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| August/September 2006
Vol.18, No. 5
A New Look for Triangle Community Center is Coming Soon
Noticed anything new around the Triangle Community Center? It may not be very noticeable yet, but if you stopped by the Triangle Community Center booth at this year’s Fairfield County Pride, you may have caught a glimpse of what’s
coming, beginning with a brand new logo. A new identity is just the beginning of changes that mark the evolving face of TCC.
For starters, the new tagline --Where OUT is always in -- reinforces the importance of having a LGBTQ center to serve as a welcoming and inclusive hub for our community. It is a statement of our commitment to making a difference for all our members.
A refreshed brand is essential to providing our members -- and the broader community -- with a sense that “we change with the times.” It provides an opportunity to engage our current membership in new programs and activities with the hope of attracting new members.
While celebrating the Center’s 15 years of service to Southwest Connecticut, the board has been working overtime, creating a vision and plan for the next 15. Over the next few months we will be revamping the newsletter, updating communication materials, and developing public relations, grant, and corporate sponsorship materials. You may have noticed that last fall our website got a boost, becoming more current and user friendly. We will continue to update the website (www.ctgay.org) with all of the latest news and information, with a goal of making it a “go-to” place for all Fairfi led County LGBTQ information, programs and events. We hope the logo, materials, and commitment will provide the foundation for achieving our 5+ year plans, and take the Triangle Community Center to the next level.
But strategic planning doesn’t stop with a new logo. For the past year, the board has been studying and strategizing all the key components of a vital and thriving center: financial stability, membership, processes, communications, community development, education, programs. With the help of facilitator and member George Anderson, we have begun to map out a plan for the future. We are actively seeking and soliciting new board members to help us get these plans off the ground. And we are appealing to the general membership and community to get involved!
 It goes without saying, “we’ve come a long way” due to your ongoing commitment and support. Whether you are an active
member, volunteer or just provide support for “the good of the cause”--we thank you. Watch for the rollout of our new materials and let us know what you think.
Signed,
The TCC Board of Directors
Have you ever wondered what you get for becoming a member of TCC*?
$50 Individual ($25 Youth/Senior)
Discounts to all TCC events; Free admission to select TCC events; Subscription to News & Views
$75 Household: All above for two people at same address
$125 Supporting + Welcome gift bag
Listed in Year in Review donor spotlight
1 ticket to a TCC theatrical production
$250 Sponsoring + Additional ticket to a TCC production
$500 Sustaining + 2 tickets to Festivus
2 tickets to a TCC special event
$750 Business + 1/4 page ad in 6 issues of News & Views
Full year presence on www.ctgay.org
SO WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? JOIN TODAY!
*TCC Member benefits are under development; benefits subject to change.
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An open letter: Gov’t spying on gay groups, from a former CT gay activist
It was reported in The Advocate and other papers, that our government, has now confi rmed that it spied on gay student groups at various universities, including Southern Connecticut State University. Why? What happened to the
Constitution and the Bill of Rights?
If they admit to this, whom else in the gay community have they targeted? Civil liberties groups such as the ACLU have been working overtime trying to expose all of this unconstitutional spying of innocent citizens, this in a time when our government demands more and more secrecy. We all want our government to do everything it can to keep us safe. This hasn’t anything to do with spying on the gay community, nor anti-war demonstrators, nor religious groups like the Quakers.
Having volunteered for the gay community, I have seen a lot of funny things in my time. This is downright alarming. I’ve personally suspected that some efforts in Connecticut, including my own, in the gay community may have been infi ltrated. In 2002, I personally held a peaceful demonstration against hate in Derby, CT. I was told that over 100 police officers were involved, allegedly because someone had threatened to harm us gays. Now I wonder what was really going on! I have recently learned that similar government spying may be going on up here, because of Canadian Patriot Act copycat law.
In any Democracy, especially in America, this is totally unacceptable behavior and the public should be morally outraged. Gays today, whom else tomorrow? Will we one day be blacklisted from obtaining employment or made into social outcasts, simply for expressing our opinions and exercising the freedom of speech guaranteed in the Bill of Rights? This is America, not the Soviet Union!
David Cappiello BC, Canada area [Formerly Stratford, CT] Editor’s note: The above letter is the sole opinion of Mr. Cappiello and does not necessarily represent the opinion of Triangle Community Center, its members or its board of directors.
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A Trusted Nutrition Resource By D. Milton Stokes, MPH, RD
Knowing where to turn for credible nutrition information is daunting, especially since information on this topic comes at you almost nonstop. The nightly news anchors, health magazines, the Internet, and even a well-intentioned
neighbor all try to supply a steady stream of so-called information. But is it accurate?
