Reading Pride

Twisted 1st Friday

2012-01-16T17:13:00.002-05:00

TWISTED FEBRUARY 1ST FRIDAY GAY Night @ RUMORZ/CLUB 220

$5 Cover 21+ $10 Cover 18-20, Happy Hour 9-11,
Drink specials, Beer Special, Shot Special.
Smoke free, patio provided for our smoking guests.
All the way from York PA DJ JAZZY JOYCE.

Featuring your Rumorz Show Cast with Special guest Roberta Baker
220 N. PARK RD, Wyomissing, PA

Divas of the Night

2011-12-07T10:52:00.001-05:00

Come on out for 2 great shows and support a great cause at the same time! This is one night you do not want to miss!

With special guests, Miss Red Star 2011 Sofanda Cox, Miss Lancaster Emeritus Whitley Nycole DeAire', Philly's own Queen of Nasty Brenda Lamour, Miss Heart ...of Delaware 2011 Angie St.John Lamour, Reading's Very Own Lana Davis, and hosted by Miss Reading Pride Celebration 2011 Precious Caliente'.

$8 cover at the door, proceeds go to benefit Reading Pride Celebration in Centre Park 2012!

O Holy Night

2011-11-19T00:13:00.000-05:00

Meet The Artist

2011-11-19T00:06:00.003-05:00

Hollywood Cabaret

2011-11-10T08:50:00.000-05:00

6th annual Greater Reading Film Festival

2011-10-06T13:58:00.001-04:00

Celebrating “The Art of Directing,” the Berks Arts Council is proud to announce the 6th annual Greater Reading Film Festival (GRFF) November 3- 6, 2011. The festival will showcase the work of international, national and local filmmakers, as well as feature panel discussions with directors, filmmakers, and special guests.

Friday night’s feature documentary Sex in an Epidemic by longtime AIDS activist and filmmaker Jean Carlomusto, is powerful and moving film that focuses specifically on the need for honest comprehensive sex education. This engaging documentary provides a socio-cultural perspective on the history of HIV as we mark the 30th anniversary of the first reported cases of what would eventually be called AIDS. Following the screening will be a panel discussion with Carlomusto along with Berks Aids Network/Co-County Wellness Executive Director Carolyn Bazik and William Bender, instructor in the Undergraduate and Graduate Social Work Program at Kutztown University. The panel will be moderated by Vanessa Domico, President and Founder of Outcast Films, a distribution company based in New York.

Greater Reading Film Festival screenings and discussions will take place R/C Movies 11 & IMAX, 30 N. 2nd St in Reading. Tickets for Berks Arts Council’s 2011 Greater Reading Film Festival screenings and events are available at www.fandango.com.

October is LGBT History Month in Reading

2011-10-05T09:36:00.000-04:00

Reading Pride Celebration was honored and privileged to be selected to receive a Proclamation declaring October as LGBT History Month in Reading, Pennsylvania, on behalf of the LGBT community in Reading. The Proclamation was presented at the Reading City Council Meeting held on Monday September 26, 2011.

Also honored with a Proclamation for his work in securing inclusion of the LGBT community in the city's Non-Discrimination Ordinance and all his work for the the LGBT community was Ernest Schlegel.

Cabaret

2011-09-10T16:35:00.001-04:00

They're having PRIDE NIGHT at the November 11 performance of Cabaret. Check out www.berks.psu.edu/theatre for more details.

Applebee's Flapjack Fundraiser

2011-09-06T19:40:00.001-04:00

Pancake breakfast September 17th

2011-07-26T06:00:00.000-04:00

$6.00 per person

Kids under 12 $4.00

Tickets can be purchased from any Pride committee member, or at the door.

WHEN: Saturday, September 17, 2011 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

WHERE: Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar, 3050 N 5th Street Hwy, Reading, PA 19605

HOSTED BY: Miss Reading Pride Celebration 2011, Precious Caliente, along with your favorite queens serving hot pancakes just for you!

Enjoy all you can eat pancakes and sausage links along with coffee and juice! Tickets can be purchased from any Reading Pride Celebration Committee member or at the door! We look forward to seeing you there!

Funds raised will be used for the Reading Pride Celebration Festival to be held July 2012.

The festival celebrates the diversity and unity of the LGBT community of The Greater Reading Area. Last year's event was visited by over 2,000 people.

Reading Pride Idol 2011

2011-07-12T06:33:00.002-04:00

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Interfaith Service Saturday July 16th 7:00 pm

2011-07-09T21:31:00.000-04:00

Still Around - Friday July 15th

2011-07-09T21:25:00.000-04:00

Friday, July 15th, 7:00 PM
RACC Schmidt Training and Tenchonogy Center
Reading Pride and Co-County Wellness
A Screening the Documentary STILL AROUND a feature-length compilation of 15 short films about surviving & thriving with HIV/AIDS as we mark the it's 30th anniversary. It weaves together a diverse slate of powerful stories into an unmatched portrait of courage & hope.

Reading Pride Celebration 2011

2011-07-05T18:01:00.002-04:00

MTV's Coming Out Special Now Casting!

2011-06-30T16:24:00.001-04:00

Bunim-Murray Productions and MTV are seeking extraordinary people who appear to be between the ages of 16-24, who want to share their coming out stories. Whether you have already come out, or you want to come out, you can be part of a revolutionary TV special airing on National Coming Out Day (October 11).

-Do you have a particularly unique coming out story that you are willing to share?
Do you hope to inspire others to gain confidence to come out as well?
Are you tired of not being able to be completely honest about yourself with a relative or friend?
Do you have someone in your life whom you have still not come out to and wish to involve in this special event?
Who are you most scared to come out to? Why?
Has there been a recent life incident that has inspired you to come out?

If you are interested please apply here: www.bmpcasting.com/casting/comingout

Thank you
Bunim Murray Productions

HELP!

2011-06-28T05:58:00.000-04:00

Yes, it's that time again folks! Reading Pride Celebration's Pride in Centre Park is just around the corner and we are in need of some help. If you could spare 2 hours or more, we need help with setting up on Saturday, July 16th, from 9:00am to 1:00pm, and Sunday, July 17th, from 7:00am to 11:30am.

We are also in need of a few bodies to help with tear down on Sunday, July 17th, from 5:30pm to about 7:30pm. There may also be a few 2 hour positions left for admissions with assisting in placing wristbands on people or offering flags.

If you are able to help us out, please email Kimberly Kalbach at mustbekimmie@yahoo.com with "PRIDE HELP" in the subject line. Thank you! See you at the Pride festival!

Pre-Pride Party at Red Star Saloon!

2011-06-27T20:46:00.002-04:00

Please click image to view full size.

17th Annual PRIDE PICNIC at Knoebels Grove

2011-06-23T15:26:00.000-04:00

17th Annual PRIDE PICNIC at Knoebels Grove Saturday August 13th 2011 Knoebels Amusement Resort, Elysburg, PA Pavilion T10 (map on website)

Covered dish dinner and raffle at 3 pm.
Registration begins at 11 am.
Join us for the meal or for the day.
Bring a covered dish to share. Utensils and Tableware will be provided.

Questions, Directions and Email List:
Mike and Mike - 717-572-9111
PridePicnic@gmail.com

Volunteers Welcome Day of Event

Annual Pride Picnic at Knoebels Grove. Knoebels Grove Amusement Resort is located in Elysburg PA. http://www.knoebels.com/ This gathering of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, transsexual and allies celebrates with great food, friendship and community. Started as a small group of friends years ago, the picnic has grown to several hundred picnic enthusiast. Closer to being a family reunion, many bring friends and relatives as well as first timers to this great day of roller coasters and water rides.

