98 August 2009.indd - Ion AZ

Marriage
Children and Freedom
As Gays and Lesbians, we cannot marry our
partners (though some politicians fear that
we want to marry goats). We cannot typically
have children (no matter how hard we try).
We’re still considered social outcasts by
many (try PDA on the West Side). Sounds
pretty bleak doesn’t it? Quite the contrary.
We experience companionship, parenthood,
and freedom like no heterosexual can. Our
lives are more fl exible, more fun and more
free.
MARRIAGE
Fortunately, we don’t encounter society’s
pressure to marry a same-sex partner. Of
course, it would be nice to have the option
but even when that day comes, we won’t
feel the same pressure. Today, you can
enter into — and out of — a committed
relationship without the Church, the state,
or lawyers’ involvement. Or not. It’s your
choice.
CHILDREN
While we can’t conceive children naturally,
many of us choose to be parents to a more
loyal, loving and caring family members
— our pets. That’s why we are creating
our fi rst annual “Pets and the City” issue
featuring members of our community and
their “children” — their pets. These family
members are treated like royalty and we
are sometimes closer to them than our own
family and friends. You can choose to have
pets. Or not. It’s your choice.
FREEDOM
Our fi rst Splash Bash was in 2002. It started
as our 1st Anniversary party. Who doesn’t
like to celebrate your baby’s birthday? It was
our fi rst celebration and I learned a lot. In
fact, there was a “straight” wedding at the
hotel when Splash Bash ended. There were
happy, wet party goers, some in small sexy
bathing suits leaving as heterosexuals in
tuxedos and suits entered the hotel. I can’t
think of a more awkward moment. Well, I
can but that’s reserved for a future column.
It was then we decided to take over the
entire hotel — all 100+ rooms. Since 2003
we have opened up a hotel to the entire
GLBT community and their allies for a huge
event like no other. We’ve moved Splash
Bash back to its original home: the Radisson
Phoenix City Center. Their staff and
management have been very generous and
supportive in our quest for a safe, fun and
memorable experience without judgment
from outsiders. Bring on the PDA! Or not. It’s
your choice.
The Coors Light Splash Bash 9 this
Labor Day weekend will be like no other.
Hosted by VH1’s Brooke Knows Best co-star
Glenn Douglas Packard who’s bringing his
partner, Daniel Miagany. Splash Bash will
help benefi t 1N10 Youth Group. Plus, we
have a lot of surprises that I can’t mention
yet but if you come, you’ll have a great time.
In order to get more people to experience
the fun, we’re offering free tickets and
discount room rates. The Adult Shoppe is
giving away FREE tickets (while supplies
last with a $20 purchase or more). Off Chute
Too, Root Seller Gallery, Unique on Central
and ionaz.com are all selling $10 discount
tickets until Friday, September 4th. Low
room reservations are now available at
ionaz.com. We usually sell about 100 rooms
so after the party ends, the fun continues.
There’s nothing like it in Arizona!
So be in a committed relationship as if you
were married. Or not. Raise pets like they
were your children. Or not. Come out and
celebrate freedom at Splash Bash 9. Or not.
Wait, scratch that last one.
Enjoy your freedom. Celebrate with us!
Jack Tesorero
Publisher
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