One of the most reliable suppliers of sound nutrition advice is the Registered Dietitian (RD). RDs are food and nutrition professionals who have a degree in nutrition and they completed supervised clinical training in dietetics. Their coursework includes studying biochemistry, anatomy, physiology, medical nutrition therapy, and much more, and their clinical training is a hands-on internship where they practice alongside seasoned professionals. After all this, they must sit for a national credentialing examination to earn the RD title. And, like other health professionals, RDs must participate in continuing professional education to remain current in their specialty area.
You can find RDs practicing in a number of areas, such as infectious diseases, cardiovascular rehabilitation, and oncology in hospitals, nursing homes, corporate wellness programs, public health, and private practice. Some earn graduate degrees to conduct research and work in academia. Clearly the career path of an RD is varied and full of possibilities. But one thing’s for certain: when you have nutrition questions or need nutrition advice, your best bet is the RD. Find one in your area via the American Dietetic Association at www.eatright.org
D. Milton Stokes, MPH, RD, is a Registered Dietitian in private practice who specializes in weight management and eating disorders in Norwalk, CT. He’s also a freelance writer who’s contributed to Men’s Health, OUT, Family Doctor, WeightWatchers.com and others. Contact him at miltonstokes@gmail.com or visit at www.miltonstokes.com
Editor’s note: Mr. Stokes, as a service to our community, submitted this unsolicited article. Please let us know if you would like to see more articles of a broader nature, by contacting tcceditor@aol.com.
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Womyn's Social Group Presents Two Great Events August/September:
Mini-Golf Adventures
 Friday, September 1, 2006 -7:00 pm
At: Shelton Sports Center (Family Golf Center)
784 River Rd. Shelton, CT.
Please join the next TCC Womyn’s Social Group as we meet for a fun night of pizza & mini-golf! The group will meet directly at Shelton Sports Center of CT. 784 River Rd. Shelton, CT. (Family Golf Center) on Friday, September 1, 2006 at 7:00 p.m. for a quick hotdog or slice of pizza at the snack area/picnic area & then a fun-filled round of mini-golf. The cost per person will be approx. 7.50 for 18 holes and the cost of food at the snack area prior to golfing. We sure hope you will join the group for a great summer evening of outdoor fun!
IF IT RAINS: The Golf Center also has a driving range that is under cover & we can all have fun practicing our golf swings.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, please contact Marlene at ML3017@hotmail.com
August Summer Beach Party
 Friday, August 4, 2006 -7:00 pm
At: Calf Pasture Beach in Norwalk, CT
Please join the next TCC Womyn’s Social Group as we meet for a fun Beach Party night with friends. The group will meet directly at Cafe Pasture Beach in Norwalk, CT, at the picnic area left of the entry gate, on Friday, August 4, 2006 at 7:00 p.m. The cost to get into the Beach is $5.00 per car. Suggested donation to TCC is $3.00 per person. Join in for a great summer evening of outdoor fun! Bring a snack to share, your own beverage (no glass containers please!), and your favorite beach games or toys!!!
IF IT RAINS: The Social will be cancelled. If you have any questions or would like more details, please email Janis at janistcc@sbcglobal.net.
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The Lesbian Literature Group and Fairfield County Gay Men's Network ARE BACK IN ACTION !
The Triangle Community Center would like to welcome & thank our new Lesbian Literature Group facilitator, Tina Pacheco.
The group will continue to meet as it has in the past, on the 3rd Wednesday of every month, starting on Wednesday, September 20, 2006 at 7:30 at TCC (for directions, please visit www.ctgay.org). The novels selected for the upcoming months will be announced soon, so stay tuned. Each month the Literature Group discusses a pre-selected novel, most either written by Lesbians or have a Lesbian-themed content. The books range from fiction, biographies to mysteries and romance. The group is also known for it’s discussions outside just the novels. This is a fun and outgoing group (as any of its regulars would attest to)! All are welcome, even if you have not finished or even read the featured book. We hope you will join us!! If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to email Tina at tinap73@gmail.com.
The Triangle Community Center would like to welcome & thank our new Men’s Social Group facilitator, Conrad Taniguchi.
Many fun and interesting events are in the planning stage for September. Contact Conrad at conrad.taniguchi@gmail.com for
additional information.
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TCC Education Forum: A Rap on Masculinity
(speakers TBA)
September 20, 2006 7:30 PM
Triangle Community Center,16 River Street, Norwalk (Mechanic Street entrance)
The Women’s Liberation movement reached its peak in the mid 70’s and profoundly changed the lives of women. Johnny Depp and Cabbage Patch kids notwithstanding, men’s lives have not changed much. Girls play Little League and soccer but boys don’t play patty-cake. This program takes a look at the rules men live by, how they affect gay (and lesbian) lives and their impact on the gay rights movement. No admission, suggested donation at the door. For more information, email seggerman@aol.com.
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Committee and Volunteer Opportunities
 Please contact Joe at joeguttadauro@sbcglobal.net for additional information about the opportunities listed below. No prior experience needed. We will tailor the opportunities to match your skills, time commitment and interests. Come join the fun and help to keep the TCC the hub of activity for the LGBT community.