PRIDE PICNIC at Knoebels Grove is not sponsored by Knoebels Grove Amusement Resort.

Email	PridePicnic@gmail.com
Website	http://www.facebook.com/PridePicnic

Bill Martin

2011-06-23T15:22:00.003-04:00

Dear Friends and members of Reading Pride Celebration

Tuesday June 21, 2011 Bill Martin

a past member of Reading Pride Celebration passed away.

Bill was a beloved member of the community especially to his

faith family at All Souls Ecumenical Catholic Church where he served as a lay assistant. ( All Souls meets in the chapel at Calvary UCC)

Revised Arrangements for Bill's Funeral are as follows;

Saturday June 25, 2011

Calvary United Church Of Christ

640 Centre Avenue in Reading

1:00 PM Viewing and Visitation

2:00 PM Funeral Service

Reception Following the Funeral Service at Approximately 3:30 PM

Yours,

Richard L. Spangler

President

Reading Pride Celebration

Miss Reading Pride Celebration Pageant and After Party - This Friday!!

2011-06-07T06:04:00.000-04:00

Join us as we crown our queen for Miss Reading Pride Celebration 2011. Hosted by the Fabulous Victoria Stiles with her cohost, the Incomparable Lana Davis. Enjoy our performers: Miss Gay PA International Classic 2011 Vicki Dominatrix, Joey Josephs, Miss Gay Pa International Plus 2011 Misty Barfly, Sofanda Cox, Miss Gay Pa International 2011 Nyky Nite, as well as your hosts, Victoria Stiles and Lana Davis! Doors open at 8 and pageant starts promptly at 9. Tickets are $8 in advance and $10 at the door.

The pageant will be held at the historic Abraham Lincoln Wyndham Hotel, Friday June10, 2011 starting at 8 pm.

There will be a light food menu available, as well as a cash bar, with table seating. Show your support to the community, the contestants, or just have a great time! This is bound to be a fabulous night with some unforgettable performances!

Applebee's Flapjack Fundraiser

2011-05-19T08:45:00.000-04:00

$6.00 per person

Kids under 12 $4.00

WHEN: Saturday, May 21, 2011 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

WHERE: Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar, 3050 N 5th Street Hwy, Reading, PA 19605

* Feel free to invite more guests to this event!

* If you are a queen who would like to serve for our breakfast, please get in contact with Kim Kalbach!

Funds raised will be used for the Reading Pride Celebration Festival to be held July 15, 16 and 17, 2011

The festival celebrates the diversity and unity of the LGBT community of The Greater Reading Area. Last year's event was visited by over 2,000 people.

Stirling Event 2011

2011-04-11T18:05:00.001-04:00

2011 headliner -- MARTHA WASH!

2011-03-26T03:38:00.000-04:00

Reading Pride Celebration is proud to announce the 2011 headliner -- MARTHA WASH!

http://www.martha-wash.com/

Ms Reading Pride Celebration Pageant

2011-03-21T15:43:00.007-04:00

Reading Pride Celebration is proud to announce that we will be holding a Ms Reading Pride Celebration Pageant this year! That's right. You heard it here first. We have been working hard to put together an extravagant event. We want to thank all of those who have worked diligently to help put this together.

The pageant will be held at the historic Abraham Lincoln Wyndham Hotel, Friday June10, 2011 starting at 8 pm.

Tickets will be available for purchase on the RPC website for $8 in advance or $10 at the door.

There will be a light food menu available, as well as a cash bar, with table seating. Show your support to the community, the contestants, or just have a great time! This is bound to be a fabulous night with some unforgettable performances!

The pageant is open to any male at least 21 years old, contestants must live within 125 miles of Reading, Pa., and an entry fee of $30 must be submitted with application and is non-refundable.

The winner will receive a crown, a sash, flowers, and a cash prize of $300, which will be awarded in three installments. Additional details and rules along with application and contract will be available on our website.

The deadline for submission is May 25. There are requirements that must be sent in along with application, so don't wait until the last minute!If you are interested in participating,download your application NOW!

Please be sure to download all three documents:

Reading Pride Celebration Pageant LETTER
Reading Pride Celebration Pageant CONTRACT
Reading Pride Celebration Pageant RULES AND APPLICATION

GAYZETTE- Spring 2011 edition!

2011-03-20T08:26:00.000-04:00

Please check out the latest edition of the Gayzette!

April Follies – A Benefit Drag Show for the SPECTRUM GLBTQ Youth Group … April 1 … One Night Only

2011-02-01T09:55:00.002-05:00

Kincade Productions and The Rainbow Review proudly present this Benefit Drag Show to raise much needed funds for The SPECTRUM.

The SPECTRUM is a youth group based in Reading which gives GLBTQ (Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender) Teens and their Straight Allies a safe place to learn, interact, and to just be themselves.
In addition to some of the kids from The SPECTRUM (some gracing the stage for the very first time), this show will also feature the extraordinary talents of some our top local entertainers:

Amie Vanité Kincade (AKA Christopher Paul Paolini, AKA Rainbow)
Nicole Dushey
Fauxie De-Glamoure (AKA Foxxy)

Joining our local entertainers will be two sensational and well renowned performers from the Philadelphia area:

Joey Josephs
Precious Caliente

The show will be hosted by the one and almost only:

Sylvia Rosenberg-Fine (who looks, sounds, and eats a lot like a certain Nanny’s mother)

Special Thanks to Reading Community Players for donating their space for this first ever Benefit Show!!

An evening of laughs, illusion, and the BEST Drag Entertainers around!! Please join us for this one night only performance and help raise money for this truly worthy cause!! Seating is limited, so get yours TODAY!!

Ticket Prices:

General Admission $10 for Adults
General Admission $5 for Students

Purchase Tickets Now!

A Good Thyme for Life - Fine Dining for a Good Cause

2011-02-01T09:51:00.001-05:00

Robyn Ochs

2011-02-01T09:49:00.000-05:00

Thursday February 17, 2011
"I Now Pronounce You...Equal"
3:00 pm, 183 McFarland Student Union
Kutztown University

"Beyond Binaries:Identity and the Sexuality Spectrum"
7:00 pm, 218 McFarland Student Union
Kutztown University

FREEHELD

2011-02-01T09:45:00.000-05:00

Tuesday Februar 15, 2011
7 p.m., 193 McFarland Student Union Building
Kutztown University

Game Night In Reading

2011-02-01T09:25:00.000-05:00

Vision of Home MCC Game Night in Reading
Saturday, February 5th 7:00-9:00 PM
Join them for a night of games and FUN!

Please bring a snack to share

TAKES PLACE AT
THE QUAKER MEETING HOUSE
108 N. 6TH STREET, READING, PA
Lighted, onsite parking!

Contact Information: Rev. Deb Coggin (717) 682-1873 or
Rev. Jen Glass (610) 350-9803 (Se habla Español)
or e-mail Reading@visionofhopemcc.org

Vision of Hope Metropolitan Community Church - a multi-racial, intergenerational GLBTQ community and those who walk the journey with us - is a church where all people are welcome.

GAYZETTE - Winter 2010/2011 issue

2010-12-13T08:33:00.002-05:00

Please check out the latest edition of the Gayzette!

