Avowed Rhea County Lesbian Says Facing Persecution
A 26-year-old woman who calls herself the only open lesbian in Rhea County said she is facing persecution. Kristie Bacon said some stores will not let her shop there and she recently lost her job.


~

Annan to decide fate of controversial ruling on same-sex partner benefits
By EDITH M. LEDERER
The Associated Press
UNITED NATIONS (AP) -- A U.N. panel asked Secretary-General Kofi Annan Friday to decide the fate of a new policy that allows gay partners of U.N. staffers to receive benefits -- a program that has angered many Muslim and African nations.


~

Court Refuses To Hear Gay Marriage Case
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff
(Charleston, West Virginia) The West Virginia Supreme Court has refused to hear a case challenging the state's Defense of Marriage Act.