Surf's Up, and So Are the Chicks!

Link Summer's almost here, and we're pretty sure you're waxing up your surfboard, dreaming of those tasty waves. In the world of competitive surfing, the boys aren't out - but the girls sure are!

Story of Lesbian Cop's Pension Fight Wins Oscar

Link Laurel Hester had been a police officer for 25 years when she was diagnosed with incurable brain cancer. Her fight to get pension rights for her partner was illustrated in "Freeheld", a flick that took the Oscar this year for Best Documentary Short Subject.

Two years ago, LNews ran a two-part story on Laurel's fight for benefits. Part One of Laurel's story, followed by Part Two.

Valerie Bertinelli's Very Brief Lesbian Fling

Link In her new memoir, the "One Day at a Time" hottie, admits to passionately smootching a gal: "She was a good kisser -- she really was!" Vals did say it on Oprah -- and challenged the hostess to say if she'd also kissed a woman! Oprah and her dear friend Gayle King are still apparently on the way-way down low...

When It Was Out To Be Out

Link Celebrities who come out of the closet usually get welcomed out with at least one magazine cover and a "we knew it!" blurb by Perez Hilton. Back in the day, though, the world wasn't so welcoming. Here are some notable celebs who didn't live to see the gay-welcoming light of day during their lifetimes.

Microsoft Co-Founder Leaves $65 Million to Gay Rights Groups

Link A high school classmate of Bill Gates, and one of the first five people to work at Microsoft, has bequeathed millions to help fund 10 of the US's biggest gay rights groups. According to the Pride Foundation, it's the biggest single bequest ever given to LGBT causes.

Dying Lesbian's Partner Denied Visitation

Link Janice Langbehn and Lisa Pond had been a couple for 18 years, but when Lisa was suddenly hospitalized, Florida state law and the hospital prevented Lisa from spending her last moment with Janice -- and her own children.