And don't forget to purchase tickets for our Applebee's® Flapjack Fundraiser Breakfast!
Purchase here

Lonely Planet

2010-11-17T14:16:00.000-05:00

A Christmas Carol...With Strings!

2010-11-08T19:55:00.000-05:00

A National Day of Mourning - Friday, November 12, 2010

2010-11-01T13:19:00.001-04:00

In solidarity with our teen LGBTQ brothers and sisters, All Souls Church will be hosting an interfaith

Service of Awareness and Remembrance

Everyone is encourage to gather at the circle in Centre Park at 6:30 for a silent, candlelit procession to the church at 640 Centre Ave, Reading, PA. You may park at the church. The distance is about 1/2 a block away.

The services of Awareness and Remembrance will begin at 7pm. This service will be a sacred time to share the grief and pain of our communal loss.

This is a day to remember those who have been taunted and bullied - their torment too often resulting in suicide.

All GLBTQ teens and young adults are especially welcome

If you would like to participate in some way with the service, please do not hesitate to contact All Souls at 610-621-1738.

Applebee's® Flapjack Fundraiser Breakfast

2010-10-20T16:23:00.000-04:00

You're invited to an Applebee's® Flapjack Fundraiser Breakfast to support Reading Pride Celebration
WHEN: Saturday, December 18, 2010
8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

WHERE: Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar
3050 N 5th Street Hwy
Reading, PA 19605

Valid only at participating restaurant listed above. Ticket valid for pancake event only.
Applebee's menu items are not included as part of purchase.

KU STUDENTS HOST VIGIL IN RESPONSE TO RECENT GLBT TRAGEDIES ON NATIONAL COMING OUT DAY

2010-10-08T21:28:00.000-04:00

Kutztown University students and staff will participate in a vigil in response to recent GLBTQ tragedies to be held on the south side of campus behind Old Main on the “DMZ” on Monday, October 11, 7 p.m. -9 p.m. The vigil will acknowledge students who have lost their lives as a result of being bullied and harassed for being gay including Rutgers University student Tyler Clementi.

“Step Up and Step Out" is not only a vigil but also a program to display and encourage tolerance and equality. In addition to the event, October 8 is National Coming Out Day as declared by the Human Rights Campaign. The event organizers are encouraging everyone to wear blue on that day. Blue is the color of the Human Rights Campaign.

There will be activities where students can reflect and actively participate to make a change to limit and eventually prevent events such as these from happening in the future. There will also be computers where students can make a person smile by making a creative picture on "The Trevor Project" website; writing letters of support for Chris Armstrong, the University of Michigan student body president who has been targeted by homophobic Michigan assistant attorney general Andrew Shirvell. Students can also participate by signing the Rachel's Challenge Pledge, viewing a slideshow concerning the plight of these teenagers as well as information about suicide, harassment, and bullying, and writing reflections about the events.

The idea for this event stemmed from the concerns of students from one of KU’s residence halls and is being planned with the support of other student-run groups on campus.

If you have any additional questions or would like additional information, please contact Sarah Wesolowski, Berks Hall resident director, at 412-607-4823.

LGBT MUSLIM ACTIVIST TO SPEAK AT KUTZTOWN UNIVERSITY

2010-10-08T08:36:00.002-04:00

Gay Muslim activist and speaker Faisal Alam will speak at Kutztown University on Thursday, October 21 at 2 p.m. in the Unity Room of the Multicultural Center about his experience as a gay man living in the Muslim world.

With his presentation, “Hidden Voices: The Lives of LGBT Muslims,” Alam, will highlight the struggles of living within a community which goes mostly unnoticed and hopes to reach out to Muslims who are gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered or intersexed.

For more information on this event, please contact the GLBTQ Resource Center at 484-646-4111.

GAYZETTE - Fall 2010 issue

2010-10-06T13:07:00.000-04:00

Fall 2010

GLBT History Month 2010

2010-10-01T11:47:00.000-04:00

Starting today, an Icon will be featured every day in October. Each icon will be highlighted with a video, bio, bibliography, downloadable images, and other educational resources - all free of charge - at www.glbthistorymonth.com.

National Celebrate Bisexuality Day is Sept. 23

2010-09-20T15:28:00.000-04:00

Sept 23rd is Bisexual Pride Day!
Whether a bisexual or an ally, Happy Bi Pride, be out, proud, and loud!

The 19th annual Celebrate Bisexuality Day (CBD) will be held Thursday, Sept. 23, 2010, and the following weekend, with house parties, performances, and more throughout the U.S.

Today you can come out to your friends, family, co-workers as bisexual.

Learn more about the bisexual orientation.

Make a contribution to one of the bisexual organizations such as BiNetUSA, Bialogue, the Bisexual Resource Center,or the American Institute for Bisexuality.

Join a bisexual social, political, or support group in your area or local LGBT center -- Or get involved with your local Pride organization!!

FORMER PSAC FOOTBALL PLAYER AND FIRST OPENLY GAY FOOTBALL CAPTAIN TO SPEAK AT KU

2010-09-13T21:05:00.001-04:00

KUTZTOWN, September 8 – Brian K. Sims, the NCAA’s first openly gay football team captain, will be visiting KU to talk about the struggles he faced and overcame while attending and playing for Bloomsburg University. Sims will be presenting his speech, “LGBT Athletes & Allies”, on September 23 in Boehm 145 at 11:00 a.m. The event is free and open to the public.

After graduating from Bloomsburg University, Sims attended law school and is now an attorney and chairman of GALLOP, (Gay and Lesbian Lawyers of Pennsylvania). He currently holds the position of staff counsel for Policy & Planning at The Philadelphia Bar Association.

Sims has been featured in OutSports and several other accredited publications such as The Washington Times and The San Francisco Chronicle. He maintains his athleticism by participating in regional marathons and triathlons. His stories and experiences get responses from people all over the world.

For more information, please contact the GLBTQ Resource Center at KU at 484-646-4111.

Pride Picnic at Knoebels Amusement Resort

2010-08-02T09:15:00.000-04:00

Interfaith Service

2010-07-07T19:35:00.000-04:00

Free HIV testing at Reading Pride

2010-07-07T06:20:00.000-04:00

Always Patsy Cline, Saturday June 26

2010-06-22T06:05:00.000-04:00

PURCHASE TICKETS

Reading Pride Celebration 2010!!

2010-06-21T09:55:00.000-04:00

Pet Drag Show

2010-06-21T09:49:00.002-04:00

Show off your creativity and your pet's style!

Voting will be done by the audience as you walk your pet across the stage. Each pet will be assigned a number and jar with its corresponding number. The audience votes by placing donations in your pet's jar. The pet that raises the most money will be our winner! ALL MONEY RAISED WILL GO TO LOCAL ANIMAL CHARITIES.

Please register your pet by July 15th.

1st prize valued at over $100
2nd prize valued at over $50
3rd prize valued at over $25

Special thanks to the following businesses that have generously donated to our prizes:

SUPERPETS - Mulhenberg Shopping Center, 5th St. Highway, Muhlenberg 610-921-1700
TAILS A WAGGIN' - 2321 Penn Ave, West Lawn 610-378-9446
LUCKY DOG GROOMING AND BOUTIQUE - 1502 Elisabeth Ave, Laureldale 610-921-9114
DIANE'S PET CENTER - 3001 Perkiomen Ave, Reading 610-779-8889
JANE'S CLIP JOINT - 1332 N. 6th St. Reading 610-373-2165
K-9 CREATIONS - 3408 Kutztown Road, Reading 610-929-9449

We want pets to be welcome at many Pride celebrations to come, so please practice responsible pet ownership. Most of all HAVE FUN!

