Get Going Again

It's been sometime since I have written anything. As a matter of fact, it was on my mother's birthday, 6/26 that I made my last post. My mother has been gone since 1985 when she left this world. Not sure if that put a "block" in my mind or exactly what happened to just keep me from spilling any of my unimportant thoughts.

My last post occured just after I had returned from NYC Gay Pride. But since then, gay marriage has taken a big hit. The New York State Court of Appeals ruled that gay marriage is not allowed in NY. In summary, the court ruled that the NY Constitution does not recognize marriage between members of the same sex. But angry New Yorkers continue to show their disdain at the Court's ruling. NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg, although voicing his support for gay marriage publically, Bloomberg fought a lower court ruling that favored gay marriage because he believed it would have resulted in a hodge podge of rulings across the state. Courts upheld anti-gay marriage initiatives in Nebraska and Tennessee. In Arizona, gay rights supporters have filed suit to keep a marriage amendment vote from placed on the November ballot. That's not to mention all the other states that have rulings or intitiatives against gay marriage. In good old NJ, a decision is still in the waitings for gay marriage, but recent polls in NJ show the majority favor marriage among gays. And on a positive note, Congress voted against the Federal Marriage Amendment just as did the Senate a few months ago. So the battle continues. Amazing that a civil rights issue would be left to voters. Imagine if States voted on which Blacks were free and which remained slaves?

Since I last wrote, the Middle East is erupting in violence. This in itself is nothing out of the ordinary, but this time it just feels different. As much as I try, I cannot take my eyes off CNN where I watch this "reality tv" just wondering what will happen. And only time will tell.

So, there's a few of my thoughts for now. Hopefully I will continue despite my lack of readers.

Celebrate PRIDE!

There's nothing quite like the Gay Pride celebration in New York City. After about a 4 hour parade, the streets were filled with gay men and women celebrating their pride in who they are. From the serious to the sublime, here are just a few of the sites I witnessed:


NEW YORK CITY'S FINEST START OFF THE PARADE


HILARY CLINTON LENDS HER SUPPORT


THE FAMILIAR RAINBOW FLAG


A POLICAL STATEMENT


A LITTLE FUN


A LITTLE CRAZY


THE MANY FACES IN THE CROWD

Back From NYC

Spent a great time in NYC this weekend. Even in the rain, NYC is terrific. Here are just a couple pics from my adventure:


TIMES SQUARE ON A MIDNIGHT'S SUMMER NIGHT


NYC IN THE RAIN

More to come!

Rick Santorum-The Weapons of Mass Destruction Expert?

Senator Rick Santorum and Rep. Peter Hoekstra, both Republicans, now claim that Iraq did indeed have weapons of mass destruction. According to Santorum and Hoekstra Iraq had approximately 500 mustard gas and sarin nerve agent weapons. There's only one problem, Rick and Peter: intelligence officials say the weapons of mass destruction referred to by Santorum and Hoekstra were produced before the 1991 Gulf War and there is no evidence any such weapons were produced by Sadam Hussein following the Gulf War, and those produced prior to 1991 could more than likely do no damage.

I guess Rick Santorum is getting pretty worried about his upcoming November election bid. Polls show his support quickly sinking. Come on, Rick. You can't campaign on the Weapons of Mass Destruction theme forever! It may have worked at one time, but it isn't going to work again. That "fact" of Bush & Company, WMD, has been proven to be another exagerated bit of US intelligence a long time ago. While most Republicans are distancing themselves from Bush, Santorum is still trying to hang on to the Bush coattails. It ain't gonna work, Rick. You're going down. Thank God!

Celebrate Pride

It's off to New York City for the weekend, the primary reason to celebrate in NYC's Gay Pride Celebration weekend. Hope to have lots of pictures, stories, and memories to tell about when I return.

OH Those Caring Republicans

Well, once again the Republican controlled legislators have shown us how much they care about the "little guy." Last week, the the House gave themselves yet another pay raise, and today, the Senate squashed an increase in the minimum wage. So while workers are supposed to exist on $5.15 per hour, our Congress can live their lavish lives so they can solve the world's problems. And not only do US legislators get a nice pay, they have full health benefits...for life! Maybe the rationale there is to encourage the "little guy" to make a bid for Congress? Problem is, most of the "little guys" aren't crooked enough to make it in Congress!

