Burlington, VT, Jul 05, 2011 — In 2006, Burlington writer James Lantz's first play, The Bus, was a surprise hit. The play, about two boys who pursue a forbidden relationship late at night in a church bus, drew crowds and glowing reviews. It's set in a small town and deals with gay teens, sexuality, religion and homophobia. An off-Broadway theater is giving Lantz an opportunity to present his play to big city audiences this fall.

James Lantz has written three other plays, including American Machine, which was a co-commissioned project of The Flynn Center for the Performing Arts. As an award-winning filmmaker, he has produced, written and directed over 200 commercial films, videos and live events. Todd Moe spoke with him about The Bus and its off-Broadway debut in October.  Go to full article

Jun 28, 2011 — The Catholic Church leads opposition to New York's new law legalizing same sex marriage. In a statement over the weekend, Bishop Terry LaValley of the Diocese of Ogdensburg called the law "deeply disappointing and troubling."

The statement calls marriage between a man and a woman the only "authentic" marriage.

David Sommerstein spoke yesterday with Bishop LaValley about the new law and about his parishioners reaction to his statement.  Go to full article

Rensselaer, NY, Jun 27, 2011 — Governor Cuomo signed the bill allowing same-sex couples to marry in New York into law following a dramatic debate and vote on the Senate floor Friday night.

The addition of two Republicans sealed the bill's fate after they said an amendment securing religious exemptions satisfied them. The bill passed in the Senate 33-29.  Go to full article

Rensselaer, NY, Jun 24, 2011 — Gay couples are planning to converge on Albany to witness what would be a historic vote to legalize gay marriage in New York.

A bill to legalize gay marriage...  Go to full article

Rensselaer, NY, Jun 22, 2011 — After days of delay as Republican senators met behind closed doors, Governor Cuomo said he's "cautiously optimistic" that a same-sex marriage bill will be voted on the floor...  Go to full article

Rensselaer, NY, Jun 17, 2011 — This week, it's been all about same sex marriage in Albany. Supporters, led by Governor Cuomo, have been lobbying hard for a vote in the State Senate. Now they're one vote...  Go to full article

Rensselaer, NY, Jun 15, 2011 — A bill legalizing gay marriage appears to need just one more vote to win approval in the state Senate. Republican Senator Roy McDonald said yesterday he supports the bill....  Go to full article