapturous greeting from an overflow crowd of more than 2,000 at South San Antonio High School's basketball arena.

SA talks of community, but continues to build the divide
San Antonio Current, October 24, 2012
San Antonio is often best understood from afar, by a distant observer who can realistically compare it to other places. Recent months have seen three new studies that place San Antonio in a larger context and can help educate us about our community.

San Antonio’s drag culture of the 1930s and 40s
By Melissa Gohlke, UTSA Libraries Blog, October 23, 2012
Cabarets featuring female impersonators were staples in cosmopolitan centers. But in San Antonio—cradle of Texas liberty, home of the Alamo, queer culture would have been on the fringes of society, right? Not so.

Express-News: Obama has earned a second term
San Antonio Express-News, October 21, 2012
No candidate has all the right policies — that includes Barack Obama. But having weathered the challenges of the last four years, we believe he is in a better position to guide the nation over the next four years — and has earned from voters the privilege to do so.

San Antonio Express-News endorsements
San Antonio Express-News, October 22, 2012
Early voting starts today in the 2012 general election. Voters will be choosing officeholders ranging from U.S. president to school board members. The Express-News Editorial Board's endorsements are listed below. Most important, we urge you to vote in the election regardless of which candidates you prefer.

QSanAntonio Early Voting Guide
QSanAntonio.com, October 20, 2012
Early voting for the November 6 General Election begins in San Antonio on October 22 and continues through November 2. QSanAntonio wants to make sure you have all the information you need to cast your early ballot.

Pride Center board focuses on planning and fundraising
QSanAntonio.com, October 20, 2012
The board of directors of Pride Center San Antonio announced that in July the organization was approved as a 501(c)(3) paving the way for the group to ramp up its fundraising efforts and programming.

Teacher gets probation for groping student
San Antonio Express-News, October 18, 2012
A former East Central High School teacher who pleaded guilty in August to groping a male student in the school's “homebound” program was sentenced Wednesday to five years of deferred adjudication probation.

Sexual assault victim recants statement; suspect approved for parole
WOAI.com, October 18, 2012
A woman who has spent more than a decade fighting to clear her name from a sexual assault case is about to be released on parole. Anna Vasquez and three of her friends were accused of abusing two little girls in 1994. They claimed they were innocent but jurors didn’t believe them and sent all four to prison.

Parole OK'd for woman fighting for exoneration
San Antonio Express-News, October 15, 2012
Anna Vasquez, one of four San Antonio women fighting to clear their names in a bizarre and brutal sexual assault of two girls in the mid-1990s, is set to be released on parole. Her release is scheduled for Nov. 2, according to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice website. The site states that the date can change without notice.

HRC President Chad Griffin to attend San Antonio gala
October 13, 2012
The newly-installed President of the Human Rights Campaign Chad Griffin and teen activist Constance McMillen are among the speakers who will address the organization's San Antonio Gala and Silent Auction on October 27 at the Hilton Palacio del Rio.

LGBT-inclusive church celebrates 60th anniversary
By Dan Graney, QSanAntonio.com, October 11, 2012
The Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, located at 1630 Goliad Road in southeast San Antonio, will celebrate its 60th anniversary on Sunday, October 14, 2012 with a festival communion service at 10:30 a.m. A luncheon and program will follow in the church's activity center. All are welcome.

Vote God
By Michael Barajas, San Antonio Current, October 10, 2012
My first attempt to chat gay rights, women's rights, and freedom of (and from) religion with a participant at Saturday's Texas Leadership Coalition rally abruptly ended when the placard-carrying man looked at me squarely and said, "Hell is a terrible place to be for eternity."

Stonewall Democrats plan LGBT march to the polls
QSanAntonio.com, October 6, 2012
The San Antonio chapter of the Stonewall Democrats are organizing an October 27 march from Crockett Park to the early voting site at Via Metro on San Pedro Avenue. Organizers say they hope to get as many LGBT voters as possible to cast their ballot on that day in order to show the power of the gay vote in San Antonio.

Women's business group welcomes author Anel Flores
QSanAntonio.com, October 5, 2012
Author, playwright and artist Anel I. Flores will do a reading from her new book, "Lady Empanada: A Lesbiana’s Story en Probaditas" at the Women OUT for Business gathering on October 10 at 6:30 p.m. at Sparky's Wine & Tapas Bar on North Main Avenue.

'Rocky Horror' stars a reality-TV-winner
San Antonio Express-News, October 4, 2012
For his first "Rocky Horror Show" as artistic director of the Woodlawn Theatre, Greg Hinojosa wanted to pull out all the stops, including casting someone buzzy as transsexual mad scientist Dr. Frank N. Furter. As a fan of the Logo series "RuPaul's Drag Race," Hinojosa knew just where to look. He and his partner had correctly pegged Sharon Needles as the winner early in the fourth season, and Hinojosa thought that she'd be perfect for the part.