But, we must not forget, that even though our Republican controlled Congress are selfish, they do care about our safety. The Republicans, afterall, are the party of the global war on terrorism. They are the supporters of Bush & Company, who keep all of us safe at night so that our babies can sleep soundly knowing terrorism won't get them. But then can babies that are hungry because their parents don't have food to buy them, sleep at all?

This Is All I Need

"Here's your card, Daddy. I am a little broke so I didn't get you any present," my daughter said to me today as she handed me this card. Well, to me, that's fine. All I really need is a "Happy Father's Day" salutation and I am pleased. My kids don't need to spend money on me; I have all that I need. Just letting me know they care is all the present I need!

Thanks To Our Reps

A letter sent to House Reps. Frank LoBiondo and Jim Saxton, and to the Press of Atlantic City:

I would like to thank Representatives Frank LoBiondo and Jim Saxton for sentencing more US soldiers to death in Iraq. By voting yes on a House resolution to not set a timetable for the pullout of US troops in Iraq, hundreds, maybe even thousands more, US men and women will die in Iraq.
Iraq is a quagmire in which the US must get out! Congress has sided with President Bush & Company to "stay the course." The reality is there is no "course" and the US will have to continue in Iraq for years to come. Face it. Whenever US soldiers leave an area of Iraq, insurgents return, set up their nests, and US soldiers must return. If the democracy Bush & Company wish to see is ever to be a reality, US involvement in Iraq will only increase.
The only hope is going to be when representatives devoted to see an end to the mess in Iraq are elected. The current president and Congress have no desire to see an end!
Thank you

Sorry Again Smokers....NOT

A Philadelphia smoking ban? Oh Happy Day! All I can say is how glad I am. And the poor bar and club owners! They're going to lose money? I don't think so. Maybe at first there will be a backlash of protestors staying home, but give it a little time, and those that love to hang at such establishments will be back. Those that stay away because of the smoke will beging to come too. So, business owners will make out better. Just be a little patient. Stop all the fuss! Let's face it: smoking is OUT!

Mad As Hell

A glass of red wine on an empty stomach, Natalie Maines singing, "I'm mad as hell and I'm not ready to back down" (Not Ready to Make Nice, Dixie Chicks, Taking The Long Way), and a copy of the latest The Advocate is a bad, bad combination! Why? Because I'm sick and tired of the self-righteous telling me what is and is not my right! And I'm sick and tired of the Democratic party being the wusses they are!

Ever since I bought the Dixie Chicks new CD, I have had the songs in my head. And I'm mad as hell! Then I read interview with Howard Dean, Chairperson of the Democratic National Committee in The Advocate. Dean recently was on Pat Robertson's television show, The 700 Club, and he stated that the Democratic party platform opposed gay marriage equality. Dean was wrong! But when asked by The Advocate "Why don't Democratic politicians who privately favor marriage equality back it publically," Dean's response was, "Because I think it's extremely controversial, and we need to work through that controversy....It is very important that the LGBT community and the Democratic Party not get divided over the one issue that we're still having a big conversation about." BULLSHIT, HOWARD!!! Since when is protecting the rights of the American people "controversial"?

The Democrats are just too afraid to say anything they fear will lose upcoming elections! The Democrats are too busy trying to kiss eveyone's ass that they let Bush & Company take the US to an illegal, unjust war, just as the Democrats are allowing the Republicans to crush the rights of Americans! The Democrats don't want to make any waves! Where's Hilary been? Hiding? Waiting for the right moment to come? Enough already, you wishey-washey Democrats! Stand up and defend the rights of the citizens of the US, no matter what their lifestyle.

I'm mad as hell, and I'm not gonna take it anymore!

When Things Get A Little To Warm

When the summer seems to get too hot, just remember...winter's not far away!

Support For The Chicks

Yesterday the local country station, WPUR 107.3 Cat Country, ran a contest to win tickets to see the Dixie Chicks in Philadelphia. Well, the contest was called "Win or Flush," and the caller who was the lucky one could choose to win the tickets or flush them in protest to the Dixie Chicks. As of about 6PM, there were only 2 winners that chose to flush the tickets. (I am not sure how many callers in total there were).