Decisions For Life

2010-05-20T17:12:00.000-04:00

Are you a g/b/q male, around 16-18 years old?

$$$$ Would you like to learn, have fun, AND earn some extra money? $$$$

Join our group this summer for ten meetings,

tell us what you think about our new program,

Decisions For Life (DFL)!

DFL was designed by young people for young people like you! DFL will give you HONEST and accurate information about HIV/AIDS that will help you to:

· STAY HEALTHY!

· avoid unhealthy relationships!

· improve your communication skills!

· improve your decision-making skills!

· improve your refusal and negotiation skills!

· increase your awareness of personal values!

If you’re interested, why don’t you sign up for the group by contacting Nadine (see below). Our group will be made up of guys like you. We’ll meet for ten meetings in the West Reading area. The group will begin on or around July 8 and will end around August 7.

Each DFL meeting will be absolutely CONFIDENTIAL, so that you’ll feel comfortable participating. You will NEVER be asked to discuss anything personal. If you don’t feel comfortable for any reason, you can leave at any time.

You’ll earn $25 for each meeting you attend! That’s $250 if you come to all ten sessions!!! (You don’t have to attend all ten sessions.) And you’ll learn some new things, maybe meet some new people, have some fun, and you’ll be helping us to improve this GREAT program.

If you want to participate, or if you’d like more information

about the group, please call or email Nadine any time before June 10th:

Nadine Smet-Weiss

njw1258@hotmail.com

610.375.6523 (ask for extension 107)

And if you have friends who are (g/b/q) males, around 16-18 years old, tell them to call Nadine, too.

Once 15 guys have signed up for the group by contacting Nadine, a date and location for our first meeting will be chosen. (Nadine will then contact you with this information.)

Here are some things that other young people have told us about the project:

· AWESOME!

· It made me realize that it’s important to take care of yourself.

· I learned a lot of things about HIV that I never knew about.

· I learned so much about protecting myself and the skills to have a healthy relationship.

· This program is a very big help to young adults like me!!

· I think it will definitely help me in the future because I will think twice now before I act. The facts about HIV were shocking and had an effect on me. I will definitely protect myself!

· It has helped me and changed my way of life for the better. THANKS!! J

In order to participate, you MUST:

· be a gay, bisexual or questioning male

· be around 16-18 years old

· be willing to meet for ten meetings between July 8 and August 7, 2010

· be comfortable in a group of other young males

· attend the first meeting! (but you don’t have to attend all ten meetings)

· contact Nadine BEFORE JUNE 10^th

Decisions For Life is funded through the Pennsylvania Department of Health, Division of HIV/AIDS

and administered by the University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Prevention Project

The Bitches of Broadway and Divas of Grand D'Illusion

2010-05-20T16:52:00.000-04:00

Reading Pride Celebration has been invited to an evening of Broadway Glamour and Glitter.

So if you want to experience an evening of Grand D'Illusion and find out all about this year's Pride Festival. Be at The Red Star Saloon on Saturday May 22, 2010.

We hope to see you there !

The Brick House Pub Party

2010-05-15T07:11:00.004-04:00

Click here for directions

SPECTRUM Pride Prom!

2010-05-11T08:47:00.000-04:00

For tickets, contact Amber Brown
610-376-0137

abrown@PlanItPa.org

2010-05-04T19:29:00.000-04:00

We are pleased to announce pop and dance artist Thea Austin will be the headliner for the Reading Pride Celebration to be held in Centre Park on July 18, 2010.

Thea Austin is best known for her hits "I Got The Power" and "Rhythm is a Dancer", recorded under the name of the pop group SNAP but has been making waves on the Billboard Dance charts for years with hits including "Just About had Enough", recorded under than name of Beat Hustlerz; "I'm Addicted To You", recorded under the name of Pusaka and "I Can't Get Enough", recorded under the name of SoulSearcher.

During the week leading up to pride there will be a series of events for everyone. The final calendar of events including the always popular after party will be finalized soon.

For information on all events, please visit www.readingpridecelebration.org or become a fan on facebook group or friend on myspace!

A Time for Pride

2010-04-23T06:02:00.000-04:00

With the arrival of warm weather, one realizes that Summer is fast approaching and that the Reading Pride Celebration is not too far away. While busy finalizing all the events, Reading Pride is delighted to announce that this year’s headliner will be the internationally acclaimed hit-maker Thea Austin. Anyone who has ever spent time on a dance floor will have no problem remembering her many hits (”Don’t Stop”, “Rhythm is a Dancer”, “I Can’t Get Enough”, “I Got the Power”) just to name a few. Also performing at this year’s event and back by popular demand is Tom Goss.

While many believe that Reading Pride is just a one day event, it is actually so much more. It is true that the main Pride Festival will occur on Sunday, July 18th in Centre Park, but it is actually an entire weekend of events. On Friday July 16th, Reading Pride will gather at the Reading Area Community College for the showing of a documentary film, discussion and a reception. On Saturday July 17th, Reading Pride will host an interfaith prayer service/reception and later a pre-pride party at the Red Star Saloon. On Sunday evening July 18th the weekend will conclude with a dance.

Not only is the Reading Pride Celebration more than just a one day event, the organization holds fundraisers throughout the year. Join us at these upcoming events: “The Fourth Annual Evening at Stirling” on Sunday, May 16th from 3-7 PM, 1120 Centre Ave.(Price is $30 in advance/$35 at door and includes entertainment, silent auction, hot & cold hors d'oeuvres, carving station, beverages, beer, wine, coffee and desserts);“A Kick Off to Summer Party” on Sunday, June 6th from 2-6 PM at the Brick House Pub, 1348 Brooke Blvd, in Kenhorst (Price is $15 for indoor picnic/dance party including complimentary keg, picnic food, door prizes and cash bar); and “Joyride: A Gay Event at Dorney Park” on Saturday, May 22nd from 7:30 PM to 1:00 AM, Reading Pride will partner with New York City Pride to sponsor an evening of fun and entertainment at Dorney Park.

You are also encouraged to become a member and help with the work. The general membership meeting is held on the 3rd Monday of the month at Chef Allan's. Note that in the couple of months prior to the July Pride weekend, the general meeting then begins to meet every other Monday and eventually every Monday leading up to Pride weekend.
You may want to serve on any of the various committees such as: entertainment; newsletter; fundraising; vendors; community development; interfaith prayer service; decorating; public relations/marketing; web site; election/audit; grants/sponsorship; and events operations. Generally speaking, committees meet on certain Monday and Wednesday evenings at the Waldorf Cafe.

Tickets for events can be purchased by calling Lori at 484.955.1490 or Rich at 610.375.8209. For further info, see readingpridecelebration.org

This article was written by Donald Maher, Chair, Public Relations/Marketing Committee, Reading Pride Celebration

CANCELED

2010-04-15T21:32:00.001-04:00

Today the Executive Board of Heritage of Pride has unfortunately decided to cancel Joyride for this year due to lower than expected ticket sales. We are continuing to work with Dorney Park to make sure everyone who purchased a ticket is notified. The park has decided they will honor any ticket purchased for Joyride at any time during the season, otherwise they will be allowed to get a full refund. Heritage of Pride will still make good on any ticket commissions earned by you organization for tickets sold through you and not refunded by May 29th. I will be sure to keep you posted on any further developments regarding Joyride including the possibility of doing the event in the Summer of 2011.

