Goodbye 2009

Last week CNN had a poll asking if readers thought 2010 would be a better year than 2009. When I looked at the poll, 53% said that they believed 2010 would be better than 2009. Despite what 2009 brought us, most still feel the coming year will be better. I am not surprised by that.

I think Americans, for the most part, are an optimistic people. We always hope for the better. We may have had troubles in the past, but we like to think the future will be better. I personally don't know what 2010 will bring, but I too can't help but think, maybe hope is a better word, that 2010 will be better than 2009.

2009 surely did bring alot of financial challenges, not only personally but nationally. Hard to believe that companies which excelled throughout our history did, or almost did, collapse. I think of Ford and Chevy. I think of the banks. Hard to imagine that some of these bit the dust and are no longer. Hard to believe that I too had to take furlough days and lose money. Hard to believe that I got no raise in 2009. I realize that I still have a job, which many don't have at the end of 2009.

As I prepare for 2010, I am optimistic. I am hopeful that a career change will be on the horizon. I really feel the need to make a change! Not that I hate my job, but I am tired of doing what I am doing. There are not too many days that I look forward to going into work, and that's a sad commentary. I realize all of us at times "hate" our jobs, but there should be something more to look forward to than 5 O'Clock and the weekend! Our jobs should challenge us and make us feel as if we're accomplishing something. My job makes me feel like a hamster on a wheel, going nowhere, but wasting alot of energy getting there.

So that's what I look forward to in 2010. That is my goal. I am optimistic that I will accomplish it. I still don't know quite how or when exactly in 2010, but I am putting my plan into action!

Healthcare Reform: A Huge Victory!

President Obama stated that the Senate vote to move health care reform forward is a "big victory for the American people." The US Senate is poised to approve the bill before the end of the year. According to Obama, the bill will be a major help to those without health insurance as well as be good for those already have health insurance. The bill will prohibit insurance companies from exempting certain pre-existing conditions and advance health care for all US citizens.

I say this is a huge victory for President Obama! The Republicans, none of whom are expected to vote for the bill, have tried their hardest to stop health care reform! You can say what you want, but the bottom line is the Republicans do not want Obama to succeed and this is another victory for Obama. From the day Obama took office, the Republicans have done whatever they can, lie, distort, incite the people, to stop any advancement of Obama's agenda! However, looks like the Republicans are going to fail with health care and Obama will win.......once again!

I do not think this is the best health care reform bill. I would rather see a public option! I would rather not see women's reproductive rights lessened. But I think this is the best bill that we can get right now! Changes will certainly be necessary as the health care reform progresses over the years. This is a start!

I applaud President Obama once again for his strategic moves! Americans will one day thank him for his agenda!

On The Way To the Post Office

Enjoy It! There's Nothing You Can Do Anyway!

Oh the weather outside is frightful....But guess what? There's not a darn thing you can do to change the weather, so just deal with it and enjoy it! Yes! There's lots to do today, but relax! It will just have to get done another time!

My Two Cents on Tiger Woods

For what it's worth, let me give my opinion of the Tiger Woods' situation. I have yet to weigh in on it. I am sick and tired of hearing about it! But it seems to be the topic of news everytime I turn on the television or open the paper or listen to the radio. Someone told me today that in the past two weeks, Tiger Woods has been in the media as much as the tragedy of 9/11 was in 2001! What a shame! Not only "tabloid" media shows, but so-called "news" media has continued to put Tiger Woods in the headlines! I for one, think it's time to GIVE IT UP!

I have never viewed Tiger Woods as a person who sought the status of a celebrity. He plays golf, is damned good at it, and has become famous because of his talents on the golf course. Thus, Tiger Woods has become a celebrity. And yes, he has "cashed in" on his status as a pro golf celebrity, but so what! Tiger Woods is not like Kim Kardashion or Paris Hilton, or even Jon and Kate Plus Eight! These "celebrities," and other like them, have sought out the media to become celebrities. What have any of them done to deserve the fame or status as a celebrity? NOTHING! I truly believe that Tiger Woods did not ask for this status!

Therefore, what has occurred in his life, is his business. If he has been unfaithful to his wife, it's nobody's business but Tiger's and Mrs. Woods'. The media has conducted polls as to how favorable people feel about him, just like the polls taken on presidents. Who cares what anyone's favorable rating is toward Tiger Woods? I know I don't. And the talk of "taking away Tiger's children" is absolutely ridiculous! What has Tiger Woods done to put his children in jeopardy? Again, NOTHING! His children are not at risk of neglect or abuse! There are parents seriously neglecting and abusing their children, but the Woods' situation has not placed the children in any harm! The Woods children are very well cared for!

So I for one am damned tired of it all! I wish I could just once turn on the 6 o'clock news and not hear anything about Tiger Woods!

So Much Discussion

The following post was posted on September 25, 2005, and has received much discussion:

The Evil Catholic Church

Ten Years Later

Can you believe it? It will soon be 2010! That means we are 10 years into the 2000's! Everyone remember the bruh-ha-ha that was made of us going from 1999 (pre-iPod, iPhone, GPS, and FaceBook) to 2000? Some thought the world would end! The world's computers wouldn't be able to handle the change! Wallstreet would collapse! Nuclear weapons all over the world would go haywire! What would happen?

ABSOLUTELY NOTHING! I believe I was at a friend's New Years Eve party that night. We jokingly, but with some seriousness, waited for midnight to arrive. This year though, it wasn't only to ring in the new year, but to see what actually would happen when the world went from 1999 to 2000! Would the devastation occurs in stages as various parts of the world greeted 2000, or would the destruction of the world happen when the first clock struck 12:00AM and the year 2000 was here!

Wallstreet did almost collapse, but that was several years later and it had nothing to do with the calendar. It had to do with greed and mass disregard for any rules. And it wasn't the year 2000 that brought much grief, but it was 9-11-2001 that brought tears to the U.S.