As you probably are aware, the Dixie Chicks caused quite a controversy when, prior to the Iraq war, Natalie Maines, the lead singer of the group, stated while in concert in London that, "Just so you know, we're ashamed the President of the United States is from Texas." (I have to say that I am ashamed George W. Bush was ever elected President of the US). Well that was enough to send most country music fans up the wall and call for a boycott, flogging, and some even death, to the Chicks. The majority of country music fans appreciate the Toby Keith mentality that, "You'll be sorry you messed with the U.S. of A./'Cause we'll put a boot in your ass/It's the American way." (Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue (The Angry American)).

I was one of those few country music fans that had to say, "Way to go Natalie! Speak the truth!" I sometimes wonder why I listen to country music stations, me, a gay, liberal, Democrat! I always come up with the same answer: I LOVE COUNTRY MUSIC, and where else am I going to hear country music? So, I make sure I let the stations I listen to know how I feel about the Dixie Chicks and other issues most country music fans like to put down, one being gay rights.

Well, the "Win or Flush" contest on Cat Country 107.3 motivated me to go buy a copy of the Dixie Chicks' new CD, Taking the Long Way. I gotta say the CD is pretty damn good. And the Chicks make no apologies whatsoever. Maines sings that she "Wouldn't kiss all the asses they told me to" in the song, THE LONG WAY AROUND. In NOT READY TO MAKE NICE, Maines sings, "Forgive, sounds good/Forget, I'm not sure I could/There's nothing left for me to figure out/I've paid a price/And I'll keep paying/I'm not ready to make nice." The songs are filled with bitterness toward the response to Maines' words 3 years ago, but she is confident, "I made my bed and I sleep like a baby." As a country music fan and an American, I give my support to the Dixie Chicks!

Encourage CongressTo Vote NO!

The Federal Marriage Amendment is slated for debate the week of June 5th. Please contact your legislators and tell them to vote NO on the Federal Marriage Amendment which will put discrimination into the Constitution and make same-sex couples second class citizens.

Highly Recommended Wine

Casillero Del Diablo (Cellar of the Devil)
is a wine I recently discovered through a radio commercial. The legend of Casillero Del Diablo goes this way: "In the 19th century, the founder of Concha y Toro, Don Melchor, discovered that his vineyard workers were sampling his greatest wines. To discourage this action, Don Melchor spread the rumor that his deepest, darkest cellar was the Casillero del Diablo (Cellar of the Devil), so that no one would dare go in there. It worked, and a legend was born." I must say the Cabarnet is excellent! I found it at a local liquor store, so check it out if you like fine wines!

Another Republican On Our Side

New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, a Republican, has given his support to marriage equality, urging New York's highest court to rule in favor of five gay couples seeking the right to marry. Mayor Bloomberg also spoke out against a Constitutional amendment banning gay marriage. "The U.S. Constitution should be something that unites, rather than divides Americans," he said. Another Republican that supports us!

Deal With The Stuff That Really Matters, Senators

Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist is again vowing to bring the Federal Marriage Amendment up for debate on the Senate floor a week from Monday. This is the amendment that would define marriage as a union between a man and a woman, thus making gay marriage illegal. With all the important happenings in the US, one cannot wonder that this debate is for political purposes only. This will show America, and the Christian right, that the Republicans are the God-fearing, family-value, morally-right party. It is already pretty much known that the Federal Marriage Amendment does not have the two-thirds majority needed in the Senate to further the amendment, but the Republicans want to waste the time anyway.

It is often amazing to me that with so many other important issues that our legislators could be addressing, something that really has no effect on anyone else takes up the time and efforts of our elected officials. Just look at the news and you will see what I mean: People are dying in Iraq; Indonesia had a catastrophic earthquake; peace in the Middle East is not happening; and so on and so forth! But whether or not one man or one woman can create a legal bond between another man or woman is at the top of the Senate agenda! The Senate actually wants to add to our US Constitution an amendment that would discriminate and make certain citizens second class. And what ever happened to the Republicans' desire for States' rule, not involvement of the Federal government?

But today's Republicans, supported so well by the Christian right, men of stature like Jerry Fallwell and Pat Robertson (leg pressed 2,000 lbs, right), need something to get them elected in November. Bush & Company had devestated the Republican party with their lies and deceit, so it will be another "devil", those gays in America, that will become the target of fear used by the Republicans!

