At least seven men in America have accidentally shot their penis with a handgun since 2010.
CREDIT: Pixabay | Kerrtu / CC/
The initial report from the website, deathandtaxes.com has suggested that five American men shot off their penis between 2010 to 2013 and we’ve managed to find another two reported cases where men accidentally put a bullet through their dicks.
Usually from holstering their gun in their trousers.
This is just a drop in the ocean to the number of self-inflicted gunshot wounds recorded in the US.
In 2011 the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control released figures that suggested there were 73,883 non-fatal firearms injuries that year, 14,675 (19.86%) were unintentional. That same year there was, according to stats released by the CDC, 591 deaths due to “accidental discharge” and a further 248 due to “undetermined intent”.
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Gay rights, such as same-sex marriage could be under threat now that Donald Trump has been elected President of the United States. It all depends on who he chooses to appoint as a new Supreme Court Justice. There is currently one vacancy on the bench after the extremely conservative Antonin Scalia died in February.
The Supreme Court, which makes rulings on social issues such as gay marriage and abortion, has nine judges and they are appointed by the President. They are only replaced when they die, decide to retire or a impeached for wrong-doing.
As it stands the judges are balanced between liberal and conservative politics. However, two liberal judges, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, 83, and Stephen Breyer, 78, may choose to retire soon which would leave Donald Trump able to replace those with more conservative judges meaning that the political skew of the Supreme Court would be conservative rather than liberal.
When same-sex marriage was legalised across all 50 states the vote was made 5 to 4. The four Justices who voted against the decision (Chief Justice John Roberts, Antonin Scalia, Clarence Thomas, and Samuel Alito) were all conservative leaning judges.
Democrats do have the ability to block a judge’s appointment using a filibuster in the Senate.
LGBT stars are expressing their dismay at the prospect of a Trump presidency.
A number of LGBT stars have taken to their social media to express their despair that Donald J Trump has been announced as the 45th President of the United States of America.
Many LGBT people are now concerned that LGBT rights will be overturned and the ground work made will undone.
As the calls continued the shooter became more and more threatening and complained of the number of calls he was receiving by law enforcement, as the night of terror in Orlando unfolded.
Transcripts of the calls have already been released, but this is the first time the public can hear the audio.
Before he was killed, the shooter, used his calls to the negotiators to claim that the attack was the work of the Islamic State and used his conversations to warn the authorities that he booby-trapped the area surrounding the Pulse nightclub with bombs.
He also warned that in the days after his attack for America to expect more attacks, similar to his.
The recordings were made public after Judge Margaret H. Schreiber of the Circuit Court ruled in a case brought by The New York Times and other news organisations that the recordings should be made public.
The Judge will decide whether over 200 other calls from victims inside the club will be made available at a later date.
The pulse massacre was the worst gun attack in American history and the worst atrocity visited on the LGBT community since the Second World War. Forty-nine people were killed and a further 53 people were injured as the shooter rampaged through the club.
Travelling to America as a gay man you probably think of the usual haunts including New York, South Beach and San Francisco – and they are all fantastic cities, but have you ever thought about small-town America? Well, we recently had a little sojourn to America’s Midwest where we uncovered some gems and found the joy in small-town America.
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Galena
If you’re a fan of the fly/drive holiday, then you’ll want to check out the Great Lakes Facebook page, where you’ll get lots of ideas for glorious cities, friendly towns and exciting hotspots to visit while you’re in the area. One such find is the ridiculously beautiful town of Galena (main street pictured at the start). Around three hours west of Chicago, you’ll drive through miles and miles of farming land, the Midwest is known as the breadbasket of America because of its wheat production – and you’ll certainly see a lot of it. The roads are easy, wide and once outside the city limits mainly free from traffic. You can forget the M6 or M25 motorways. Galena is a different world altogether and as you enter through the town’s giant floodgates (it sits on the Galena River which feeds into the Mississippi River) you’ll be left wondering if you’ve actually stepped back in time.
CREDIT: TheGayUK
Home to just under 3500 people, the town has an incredible friendly laid-back appeal. You must stay in one of the gorgeous, unique suites at the Jail Hill Inn – owned, operated and lovingly restored by the Inn Keeper, Matthew Carroll.
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For lunch fill your boots at the wonderfully authentic Vinny Vanucchi’s Italian restaurant. To really get your orientation in this quaint historic town, buy a ticket for the Galena Trolley – which departs from 10 AM until 9 PM. Your guide will take you on a whirlwind stop of this picture perfect town. If you have a head for heights book yourself on to the Balloon flight experience and see how beautiful the Midwest countryside is from the sky. As you float several thousand feet up let yourself drift with the wind – who knows where you’ll end up next.