Please let me know if you have any questions. I think you again for all of your time and efforts.

~~Please let me know if you have any questions. I think you again for all of your time and efforts.~~
~~Join us for the first JOYRIDE 2010 LGBT EVENT at Dorney Park, sponsored by Heritage of Pride. Tickets are on sale only through this~~ ~~website~~ and limited ticket outlets, making this exclusive event for family and friends in our Community of Pride. Dorney Park is located near Allentown, Pennsylvania with easy access to I-78; just 60 to 90 minutes or less from most points in Metro Philly, New York and Northeast and Central PA.

~~Mark your calendar for Saturday, May 22, 2010, from 7:30pm to 1:00am for an exciting night of music, entertainment, rides, games and tasty treats to eat! Don't miss out,~~ ~~buy your tickets now~~!

~~Please see the JOYRIDE info desk in the main plaza for full-day admission information. Please not that~~ ~~ONLY JOYRIDE~~ ~~tickets will be valid for admission to the evening JOYRIDE 2010 LGBT EVENT from 7:30pm to 1:00am.~~

Wildwater Kingdom will not be open.
Visit www.dorneypark.com for more information and additional directions.

The Fourth Annual Evening at Stirling

2010-04-15T21:18:00.000-04:00

Reading Pride Celebration Presents

The Fourth Annual Evening at Stirling

Featuring

Carol Ann & Heaven Leigh

Sunday May 16, 2010

3:00 PM to 7:00 PM

Stirling Guest Hotel

1120 Centre Avenue, Reading

Entertainment, a fabulous silent auction, hot & cold hors d'oeuvres, a carving station and assorted beverages including beer and wine. Food served 3:30 to 5:00. Finish the evening with assorted desserts and coffee.

Tickets are $30.00 in advance or $35.00 at door.
Tickets may be purchased through pay pal or by calling Rich at 610.375.8209

All Proceeds Benefit Reading Pride Celebration

Day of Pink

2010-04-06T10:24:00.001-04:00

Wear pink on April 14, 2010!

The goal of DayofPink.org is to bring this message across the world, through an international day of action that anyone can take part in. We encourage groups to not only wear pink in support of Diversity, but to also hold events and activities that will engage their community.

Across the world discrimination continues to be the leading source of conflict. Discrimination is racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, ableism, anti-semitism... and many others. These social diseases affect how we work, study and treat one another; and they create barriers, bullying, harassment, hate and violence. DayofPink is more than just a symbol of a shared belief in celebrating diversity - it's also a commitment to being open minded, to being understanding of differences and to learning to respect each other.

Gay Day at the Philadelphia Zoo

2010-04-06T08:42:00.003-04:00

Show your true colors!
2010 Gay Dat at the Philadelphia Zoo
Saturday, April 17, 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Family Friendly Entertainment, Wild Guests, and Community Members Just Like You!

Tickets on Sale @ http://www.waygay.org

Working in conjunction with the Philadelphia Zoo and other LGBT organizations, the William Way LGBT Community Center is excited to announce Gay Day at the Philadelphia Zoo scheduled for Saturday, April 17, 2010. As with last year, the Center and other organizations will be selling tickets through April for this event with family friendly entertainment, wild sights, and opportunities for LGBT individuals and families to network and have fun.

Stay tuned for additional details on entertainment! With Center information in the Peacock Pavilion, the event will also highlight some special forms of entertainment sure to be a hit with young and old alike. An exciting component of this year’s Gay Day will be Creatures of Habitat: A Gazillion-Piece Animal Adventure opening just one week prior to Gay Day! Children and adults alike will be able to view life-sized LEGO® sculptures of some of the most beautiful endangered species currently walking the earth! Buy your tickets today!

Tickets can also be purchased at the William Way Center in person at 1315 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107. Please remember to leave your contact information along with payment to the attention of Development Coordinator Josh Kruger and to specify which organization you are buying your tickets through!

Tickets are $10.00 if purchased online ahead of the event, so sign up now! This is a family friendly event.
www.waygay.org

The Vagina Monologues

2010-04-05T10:20:00.002-04:00

Have a laugh.
Share the joy.
Help a girl survive.

Eve Ensler’s

The Vagina Monologues
Sat. April 10 8:00pm Sun. April 11 2:00pm

GENESIUS THEATER 10th & Walnut Streets, Reading

TICKETS visit www.brownpapertickets.com or call 484-332-0098

To learn more about our V-Day Campaign or “The Vagina Monologues” visit www.vday.org

Newsletter!

2010-03-30T20:21:00.002-04:00

Reading Pride Celebration
is proud to bring to you, hot off the presses, the first edition of
The Reading Pride Celebration Newsletter

Click here to download!

GLBT Bowling League

2010-03-15T12:26:00.003-04:00

This blog has moved

2010-03-12T20:21:00.001-05:00

This blog is now located at http://readingpridecelebration.blogspot.com/.
You will be automatically redirected in 30 seconds, or you may click here.

For feed subscribers, please update your feed subscriptions to
http://readingpridecelebration.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default.

TAKE ME OUT Special Performance – READING PRIDE NIGHT

2010-03-01T06:12:00.002-05:00

Please join Reading Community Players along with Reading Pride Celebration Saturday March 6 at 7 pm for Take Me Out. 2003 Tony Award Winner for Best Play. Written by Richard Greenberg Directed By Santo D. Marabella.

Wine & Cheese Reception at 7:00 PM
Show at 8:00 PM and Panel Discussion After the Show

Tickets $25.00.

Audience advisory:Mature themes,nudity and strong language. Check out www.rcptheate.org
Address 403 N. 11 th Street, Reading

Reading Pride Celebration Newsletter!

2010-02-19T06:18:00.003-05:00

Reading Pride Night - "Take Me Out"

2010-02-17T15:21:00.002-05:00

March 06, 2010 7:00 PM
Reading Community Players
403 N. 11th Street
Reading, PA 19604 [map it!]

Price $25.00

Info Line 610-375-9106
http://www.readingcommunityplayers.com/

Take Me Out, Richard Greenberg's Broadway hit and Tony Award Winner. Wine & Cheese reception prior to show. Panel discussion afterward.

The play explores with wit and compassion what might happen if a player on a major league baseball team were to announce that he is gay. Greenberg brings out many attitudes toward homosexuality by drawing his main character as a very specific, unique individual. Darren Lemming is the star player who has led his team to win two Worlds Series in a row. He comes from a middle-class, biracial family but has never faced any sort of racial prejudice. He is the ideal ballplayer on the ideal team, until the day he decides to announce his sexual orientation to his team: then his relationships change with his coach; his teammates; his new business manager, who is gay; his best friend, who is devoutly religious; and especially with the homophobic pitcher recently up from the minors, who refers to Lemming by using an offensive slur during an interview. The play is full of insights about baseball, masculinity, and identity in the twenty-first century.

AUDIENCE ADVISORY: MATURE THEMES, NUDITY & STRONG LANGUAGE

Annual GSA Leadership Summit

2010-02-06T11:48:00.002-05:00

Common Roads and Dickinson College are pleased to present the 3rd Annual Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) Leadership Summit: an opportunity for students and professionals to meet, network and participate in workshops designed to help everyone better understand and advocate for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning and allied students in central Pennsylvania and beyond.

GSAs registered for the Summit by February 20th will receive a copy of the documentary Out in the Silence (www.outinthesilence.com) along with a discussion guide and an event-planning toolkit. This opportunity is provided by The Philadelphia Foundation.

