Follow my appearances and events and what's new in equality in New York State at
And view photos at
Miss New York Organization Website
Miss New York Organization Photos
Thank you for reading and supporting me on this journey!
Claire
Saturday, July 10, 2010
New Blog!
It's time to change that name! Moving up in the ranks and on to other blogs for my year as Miss New York!
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Miss New York 2010!!
View the post HERE for Saturday afternoon: Fashion Show and Miss New York's Outstanding Teen...
And now on to Saturday night. As we sat at the teen pageant in the afternoon, Hannah and I talked about God's plan and how He has one for each and every one of us. What that plan is, we may find out now, in a month, in a year, never? I believe this to be true, and it allows a peace of mind to know that there is truth in the cliché Everything happens for a reason. Before the show Alyse, Miss NY 2009, gathered us together and encouraged us each to put up a fight and leave every bit of energy on that stage, evidence that no stone had been left unturned. As we squeezed the hand of each girl to the right in our circle (like I did before every musical) I prayed for peace - of mind, of my heart and with the results...and I actually believed it this year.
It's show time!!! With John wailing into the microphone, 20 girls in short jazzy orange dresses and Hannah making eye contact across the way, final night of Miss New York began. The opening number was a blast in front of an incredible [almost] sold out crowd! Right into Top Ten where I was chosen 6th of ..wait for it... 11!! The Miss NY class of 2010 was so strong we had to do a Top 11. Swimsuit production number to "Body Language" and straight into swimsuit where I felt like a million bucks, showing off the hard work with my trainer Ben Yosef of MiBoLife Fitness (and a great sustained tan from Beach Bum Tanning). Quick change to talent. I had been advised to think of Matthew Shepard for 1 minute before my talent and man did it bring out the emotion. As far as I knew, this could very well have been the last timethat I danced on stage. And what a beautiful way to go out: dancing Ashley Becker's choreography to "Imagine." I know I do not have the strongest talent, especially of that Top 11, but the joy I felt from dancing, and the emotional impact of the song "Imagine," was incredibly fulfilling. The next and last phase of the judged competition was evening gown. I bought this dress at the Miss America trade show from Red Carpet Pageant and Prom and knew from the second I put it on that it was THE dress. It just completed my brand--everything that was unique and true about me. Last year, I really believed that I had found ME, but more and more, this year I learned that Claire Buffie doesn't wear long curled hair and a pageant gown; she wears a cropped bob and chains on a dress from the red carpet (not the store, necessarily).
It's show time!!! With John wailing into the microphone, 20 girls in short jazzy orange dresses and Hannah making eye contact across the way, final night of Miss New York began. The opening number was a blast in front of an incredible [almost] sold out crowd! Right into Top Ten where I was chosen 6th of ..wait for it... 11!! The Miss NY class of 2010 was so strong we had to do a Top 11. Swimsuit production number to "Body Language" and straight into swimsuit where I felt like a million bucks, showing off the hard work with my trainer Ben Yosef of MiBoLife Fitness (and a great sustained tan from Beach Bum Tanning). Quick change to talent. I had been advised to think of Matthew Shepard for 1 minute before my talent and man did it bring out the emotion. As far as I knew, this could very well have been the last timethat I danced on stage. And what a beautiful way to go out: dancing Ashley Becker's choreography to "Imagine." I know I do not have the strongest talent, especially of that Top 11, but the joy I felt from dancing, and the emotional impact of the song "Imagine," was incredibly fulfilling. The next and last phase of the judged competition was evening gown. I bought this dress at the Miss America trade show from Red Carpet Pageant and Prom and knew from the second I put it on that it was THE dress. It just completed my brand--everything that was unique and true about me. Last year, I really believed that I had found ME, but more and more, this year I learned that Claire Buffie doesn't wear long curled hair and a pageant gown; she wears a cropped bob and chains on a dress from the red carpet (not the store, necessarily).
