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Almost 90% of LGBT students report being verbally harassed at school because of their sexual orientation. These teens experience homophobic harassment throughout the school day, creating an unsafe atmosphere. Remarks such as “that’s so gay” are the most commonly heard. The Ad Council believes these slurs are often unintentional. Most do not recognize the consequences, but the casual use of this language often carries over into more overt harassment.

The Mountain View Voice spotlights a group called Outlet, which supports area LGBT youth. The piece - posted April 18th - reports that a national survey shows 5 to 7 percent of teenagers will realize they are gay by the time they graduate.

Howard Ludwig is a straight stay-at-home dad who visited a play group hosted by The Center on Halsted. The Center provides local LGBT outreach - and started the play group for lesbian and gay parents [and their kids] three months ago.

Howard writes about his experience in the suburban Chicago news source, SouthtownStar.com.

Anne Hart, from Southern Mamas blog, wrote a great piece for the Savannah Morning News about a group of young people who are reaching out to each other for support.

In 2006, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) issued a statement titled, “Ministry to Persons with a Homosexual Inclination”.

It said:

“The discovery that a family member has homosexual tendencies can pose a serious concern for parents, siblings, and spouses. The Church reaches out to them, seeking to help ensure that the bonds of love among the family members are intact.”

If you are feeling stuck or ineffective- life coaching can offer you the support and encouragement to turn old habits into healthier patterns. Career, romance, and spirituality are typical areas of concern for people wanting to make changes in their lives this time of year.

You and your coach can pursue your unique definition of balance. You'll concentrate on areas of your life that are satisfactory, and explore ways to make improvements. Through a developed process you'll be given the necessary tools and exercises to live a more effective, passionate and fulfilling life.

Legislators from Connecticut passed a bill in 2005 which created civil unions - legal arrangements that provide some of the same benefits and responsibilities as marriage.

However, the state cannot provide the same federal benefits of marriage due to the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) which says no state need recognize a marriage between persons of the same sex, even if the marriage is recognized in another state. The Federal Government may not recognize same-sex marriages for any purpose either.