BUSINESS

BART reaches out to LGBT small businesses.

BART organizers are making moves toward updating the agency’s Small Business Program to include more local LGBT small businesses as BART works to rebuild its aging transportation system. On Sept. 14, the agency’s Board of Directors will vote on whether to add these contractors to the program which, as the official site writes, “provides bid preferences for qualified small businesses.”

GayARP

Older LGBT adults find support in New Jersey.

Could you or someone you know that is older benefit from a Buddy Program? Jersey Shore QSpot has partnered with Monmouth University’s Social Work and Nursing schools Buddy Program for Older LGBT Adults. The program created by Dr. Laura Kelly has been a part of the University’s Social Work and Nursing schools for many years.

5 THINGS TO KNOW

Discrimination claimed for shutting down bars early during Black Gay Pride.

Atlanta police ordered several LGBT bars and restaurants popular with gay patrons to close early on Sunday as they were filled with people celebrating Black Gay Pride. Blake’s, Ten, G’s and 10th & Piedmont were shut down about 12:30 a.m. on Monday – some two hours ahead of closing time – as Atlanta police showed up in force to the intersection of 10th Street and Piedmont Avenue.

5 THINGS TO KNOW

Aussie conservatives misjudged the marriage survey.

If Australian conservatives thought young people would ignore a nonbinding postal survey on marriage equality, they were wrong. Under pressure from his party’s vocal right wing, Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull announced on Aug. 8 that a nonbinding plebiscite (or vote) of the nation’s citizens will be held by mail to determine whether Australians support legalizing same-sex marriage.

A & E

Toronto film festival – Leading the way for LGBT films.

“Moonlight” premiered at the Telluride Film Festival exactly one year ago, followed by a bow in Toronto before making history by winning Best Picture in one of the most exciting Academy Awards ceremonies of all time. While “Moonlight” may have opened more doors for black filmmakers than for queer ones, the film’s central themes of identity, masculinity, and sexuality were firmly rooted in queerness.

5 THINGS TO KNOW

Southern Decadence takes flight in New Orleans.

Sporting a large white mohawk, wearing a neon green tank top and carrying a purple, pink and blue sign bearing the words “Love is Love,” Dave Watt was all smiles. It was his first time leading New Orleans’ annual Southern Decadence parade, and he was spreading the message that anyone who has HIV should be allowed to live stigma-free. Watt, the leader of the HIV-awareness group Mr Friendly, said he landed the coveted spot in the parade because one of the grand marshals was so enthralled by his organization’s message.