After intermission, the Top 5 was called, and what a relief. I did not take any step of the way for granted this year. For on stage question I was so ready, passionate and excited to talk about my platform. I was asked...about digital imaging and retouching. Now, I love photography, a lot, but geeeez!! That's all that was going through my head because I didn't feel like I got to share my true reason for being there. Back into evening gowns and out for awards; I was nervous but calm at the same time. As they called 4th RU Inga Schlingmann and 3rd RU Jennifer Scacco, I realized I was standing there left with my arms wrapped tightly around 2 of my favorite people from the whole week. 2nd RU Hannah Wright stepped forward for flowers and I turned to Mallory and we held hands so tightly without the ability to look each other in the eyes without tears. When they called 1st RU Mallory Hagan, I realized I was the only one left, and I honestly don’t remember any thoughts or feelings from the next 3.5 minutes.
Obviously from my photos, I look ridiculous, crying and throwing out peace signs to my family, but hey, that’s me. I was overtaken by emotion of disbelief that everything it was actually reality instead of a dream. The crowning happened so quickly and all I wanted to do was hug someone!!! One of my favorite pictures is Hannah and I hugging immediately after crowning because it’s not a polite, congratulate the winner hug, it was a HUG.
That reaction from the girls, with whom I had such an amazing week, was the most extraordinary feeling ever. Seeing, hugging and smiling with my family, my roommates and friends, the board of Miss NY, the judges was exhilarating to feel the immense support I have for this year.
Top 11-Faren Collins (Swimsuit), Amanda Mason, Keelie Sheridan, Jennifer Scacco (3RU - Talent), Mallory Hagan (1RU - Evening Gown), Claire Buffie (MissNY - Evening Gown-Swimsuit-Interview), Hannah Wright (2RU - Talent), Inga Schlingmann (4RU), Kimberly Cantoni, Katie Martin, Jackie Holmes
At the ball afterwards, where I was just so excited to have breakfast food, I was named the Overall Interview Winner as well. That’s where it’s at for me and I’m so grateful that a panel of 5 judges – strangers – were able to see my passion for my platform and for the Miss America Organization.
I believe in the power of these girls and myself to make a difference and I cannot wait for the roller coaster year to begin. Thanks to come as well as updates for what’s next and where to follow my year …
Til next time,
Miss New York 2010!!
Miss New York 2010!!
Miss NY - Saturday
Well I left off on Saturday and have been in a whirlwind ever since!!!
I am MISS NEW YORK 2010!!!
Buy let's rewind a bit and see how I got there.
Saturday was a great day, but a busy one for sure. In the morning we went to the Colonie Center Mall or a fashion show and meet and greet. The show was sponsored by Red Carpet Pageant and Prom and hosted by our favorite, Chris, Mr. Delaware 2008. We were in gowns and cocktail dresses and I loved my gown!! All the girls looked beautiful and it was wonderful to spend a few minutes (& photos of course) with our families. After the show we had a quick and delicious lunch at Cheesecake Factory, which left me with my only disappointment of the week--no cheesecake! We had to leave before dessert. Hmm maybe that was planned.
We threw on our sashes, grabbed our glow sticks and ran into the audience of Miss New York's Outstanding Teen. These girls (age 13-17) were fantastic and full of energy. Jackie and I were sitting together recruiting for Miss Manhattan 2013 for when we direct our local :). Some highlight performances for me were Alison Stromjng once again presenting a flawless pointe dance, Ashley McDuffee singing and original song and ---- jam skating! Yes, that's right, roller skating on stage-it was so unique.
They all did an amazing job and in the end the results were:
4th RU Shelley Jain, Staten Island
3rd RU Ashley McDuffee, Mohawk valley
2nd RU Shannon Ryan, Empire Rose
1st RU Joelle Bracco, Brooklyn
Miss New York's Outstanding Teen 2010
Alison Stroming!!!!
Friday, June 25, 2010
Miss NY - Friday
It's Friday which means it's showtime! Today we went to the Children's Miracle Network Hospital in Albany and were given a tour of their pediatric units. I wasn't able to go in the nicu or visit with the 17 year old boy we met because I'm sick, but even hearing the stories second-hand, they're very powerful. It is really important for us to see where the CMN money we are raising goes. We even made some nurses' days by letting them wear the crowns for pics :)
Dress rehearsal went so well, we don't even have to do another run through! Which means we got to have a 2 hour break before showtime. I'm trying to chill out and not think about the competition tonight but that's a tough thing to do! Updates later on the Preliminary Results!!