Click here for the Registration Packet for this year’s event.

Reading Pride Celebration Newsletter!

2010-02-06T11:07:00.002-05:00

Calling for your help!!!

Reading Pride Celebration is working to start a newsletter on our web site.

We are having a contest to name the newsletter. If your entry is chosen, you will receive a $20.00 gift card to Iezzi's Bar and Restaurant in Boyertown.

Submit your ideas to readingpridenews@gmail.com. Please include your name and phone number so we can contact you if you win!

Deadline for the contest is March 13th.

Mardi Gras at the Red Star!

2010-01-30T17:21:00.002-05:00

Vision of Hope MCC - Upcomming events

2010-01-18T21:41:00.001-05:00

Bible and Homosexuality Workshop
Thursday, January 21 – Part 1 from 7pm to 9pm
Thursday, January 28 – Part 2 from 7pm to 9pm

SOCIAL EVENT – Queer Karaoke with other fun activities and food!
Sunday, January 31 at 6pm.

Meeting At: The Quaker Meeting House
108 N. 6th Street
Reading, PA 19601
www.visionofhopemcc.org

Holidays on the Rocks!

2009-12-15T11:21:00.003-05:00

2009-12-07T12:59:00.004-05:00

Friday, December 18th
Christmas Dance
8-11pm
$5 admission

CHISTMAS EVE SERVICES
7pm and 10pm

New Year's Eve Party
9:30pm-12:30am
alcohol free

Stephanie Schaffer
20’s /30’s Ministry Leader

MCC of the Lehigh Valley
930 North 4th Street, First Floor
Allentown, PA 18102
610-709-8800
mcclv.org

FUNdraiser—Fri, December 4th— to benefit Planned Parenthood!

2009-11-30T10:42:00.003-05:00

VIVA tapas lounge, located in Greater Reading, is sponsoring a new program for nonprofits. Friday night is DANCE night at VIVA featuring live bands. Planned Parenthood will benefit from a night of high-energy dance music by the spectacular BUNCHAFUNK!!! Your "cover charge" is donated to Planned Parenthood of Northeast and Mid-Penn!!

Join us on Friday, December 4th, 10:00 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. !

Tickets can be purchased at VIVA now and the night of the event or

Tickets to the event can be secured by contacting:
Planned Parenthood/Andrea Dolak
(610) 481-0481 ext. 26
adolak@planitpa.org

Credit cards are accepted.

Don’t forget to email all your friends and family, too!

Lets dance the night away to benefit all the women, men and teens who are served by Planned Parenthood!

VIVA is located at 901 Hill Avenue (one block off North Park Road) Wyomissing, 19610

BUNCHAFUNK is an 8 piece band including three horns and a full rhythm section, featuring dance, R&B, the sounds of Earth, Wind, & Fire, Rick James, Tower of Power, and Temptations.

Looking Back, Looking Forward

2009-11-19T12:32:00.001-05:00

Kutztown University’s GLBTQ Resource Center will be hosting a Human Rights Day Panel Discussion, “Looking Back, Looking Forward”, on Thursday, December 10, 11 AM, in the McFarland Student Union Building, Room 218.

The panelists include: Jacqueline Conforti Barnett, Special Assistant to the PASSHE Chancellor, Stephen A. Glassman, Chairperson of the PA Human Relations Commission, and Barbara M. Taliaferro, KU Associate Vice President for Diversity & Inclusion.

The panelists will discuss human rights past, present and future from National, State, and Kutztown University perspectives. This will be an opportunity to hear about the strides that have been made and the work yet to be done. All are invited to this free event.

Reception at Canal Street Pub

2009-11-09T10:42:00.001-05:00

HIV/AIDS and Cancer benefit

2009-10-22T11:23:00.004-04:00

Click here for larger image

PFLAG Meeting Tuesday October 20th

2009-10-19T08:31:00.002-04:00

This is a reminder that the Reading PFLAG meeting will be on Tuesday, October 20th. Begin arriving at 6:30PM; to start the meeting by 6:45PM.

This month Deb Sieger will be leading on our discussion on the potential effects of health care reform on the LBGT Community, their families, and friends.

Please be aware that, after learning their survey results last month, they are still contemplating the future of Reading PFLAG and exactly what form it will take. The October and November meetings are the last ones officially scheduled following our regular format.

Please join them to participate in a lively discussion on a current topic and to help them move forward with our future.

Location:

First Unitarian Universalist Church of Berks County
416 Franklin Street
Reading
610-372-0928
You can find directions to the UU Church on their website www.uuberks.org under "About Our Church" - "Driving Directions" or at www.uuberks.org/directions.htm

PFLAG - Eastern PA Chapter
Helplines: 610-967-5219, 570-620-1234
website: www.eastern-pa-pflag.org e-mail: info@eastern-pa-pflag.org
berks@eastern-pa-pflag.org

LGBT Estate Planning

2009-10-19T06:09:00.003-04:00

The Berks County Community Foundation is hosting a two part seminar on November 18th focused on LGBT Estate Planning.

3-5 pm is for professional advisors (CPA’s, Attorneys, Financial Advisors)

5-6:30 Community Mixer (food and drink)

6:30-8:30 LGBT Community Seminar

They will be featuring an reading attorney (Mike Mixell), a CPA (Franki Aiken), trust officer (Tom Moore) and sinancial Advisorde (Amy Smart) signed around highlighting the needs and related solutions.

Call the Berks County Community Foundation to RSVP: 610.685.2223
http://www.bccf.org/

October is GLBT History Month

2009-10-07T06:00:00.000-04:00

Breaking News!

2009-09-25T15:29:00.002-04:00

We just found out that the changes to Reading's non discrimination policy to make the LGBT community inclusive will be on the agenda for voting at City Council's Meeting on Monday September 28, 2009. The meeting begins at 7:00 PM at City Hall 8th & Washington Streets.

Please bring your friends and let's pack the Council Chambers to show our support.

RAINBOW PLAYERS THEATER CO. Screening of OUT IN THE SILENCE - An Evening of GLBTQIA Solidarity

2009-09-23T20:15:00.002-04:00

A Screening of an Upcoming PBS Documentary
OUT IN THE SILENCE
A Documentary Film by Joe Wilson & Dean Hamer
AN EVENING OF GLBTQIA SOLIDARITY

Rainbow Players Theater Co. will be hosting a screening of the upcoming PBS documentary, OUT IN THE SILENCE, on Friday, October 2 at 8 pm at the Metropolitan Community Church of the Lehigh Valley, 930 North 4th Street, Allentown, PA 18102. OUT IN THE SILENCE is an uplifting documentary about courageous local residents confronting homophobia in their conservative small town in the hills of western Pennsylvania. Admission cost is $15 and $8 for students & senior citizens. Proceeds will benefit the Rainbow Players Theater Co., MCCLV’s Freedom to Marry Initiative, and PA Diversity Network. Following the screening, there will be a Q&A panel with filmmakers Joe Wilson & Dean Hamer, PA Senator Daylin Leach (author of the Bill Providing For Full, Equal Marriage Rights to Pennsylvania's Same-Sex Couples), Chairman of the PA Human Relations Commission Stephen A. Glassman, Jake Kaskey of Equality Advocates Pennsylvania, & PA Diversity Network's Liz Bradbury and Adrian Shanker.