We've seen alot in the past 10 years! 10 years into the 2000's! I wonder what the year 3000 will bring!

Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas!

Finished the turkey! Put up the decorations! Started the shopping! Been listening to the music of the season!

Not sure why the Christmas bug has hit me earlier than usual this year, but it has! So I am wishing you, "Seasons Greeting!"

Not Ready Yet

Firstly, let me say from the beginning that I am a gay man, and that I believe any couple in the US, regardless of sexual orientation, should have the right to experience full marriage equality! These same marriage rights that straight couples can have should be afforded to same-sex couples as well. Do I want to get married to my gay partner? I do not know, but if I choose to, I should be able to do so! Full marriage equality should be the goal of any LGTB Organization.

However, I think the majority of people in the US have shown that America is still not ready for Gay Marriage at this time in our history. We have seen too many times recently where, when put to a vote, the people of the US are still too uncomfortable with changing the meaning of “marriage” from a union between one man and one woman. The majority in the US are accepting of “civil unions,” giving what they perceive as full, equal “marriage” rights to the LGBT Community. However to change the perception that marriage is some sacred bond between a man and a woman will take some time.

In November 2008, California voters passed Proposition 8 which stated,
“Only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California.” This vote overturned a ruling by the California Supreme Court giving same-sex couples the right to marry. Just a few weeks ago, the voters in Maine overturned the right of gay couples to marry. In that state, the legislature and Governor approved marriage equality for same-sex couples, but the voters rejected that law. In New Jersey, which currently has Civil Unions for gay couples, polls showed both the majority of citizens approve of gay marriage, but that 49% of voters in NJ oppose a law to allow same-sex marriage. In total, 40 US States have laws forbidding gay marriage in some form or another.

Only 5 states in the US allow marriage rights for the LGBT Community. Massachusetts, Connecticut, Iowa, and Vermont currently permit marriage between same-sex couples, and New Hampshire will begin performing gay marriages in January 2010. It was NOT by the vote of its citizens did these states begin marriage equality, but mostly by the Court issuing a ruling that the State Constitution did not prohibit gay marriage.

I don’t like it! I don’t think it’s fair! But it is what it is! I think that instead of continuing the fight for “marriage” equality at this time, that the LGBT Community needs to focus on furthering Civil Union rights, not only in individual states, but through the Federal Government as well. Firstly, the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), along with “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” needs to be repealed. President Obama has supported this, but so far done little to promote the repeals. Secondly, Federal regulations should provide same-sex couples joining through Civil Union the SAME rights, totally and fully, as straight married couples.

Marriage Equality for same-sex couples will come one day in the US! It is only a matter of time! Unfortunately we have to take one step at a time, starting with each state and then the Federal government.

Just Answer The Question

This weekend was a tremendous show of support for Gay Rights. The National Equality March and rally in Washington, DC was very inspiring.

However, on Sunday morning I watched CNN's State of the Union with John King. I watched in awe as two US Senators, both Democrats, Senator Debbie Stubenow, Michigan, and Senator Bob Casey, Pennsylvania, could not answer a simple question put to them by John King, "Would you vote to repeal the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) which state marriage is between one man and one woman. Neither Senator could answer the question! Watch:

I guess neither Senator can take a stand because they don't want to ruin their chance of re-election! Such politics!

Reason # 11 (Why I Cannot Vote For Chris Christie)

Reason number 11 why I cannot vote for Chris Christie in the race for Governor of NJ: He opposes Marriage Equality for the LGBT Community and will do everything in his power to stop it! Christie said he will do all he can to block the state from allowing gay marriage, possibly even pushing to amend the state constitution. Christie believes marriage equality for Gays and Lesbians should be put to the voters for approval or disapproval. (Wonder if Christie believes the US should have put to a vote a woman's right to vote, or a black person's right to vote, or whether or not we allowed slavery to continue?).

Jon Corzine on the other hand, has acknowledged that Civil Unions in NJ have not gone far enough and that couples, regardless of their sex, should be treated equally as determined by our courts. Corzine has vowed to push for marriage equality in the next year if reelected.

Chris Christie has drawn the line in the sand for the LGBT Community! Gays, Lesbians, Bisexuals and Transgendered in NJ need to support Jon Corzine! And if by some chance Christie is elected, I am confident the People of NJ will not support a ban on gay marriage. I'm not afraid of that fight, but I hope it doesn't come down to it!

Ten Reasons I Cannot Vote For Christie

After reading Chris Christie's proposals if elected Governor, here are the reasons why I cannot vote for Christie:

1. I will run our state government like a business. Heard that one before, time and time again. Heard it throughout much of the past 8 years!

2. I will save taxpayer dollars and end political cronyism by eliminating political patronage jobs. Right! Christie's patrons will replace the political cronies now in state government.

3. I will lower overtime costs by reducing the number of state holidays and eliminating those not recognized as federal holidays. State employees have a contract and any change needs to be negotiated.

4. I will increase efficiency and lower costs by changing to a single, unitary approach to state public employee compensation, benefits, and work rules – ending the separate statutes governing health benefits, antiquated civil service rules, and the collective bargaining agreements. Ok. Again, let's mess with State employees!

5. I will increase fairness and reduce costs by bringing the compensation and benefits for the New Jersey Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) back in line with employees who have defined contribution plans (such as federal government employees) by closing defined benefit plans for new employees, and replacing them with defined contribution plans.

6. I will eliminate pension and health benefits for all part-time employees and political appointees. Only full-time employees should qualify for a public pension. Part time employees are important to the function of state government and they should get some pension for their work.

7. I will require all new state hires and state employee retirees to contribute to their health insurance costs. WE already do to the surprise and misunderstanding of many!