AHHHHH!!!!!!
Prelim Swimsuit
• Claire Buffie, Southeast NY
• Faren Collins, Southern NYPrelim Evening Gown
• Claire Buffie, Southeast NY
• Faren Collins, Southern NYPrelim Evening Gown
Prelim Evening Gown
• Claire Buffie, Southeast NY
• Mallory Hagan, Brooklyn
Prelim Talent
• Hannah Wright, Metropolitan (Pointe Variation)
• Jennifer Scacco, Staten Island (Jazz Dance)
• Claire Buffie, Southeast NY
• Mallory Hagan, Brooklyn
Prelim Talent
• Hannah Wright, Metropolitan (Pointe Variation)
• Jennifer Scacco, Staten Island (Jazz Dance)
And a Happy Birthday to Hannah and Inga!!!
Tonight was unbelievable! As I put on my Facebook status, my head is in the clouds, but I'm keeping my feet on the ground. This entire week has been incredible and a memory that will be soooo very positive in my mind and heart forever. That's really all I can ask for.
Miss NY - Thursday
Thursday was basically just rehearsals all day - OH YEAH and that thing called Interview!! Interviews were great - mine wasn't until 10:05 so, I had plenty of time to get my head in the game in the morning. The panel was responsive and prepared. I felt like they really got to know my personality and most importantly, my passion for my platform and for this organization. And I didn't cough throughout the entire thing!! So at the end I said "And I'm takin' my water with me." as I grabbed my water bottle that I thankfully didn't have to use :)
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Miss NY - Wednesday
Wednesday is kind of a boring day write about/read about...LOTS of rehearsals! We basically started off the day with early rehearsals in tennis shoes and worked our way up to heels by the end of the night. We took a break in the middle to go bowling and have lunch while shooting another part of the Spotlight Show from Art's (our PR guy) television show. Bowling...ehhh I only got an 88. yikes. But I did get 1 strike!!
• "Girl's Got Rhythm"
Swimsuit and Evening gown production numbers AND walking patterns? done.
• "Body Language" (swim production)
• "Don't Be Jealous of My Boogie" (swim)
• "Empire State of Mind (gown)
On-Stage Question and Special Awards? done!
The stage looks beautiful and we have a serious runway! Love it!! This whole part may not be the main reason I do pageants, but I suuure do love walking on stage! We got out of rehearsal early so I'm off to get ready for interview!!!
CONGRATS to Ashley Casterline!! Miss Indiana Swimsuit winner!!
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Miss NY - Tuesday
6:25 alarm for a 6:30 trip to the gym. Breakfast and it was off to Habitat for Humanity! I love that we are doing more appearances this year -- makes the week so much more fun, memorable, and allows us to really get to know each other better. I've worked on Habitat houses before, mainly when I was little, but man, it's just such a great org. We jumped right in and used those power tools - sawing and drilling to complete the stairway for the house. I did feel quite honored to receive the compliment from the head Habitat guy that I really knew what I was doing with a drill -- yay mom, hope I make you proud! Time Warner YNN did a short story on our day as well - VIEW HERE. Wrapped up at Habitat and headed back for lunch and to freshen up for the Capitol.
Food > Rehearsal. We finished our entire opening number tonight! It's hot. It's Kent. 'nuf said. Well, and that Hannah Wright is some sort of weird and freaky, but as cool as they come. And Mallory can DANCE. SLEEP TIME!
