Our hero is "Living Louder" than all of us.

You cannot be a lesbian, have a site dedicated to lesbians, and not pay homage to Ellen Degeneres, the ultimate hero for our "Community."

Ellen who has not only entertained us for years, but has also empowered women who desire the courage to "come out" and be accepted.

I use the term "Living Loudly" because when you look gay, or you tell the world you are gay, the silence is broken and now the work starts. To be seen and be heard in this society when your sexual preference dominates you and your message, it takes someone like Degeneres to set the stage for others. It takes a catalyst, a leader.

I thank her and her ambition to continue to be an advocate for "us" and making sure that her mother, Betty Degeneres, is portrayed as a loving mother and supporter. An image that is too often distorted by the opposition.

So thanks, Ellen:

Learn more about Betty Degeneres with her book "Just A Mom" on shelves now. An ideal Christmas gift.

Get up close and personal with Ellen Degeneres by purchasing a copy of her book, "The Real Ellen Story": a behind the scenes look at the tumultuous event leading up to the most controversial sitcom episode in TV history.

*Order a copy now @ Curvemag.com

Keepin' it Real,

Cy Townsend
Co-Founder, Chicagostuds.com