Rockford
CREDIT: TheGayUK
Driving on the I20 east, just an hours drive from Chicago is Rockford in northern Illinois. Although home to 150,000 people Rockford manages to maintain its small-town heart and friendly folk are all around. There are two friendly gay bars, The Office right in the centre and Dusty Boots Saloon and Eatery. Home to a number of attractions such as the Laurent Home, the Anderson Japanese Gardens and the Burpee Museum (don’t forget to say hello to Homer the T-REX).
CREDIT: TheGayUK
However, if you’re looking for a real treat, head over to the jewel of Rockford the Coronado Theatre right in the centre of town and book yourself into the theatre tour with Marty Mangas, who really is a gem of a tour guide. If you’re lucky, you’ll even get to see Bob Bates play the 80-year-old original organ before heading off on a backstage experience. Be sure to refresh and replenish the senses with a cool beer down at the Prairie Street Brewhouse nestled on the river’s edge. A perfect look out spot as the sun sets. You’ll find comfortable lodgings at the Fairfield Inn and Suites.
The Quad cities – Moline
CREDIT: TheGayUK
As you set off from Rockford, heading south, be sure to stop off and have breakfast at Poopies. You’ll find it on Viaduct Rd, and you should be prepared for a huge plate of homey food at a decent price. Don’t be put off by the name or the restaurant’s seats – which are actually made from toilet seats.
Moline is a cutesy but agricultural town right in the heart of farming country, one hundred and sixty-five miles west of Chicago. Surrounded by miles and miles of farmland, the population is a little over 43,000 and it sits between The Rock and the mighty Mississippi rivers. Moline makes up the Quad Cities along with Davenport, Bettendorf and Rock Island. There’s a small but friendly gay scene in Davenport centred around Connections and Mary’s On 2nd. For lunch, you must take lunch at Lagomarcinos Soda Fountain on 5th Avenue – their milkshakes and deep filled sandwiches are to die for.
Don’t forget to get up early and take in some views of the Mississippi.
Andersonville
CREDIT: TheGayUK
Okay, cheating slightly here, because Andersonville is actually a neighbourhood in northern Chicago less than a kilometre from the lake front, but it is an absolute must visit. Chicago offers two incredibly friendly neighbourhoods for the LGBT community – the more youth orientated Boystown and the slightly maturer Andersonville. Of course, there are many gay bars to visit and street festivals throughout the year to try out, but one particularly sensational event to try is the Andersonville Annual Midsoomarfest. If you go a stranger, I promise you won’t leave without making friends as the neighbourhood’s streets are filled with a party atmosphere and music stages provide your evening with a crowd-pleasing soundtrack.
Make sure you grab yourself a slice of original Chicago pizza pie and a chilled Margarita.
TGUK stayed at:
Fairfield Inn and Suits, Rockford
The Irish Cottage Boutique Hotel, Galena
The Carleton of Oak Park, Chicago
TGUK flew into Chicago O’Hare on Icelandair with a layover in Reykjavik. However, there are direct flights with British Airways, Virgin, American Airlines and United.
Fox frontman Shep Smith has come out as gay in an interview with Huffington Post. The 52-year-old, who has worked for the news network since it went on the air 20 years ago said that the network was a “very warm and loving and comfortable place.”
He was previously married to a woman but has also appeared in Out.com’s Power list. He also attended the 19th Annual National Lesbian And Gay Journalists Association New York Benefit in 2014.
So you’re getting married? Congrats! We bet you’ve got enough on your plate and could spare having to plan the holiday of a lifetime on top of that. Have you come to the point where you’re pondering all the unanswered questions and steps that are separating you from actually jumping on that plane?
We hear you.
One question that should never be left ignored is whether you picked a honeymoon destination that is gay-friendly. With a whopping 75 countries still having some form of anti-homosexuality law, it’s easy to see how your perfect holiday could go awry. Although not feeling comfortable showing your affection to your loved one in public is not something you should ever have to deal with, it’s an especially unwelcome feeling on this special occasion. So, we’ve put together a list of the most gay-friendly honeymoon destinations; areas filled with beauty, vibrancy and friendliness.
1. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain
Bring out the glitz and the feathers! Rio has been a favourite of same-sex partners for decades. With its vibrant carnival and world-famous gay-friendly neighbourhoods, Copacabana and Ipanema, Rio ticks many boxes. The beaches are gorgeous, the views phenomenal, the nightlife exciting and the food amazing. We may also have a soft spot as the Rio Olympics saw the record for the most out athletes participating in history.
2. Barcelona, Spain
CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain
Barcelona is constantly at the top of the most LGBT-friendly lists — and with good reason. A great mix of delicious tapas, fabulous sandy beaches, stunning historical buildings, balmy year-round climate, and a selection of gay bars, saunas, cruises and hotels to boot make it easy to see why it’s a holiday favourite amongst the gay scene.