Miss NY - Monday
We made it!! Cassie, her mom Shelley and I left the City at 8:00 this morning to head up to Albany. We’re staying in campus apartments, which are fantastic and the Empire Commons community center is the place for our meals, meetings, rehearsals and the gym. We took the tour of Albany in style on the Aquaducks, familiarizing us with all of those Albany fun facts. It’s so great to have more appearances this year because it allows you to actually hang out with the girls. We went on tour #2 of Albany, but this time on the open-air trolley in our cocktail dresses, crowns and sashes on the way to 677 Prime – the most amazing restaurant ever. I was really looking forward to that return trip – and boy was it worth it! We wrapped up the night with a meeting in which Kenny and Paul shared the highlights of the job description of Miss NY. So much of what I have planned/hoped to get across in my interview was covered tonight which made me confident that I am here for the right reasons and am ready to be Miss New York 2010.
In our meeting, Kenny and Paul took a few polls I think you might find interesting:
How many girls were born in NY State? 10 (of 20)
How many girls have competed in other states? 4
How many girls are aging out? 7
We went around and shared how many years we have competed and it ranged from newbie to 6 years, but 1st year to state, and up to 4 years in a state competition.
It’s an awesome group of girls and it’s anyone’s ball game. I know we all came to play!
To sleep on Tylenol PM and Cepacol! Yummmmm
Miss New York spot on the CBS News!!
Miss NY - Before I left
Sorry for the delay...our internet now works! yipeeeee!!!
I had the best weekend ever before leaving for Miss NY, and it's all thanks to my amazing roommates.. Friday, I did all of my last minute errands, rehearsed my talent and walked my wardrobe, finished my closing for interview, and came home for a nap. Friday night brought the second of many awesome roommie family dinners, boyfriends included. I really do live with the best people ever. It was so great to just relax and have fun in the midst of all of my crazy preparation. Saturday was a bit of the same! Great massage from Elizabeth Arden Red Door Salon…yessss. And then the roomies struck again! Leigh-Taylor and Colin Hunter threw a small soiree, if you will, with some close friends, wine and cheese, (cheese and wine are not my only close friends; a few people were there too) and I was able to again show my wardrobe, making me fall in love with it yet again. We raised a glass for them to toast to my luck at Miss NY, but I to them in gratitude for all of their support, individually and collectively. And wrapping up with Sunday, great last workout with Ben, an aaammmmazing airbrush tan from Dante, and back home where Paul fixed a wonderful and healthy stir fry to send me off. Leigh-Taylor, Matt, Carlie, Paul and Matt: Quite simply, thank you for being the best people to come home to every single night.
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Favorite Contestant Voting!!
This year, we will be doing our favorite contestant voting online and at the pageant.
From now until 12 noon, Saturday, June 26th, 2010, YOUR VOTE COUNTS!
You can make the difference in awarding a Favorite Contestant scholarship award to a Miss NY Contestant and a cash scholarship to a Miss NY Outstanding Teen Contestant.
Each vote will be $1.00 via Google Checkout’s secure servers. You can vote as many times as you like, and you can vote for more than one contestant.
The Miss contestant and Teen contestant who receives the most internet votes by 12 noon, Saturday, June 26th, 2010, combined with voting held at the pageant during preliminary competition (through intermission on Friday Night), will win the 2010 Scholarship Award for Favorite Contestant for both the Miss and Teen Pageant.
Just go to our website: www.missnyorg.com, and click on the link to VOTE.
Voting starts RIGHT NOW!!!!
Pageant Week Address & Schedule
Some people have asked for an address during pageant week, so I thought I'd share it on here!
Claire Buffie, Southeast NY
c/o University Apartments
Empire Commons Community Building
1400 Washington Ave.
University at Albany
Albany, NY 12222
I'll have a computer with me and I'll try to blog some while I'm there. Here's a look at what we'll be doing all week:
Monday:
11:00 Arrival
2:00 Ducks Tour of Albany
5:30 Dinner at 677 Prime - aammmaazing 4-star restaurant
Tuesday:
8:00 Habitat for Humanity
2:00 Press Pictures at the Capitol
4:00 Girls Inc
7:00 Rehearsals
Wednesday:
Rehearsals ALL DAY
Thursday:
8:00 Interviews (mine will be around 10:30 probably <-- appropriate time to send good vibes!)
2:00 Rehearsal til the end of day
Friday:
9:30 Children's Miracle Network Hospital
3:00 Dress Rehearsal
8:00 PRELIMINARY COMPETITION!