Arlen Spector And His Bully Pulpit

Now now, Senator Arlen Spector! Be nice! Just because you're the Senate Judiciary Committee Chairperson doesn't give you the right to have all the say! Unfortunately, a Senate panel on Thursday advanced a measure that would amend the U.S. Constitution to ban same-sex marriage. Senator Russell Feingold (D-Wis) walked out of the hearing because the meeting was not, in his opinion, sufficiently open to the public. Senator Spector shouted out, "If you want to leave, good riddance." Senator Feingold responded, "I've enjoyed your lecture too. See you later, Mr. Chairman."

The measure to ban same-sex marriage passed by a 10-8 vote in the committee to be brought to a full Senate vote. In 2004 the measure failed in the Senate, and the same is expected this time around. The same-sex-marriage ban is one of several hot-button social issues Republicans are raising to rally conservative voters ahead of November's congressional elections.

What a waste of time and effort! And what an act of trying to extend discrimination by the caring, family loving, moral Republicans!

Can The US Really Want To Build Fuel Efficient Cars?

Get this! Philadelphia high school students have been able to do what US auto manufacturers can't, or don't want to! West Philadelphia high school students have developed the Hybrid Attack, a vehicle that accelerates from 0-60 in 4 seconds and gets almost 60 miles per gallon, and can reach speeds of 150 mph. The vehicle is fueled by soy been oil. The students have tweaked and tuned the vehicle for a national alternative fuel competition in New York Wednesday. They are defending, two time Tour de Sol competition champs. Congratulations!

It's amazing that high school students can accomplish what US auto manufacturers cannot! President Bush talks a good game when he states that US consumers need to "get off gasoline" but when it comes to putting his words to action, he and the big auto makers refuse! I say refuse because the "proof is in the pudding." Don't tell me for a minute that the technology to "get us off gasoline" does not exist! It does, but profits are more important, profits for the oil industry as well as the auto CEOs. We could have more fuel efficient cars on the market within a month if all the money and attention to develop these cars was given by those who could. But no! It will be high school students and country singers (Willie Nelson) that fuel their vehicles with alternative fuel sources!

Bush Has Got To Go!!!

More spying on US citizens!!

My Garden Begun

The beginnings of my Balcony Garden:





Let's see what it looks like in a month!

NJ's Smoking Ban...2 Weeks Old, And Helping

It seems that NJ's smoking ban in public places such as restaurants and bars may actually be helping some businesses. In today's Press of Atlantic City, the paper reports that although it's too early to tell, some business owners are pleasantly surprised: their business has actually increased! People who stayed away because of the smoke are now coming in! In the article, a chef from a local Pub & Grill reported the NJ smoking ban as being very positive for that particular business. People who stayed away because they disliked the cigarette smoke, are now coming in!

I was in the Sands Casino the Saturday the ban went into effect. One of the very first things I overheard once I got off the elevator was 2 women stating how happy they were that they could now go eat in the Sands without all that smoke! And I did indeed notice a lesser smell of smoke in the Sands, although smoking is still allowed on the gaming floor.

As I have said before, and will probably say again, smokers are dinosaurs! Smoking is out! Breathing healthy air is in! All the crying in the world about rights, lack of business, or any other argument in favor of smoking is a shear waste of time! (If there was any drug on the market today that had the side effects that cigarette smoking does, that product would be pulled off the shelves immediately)!

I am going to be so bold as to suggest that smoking should be banned from the casino gaming floors as well! The amount of money the casinos take in would not drop as is so much feared. And who knows, like bars and restaurants are finding out, maybe business in the casinos would actually increase!

The Beat Goes On! Definitely One Thing On Which I Do Not Agree With Bush

Well, the US military death count in Iraq is now over 2, 400! On Friday, officials at The Pentagon said that the American death toll in Iraq since the start of the war has topped 2,400, 2,401 to be exact. That includes all US military deaths in Iraq since the invasion in March 2003. And in April 2006, the death toll has reached 69! US military death tolls had been declining since November, but April marks an increase. Why? Nobody seems to know the answer to that question. And I must agree with the tens of thousands that marched in Manhattan today, and I ask the question, "Why?"