Special Events and Programming Committee
Responsible for evaluating and producing educational, social, sporting, outreach and fund-raising events for TCC. Includes the following sub committees Pride, Festivus and The Play.
Responsible for scheduling, coordinating TCC’s programming calendar. Works with publicity committee to promote events. Defi nes event budgets and reviews them with the TCC treasurer. Works with volunteer coordinator to staff events. Works to ensure TCC is the hub of LGBT cultural events in Fairfield County. Meets quarterly with board liaison.
Policies and Process Committee
Works to ensure TCC bylaws are up to date. Ensures TCC’s policies and procedures are documented, followed and clearly communicated. Works with TCC secretary to ensure documentation is archived.
Communications Committee
Coordinates information and brand identity of all Center visuals including website, newsletter, published and press materials. Works to ensure the TCC brand is consistently communicated.
Finance Committee
Works to ensure that the TCC remains fi nancially stable. Includes the following sub committees:
Advertising – handles advertising for newsletter and website. Pursues advertisers and keeps billing current.
Grant Writing – actively looks for and applies for grants.
Sponsorship – Promotes TCC. Actively looks for sponsorship opportunities for the TCC.
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Welcome New Board Members
TCC welcomes new board members Jennifer Abbott and Brian Schwartz. Jennifer recently appeared in TCC’s production of “When I Knew,” while Brian has just launched his new web business, www.careerDNA.net. We look forward to having them on our planning and operating team! If you have an interest in becoming a board member, please contact Joe at joeguttadauro@sbcglobal.net.
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Upcoming Meetings
We invite you to come to our monthly support meetings. We share our stories in a safe welcoming environment and promise
strict confidentiality. We meet the first Wednesday of every month at 7:30 P.M. at the Triangle Community Center in Norwalk. For directions, log on to www.ctgay.org. Any questions? Call Sandy at 203-226-0257 or email her at pflagswct@yahoo.com.
PFLAG Mission
• Promote the health & well-being of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered persons, their families & friends;
• Provide support to cope with an adverse society;
• Provide education to enlighten an ill-informed public;
• Provide advocacy to end discrimination and to secure equal civil rights;
• Provide an opportunity for dialogue about sexual orientation, and work to create a society that is healthy and respectful of all human beings.
PFLAG MAKES WALL STREET HISTORY
 Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) made history on June 30 as the first organization for families and allies of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (GLBT) people to ring The Closing Bell (SM) at the New York Stock Exchange.
PFLAG’s trip to Wall Street - to “ring the closing bell on homophobia” - was an opportunity for the group to discuss the exponentially growing reach of the buying power of GLBT Americans when coupled with the purchasing force of their families and friends.
“The purchasing power of the GLBT community is estimated today to be a massive $641 billion, with projections reaching $1 trillion by 2012. Add in the buying power of the millions of family members and friends who show fierce allegiance to fair-minded corporations, and you get a message that no company can afford to ignore: equality is good for business,” said Jody M. Huckaby, executive director of the more than 200,000-member organization. “This economic clout and product loyalty is only going to grow. We are here to give the business world this wake-up call and to help companies compete.”
PFLAG leaders are visiting the New York Stock Exchange to drive this point home to corporations around the globe. They come with new research to back their arguments that reveals that more than three- fourths of Americans personally know someone who is GLBT and those consumers are more likely than others to support companies that market to the gay and lesbian community.
“Equality in corporate America is more than just a trend. It is a reality that companies both large and small need to support in order to remain competitive. This is about much more than just GLBT people themselves. This is about the families, friends, coworkers, and other supporters who will be loyal to companies who invest in fairness for their GLBT loved ones - and that translates into employee loyalty, consumer base expansion and big economic gains today and in the years to come,” Huckaby added.
The organization pointed to the expanding number of companies - including nearly half of Fortune 500 corporations - that embrace GLBT- friendly practices including domestic partner benefits, nondiscrimination policies, and financial support for organizations working to promote equality.
“There are thousands of parents just like me who will shop and spend with companies who support equality for my lesbian daughter,” said Samuel Thoron, president of PFLAG who rang The Closing Bell. “This is our opportunity to make sure that these corporations know that we’re here, that we’re paying attention, and that we influence their bottom line.” Corporations supporting PFLAG’s appearance at the New York Stock Exchange on June 30 include American Airlines, Chubb, the Citigroup Foundation, Dow, IBM, Logo, the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, Pfizer, and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.
Hear Mr. Thoron speak at Transcending Boundaries & PFLAG conference at DCU Center in Worcester, MA, on October 28. Additionally, Jennifer Finney Boylan, Matt Kailey, and Lani Ka’ahumanu will be presenting during the conference.
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Miscellaneous
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(pdf format. Adobe Reader required - it's free)
News & Views is published bimonthly. To make an addition to the newsletter or calendar, send an e-mail to tcceditor@aol.com
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