Saturday:
11:00 Fashion Show at Colonie Center Mall (public event - come!)
2:00 Miss New York's Outstanding Teen Competition
5:00 Final show review
8:00 MISS NEW YORK FINAL COMPETITION!!!
11:00 Miss NY Ball
Congratulations!!
Ashleigh Udalovas is your new Miss New Jersey 2010!!!!!
Ahhh! So excited to hear the news last night that my friend Ashleigh WON Miss New Jersey after 3 years in a row of 2nd and 1st Runner Up. She won swimsuit, evening gown and interview as well! Ashleigh embodies "Miss America" as she is integrates her platform into every day of her life. She is the Chairperson of First Book, her program that collects and distributes books to kids in schools, daycares, etc around NJ putting an emphasis on literacy and not just reading, but reading the right things.
Ashleigh and I met at National Sweetheart and were carmates with DE and DC. DC, Jen Corey, went on to win Miss DC last year and was Top 10 at Miss America. (Good luck to Jen as she gives up her title today!) CONGRATULATIONS!!!! To one of the most deserving people I have met in this organization!!! Love you Ash!
With Heather French Henry at Miss America 2010
Also another congrats to Becky Minger, your new Miss Ohio 2010! Also a Sweetheart '08 sister!
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Mr. New York!!
It happened....and it was AMMAAZZINGG!!! Wow! These guys who competed for Mr. New York were the real deal! I don't know what I loved more, Matt's swimsuit, Jeoffrey's talent, so many of the men answering that "family is the most important thing" or "being a great father is my greatest goal" -- it was all just fantastic and I think everyone, contestants and audience alike had a wonderful time! We over-sold the Spoon Theatre with great thanks to Mr. and Miss Staten Island and all of the support they brought in. So many of the Miss New York contestants were represented, not only by title but also in attendance and we really appreciate that. I think Mr. New York has set itself as an annual tradition to be enjoyed by MANY more people next year!
HERE ARE THE PICS!! View HERE - files are downloadable.
Congratulations to Mr. New York 2010 Jeoffrey Watson!! (Mr. Staten Island)
1st RU Mr. Metropolitan, Marlon More
2nd RU Mr. Southeast NY, Matt Renskers
Welcome to the awesome 2nd RU club, Matt!!
HERE ARE THE PICS!! View HERE - files are downloadable.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Mr. New York!!!
It's here!!! The first Mr. New York competition is upon us! Come support the NYC Pageants Organization including Miss Greater NYC, Keelie Sheridan, and Miss Liberty, Cassie Franklin, and myself in our quest to find the first Mr. New York from 13 of NY's finest contestants!
Sunday, June 13, 2010 @ 8:00pm
The Spoon Theater - 38 West 38th Street, NYC
$18.00 General Admission
Arrive by 7:30 at the latest if you want a ticket!!!
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
But you're a REAL girl!
Why yes, yes I am. Haha this was the response from more than one of the fabulous drag queens I met on Saturday night at Miss Gay New Jersey, a pageant and tradition of New Jersey PRIDE week in Asbury Park. This incredible tradition celebrates years of Miss Gay New Jersey queens, Miss Gay NJ at large and Mr. Gay NJ titleholders, all whom have competed for the prestigious title and as a result become ambassadors of the Beacon Light Fund. The Beacon Light Fund is a non-profit that provides financial (and therefore emotional) aid for people with HIV/AIDS to sustain their daily tasks.
I've seen my fair share of drag queens before, but this was my first drag pageant. And it was an experience never to be forgotten!! These girls WORKED IT OUT!! And I thought I worked hard to get ready for Miss New York!? It was such a fun evening of just pure celebration. The drag community is an incredibly tight-knit one, and I felt so welcomed by them all. The crown envy was hysterical as always...they LOVE my crown but I say, “Whyyy? It is about 1/16 the size of yours!” And the response every time is, "But yours is real. It's from the Miss America Organization/Pageant and that means sooo much more."
Due to a late start, I had to leave before the crowning - the moment I was looking forward to alllll night :( but congratulations to the winners!! I'm just sad I didn't get my photo with you!