OUT IN THE SILENCE is a documentary film and social action campaign aimed at promoting increased visibility and fairness and equality for GLBTQ people in rural and small town America. Filmmaker Joe Wilson travels back to his roots in this autobiographical documentary. Growing up in the small town of Oil City, Pa., Wilson remained closeted, but after college, Peace Corps and settling in Washington, D.C., he came out and wed Dean Hamer (the film's co-director). After publishing his marriage announcement in Oil City's newspaper, Joe received a torrent of negative, bigoted letters — and one he didn't expect. Kathy Springer wrote that her 16-year-old son, CJ, had recently come out and was being tortured daily by his classmates. Seeing a community in need, Wilson and Hamer, with camera in hands, headed north to see what they could do. Between interviewing ministers, rebuilding cars, restoring old theaters and battling both the school board and the antagonistic American Family Association (all while making a documentary about it), the newfound friends bring about the change that Oil City needed so badly. A poignant, personal and engrossing story.

This is an opportunity for the GLBTQIA community and community-at-large to publicly stand together in a show of solidarity, and hear about the strides we are making towards GLBTQIA rights, as well as the steps that we can continue to make together.

For more information, contact Dean Hiatt, Artistic Director, at rainbow.players@mcclv.org, or 718-664-3713. You can also find out more about the documentary at http://outinthesilence.com.

SPECTRUM volunteers needed

2009-09-21T21:30:00.003-04:00

The SPECTRUM is a safe haven for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender or Questioning youth (LGBTQ) in the Reading area. Teens participate in recreational activities, socialize and receive educational information related to health, sexuality, life skills and leadership. They are given an opportunity to celebrate their lives and uniqueness in a safe and non-judgmental environment.

The SPECTRUM helps LGBTQ youth combat the problems of discrimination and increased risk for drugs, alcohol, failing in school and other difficulties by providing support, camaraderie and education in the company of their peers.

We are currently looking for guest speakers to visit with us during the 2009-2010 school year. A recent survey of the SPECTRUM youth revealed their interest in the following topics:

·Massage
·Pottery
·Salsa dancing
·Popular dancing (they’d like to learn some new moves)
·Yoga/tai chi
·Knitting/crocheting (they’d like to create a SPECTRUM blanket)
·Ghost stories
·Face Painting/Henna
·Jewelry making/hemp jewelry
·Sculpture
·Makeovers (regular or drag)
·Improvisation/theater games
·Tie Dye clothing
·Field trips to local places (within walking distance)
·Quick and healthy meals
·Anything else you want to share (a personal passion, a hobby, a cause) that is interesting, fun or

Thanks!
Amber Brown
Senior Community Educator
Planned Parenthood of Northeast & Mid-Penn
48 South 4th Street
Reading, PA 19602
Tel: 610.376.0137
email: abrown@PlanItPA.org
http://www.PlanItPA.org

Reading Pride bus trip to D.C. march

2009-09-21T21:09:00.003-04:00

On Sunday October 11, 2009 history will repeat itself. Thirty years ago on this date the First National March on Washington was held.

If tomorrow by some stroke of luck or magic all 50 states would recognize our rights, we would still be denied the nearly 1,100 federal rights granted to straight couples.

We were promised our rights in the last election.
It is now time for us to demand them.

Reading Pride Celebration feels strongly that this is an opportunity for all of us
to stand up and be heard. To that end we are working with our fellow Pride Organizations to have as much representation as we can at The National Equality March.

Please register and let us know you would be willing to march.

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Reading Pride Photos

2009-09-19T07:30:00.002-04:00

We've just uploaded some really lovely shots from Reading Pride Celebration 2009. Photographic credit goes to Randy Myers Graphics,610-678-6917.

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

Upcoming free events from Kutztown University GLBTQ Resource Center

2009-09-19T07:12:00.002-04:00

The Kutztown University GLBTQ Resource Center is hosting the following events:

-- Celebrating GLBT History Month with Liz Bradbury, Executive
Director of the Pennsylvania Diversity Network.
Tuesday, October 6, 6
PM, McFarland Student Union Center room 250. This event is free and
open to the public. Please join Kutztown University as they kick-off
their the month-long GLBT History celebration with Liz Bradbury's
presentation that highlights important moments in GLBT history, from
ancient times to the present. Pictures from the award-winning "The PA
Diversity Network Photo Project - 300 Same-sex Couples: Facing
Inequality" will also be featured in this presentation.

-- Romaine Patterson, national radio personality, activist, author,
and public speaker will be speaking at Kutztown University on Tuesday,
October 13, at 11 AM, in the McFadden Student Union Building
multipurpose room (room 218). Patterson's presentation, "Growing Up
Gay" discusses her journey as a Wyoming native, founder of Angel
Action, consultant for The Laramie Project, spokesperson for
tolerance, acceptance, and nonviolence around the globe, co-host of
the successful Sirius Satellite Radio Show Derek & Romaine, to her
most recent role as mom. Please join us for this free event which is
open to the public. Patterson will be available for a booksigning
after the event, and her book the Whole World was Watching: Living in
the Light of Matthew Shepard will be available for purchase.

-- Dr. E. Patrick Johnson will be performing his one-man show,
"Pouring Tea: Black Gay Men of the South Tell Their Tales" at
Kutztown University on Monday, November 9, 7 PM, in Alumni Auditorium.
A scholar/artist, Johnson has performed nationally and
internationally and has published widely in the area of race, gender,
sexuality, and performance. This performance is based on the oral
histories collected in his book Sweet Tea: Black Gay Men of the South
-- An Oral History, collected between 2004 and 2006 from black gay men
who were born, raised, and continue to live in the South. The men hail
from fifteen different states and range from 19 to 93 years of age.
Free tickets are available to the public by contacting the KU GLBTQ
Resource Center at (484)646-4111. Johnson will be available for a
booksigning after the event, and copies of his book will be available
for purchase.

Vision of Hope Metropolitan Community Church

2009-09-17T11:38:00.001-04:00

Vision of Hope Metropolitan Community Church – a multi-racial, intergenerational GLBTQ community and those who walk the journey with us - is a church where all people are welcome. We are “Led by Christ, empowered to Rock the World!”

Vision of Hope MCC - Reading
Meeting At: Best Western Hotel
2299 Lancaster Pike
Shillington, PA 19607
Meeting Time: 7:00pm on the following Tuesdays

Click here for details

National Equality March

2009-09-06T08:11:00.004-04:00

This October there will be a march on Washington in support of many issues, including;

* Repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) so that every marriage in every state has the same federal rights.
* Repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell so that LGBT persons may serve in the military openly and with the same rights as their straight counterparts.
* An end to workplace discrimination for everyone with an Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) that protects everyone.
* The right to adopt children and raise families like any other parents.
* Hate Crimes legislation that includes LGBT people and protects us like any other targeted group.
* Immigration reform that recognizes same-sex couples and ends the needless separation of families.
* A comprehensive anti-bullying policy in our schools via the Safe Schools Improvement Act.

For more information, visit: http://equalityacrossamerica.org

TWO BY SUE

2009-08-31T18:01:00.003-04:00

Reading Community Players presents “TWO BY SUE,” a workshop production of PURGATORY and BLONDE BOMBSHELL, authored by Reading area playwright, Susan E. Sneeringer, September 25-27 and October 2-4, 2009 at the company’s 11th & Buttonwood Streets theatre.