It has been over 3 years since Bush & Company, with all their distorted intelligence, fooled Americans into believing invading Iraq was a necessary evil, but what has the US accomplished? Almost everyday, at least another American life is lost. And I am sure everyday an Iraqi life is lost! There seems to be no more stability in Iraq in April 2006 than when Saddam Hussein was toppled. Chaotic! That seems to be the right word to describe Iraq. Oh, I forgot, Iraq has a constitution! And they are working on a government! But big deal! Despite these "advancements", I again ask, "What has the US accomplished in Iraq?"

I know, be patient! Rebuilding a nation takes time! But how much time? I am sure 5 years from now, the situation in Iraq will be just the same as it is today. Maybe in 10 years the same too. Or, Iraq will have had its civil war and a new dictator will be in power! Call me pessimistic, but I cannot find the optimism in Iraq. My prediction is 25 years from now, history will look back on the Bush & Company Iraqi "experiment" as a total disaster, something that never should have happened!

What's Wrong With Me? I Have To Agree With Bush...

I must admit it, for the first time, I agree with George W. I agree with Bush that the US National Anthem should be sung in English, not Spanish! "One of the important things here is that we not lose our national soul," Bush said as he declared that the US National Anthem should be sung in english. Bush also stated, "...I think people who want to be a citizen of this country ought to learn English and they ought to learn to sing the national anthem in English."

I believe all US citizens should maitain their heritage and language, but I do agree that immigrants to this country should be prepared to learn english. I think it's a shame when immigrants are ashamed of who they. I believe it is wrong for immigrants to the US to allow their heritage and culture to die by not passing that along to their children. Immigrants, no matter what country they come from, should be proud of who they are and what their culture is all about. But, if I were to decide to go live in another country, I would certainly assume that I would have to learn to speak the language of that country. And I believe the same should be said for those who chose to come to the US to live, which, by the way, was probably most of our ancestors.

It is the duty of the US to encourage cultural diversity and to be patient and understanding of those who may not speak english with 100% proficiency. But it is also the duty of immigrants to learn the language of the country, and in this case, that would be english.

Learn From That Fork In The Road

About 7 years ago, I came to a fork in the road. I had a decision to make that would forever change my life. I couldn't go straight because that was impossible. It had to be right or left, or the only other choice I had was to sit in the middle and cry! I think I made the right choice, but damn! How I hated those decisions in those days! But today, I look at those forks in the road, those roadblocks, in a different light. Sure, the choice is not always easy, but that choice made me move forward, not just sit in the middle and cry!

We are all faced with roadblocks. We all have to decide which way to move when facing that fork in the road. Sometimes we get so content and complacent with life as it is, that it takes that tough choice to force us to move on. I honestly believe that without these forks, alot of us, myself included, would just stagnate like a still pond of water. Day by day, we go through the same humdrum routine, and don't even realize we are going absolutely nowhere. And then, BOOM! A fork in the road! A roadblock that stops us dead in our tracks! And we must make a choice; a choice that we probably would never make unless we came to that fork.

So maybe instead of looking at the forks in the road as a bad thing, we should view the roadblocks in a more positive light. They force us to move on, to choose, to reinvigerate! They cause us to close one chapter in this book called Life, and begin the next chapter. And so the novel is written. The novel of Me. It's not until we close that final chapter, the end of the book, that we should be content in standing still. And who knows, maybe the book continues even after death.

To Blog, Or NOT Too Blog?

That is the question....I find this very helpful in venting, but I am not really sure it's worth doing. Is it a waste? Does anyone really read it or care? Ehhhhh..........maybe? maybe not?

And Now For US Successes in Iraq

So, the US is making great strides in Iraq. At least that's what George W. thinks and touts. Well, here are some updates on the US success in Iraq:

US troops are again patrolling in Baghdad. Dangerous areas of Baghdad that were given over to Iraqi's to take care of are now being watched by US troops. The good news: fewer attacks on US soldiers are occurring as the Iraqi's try to kill each other now.

Iraqi's still have not been able to resolve the deadlock over the formation of the new Iraqi government. Pressure to form the new government as soon as possible has come from all sides, from top U.S. officials to the Shiites' own top cleric, Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, but to no avail.

And of course, there is still the question of civil war or no civil war? Is Iraq in a civil war or is it not? Some say yes, and some say no.

What fantastic success for the US. And we have George W. to thank for it. I used to think the US could not just "cut and run" from Iraq, but anymore I ask, "Would Iraq be any different if the US did just leave?"