8. I will devote more resources to assist parents and educators attempting to start new charter schools by utilizing my revamped Department of Education (DOE) to encourage and nurture those seeking to start a charter school. Good use of taxpayers money! Use it for Private schools instead of bettering Public Schools.

9. Christie will take away state mandates on health insurance companies to allow "bare-bones" policies that could limit coverage. This despite what he says.

10. Christie is about 150 pounds overweight! Can't take care of yourself, how can you take care of the State!

I don't know about all State employees, but I take pride in doing a good job providing care for the Developmentally Disabled of our state. Don't fix the state's financial woes on my back!

You Go, Barney!

It's about time Democrats start defending their position on Healh Care Reform and tell it like it is about these opponen

The Church That Preys...

Article in the New York Times about ministries that preach God-to-riches philosophy. Specifically mentioned is the ministry of Gloria and Kenneth Copeland. These “prosperity gospel” preachers delighted the crowd with anecdotes about the luxurious lives they had attained by following the Word of God. The message of this ministry and others like it, simply put, if you have sufficient faith in God, and donate generously, God will multiply your offerings a hundredfold — is reassuring to many in hard times. Guess these preachers do not know too much about Jesus Christ, do they?

Jesus had nothing! He gave up everything he had to live a life of committment and helping others. Jesus did not show people how to become rich. Jesus led the life of a pauper for the sake of others. He did not ask God, His Father, for riches and kingdoms. If you believe what Jesus said, "...If you wish to be complete, go and sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you shall have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me." ( Matthew 19:20), then Jesus preached just the opposite of the Copelands and those like them!

Shame on you, Gloria and Kenneth Copeland!

A Day In The Life of a Middle Class Republican

I do not take credit for this. My work buddy, RM, gave me this story about A Day in the Life of Joe-A Middle Class Republican. I will not go through the entire story, but it goes something like this:

Joe gets up at 6:00AM to prepare his morning coffee. He fills his pot full of good clean water because some stupid liberal fought for minimum water quality standards. He takes his daily medication with his first swallow of coffee. His medications are safe to take because some dumb liberals fought to ensure their safety and that they work as advertised.

All but $10.00 of his medications are paid for by his employer's medical plan because some thick-headed liberal union workers fought the employer for paid medical insurance.

Joe gets ready for work, and steps outside. The air he breathes is clean because some tree-hugging liberal fought for laws to stop industries from polluting our air.

Joe begins his work day. He has a good job with excellent pay, medical benefits, retirement, paid holidays and vacation because some filthy union members fought and died for these working standards, along with an 8 hour work day and Child Labor Laws).

Joe is home from work and visits his elderly father later that evening. He arrives at his boyhood home, financed by Farmers Home Administration because bankers did not want to make rural loans. The house did not have electricity until some big government liberal stuck his nose where it didn't belong and demanded rural electrification. Joe is happy his dad is retired now. His dad lives on Social Security and his union pension because some liberal made sure he could take care of himself so Joe wouldn't have to.

Joe leaves his father and turns on talk radio. The show's host keeps saying that liberals are bad and conservatives good. The host doesn't tell Joe that his beloved Republicans have fought against every protection and benefit Joe enjoys throughout the day. Joe agrees: "We don't need those big government liberals ruining our lives. After all, I'm a self-made man who believes everyone should take care of himself, just like I have."

THINK ABOUT IT, JOE!

AARP Tries To Set The Record Straight

A friend of mine (Thank you, Mommanator) recently sent me an e-mail from AARP trying to break some of the myths about Health Care Reform as it relates to Seniors. Here's some clarification from AARP:


1. Your choice of doctor and hospital is protected under all three major bills under discussion.

2. Drugmakers will voluntarily cut in half the cost of name-brand drugs provided for those who fall into the Medicare Part D "doughnut hole" or coverage gap.

3. Both the Senate Finance Committee and House "Tri-Committee" plans eliminate Medicare copayments and deductibles you currently pay for preventive care services, such as cancer screenings.

4. Current versions of health reform legislation require your health insurer to pay you back if they spend less than 85 percent of premium dollars on the care of patients -- in other words, if their overhead and profit costs exceed 15 percent.

The AARP goes on to state, "When opponents of health reform talk about Medicare "cuts," here's what they point to: Provisions now before Congress currently would reduce taxpayer-financed subsidies paid to some private insurance companies to provide care under the Medicare name. (Here's a Families USA study on these plans.) These plans currently get paid extra to provide the same care as traditional Medicare provides. That's a fact that health-reform opponents never mention."

Maybe Not What We Expected

So nobody miscontrues my meaning here, let me start off by stating that I still support President Obama completely! I trust him completely! I favor what he has done thus far. Howerver, the latest edition of The Advocate contains an interesting article about Barack Obama, the candidate, and his promises to the LGBT community, compared to President Barack Obama's actions thus far on those promises. I admit President Obama has failed thus far!

On the main issues facing the LGBT community in reference to the federal government here is the scorecard:

1. Federal hate-crimes legislation: Candidate Obama pushed this. President Obama has promised to sign the current bill....A+;
2. Employment Non-Discrimination Act: Candidate Obama wanted gender identity to be included in any non-discrimination law. President Obama has not clearly been lobbying for the bill....B;
3. "Don't Ask, Don't Tell": Candidate Obama said he would repeal this. President Obama has resisted lifting DADT by executive order. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates has been given the task of reviewing DADT, but President Obama has not done much....C-;
4. Defense of Marriage Act: Candidate Obama stated he wanted to do away with DOMA and that LGBT individuals should be provided the same benefits as hetero-couples. President Obama has only mentioned a DOMA repeal while signing his memorandum granting same-sex federal employees benefits. President Obama has done little to lobby for the repeal of DOMA, and a Justice Department brief filed in June indicates the President will support DOMA until Congress takes legislative action to repeal DOMA.....F.

