Free Republic

On one of the most shameful days in the modern history of the Senate, the Republican minority on Thursday prevented a vote to allow gay and lesbian soldiers to serve openly in the military of the United States. They chose to filibuster a vital defense bill because it also banned discrimination in the military ranks. ...The senators who stood in the way of these measures must answer to the thousands of gay and lesbian soldiers who must live a lie in order to serve, or drop out.... The Senate majority leader, Harry Reid, said that he would allow another vote...

Area's wooded terrain becomes contested ground for 2 groups at odds: Bird-watchers and gay men seeking sex Luis Munoz, an avid bird watcher of 12 years, has seen a remarkable range of rare winged creatures this fall migration season, including the Nelson's sharp-tailed sparrow and the red knot. He also has come face to face with one species he hopes never to encounter again but knows he will: the Chicago cruiser. As sure as Munoz and his fellow birders can find an array of lovely birds in the area's most densely wooded spots, they also routinely find men trolling for...