Did you all enjoy your local GLBT Pride parade? Every year our local parade offers us laughs, tears, pride and unfortunately, some embarrassment as well.

I love seeing the local politicians riding in the parade, waving to the crowd, wearing their best smiles. I must admit, I feel better voting for Richard Riordan (Republican mayor) since he has been a part of our parade from the beginning of his career. Our entire city council shows up in cars as well, which I find encouraging.

I admit I still laugh every year at the Sisters Of Perpetual Indulgence. These men (women?) are not only very funny, but also amazingly brave to wear those heavy costumes in our 100-plus-degree heat each year. And yes, I may even catch a glance at a few of the "dykes on bikes" who drive by. Who could blame me? And can you resist singing as the float playing I Am Who I Am goes by? [And why is this not our official anthem?] Impossible!

And yes, every year tears come to my eyes as I see the parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and siblings from PFLAG go by. How wonderful it must be to have family actively involved in pride. And sadly, the rows of those bearing AIDS quilts never seem to shrink.

Which brings me to the one float that seems to pop up every year; out of place and consistently used by the media and foes alike, to make us look (in my mind) foolish. It is the one that has some guy -- as close to naked as legally possible -- tied spread-eagle in the air and being whipped by another guy in leather. It is enough to make me want to whimper. Or at least cover my son's eyes.

Now, before anyone gets her panties twisted, how about we take a look at this in context of what the parade is about. This parade is about PRIDE in ourselves, in spite of the negative messages we hear from certain groups every day. Groups riding in the parade show how our lives are integrated into an average every day life -- one with which everyone can identify. Church groups, businesses, politicians, music groups, comedians, writers, filmmakers, and the lists go on and on. We're here! We're queer! Get used to it! Our message is that we are part of your family, we are your fellow employees, we are your next-door neighbors, we stand next to you in your church and we shop in your stores.

Admittedly, sadomasochism exists in every sexual orientation. In fact, it is most prevalent in the heterosexual population -- but it is also a kink enjoyed by part of the homosexual population. But just as it is inappropriate to see a man and a woman engaging in sexual relations in public, so too are two men or two women engaging in sexual games. Was I the only person taught that sex is a private act? I really believe it is time to leave this float out of the mix.

So how about that festival?

Until next time...