So ask me again if I think Miss American should embrace my platform. Yes I do, because my platform representing this community of LGBT people, men especially, are your followers and devoted fans that keep the prestige alive. Where would you be without them?
I've seen my fair share of drag queens before, but this was my first drag pageant. And it was an experience never to be forgotten!! These girls WORKED IT OUT!! And I thought I worked hard to get ready for Miss New York!? It was such a fun evening of just pure celebration. The drag community is an incredibly tight-knit one, and I felt so welcomed by them all. The crown envy was hysterical as always...they LOVE my crown but I say, “Whyyy? It is about 1/16 the size of yours!” And the response every time is, "But yours is real. It's from the Miss America Organization/Pageant and that means sooo much more."
Due to a late start, I had to leave before the crowning - the moment I was looking forward to alllll night :( but congratulations to the winners!! I'm just sad I didn't get my photo with you!
So ask me again if I think Miss American should embrace my platform. Yes I do, because my platform representing this community of LGBT people, men especially, are your followers and devoted fans that keep the prestige alive. Where would you be without them?
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
This has nothing to do with pageantry or my platform.
But it's worth watching.
The Lost Generation
... or does it have something to do with pageantry?
"I can change the world and I refuse to believe that I am part of a lost generation."
The Lost Generation
... or does it have something to do with pageantry?
"I can change the world and I refuse to believe that I am part of a lost generation."
Monday, June 7, 2010
Miss SENY in the Utica Daily News!
As the voting continues for A Thousand Moms in the Pepsi Challenge, we gain more momentum and media acknowledgment!
A Thousand Moms Holds Listening Party with Miss America Contender to Mark Pepsi Refresh Project Selection
Every day in June, supporters can vote for A Thousand Moms’ nomination at www.refresheverything.com/athousandmoms
To celebrate the selection, Claire Buffie, contestant in the Miss America 2010 selection, and A Thousand Moms will conduct a nationwide listening party on June 12.
To call In, please dial 219-509-8222, code 456040.
READ THE ARTICLE HERE
And don't forget to VOTE!
Friday, June 4, 2010
Topic of Conversation: The new commercial.
I don't think I really need to comment on this one. Just watch.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Scott Alan and Cheyenne Jackson's "Blessing"
Last year I did a multi-media post featuring different songs, videos, speeches, etc (View Here) that really influenced me. One of them was Scott Alan's song "Nothing More," just one of his many amazing songs. Well he's at it again - powerful song, incredible vocals and your download benefits two important projects.
Broadway star Cheyenne Jackson, currently starring on NBC's hit comedy "30 Rock," sings composer Scott Alan's song "Blessing," a brave plea for a family's acceptance. ALL PROCEEDS from the single will go to The Trevor Project and the Hetrick-Martin institute.
DOWNLOAD Now on iTunes by CLICKING HERE
Blessing | Lyrics
I'm taken aback by allegations
I misdirected my life
I've changed, I'm a different man
How I love ain't right
But I only wish, you'd understand
How I love is exactly, what God has planned
Just try to remember...
That I'm still your baby, your blood, have your eyes, have your smile,
I'm sorry this hurts you, I'm sorry this numbs you
But I'm not ashamed of this fire I've inflamed
I was given this gift to love from heaven's hands
Don't abandon me now for loving another man
All I ask is in time, you'll give me your blessing
I know deep down you love me, I could use that love right now
I know time heals the hurting, I just hope you come around
Cause I'm finally proud to state who I am
Your close-minded thoughts won't leave me condemned
And I'm sorry this hurts you...