PURGATORY is the story of Peg Murray and her relationship with her father, Jim, and the Catholic Church. A move across country to attend graduate school also brings Peg to an acceptance of her attraction to women and reconcile that with her spiritual beliefs.
PURGATORY contains brief nudity and is recommended for mature audiences.

BLONDE BOMBSHELL is a multi-generation tale which reveals family secrets uncovered in the wake of the death of once-blacklisted MGM contract player, Lois McGinty. As her daughter, Emma and granddaughter, Shannon sort through Lois’ remains, the full impact of the McCarthy-era witchhunts comes into view.

For more information for this and all shows in RCP’s 2009 season visit the theatre’s website at www.rcptheatre.org. To order tickets visit www.brownpapertickets.com or call the theatre box office at (610) 375-9106.

Reading City Council Meeting

2009-08-18T11:00:00.003-04:00

The Reading City council is currently considering a change to the existing Human Relations Commission Ordinance which would make it illegal to discriminate against gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people in the city of Reading.

Reading is the only city in Pennsylvania of the sixteen cities, counties and municipalities that have non-discrimination ordinances in place that does not include these catagories in its existing legislation.

We urge you to attend this important meeting to show the city council that this change is long overdue and that we expect them to stop wasting time and pass this important amendment to our existing law.

Reading City Council Meeting
Monday August 24th
7:00 PM
City Council Chambers
City Hall
815 Washington Street
Reading, PA 19601

Register for the Reading Pride Picnic!

2009-08-03T21:00:00.005-04:00

To express our appreciation of all those who,through their support, made RPC 2009 our biggest and most successful festival yet.

We're throwing you a picnic!

The date: Saturday September 12, 2009
The place: Laurel Run Park, River Road
The time: 2:00 PM till 8:00 PM
Food served from 4:00 PM till 6:00 PM

This FREE event will be limited to the first 250 people to register.

Registration will end on Saturday September 5, 2009.

REGISTRATION CLOSED

View Larger Map

The ordination of The Rev. Dewayne James Messenger

2009-08-03T20:50:00.002-04:00

http://www.allsoulsecumenical.org/

15th Annual Pride Picnic at Knoebels Grove

2009-08-03T08:39:00.002-04:00

Saturday August 8th 2009
Knoebels Grove Amusement Resort
Elysurg PA
Pavilion T10

Covered dish lunch and raffle at 3 pm.
Registration begins at 11 am.
Join us for the meal or for the day.
Bring a covered dish to share, Utensils and Tableware will be provided.

Questions and Directions:
Mike and Mike - 717-572-911
Cameron - cwdriver69@yahoo.com
Matt - bearonthemountain@gmail.com
Volunteers Welcome Day of Event

2009 Pride Picnic honors Silent Witness of Central Pennsylvania

REMINDER - Pride Picnic is NOT Sponsored by Knoebels Grove

Note that "kids of all ages" are always welcome.

Reading Pride 2009 Photos!

2009-08-03T08:31:00.002-04:00

We've uploaded a bunch of photos from this year's Reading Pride Celebration to our facebook page. Check them out and become a fan!

Photo Gallery

Photo Gallery #2

Reading Pride After Party

A Weekend of Pride Events

2009-07-06T19:14:00.002-04:00

Friday, July 17th 7:00 PM
Freedom to Marry
Reading Area Community College
Schmidt Training & Technology Center
2nd & Penn Street
Discussion & light refreshments to follow -- free will offering

Saturday July 17th 7:00 PM
"Pride In Faith"
Interfaith Prayer Service
Trinity Lutheran Church
6th and Washington Street

Join us at The Red Star Saloon for The Reading Railmen's Luau
Pride Tee Shirt Giveaway

Sunday July 19th, 12 Noon - 6:00 PM
Reading Pride Celebration
$2.00 Admission

Come out and show your support!
Enjoy the entertainment, the vendors, and great food!

Live on Stage Sunday July 19th in Centre Park(700 block of Centre Avenue), Reading!

Maxine Nightingale
Performing her #1 Pop/Dance HIt's
"right Back Where I started From"
"Lead Me On"

Entertainers
Tom Goss
Jo Braithweaite
Chris Shirk
&
Your favorite Drag Queens
DJ Evelyn

Join us for Reading Pride Idol and Doggy Drag Show
Register Online

There will be a free shuttle from Reading Station parking lot on Spring Street between Sixth Street and the railroad underpass.Watch for signs.

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Sunday July 19th
"After Pride Party"
Canal Street Pub
$5.00 cover

Click here to download the event poster

Doggy Drag Show & Pride Idol

2009-07-06T18:40:00.012-04:00

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My Gay Reading

2009-07-01T14:48:00.001-04:00

Check it out --www.mygayreading.com A site created and dedicated in providing up-to-date information, insight, advice and suggestions on non-prejudiced, gay friendly bars, clubs, restaurants, hotel's and much more that are available for gay and lesbian civilians who surround and are in our community as well as tourists who wish to visit our lovely little city of Reading, Pennsylvania.

Reading Pride on Comcast

2009-06-29T16:59:00.002-04:00

And tune into BCTV on 6/20/09 to see Reading Pride on live tv!

Maxine Nightingale - Reading Pride 2009 Headliner!

2009-06-28T10:00:00.003-04:00

Reading Pride Celebration announces this year's headliner - Maxine Nightingale. Check back soon for more information.

Right Back Where We Started From - Maxine Nightingale

Obama declares June 'LGBT Pride Month'

2009-06-03T16:54:00.002-04:00

In a presidential proclamation on the White House website, Barack Obama has lauded what he calls "the determination and dedication" of the LGBT movement by proclaiming June as "Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Pride Month."

"The LGBT rights movement has achieved great progress," Obama states in the official proclamation, "but there is more to be done. LGBT youth should feel safe to learn without the fear of harassment, and LGBT families and seniors should be allowed to live their lives with dignity and respect."

The proclamation, released on Monday, credits the LGBT movement with being a factor in more Americans who ascribe to those groups "living their lives openly today than ever before."
The president also takes pride in being the first U.S. chief executive to appoint "openly LGBT" candidates to Senate-confirmed positions in the first 100 days of an administration.

Penn State Theater

2009-05-27T15:53:00.001-04:00

Beginning in the Fall 2009, Penn State Berks will offer a B.A. Degree in Theater.
For more information visit them on the web at www.bk.psu.edu/theater or call 610-396-6419 for Prof. House, Coordinator.

Community Awards Celebration

2009-05-27T15:43:00.002-04:00

PDN/VGP will host the second annual GLBT Community Awards Celebration honoring organizations, businesses, and individuals who have served the GLBT community through activism, advocacy, volunteerism and leadership. All paid PA Diversity Network members are eligible to nominate individuals in both the greater Lehigh Valley and Berks County, in a variety of categories for awards.

The awards & recognitions will be presented Tuesday evening, June 23rd, in the Hamilton Room of the at the Allentown Brew Works, 812 Hamilton Street, Allentown, during a special evening party. Tickets are $20 per person in advance, $25 at the door. Ticket price includes fabulous hors d'oeuvres, pasta bar, soft drinks, cash bar, dessert, and coffee. There will be a silent auction, raffle, prizes and other features, including the PA Diversity Photo Project. This is a non-smoking event. Event begins at 6pm. Awards ceremony begins at 7:30pm. Dessert served at 8:30pm.

To nominate people, organizations, or businesses for awards, click here. To sponsor this event, click here. To order advanced tickets, click here.

Tickets still available for Stirling Event May 31st!

2009-05-21T11:49:00.002-04:00

Please contact us for tickets!