Shoot, @TripleE, you’re the best. You are 100% forgiven. I totally get it, though; even I get frustrated with Arizona sometimes – it’s often hard even for me to defend when we have Sheriff Jackass and Governor Drunk Face to deal with.
I did once visit the DC area – to protest John McCain and Don’t Ask Don’t Tell at a Senate hearing. I have personally pissed off John McCain. I have seen his face turn beet red as he (tried to) ignore us. It was the best moment of my life, particularly when we realized Harry Reid wasn’t going to have us arrested, heehee. One day I’d like to visit again when I’m not so distracted and busy!
I also worked on Paul Penzone’s campaign last year – super great guy, still bummed he lost. So I do promise there are those of us here working our bums off trying to get shit done. Hopefully you’re doing the same in your area – even if it is largely progressive, there is still shit to be done!
You should visit http://www.equalitywalk.org – they are walking 101 miles through the entire state of Arizona at the end of this month because they are bad ass and also motherfucking crazy. They are also doing LGBT 101 training for the border patrol in Yuma, which is pretty awesome. We have a HUGE and incredibly vibrant, and very active LGBT community here (and I happen to live smack in the middle of it).
Anyway, thank you for taking the time to respond and so thoughtfully. 