It's about time President Obama do more for the LGBT community that supported him! It's very disappointing thus far!

Two More Victories For Obama!

Two more victories for Obama! The Senate today confirmed Judge Sonia Sotomayor as US Supreme Court Justice. The Senate debates more money for Cash For Clunkers; it looks like it will get the funding needed to continue!

Next: UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE FOR ALL!

Olbermann Exposes Critics of Health Care Reform

Keith Olbermann slammed and exposed the critics of Universal Health Care, Republicans and Dems alike! It was great! Give it a look-see.

Give Us A Break, Dr. Orly Taitz

Here's the leader of the "Obama's Not An American" campaign, Dr. Orly Taitz. Despite all the evidence that Barack Obama was born in the US and is fully qualified to be US President, Dr. Taitz continues to insist Obama is not! Clarence Page gives us some of the arguements to the contrary. Give us a break Dr. Taitz! There's alot more important things to be concerned about!

Isn't It Time To Legalize Pot....And Prostitution?

Activists in California are launching a campaign to have the issue of legalizing marijuana put on the 2010 ballot. The proposal, if passed, would allow people 21 and over to possess up to an ounce of the drug and also would allow property owners to grow a certain amount of pot. One big positive would be taxing it as a way of generating needed revenues for the cash-strapped state. I say it's about time! Every State in the Union will hopefully follow suit.

I am in no way condoning the misuse of drugs! Pot is no different than alcohol that is served in every State. Some would argue it might even have less ill effects on society than alcohol does. If legalized, pot would be controlled by the State just like alcohol. It would be taxed and the revenues would be tremendous. If you drive while intoxicated by pot, just like a DUI, you'll pay the price!

And while we're on the subject, prostitution is something that also needs to be legalized! I'm not suggesting it be legal everywhere, but there should be certain areas, Atlantic City for example, where prostitutes could legally carry out their business. It too would be controlled. The "girls" would need a "license" for which they would have to be disease checked. If the prostitutes do not have a "license" they are busted!

With both these issues, just think of all the money that could be generated. Also, think of all the money that would no longer be wasted. How much money is wasted having cops make silly little arrests for both pot and prostitution? In the case of prostitutes, they are arrested today and back out on the streets tomorrow! This is a business that has been in existance since the beginning of time, so why try to stop it! Control and regulate it! (OOOPPPPSSSS....That's a bad thing to say to any Republican)!

So Much To Think About

My last post here was July 4th! WOW! I can't believe I've been on "vacation" for so long. Guess I've been doing most of my venting/thinking on http://www.facebook.com/home.php. Believe me, there has been so much on my mind the past 4 weeks, but I just have not felt like writing it all down.

The healthcare battle in the US has been something I have thought often about. My confusion lies in "what is the problem with getting healthcare to all our people?" The US has so much money that it wastes elsewhere in the world, why oh why can't we just spend a small portion of it here! Why is it that the people who seem so opposed to any kind of Universal Healthcare (if that's what you want to call it) are those that have good health insurance? Why is it that those who oppose Universal Healthcare in the US are those that are so afraid it might cost them something?

The budget crisis of the US states has also been something I've thought about. NJ's budget is a mess, but PA's is even worse. The poor State employees in PA didn't even get a pay check yesterday! Can you imagine working your week or 2 weeks only to find out you get no money? Can you imagine having sent out that mortgage check a day or 2 before payday expecting the money to be in the bank by time the check gets to the mortgage company, only to find out there is no money in your bank account? NJ might be in bad shape, but we are not experiencing what some other states are going through. Which again makes me think (this thought was brought to me by a coworker, RM): why does the US send out so much foreign aid and not give some to its own people that need it?

The race for NJ Governor has been on my mind. I know Jon Corzine maybe hasn't been the most productive Governor, but the economy situation isn't his fault! He's been holding NJ together and believe me, I am totally afraid of Chris Christie! I saw this interesting commentary yesterday abut the race for NJ Governor: http://blog.nj.com/njv_paul_mulshine/2009/07/nj_race_for_governor_why_i_can.html

So even though I haven't been writing, there's been alot on my mind. I will try, try hard, to keep everything posted here. (Even though nobody reads it).

Happy Fourth! Let Freedom (Of Marriage) Ring

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness."

These are words contained in the Declaration of Independence signed on July 4, 1776. I find the words, "...the pursuit of happiness" of extreme importance when it comes to the efforts to attain the right to marry for same-sex couples. ALL men and women should be given their "certain unalienable rights" granted by "their Creator," including the right to marry whom they wish!

I'll never forget the words of Seth MacFarlane, the creator of several animated television shows, on Real Time With Bill Maher. I don't recall his exact words, but MacFarlane said something like this: Any group that has fought for its rights, has eventually gotten them. So why when it comes to the gay marriage, does there continue to be this fight against it. Gay marriage will eventually become reality. Instead of fighting it, embrace it, accept it, and move on. That has stuck in my mind ever since I hear MacFarlane say it.

We are slowly seeing gay marriage become a reality. There are six states now in which gay marriage is legal, and there will be more by year's end. NJ, which now has Civil Unions, I hope becomes one of the states that moves to full marriage rights for same-sex couples. (Am I getting married again? I have no idea! But if someone wants to, he/she should be allowed to). I've said it before, and I'll state it again: YOU DON'T HAVE TO AGREE WITH GAY MARRIAGE! YOU DON'T HAVE TO LIKE GAY MARRIAGE! BUT IT IS A RIGHT! ACCEPT THAT!

So HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY! LET FREEDOM RING!

Great Time in NYC

Saw 2 really good shows while in NYC this past weekend, SHREK, THE MUSICAL and GOD OF CARNAGE. Two completely different shows, one a musical, the other a play. But both very entertaining and enjoyable.

