News Briefing

Court maintains legal challenge to Conshy ordinance

The state Commonwealth Court last month denied a request by Conshohocken borough officials to dismiss a legal challenge of the borough’s LGBT-inclusive antibias ordinance.

The court issued its ruling Feb. 19.

Anti-LGBT activist James Schneller filed the legal challenge in September 2011, but it was dismissed by a Montgomery County judge in March 2012.

Schneller appealed the dismissal in Commonwealth Court, where the case remains pending.

He wants the ordinance invalidated, partly on the basis that it allegedly violates protected religious freedoms.

On March 4, Schneller filed a request with Commonwealth Court to broaden the scope of his legal challenge.

The court hadn’t ruled on Schneller’s request at presstime.

The ordinance extends civil-rights protections to LGBTs and other groups.

Violators face a $300 fine and up to 90 days in jail.

Paul McConnell, president of Conshohocken’s borough council, had no comment for this story.

— Tim Cwiek

Team Philly to take over Sugarhouse

Sugarhouse Casino will honor Team Philadelphia, the umbrella group for the city’s LGBT sports clubs, and all the organizations with a reception next week.

The event will be held from 6-8 p.m. March 14 at the casino, 1001 N. Columbus Blvd.

Free shuttles will leave at 5:30 and 5:45 p.m. from 12th and Locust streets. The party will feature free hors d’oeuvres and one complimentary cocktail per guest.

The event will include performances by Brittany Lynn and the Drag Mafia and music will be provided by DJ Jimmy Jamb. Guests can get makeover tips from Andre Richard Salon, work-out advice from 12th Street Gym trainers and casino dealers will be on hand for craps demonstrations.

— Jen Colletta

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