Let The Senators Stand On Gay Marriage

US Senator Russell Feingold (D-Wis.) announced that he supports giving same-sex couples the freedom to marry. As a result of this announcement, Feingold becomes the fourth U.S. senator to support marriage equality, along with Lincoln Chafee (R-R.I.), Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.) and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.). I am not sure of his exact position on gay marriage, but NJ's US Senator, Frank Lautenberg, has always been a strong supporter of gay rights, standing against an amendment to the US Constitution defining marriage as a union between a man and a woman.

What Good Does Protesting Do? Just Ask The French!

Ever wonder if protests really create change? You see people protesting and wonder if it really makes a difference? "Why get involved?" Just ask the French people today if protesting works!

Sorry Smokers, BUT...

Things are not looking too good for smokers in NJ. First of all, for those who order cigarettes online to save money, the NJ Division of Taxation is now expanding efforts to have smokers remit the taxes that the online prices don't include. New Jersey smokers who turned to the Internet as a source of cheaper cigarettes are finding that the cost may be more than they expected. And it appears online cigarette sellers are cooperating with states. Several other states, including New York, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania and Oregon, also have cracked down successfully on cigarette buyers who purchase online.

And the smoking ban countdown in NJ is on. At the stroke of midnight on April 15, 2006, NJ's indoor smoking ban goes into effect. The only place smoking will be able to occur is in your private home or car, some hotel/motel rooms, within the perimeters of casino gaming areas and casino simulcasting, some already established cigar bars, and some tobacco retail establishments. All other public, indoor areas will be smoke free.

Sorry for you smokers, but oh well..........Maybe you should take the hint and realize, like the dinosaur, smoking should be extinct!

Have We Learned Nothing!

Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (gum disease), back pain, skin wrinkling (2 x risk), depression, stomach ulcer, common cold, Crohn’s Disease (chronic inflamed bowel)....These are just some of the ailments besides Cancer, emphysema, and heart problems caused by smoking!
It was 1 year ago today that ABC's Peter Jennings announced he had lung cancer.
124 days later, he died.
Have we learned nothing!

Let The Guilty Pay!

Hats off to Maryann Cottrell, an activist who has been snapping photos of people illegally parked in handicapped parking spaces. Cottrell has caught over 400 people, including Donovan McNabb, who appeared in court Wednesday, and Jeremiah Trotter, who also paid the fine. This was the second court date for McNabb and Trotter, who failed to appear for the original court date about a month or so ago. Neither Eagle was supposedly driving their vehicles. McNabb was in the hospital and his bodyguard, Troy Oglesby, admitted to using McNabb's vehicle. Trotter was allegedly in his vehicle, but not driving! Both owners are responsible for their respective vehicles.
It is about time someone stops people from occupying these designated handicapped spots when they themselves are not handicapped. People, who are perfectly capable, are just too damn lazy to walk a few extra feet! Cottrell is not a very popular person right now, but I say, "Way to go, Maryann! Keep it up!"

Who's To Blame For This One, Pat?

On whom is Pat Robertson casting blame when it comes to the tornadoes that have devestated the central US?
I've asked the question before, and I'll continue to ask it until Mr. Robertson can explain why it is that whenever a natural disaster happens in an area that is gay friendly, it is God that is punishing that city/state. However, Mr. Robertson is silent when a natural disaster happens in what Mr. Robertson would consider a God-fearing, Bible-believing city/state. Which is it, Mr. Robertson? Is it God's punishment or not? Come on, PAT, you moronic idiot! (Sound familiar: "Jane, you ignorant slut!). Cut the crap! Thank God we haven't heard alot from Mr. Robertson lately. I guess maybe he's in the insane asylum that he should be in!

My New Abode

Me entering my new home, sweet home...How I wish! Taken at Philly's Elfreth's Alley, one of my favorite spots to fantasize about in the whole world!!