Waited in line at The Times Square ticket window for half price tickets on Friday. Got tickets to see SHREK. The show is not just for kids. As a matter of fact, there's lots of inuendos that children would not get! The main theme is that people should be allowed to be who they are, no matter what. One of the biggest "hit" songs is Waive Your Freak Flags High. You see, the Lord of the land has banished all the Fairy Tales, Pinocchio, the Wolf, and the likes to Shrek's swamp, and Shrek wants his swamp back! The Big Bad Wolf, who ends up being a cross-dressing wolf (that's why he dressed in granny's clothes), is one such Fairy Tale that in the end let's his Freak Flag fly!

God of Carnage is a play about 2 couples trying to make amends for one of their sons hitting the others' son in the mouth with a stick during a playground altercation. The couples start off very congenial toward each other, then begin to argue not only with the other couple but each other. Of course the men would just as soon drink rum and smoke cigars!

The Gay Pride Parade was on Sunday in NYC. It starts at 52nd Street and 5th Ave. and proceeds through the heart of NYC. Thousands line the streets to celebrate PRIDE!

Hope In NJ Or A Political Move?

NJ Governor Jon Corzine has promised to bring gay marriage to NJ if reelected in November. Corzine says gay marriage is a “fundamental right” and has promised to back a gay marriage bill, after he's elected to a second term. Corzine has not always been a fan of same-sex marriage. In 2005 he held that marriage should be between a man and a woman, but he has since :evolved on the issue." Corzine's opponent, Chris Christie, has moved his position closer to the center, but believes civil unions are sufficient for same-sex couples.

One has to be wary that Corzine's move may just be a political maneuver, but one has to also hope that he truly believes in his position and will fight for the right of same-sex couples to have full rights in NJ. Corzine has said previously that has a "progressive record" in regards to NJ.

Going To The Fundraiser?

Next Thursday, June 25, 2009, there's a big Democratic National Committee fundraiser in Washington, DC for the LGBT Leadership Council. VP, Joe Biden will be there as the honored guest.

Seems like not all the LGBT leaders will be present. Many, angered over President Obama's lack of support, and more specifically the Department of Justice's legal brief against gay marriage filed last week in federal court, is keeping them away. The brief,which it compared gay unions to incestuous ones and that of an underage girl argued that states have the right to not recognize marriages that are legal in other states or countries. One such LGBT leader, David Mixner, former advisor to Bill Clinton big supporter of Obama, is boycotting the DNC's fundraiser. Also not attending will be Andy Towle and Alan Capelle, executive director of the Empire State Pride Agenda and Foundation. David Arvosis, of Americanblog reports that"this rather ill-timed and inappropriate Democratic effort to milk money from our community at the same time Democrats are equating us with incest and not lifting a finger on any of our legislation priorities in Congress or the White House. It's not awfully clear why any gay person would give a Democrat a dime ever again.”

Will you be going to the Fundraiser?

It's PA's Turn; What's NJ Waiting For, Obama?

Pennsylvania State Sen. Daylin Leach (D-17th Dist.) introduced a bill last week to legalize same-sex marriage in our neighbor state. Although the bill faces tough opposition in the Republican-controlled Senate, at least someone had the courage to introduce the bill.

What's NJ waiting for, Obama's blessing? If so we can forget it!

Another Snub By Obama?

Gay rights groups are furious over President Obama's apparent support of DOMA, the Defense of Marriage Act. DOMA is the federal law that states that no state (or other political subdivision within the United States) needs to treat a relationship between persons of the same sex as a marriage, even if the relationship is considered a marriage in another state, and the federal government may not treat same-sex relationships as marriages for any purpose, even if concluded or recognized by one of the states.

As a presidential candidate, Barack Obama claimed "we need to fully repeal the Defense of Marriage Act..." However, today the Department of Justice, the President's attorneys, submitted a brief to dismiss a law suit filed by two California men who are married but claim it is unconstitutional for their marriage not to be recognized by other states. Although it's true that the Justice Department is generally tasked with defending acts of Congress, DOMA being such an act, Obama could speak up!

Come on Obama! It's about time you stood up publically for gay rights!

UPDATE:

Today, California Attorney General Jerry Brown filed a brief in support of the federal lawsuit seeking to overturn Proposition 8 and restore marriage equality to California. In response, Equality California (EQCA) Executive Director Geoff Kors released the following statement.

“In stark contrast to President Obama's Justice Department filing a brief defending the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act, California's Attorney General Jerry Brown today filed a brief in support of a federal challenge to Proposition 8. Equality California is extremely appreciative of the Attorney General's continued leadership in opposition to Proposition 8 and in support of ending discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) Californians. Governor Schwarzenegger is expected to file his brief soon. We urge him to take the same principled stance and tell the Court that Prop. 8 violates the Constitution.“The time has come for all elected leaders to follow Jerry Brown’s example and stand up for equality for all Americans, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Equality California will continue our position of not endorsing or supporting any candidate for any level of public office who does not completely and unequivocally support total equality for our community.”

Interesting Observation From New York Magazine (June 15-22, 2009)

Obama is more conservative on gay rights than Dick Cheney now that the ex-VP has come out for same-sex marriage.

Last week, Cheney gave his support for gay marriage. Obama does not support gay marriage, but favors civil unions.

Interesting and disturbing fact!

Newt, Huckabee, Religious Nuts Perfect Together

Newt Gingrich and Mike Huckabee spoke at a a "Rediscovering God in America" forum at a church in Virginia Beach, Va. They both attempted to mock President Obama's claim that he is a citizen of the world, something then candidate Obama remarked in Berlin. Newt said, "I am not a citizen of the world. I am a citizen of the United States because only in the United States does citizenship start with our creator." Huckabee said he was concerned about Obama's recent comment in Egypt that one nation shouldn't be exalted over another. Huckabee proclaimed that, "The notion that we are just one of many among equals is nonsense.... The United States is a "blessed" nation, he said, calling the American revolutionary defeat of the British empire "a miracle from God's hand." Huckabee pointed to the availability of abortion, the spread of gay rights, and attempts to remove religion from school history books as threats to Christian values, and went on to claim the same sort of miracle-working was at hand in the defeat of California's gay marriage amendment. Huckabee suggested voters "did it because some things are right and some things are wrong and they had to make a stand.''