But I'm still your baby, your blood, have your eyes, have your smile,
And othing has changed here, I'm still the same
You taught me to love with my heart, I still do
I was given this gift to love from heaven's hands
And I know this is not the life you have planned
But I ask that in time, you'll give me your blessing
Cause I couldn't remain living inside this lie,
Every day that I did more and more of me died
I'm just here to remind you
That I'm still your baby, your blood, have your eyes, have your smile,
I didn't mean to hurt you, I'm sorry you're wounded
But I'm not ashamed of this fire I've inflamed
I was living this life for somebody else,
Now this is my chance to live it for myself
All I ask is in time, you give me your blessing
Give your blessing
Your blessing
About The Trevor Project: Established in 1998 to coincide with the HBO airing of the award winning short film, Trevor, hosted by Ellen DeGeneres, The Trevor Helpline is the only nationwide, around-the-clock crisis and suicide prevention helpline for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth. The Trevor Helpline is a free and confidential service that offers hope and someone to talk to, 24/7. The Trevor Helpline's trained counselors will listen and understand without judgment. If you or someone you know would like to talk to one of our highly trained counselors, dial 866-4-U-TREVOR. thetrevorproject.org
About The Hetrick-Martin Institute: For thirty years The Hetrick-Martin Institute has put into action our core belief, that all young people - regardless of sexual orientation or identity - deserve a safe and supportive environment in which to thrive. In creating that safe haven, the cycle of neglect, abuse, and violence experienced by many at-risk lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth because of their sexual orientation, stops at our doors. Through a comprehensive package of innovative and creative after-school programs, supportive services, and referrals, Hetrick-Martin, with its experienced professional staff, is a leader in caring for our most vulnerable at-risk youth. The Hetrick-Martin Institute is also the host to the Harvey Milk High School, an inclusive voluntary New York City public high school focusing on the educational needs of children who are in crisis or at risk of physical violence and/or emotional harm in a traditional educational environment. hmi.org
Broadway star Cheyenne Jackson, currently starring on NBC's hit comedy "30 Rock," sings composer Scott Alan's song "Blessing," a brave plea for a family's acceptance. ALL PROCEEDS from the single will go to The Trevor Project and the Hetrick-Martin institute.
DOWNLOAD Now on iTunes by CLICKING HERE
Blessing | Lyrics
I'm taken aback by allegations
I misdirected my life
I've changed, I'm a different man
How I love ain't right
But I only wish, you'd understand
How I love is exactly, what God has planned
Just try to remember...
That I'm still your baby, your blood, have your eyes, have your smile,
I'm sorry this hurts you, I'm sorry this numbs you
But I'm not ashamed of this fire I've inflamed
I was given this gift to love from heaven's hands
Don't abandon me now for loving another man
All I ask is in time, you'll give me your blessing
I know deep down you love me, I could use that love right now
I know time heals the hurting, I just hope you come around
Cause I'm finally proud to state who I am
Your close-minded thoughts won't leave me condemned
And I'm sorry this hurts you...
But I'm still your baby, your blood, have your eyes, have your smile,
And othing has changed here, I'm still the same
You taught me to love with my heart, I still do
I was given this gift to love from heaven's hands
And I know this is not the life you have planned
But I ask that in time, you'll give me your blessing
Cause I couldn't remain living inside this lie,
Every day that I did more and more of me died
I'm just here to remind you
That I'm still your baby, your blood, have your eyes, have your smile,
I didn't mean to hurt you, I'm sorry you're wounded
But I'm not ashamed of this fire I've inflamed
I was living this life for somebody else,
Now this is my chance to live it for myself
All I ask is in time, you give me your blessing
Give your blessing
Your blessing
About The Trevor Project: Established in 1998 to coincide with the HBO airing of the award winning short film, Trevor, hosted by Ellen DeGeneres, The Trevor Helpline is the only nationwide, around-the-clock crisis and suicide prevention helpline for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth. The Trevor Helpline is a free and confidential service that offers hope and someone to talk to, 24/7. The Trevor Helpline's trained counselors will listen and understand without judgment. If you or someone you know would like to talk to one of our highly trained counselors, dial 866-4-U-TREVOR. thetrevorproject.org
About The Hetrick-Martin Institute: For thirty years The Hetrick-Martin Institute has put into action our core belief, that all young people - regardless of sexual orientation or identity - deserve a safe and supportive environment in which to thrive. In creating that safe haven, the cycle of neglect, abuse, and violence experienced by many at-risk lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth because of their sexual orientation, stops at our doors. Through a comprehensive package of innovative and creative after-school programs, supportive services, and referrals, Hetrick-Martin, with its experienced professional staff, is a leader in caring for our most vulnerable at-risk youth. The Hetrick-Martin Institute is also the host to the Harvey Milk High School, an inclusive voluntary New York City public high school focusing on the educational needs of children who are in crisis or at risk of physical violence and/or emotional harm in a traditional educational environment. hmi.org
Monday, May 31, 2010
Happy Memorial Day!!
