As many readers may know, Peteypuke is hosting a Gay Shame 2003 party at his palatial urban estate this Sunday. Realizing his disdain for the types of gays that constantly crowd the streets of homo-ville near his house I automatically understood that a "gay shame" event would entail the ridiculing of those circuit queens that seem to have taken over. After all, who would have "pride" in what has become of "Gay Pride" events. The majority of people on floats, in the street, in the bars all look like cookie cut outs. The amazing diversity represented years ago is gone. There is no representation of anything gay that is not physically fit or extremely flamboyant. Where are the gay artists, writers, actors�etc. I have to note that not too long ago Broadway shows used to have a presence in Gay Pride. They too have pulled out. Even the Lesbians have their own march now�that is undeniably more political. These Chelsea gone Fire Island boys are destroying everything that homosexuals have tried so hard to attain. Sure, they may have good jobs�but joining corporate America was not the only goal. The way gays are represented in "Pride" events is shameful. Parties should be thrown to make fun of and shame these people. Though I can not attend, I condone and admire the ideology behind Peteypuke's venture.

With that said, there is another movement taking place on the West Coast (San Francisco). The phrase and "Gay Shame" there is something completely different. An organized group of homosexuals (men and women) bring attention to political figures, companies and the like that have treated homosexuals unfairly. They rally at fundraisers - picket in front of stores - the homosexuals "shame" these terrible people and organizations.

When I recently told a friend (a former San Franciscan) of mine that Peteypuke was hosting a "Gay Shame" party. Of course she asked who or what he was shaming. Being completely unaware of this West Coast attitude, I replied - those stupid queens that are ruining all the gay fun�turning everything into rainbows, terrible music, lycra tank tops, well lit bars�well the list went on and on�and then she told me about "Gay Shame" on the West Coast.

I respect both sides of this coin.