I got news for both Newt and Huckabee. They are only in the US because by chance they happened to have been born here. Neither of them chose to be a citizen of the US. These two men display what I call the "arrogance of Americans." They think they are better than any other being on the planet because they happened to be born in the US. They feel God has blessed this nation and that every other nation in the world is at the US's beckon call to follow in our footsteps because this is God's will. No other nation on earth is blessed by God like the US.

Newt and Huckabee need to get a life and realize we are not the only people on the face of the earth. I am glad to live in the US, but I realize there is not a DAMN THING I DID TO GET HERE! I was just lucky enough to have been born here!

Gay Pride 2009

Just so you don't forget: HAPPY GAY PRIDE month! June is the celeration of Gay Pride! In NJ, Asbury Park celebrated Gay Pride on June 7th. Some upcoming events in our area:

Philly gay pride on June 14th.

NYC gay pride on June 28th.

Get out there and show your true colors!

Politics In New Jersey

This Tuesday, June 2, 2009, is the Gubernatorial Primary. The projected Republican winner is Chris Christie. Jon Corzine, current NJ Governor, is running unopposed. New Jerseyians are not happy about the state of the economy in NJ. I cannot blame them for being upset. There is a great deal of talk about ousting Jon Corzine in hopes that a new leader can get things out of the red.

I was just saying to a friend at work the other day that maybe it wouldn't be such a bad idea to elect a new governor. Can it really get any worse? Maybe someone new might just have the answers. However, the more I read about the Republican candidates, the less likely I am to vote against Jon Corzine.

I do not blame Jon Corzine for the budget problem in NJ. Almost every other state in the US is facing budget deficits. The entire US economy is in turmoil, although it appears things may be getting better. Other states have had to take drastic measures to balance their budgets. NJ is in the same boat. I do not like the fact that Corzine seems to be trying to solve the State's budget problem on the backs of state employees, most of whom are suffering with the economy just like everyone else. State employees are facing further "temporary layoffs" (unpaid furlough days), a wage freeze and possible permanent layoffs. But is Chris Christie the answer?

Chris Christie has already stated that he would cut the State workforce to help solve the budget situation. It's not the "workforce" that's the problem. It's the "non-workforce," the political hacks that exist in State government, every party's appointees that never leave, that is part of the problem. Chris Christie has said over and over that he will cut NJ's taxes, increase employment, and make NJ a better, less expensive place to live. However, Christie has offered very little specifics on how he will achieve these goals. It's very easy to say what you're going to do until you're actually in office trying to do it! I can make the same promises Christie has made, even though I have no idea how to get it done.

On a more important issue for me personally, Christie has already said he would veto any law allowing gay marriage. Corzine, on the other hand, has supported gay marriage rights. NJ has come so far in granting equality to same-sex couples that NJ should not take two steps back on this issue. NJ has to move forward and grant total equal rights for gay couples.

So do I really think NJ needs a new leader? I am not so sure at this point. I truly believe Jon Corzine does have NJ's best interest at heart. I do believe he supports State employees and I know he supports gay rights. It is going to be a very interesting next few months in NJ politics.

Chalk Another One Up For Obama

Republicans are all in a tizzy because they do not know quite how to fight the nomination by President Obama of Sonia Sotomayor for the US Supreme Court.

Why the FIRST response of the Republicans has to be how do they fight the nomination before they even begin the hearings is beyond my comprehension, but the Republicans are very divided on how they unite against a woman they presume will be a reliable vote for liberal causes. If they launch a no-holds barred attack on Sotomayor, the first Hispanic to be nominated to the court, they risk alienating a growing minority they want on their side in the voting booth.

What a quandary!

Lest We Forget

I'm so glad George W. Bush is out of office! He had to have been one of the worst presidents of our time! I wish Dick Cheney would shut up! I don't really like Republicans in general! I am proud to be GAY!

All the things I said above, and many other rights and freedoms I have, are mine because of the sacrifice of many men and women throughout history. I am in no way a war-monger! I hate war! It should be avoided at all cost! However, there are sometimes it's necessary because there are simply put, evil people in the world!

Thank you Men and Women of our military. Thanks for the service you provide! Thanks for putting aside your own well-being, and that of your families, so that I can live freely! Thank you even when you go to conflicts that are not just, but you go because of your service!

Thank you.

Republicans Will Grab At Anything

First it was Sarah Palin! Now it's Ms. California! Lest we forget Dick Cheney. Seems the Republicans are trying to grab hold of anyone that speaks out for old, outdated conservative "values." Give it up Repubs.........get with times or continue to fall behind!

Glad To Be Able To Celebrate Without Fear

June is a month filled with Gay Pride celebrations throughout the US and in other parts of the world. June is the chosen month in commemoration of the Stonewall Riots that took place in NYC on June 28, 1969, 40 years ago. It was on that night that gays and lesbians, while enjoying a night out at at the Stonewall, were again harassed by the police. The police raided the bar,but this time the police got more than they bargained for. The drag queens fought back! The patrons had had enough! Even though the police got control of the scene, this event marked the beginning of the gay rights movement in the US.

We in the US today can attend gay pride parades and festivities without fear of reprisal. Fellow LGTB Community members elsewhere in the world don't have it so fortunate. In Moscow today, riot police broke up several gay rights demonstrations.The police hauled away scores of protesters hours before the capital hosted a major international pop music competition. Moscow Mayor Yuri Luzhkov has drawn international criticism by describing homosexuality as "satanic" and seeking to justify official discrimination against gay people in Russia by claiming they help spread the AIDS virus. I certainly hope President Obama voices his disgust at what has happened in Moscow!

