Aloha! Me and the BF are headed off to Hawaii next week for vacation. We were Googling ourselves to death trying to find a great place to get away, and we chose the Brady Bunch/Growing Pains route of trekking to Hawaii. But apparently, I should have considered Iowa as well!
We tweeted earlier this week about a great read from the Chicago Tribune about Iowa’s sudden status as a LGBT destination. Why? One could assume, as the article does, that our gaydar is tuned to the state because of the gay marriage law that took effect April 27. I’m not an Iowa-hater…I just don’t know much about the state. Plus, how could I not appreciate a fellow Heartland state?!?
This article is a great read, especially as it relates to how local businesses are recognizing the bling-factor of reaching out to a new tourist audience—LGBT couples looking to wed, or those who support such a progressive stance in the state. Reporter Josh Noel gives a great run-down of places to go if you are headed out the Iowa-y. Mad props to Iowa-based companies who are truly being inclusive in their marketing outreach. Tourism is an industry that has been challenged in this recession. Glad to see that Iowa folks understand that to attract a consumer, you need to speak to the consumer. Has anyone been to Iowa recently? Did you spend Des Monies in Des Moines?
Other random musings (as I dream about Waikiki Beach):
• 80s concert during Pride Weekend was great! We had such support from the LGBT and straight community here in Cleveland. Apparently, everyone loves doing the Thriller dance! Kudos to my pops for coming out on Father’s Day. And, speaking of the 80s, what a day yesterday. The loss of two great icons– Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson. As someone who clearly loves music, I am at a loss on how to describe the impact of MJ on pop culture and pop music. Truly, there was no one else like him.
• I’ll admit it. I love my NJ Housewives on Bravo. I flip a table every time a new episode is about to air. And, I have to respect crazy Danielle and Bravo SVP Andy Cohen for calling out the use of the word “gay” from one of the cast members as a synonym for “stupid.” We all know it’s a common expression—“that’s so gay.” Doesn’t mean that we have to embrace it.
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Another well written Blog. I especially liked your mention of the Real Housewives of NJ. I laud Danielle and Bravos reaction and response to the usage of the word “gay.” As a university administrator, this word is used frequently by students without hesitation any thought of how gay and allies of the gay students might feel. Better education is needed to teach students/the general public that this word is hurtful and demeaning.
Enjoy Hawaii.
A wonderfully written blog. Excellent work.
I will definitely return to this blog. The moms in my community would love your features, network with us.
A mom from the bizymoms Iowa-city community. http://www.bizymoms.com/iowa-city/index.php