3. Reykjavik, Iceland
CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain
Same-sex marriage became legal in Iceland in 2010, but the country always had a relaxed and accepting attitude towards gay couples. For one thing, their prime minister is openly gay! Despite all this, the beauty of this outlandish country is what will captivate you the most. Don’t miss the Blue Lagoon: a geothermal spa located in a lava field where you can soak in milky blue water at any time of the year.
4. Buenos Aires, Argentina
CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain
Gay marriage was legalised in 2010 in Argentina, but Buenos Aires was a mecca for gay travellers way before then. Dubbed the “most European place in South America,” it’s a sprawling city rich in history. Take a stroll hand in hand along the pedestrian Calle Florida in the Microcentro, or in the Recoleta, Palermo and marvel at all the beauty without a care.
5. Cancun, Mexico
CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain
Cancun has so much more to offer than the hedonistic reputation that precedes it. There’s a bit of everything for everyone. Sure, there’s the crazy night life if you fancy that, but there are also a whole throng of gay beaches and hotels to pick from, and a carefree, ‘live and let live’ vibe that’ll put you right at ease.
6. Cape Town, South Africa
CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain
One wouldn’t always think of the African continent when it comes to gay-friendly travel destinations, but South Africa was the fifth country in the world and first in Africa to legalise same-sex marriage. Seen by many as one of the most beautiful cities in South Africa, Cape Town promises spectacular scenery, incredible beaches and exotic wildlife. Drive safely, though, as the baboons run free!
7. Taiwan
CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain
Taiwan may also come as a surprise for a gay-friendly destination, but it is one of the most accepting countries in Asia. There’s something for all tastes and tonnes to explore for such a tiny island, including nine national parks (don’t miss the Taroko National Park), a bustling metropolis, pleasant sub-tropical weather and beautiful, remote beaches.
8. Palm Springs, USA
CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain
The sun always shines in the South Californian desert oasis of Palm Springs. As a city that boasts the most same-sex (and the most clothing optional!) hotels in the world, it’s easy to see how you’ll have a great time. Rather go golfing? Hiking? Clubbing? There’s little that can’t be had in Palm Springs.
Parveen Nanda is an experienced blogger and travel expert at Luxtripper, supplying luxury four and five-star hotels and end-to-end package holidays.
Film director Ira Sachs has told THEGAYUK that homophobia is alive and kicking in Hollywood.
CREDIT: Jeong Park
Speaking before the general release of his new film Little Men (out today) award winning director and writer Ira Sachs told THEGAYUK.com that homophobia, and perhaps more worryingly internalised homophobia is alive and well in the film industry and that gay men were “the worst in Hollywood”.
When asked about the film industry’s record on diversity and whether the industry suffered from internalised homophobia, he answered,
“It certainly is”.
He continued,
“Gay men are some of the worst in Hollywood.
“Well, for understandable reasons, people live by fear and they make choices based on fear.
Ira Sach’s latest film, Little Men is a coming-of-age film following the story of two teenage boys whose relationship is put under pressure after their parents fall out over business terms.
He went on to explain why he thought that internalised homophobia existed in the film industry, suggesting that economic fears and job stability could be to be blame.
When the choice is about your job and your fear of what happens if you don’t succeed, if you take a risk that’s actually personal, so there’s a lot of reasons people choose to be safe.
A survivor from the Pulse massacre in June has died 3 months after the attack which left 49 people dead.
CREDIT: Chris Brodman / Facebook
Chris Brodman, was one of the survivors of the Pulse massacre, but three month on from the attack, which left 49 people dead, he was found “unresponsive” at a party in Tampa, Florida.
The 34-year-old, who was currently on a leave of absence from his job as an insurance broker, was found in the garden of a friend’s house in Tampa. Paramedics were called in the early hours of Sunday morning but were unable to revive him.
Media reports suggest that there was no evidence of assault or trauma.
An autopsy has been completed but the cause of death has not been released until toxicology reports are made available.
So you’re owed some holiday time. It’s time to pack your shiz up and go on vacay.
Are your work colleagues starting to give your work station a wide berth and “concerned” look because you’re giving off that all-work-no-play-makes-Jack-go-crazy look?
But where to go? The world is your oyster.
Well users over at Ranker.com have been voting on the best holiday destinations to go to if you’re LGBT…
Here’s where they suggested:
San Francisco
Ah, possibly the gayest location on earth. Don’t forget to visit the Castro and breath in all that gay history.
Paris
I mean they say Gay Paris don’t they!
Seattle
The weather may not always be perfect, but its stance on equality has always been incredible having legalised same-sex marriage in 2012 and having provisions for gay state employees since 2001. Bravo.
New York City
How you doin’…
Montreal
First of the Canadian cities to get voted on… Best time to go would be early August when the city celebrates Pride.
Vancouver
CREDIT: Pixabay / gtriay
Let the vibrant city invigorate. Check out Davie Village and Commercial Drive.