Even though the US still has a long way to go to give LGBT people FULL equal rights, we are a great deal better off than elsewhere thanks to the men and women, like those at Stonewall, that have fought a hard fight for the rights we do have. As we celebrate Gay Pride, I hope we in the US remember those around the world who live in fear each and every day.

Keith Olbermann Talks About The WTF Moment

A Tribute To My Mother

My Mother left this world in 1985, just 3 days past her 47th birthday. She left behind a husband, five children, two of whom were less than 12 years of age, and a handful of grandchildren.

Barbara A. Frank exemplified the word Mother. Everything she did in her adult life was for her family. I can remember her sitting out in the freezing cold watching me play Midget League Football. She took me to any and all youth activities. She did the same for my sisters and brothers, never once complaining about the role she played. Even when she was about to leave this world, I remember her only concern was for my Father and his kids. My Mother never once put herself first.

My Mother wasn't an educated woman. She made it through highschool, but that was about it. She was a stay-at-home wife and mother, but every now and again, when finances made it necessary, my Mother would get a small parttime job and help. Despite those times when she was employed, her family still came first.

My Mother never lived long enough to see many of the grandkids and great-grandkids that over the years were added to our family. She never lived to see some graduations or marriages. At every family birthday party I attend, the thought always runs through my mind how much my Mother would have loved to see her kids, grandkids, and great-grandkids celebrate their lives. She loved children and my Mother would have been in her glory to see her family grow.

But it wasn't meant to be! Unfair? Damn right! Life isn't fair! That's the way it is! On this Mother's Day, I give my Mother all the tribute she deserves!

Gay? Not Gay? Does It Really Matter?

Ever since this year's American Idol began, speculation about contestant Adam Lambert's sexual preference has been swirling. Like it or not, questions about Adam's sexuality will not go away. I ask: does it really matter?

Does it really matter if Adam is straight, bi, or gay? Does it really matter if anybody is straight, bi, or gay? Americans are so hung up on this issue that it sometimes irritates the hell out of me! Does a person's sexual preference make them better or worse? Does a person's sexual preference make them any better or less a performer?

Americans are so hung up with pigeon-holing people into boxes! Someone's sexuality is only a small part of the person! Who really cares? What difference does it really make? Should anybody be identified by who they sleep with?

By the way, as far as I'm concerned, Adam Lambert could be Martian! He's still NUMBER 1!

ADDENDUM (2 hours later):

OK. Yes, I admit that I am curious at to whether or not Adam is gay! But does this have to be the focus of the media on Adam or anyone else? When Adam gives an answer, accept it! Remember Clay Aiken? He said he wasn't gay and that was what the media should have stopped with the questioning at that point. The truth always has a way of coming out anyway. Perhaps if a celeb does come out, it will give someone else the courage to also come out, but if nobody can come out until he is ready.

Old Tricks

President Obama is doing pretty well! The economy is showing signs of recovery. The US is gaining some respect in the world once again. The Republican Party seems to be in shambles, ready to collapse, but the Republicans are back to their old tactics! "After weeks of concentrating their attacks against President Barack Obama on the economy, Republicans are branching out. They're taking aim at his anti-terrorism policy."

It isn't working anymore, Republicans!

Karma's A Bitch!

Yesterday at the Cherry Hill Mall, I was trying to find a parking place as the place was mobbed. (By the way, the CH Mall has been refurbished and it looks GREAT! Still alot of empty stores on the new section, which is anchored by Nordstroms, but it is very nice). I did the "trolling" technique of trying to find a parking space. You know, where you spot someone coming out of a store and you follow them to their car then wait for them to leave. (I don't like doing this because it sometimes puts my car in an awkward position of blocking the lot, but because it was so crowded, I did it anyway).

Well, I followed two women to their car, saw them get in, and waited, with my left turn signal on, for the car to pull out. I waited close to five minutes for the car to finally back out of the slot. The car was coming toward me, so I wasn't able to immediately pull into the parking space until the car pulling out got passed me. All of a sudden, this car with a girl in her late teens, early twenties comes toward me and swings her car into the spot I was waiting for. I beeped and she just looked at me with what some would call "a shit-faced grin." I was furious, but what was I going to do? I sat their for awhile, more out of disbelief than anger. Finally I pulled away, seeking another parking space.

As I looked for another parking space, I came upon the young lady (strike that because she was far from being a "lady") walking in the parking lot. She had her back to me, but it was definitely her. I rolled down my window and said, "Excuse me! Karma's a bitch!" She turned around, giving me that same, "shit-faced grin." I said, "Karma's a bitch, and you'll get yours, believe me!"

The arrogance of this BITCH! It wasn't as if she did not realize I was waiting for the parking space and accidentally took it from me! She knew exactly what she was doing, and her smirk let me know she was damn proud of it! Not only was she arrogant, but STUPID! This is the kind of thing that causes road rage reactions. I could feel the rage come up in me! This girl was alone in her car, and had I been someone else, I'm sure the reaction wouldn't have been so kind! I thought to myself, if I was a person with anger management issues, or a group of peers, they would have gotten out of their car and kicked this girl's butt! Worse yet, if whoever's spot she stole had a gun or knife, this "parking space thief" could have been seriously injured!

Yes, Karma's a bitch, and I believe this young lady will get what's due her. I only hope it's nothing too bad. Maybe just a flat tire, a fender-bender, or a nasty break up with a boyfriend. I only hope when Karma does pay her back, she'll remember the parking space she stole at the Cherry Hill Mall on 5/2/09!

What Would Jesus Do? He'd Torture?