What's the true meaning of Memorial
Day? Is it just an excuse to grill out, lay in the sun and watch a parade on your day off? Nope. Memorial
Day is the day we set aside to remember those who have fought for our country and died or lived to tell their story. It's the day when we honor and thank every member of our military for putting their lives on the line in order to protect our rights and freedoms as Americans.
Ironic that we would celebrate this national holiday in the midst of huge decisions being made about "Don't Ask, Don't Tell." Today we celebrate men and women who have taken an oath to protect our country: an oath that also keeps thousands of men and women in the closet, hiding their sexuality and therefore their true person. Presented in this context, how could one say that people should hide their sexual orientation in order to serve in our military? Eric Alva, the first wounded marine and purple heart recipient in the War in Iraq said, "When I was younger, I knew two things about myself: I was born to serve this country and I was born gay. Since 19 years old, I hid the latter because it would ruin my chance for the first." Which is a bigger sacrifice?
Last week, the US House of Representatives passed the National Defense Authorization Act which removes DADT from federal statute. We are now depedent on the Senate to pass the bill through to Obama, who in his campaign spoke confidently about his plan to repeal DADT within his presidency. On the opposite side, John McCain has threatened to issue a filibuster that completely overrides the entire Defense Act in order to prevent the repeal of DADT. It's a dangerous move that we, a country still fighting 2 wars, cannot afford. From the extreme right, we hear things like "Obama is trying to force homosexuality into the military." False. Passage of this bill and therefore the repeal of DADT will allow people to serve our country with the protection of equality and the freedom to be themselves -- one of the most important freedoms we are granted as human beings. Be sure that your Senator is aware of your belief and support of all people serving equally in the United States military.
I am grateful for ALL of the military personnel who have served this country with honor and dedication. Thank you. Happy Memorial Day!
Now go lay out.
Day? Is it just an excuse to grill out, lay in the sun and watch a parade on your day off? Nope. Memorial
Day is the day we set aside to remember those who have fought for our country and died or lived to tell their story. It's the day when we honor and thank every member of our military for putting their lives on the line in order to protect our rights and freedoms as Americans.
Ironic that we would celebrate this national holiday in the midst of huge decisions being made about "Don't Ask, Don't Tell." Today we celebrate men and women who have taken an oath to protect our country: an oath that also keeps thousands of men and women in the closet, hiding their sexuality and therefore their true person. Presented in this context, how could one say that people should hide their sexual orientation in order to serve in our military? Eric Alva, the first wounded marine and purple heart recipient in the War in Iraq said, "When I was younger, I knew two things about myself: I was born to serve this country and I was born gay. Since 19 years old, I hid the latter because it would ruin my chance for the first." Which is a bigger sacrifice?
Last week, the US House of Representatives passed the National Defense Authorization Act which removes DADT from federal statute. We are now depedent on the Senate to pass the bill through to Obama, who in his campaign spoke confidently about his plan to repeal DADT within his presidency. On the opposite side, John McCain has threatened to issue a filibuster that completely overrides the entire Defense Act in order to prevent the repeal of DADT. It's a dangerous move that we, a country still fighting 2 wars, cannot afford. From the extreme right, we hear things like "Obama is trying to force homosexuality into the military." False. Passage of this bill and therefore the repeal of DADT will allow people to serve our country with the protection of equality and the freedom to be themselves -- one of the most important freedoms we are granted as human beings. Be sure that your Senator is aware of your belief and support of all people serving equally in the United States military.
I am grateful for ALL of the military personnel who have served this country with honor and dedication. Thank you. Happy Memorial Day!
Now go lay out.
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