In our 53rd episode of Growing Older Gay Kitchen Table Talk starts a new chapter as “A Touch Of Gay”, Supreme Court says yes to conversion therapy, a new STI among gay and bi-sexual men is emerging, plus the latest leather news and events.
Check In: A Touch Of Gay
* A leather scented discussion of sexual health, spirituality, advocacy and travels of a sober leather daddy.
* New name, same mission to inform, engage and advocate for the maturing LGBTQ+ community.
* New website, social media channels handles.
Daily Inspiration: Tell someone you love them today
* Make a conscious moment to say the powerful words
Politics: Supreme Court Sides With Conversion Therapy
* Advocate - The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday, on Transgender Day of Visibility, struck down Colorado’s ban on so-called “conversion therapy” for minors.
* The decision elevates abstract free-speech doctrine over a growing body of medical evidence and leaves LGBTQ+ youth more exposed to a practice doctors have long described as harmful.
* The Court ruled 8–1, with a broad majority, including two liberal justices, joining the opinion striking down the law, and Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson dissenting.
* The Court held that because conversion therapy often takes the form of talk therapy, Colorado’s law amounts to a content-based restriction on speech.....that it barred therapists from encouraging a change in sexual orientation or gender identity while allowing speech that affirms a patient’s identity or transition.
Health: Drug resistant form of Shigella emerging among gay and bisexual men
* Increase in cases of a more drug resistant form of Shigella in UK and Australia.
* Cases particularly acute to men who have sex with men.
* Shigella is a gut infection that can be passed on during sex, directly or through unwashed hands.
* Symptoms including diarrhea, stomach cramps and fever typically appear between 12 hours and 4 days.
* Shigella can last up to 7 days and in most cases it clears on its own.
* Severe cases can be treated with antibiotics.
* If diagnosed avoid having sex until 7 days after your last symptoms. Avoid spas, swimming pools, jacuzzis, hot tubs and sharing towels, as well as preparing food for other people.
Leather News:
* Mr LA Leather – Brian Hettler of Los Angeles aka Mr. LA Leather Bear 2026 - Instagram: midasheart
* Mr San Diego Leather - Sal Leon of San Diego, tattoo artist - Instagram: savagesal
* Mr Eagle LA Leather Update – Wyatt Heath title stripped, Daren McCoy - Instagram: honeyguu
* Social media handles for all three are in the show notes!
Event: Fire Island Bear Weekend – June 11-15
* This June, Fire Island turns up the heat as bears, cubs, chubs, admirers, and friends from around the world descend on the Pines & Cherry Grove for the most seductive, unapologetic, and unforgettable bear event of the summer.
* From sun-drenched afternoons on the beach to sweat-soaked dance floors after dark, Fire Island Bear Weekend is where desire meets community—and the vibe is as thick as the bodies. Expect poolside flirtation, moonlit walks, packed parties, intimate moments, and that unmistakable Fire Island electricity that keeps you coming back for more.
* fireislandbearweekend.com
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