A recent CNN survey showed that the more often Americans go to church, the more likely they are to support the torture of suspected terrorists. The survey, conducted during April 14-21, 2009, was based on a Pew Research Center survey of 742 American adults. (The survey, by the way, is not without controversy. Many evangelicals say it is not correct, but I don't believe that for a minute).

Surprised? I'm not the least bit! I used to attend evangelical, mostly conservative churches! One of the things that I always questioned was why most of the fellow congregates, including one pastor I knew, were so supportive of the first Gulf War and the Second Gulf War. So accepting torture is nothing I wouldn't expect. Remember the Inquisition? Remember The Crusades? Look back throughout history and look at the pain and suffering, along with some good I will add, the Church brought on people. Someone summed it up best saying, "When you have God on your side, anything is ok."

As I have matured in life, I have often wondered why it is so-called Christians who are the most Un-Christian-like people around? I'm sure surveys have been conducted amongst Christians that show the majority support capital punishment as well as war and torture.

I'm certain Jesus supported none of the above, torture, war, or capital punishment! So if Christians are supposed to be Christ-like and follow His example, why don't they? If Jesus were walking the earth today, I don't think he would be a member of his Fan Club!

And Connecticut Makes Four

The little state of Connecticut has become the fourth state to legalize gay marriage! (Massachusetts, Vermont and Iowa are the other three). Come on New Jersey! What's the holdup?

Dick Continues His Assaults

Dick continues his bashing of President Obama. Does the man have nothing positive to say? Miserable, old man!

Another Good Job By Obama

I give President Obama an A+ for his endeavors at the Summit of the Americas. Isn't it time we learn to listen and work with our neighbors instead of trying to dictate to them how things are going to be?

To Union Or Not To Union?

I am Pro-Union, but not a Union Fanatic! I am also a State of NJ employee, and union member State employee! I DO NOT BELIEVE THE STATE OF NJ BUDGET SHOULD BE BALANCED ON THE BACKS OF ITS WORKERS! My job is to serve the public, a particularly vulnerable part of our citizenship. I believe that MOST state employees work hard to support and serve the people of NJ. We keep the disabled, the mentally ill, children, and the general public safe. I also believe that most of the public hasn't a clue what NJ State employees do to make their lives better.

This is, in my opinion, what the Union should be publicizing on a daily basis. The Union should be informing the public on a routine basis of what it is NJ State employees are doing for the people. However, the Union usually reacts to situations rather than being proactive. Last week, the Union asked its members to participate in a lunchtime picket over forced furloughs and wage increase give-backs. Does this work or does this make the public even angrier at State employees? I'm not sure, but the following is one response from one reader of The Press of Atlantic City to the lunchtime protests that occurred last week:

How arrogant for state workers to fight furloughs
Published: Monday, April 13, 2009

" Regarding the mass demonstrations last week at our state colleges by workers protesting furloughs:
I'm blown away by the arrogance of these folks. These are all state employees who believe they are exempt from any type of personnel cuts when the state is suffering a sharp revenue decline. Why should the state act any differently from a private business?
Most of these folks make the same or more than private business employees and should have to undergo the same as any other business. With the governor finally doing his job by cutting expenditures and standing up to the demands of the state's employees, we taxpayers will finally slow our rate of increase in our property taxes. New Jersey has the highest property taxes in the nation due to the demands of these employees, and it has to stop now.
DENNIS MAHON"

Unfortunately, when the Union reacts this is the image that is portrayed.
Northfield

TIme In NYC

Spent a few days in New York City last week. A few wet, cool days! I gotta say NYC is still a great place to be even in the wet and cool! Picture here is from Soho, but not "Soho in the rain." Fortunately we did have some good days as well.

The Obama Success In London

Well it looks like President and Mrs. Obama were successes in London this week at the G20 Summit. President Obama was declared, "Obama was the star of the meeting," and Michelle Obama "dubbed "Mighty Michelle" and the "new Jacqueline Kennedy" by British media."

It's great to see the American President received so well in a foreign country after 8 years of being embarrassed by Presidential trips to other countries. President Obama was not dominate the summit, but in my opinion, showed what true diplomacy and cooperation is all about. He did not dictate what the US wanted, but rather worked with the leaders of the other 20 nations to accomplish his goals.

Maybe this is just a small sign of things to come. There is strength in listening and thinking, not just boastful gloating and demanding.

Maybe There Is Hope For The Republican Party

Meghan McCain on Larry King Live

More Involvement?

President Obama seems fixated on widening the US involvement in Afghanistan to defeat the Taliban. This is causing some, particularly my fellow left-wing democrats, to question why put more troops in Afghanistan. Isn't that, after all, just following Bush's lead? Isn't that what we did NOT want to happen?

Believe me, I am not happy about more US troops being deployed anywhere. I want them all home. But I still trust President Obama (with this and the economy). I think he must have strong evidence that the Taliban or Al-Qaeda in Afghanistan are definitely planning more attacks on US citizens here and abroad. I do not think President Obama is just putting more US troops in harms way because he's a power hungry, war-obsessed person.

Unlike George W. & Company, that were bent on World Domination, I truly feel President Obama is doing what is in the best interest of the US.

You've Heard About The Big One That Got Away....

We've all hear the story from the fisherman about the big one that got away. But, in Virginia, a hunter was was fined $400 and jailed for hunting violations after he bolted antlers to the head of a dead doe and posed for a photograph. Marcel Fournier, 19, shot the doe at night and then used glue and long bolts to affix antlers to its head before checking in the deer. In Virginia it's illegal to kill an antlerless deer, and it's also illegal to hunt at night. Guess we all like to brag about our conquests.

In another rather comical news story, a driver in Washington State received a summons when a police officer stopped him driving in the carpool lane with a passenger who was not wearing a sealtbelt. Turned out the passenger was a dummy, literally. The driver was using the dummy as a second passenger to access the carpool lane.