Republican Dictionary

Not really sure where my good friend got these, but it’s words out of the Republican Dictionary:

1 .alternative energy sources - New locations to drill for gas and oil
2. bankruptcy - A punishable crime when committed by poor people but not corporations
3 .class warfare - Any attempt to raise the minimum wage
4. climate change - The day when the blue states are swallowed by the oceans
5. compassionate conservatism - Poignant concern for the very wealthy
6. creationism - Pseudoscience that claims George W. Bush's resemblance to a chimpanzee is totally coincidental
7. Democracy - So extensively exported that the domestic supply is depleted
8. Fox News - Faux news11. free markets - Halliburton no-bid contracts at taxpayer expense
9. God - Senior presidential adviser
10. growth - The justification for tax cuts for the rich; What happens to the national debt when Republicans cut taxes on the rich
11. healthy forest - No tree left behind
12. honesty - Lies told in simple declarative sentences e.g.,"Freedom is on the march."
13. House of Representatives - Exclusive club; entry fee$1 million to $5 million
14. laziness - When the poor are not working18. leisure time - When the wealthy are not working
15. liberals - Followers of the Antichrist
16. 9/11 - Tragedy used to justify any administrative policy
17. No Child Left Behind - There are always jobs in the military
18. ownership society - A civilization where 1 percent of thepopulation controls 90 percent of the wealth
19. Patriot Act - The pre-emptive strike on American freedomsto prevent the terrorists from destroying them first
20. pro-life - Valuing human life until birth
21. staying the course - Slang. Saying and doing the same stupidthing over and over, regardless of the result
22. shit happens - Slang. Donald Rumsfeld as master historian
23. water - Arsenic storage device
24. woman - Person who can be trusted to bear a child but can't be trusted to decide whether or not she wishes to have the child; Person who must have all decisions regarding her reproductive functions made by men with whom she wouldn't want to have sex in the first place

My Little Corner Of The World

Free, But How Long Will He Survive?

Abdul Rahman, an Afghan man threatened with execution because he converted from Islam to Christianity is expected to be released from custody at the end of the day. "The court dismissed today the case against Abdul Rahman for a lack of information and a lot of legal gaps in the case," a court official said. I am glad the US pressured the Afghan government to do this, and I am happy Mr. Rahman will be freed. But, I can only wonder how long he will survive. How long before the Afghan people take matters into their own hands and deal out the justice they believe in?

More US Diplomacy?

Looks like the Bush Adminstration is at it again with its tremendous dipomatic efforts. This time, it is with the Iranian nuclear situation. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has rebuked the US for false reports and allegations about Iran and its advancement of nuclear weapons. UN inspectors should know by next week how far Iran has moved to nuclear enrichment, but the US is already taking the position that sanctions need to be enacted by the UN immediately. So far, the IAEA has found no evidence of any Iranian nuclear weapon plan! Sound familiar?

Do you remember when the UN inspectors were in Iraq looking for WMD's? What did the inspectors find? NOTHING, NADA! But the US, already preparing for war in Iraq, did not care what the inspectors found or did not find. Is Iran next in the Bush Administration's "experiment of democracy"? Is the Bush Adminstration already preparing for an invasion of Iran? Maybe because of the failure in Iraq, the US needs to take over a neighbor of Iraq? The US talks about seeking diplomatic solutions in Iran, just like Bush spoke of wanting a diplomatic solution in Iraq, but the US actions are just the opposite.

So much for the diplomatic capabilities of the Bush & Company! Diplomacy does not exist in the Bush world! It is do as we say, or else!

When God Fearin' Women Get The Blues

Marina McBride said it best, "When God Furey 'N' Women Get The Blues".....
Why do so many people hide behind religion instead of being honest with themselves? I am not suggesting that Ms. Winkler killed her husband in the name of religion, but instead of dealing with whatever problems existed in the marriage, the Winkler's probably just "prayed" about them instead of dealing with them. Such a sad event, especially for the children.

The "Experiment" In Iraq

Did you know that the US invaded Iraq because it was an "experiment of democracy"? I must have missed that. But Senator John McCain met with Iraq's president and left the meeting stating, "The American people, no matter what party they are associated with, want the experiment of democracy to succeed." Damn! Bush & Company are great in convincing the American idiots of anything! I thought the US invaded Iraq because of WMD and the threat to the US. Then I thought the US invaded Iraq as a payback to 9-11 and to oust the terrorists hiding in Iraq. But, it appears the US invaded Iraq because it was an "experiment of democracy." And I guess over 2,300 US soldiers, and more to come, were the guinea pigs! For someone to be a subject in an experiment, he usually has to give informed consent. US soldiers do give consent, but I'm not sure how much information was given to them. Don't get me wrong, I support the men and women in the US armed services (I owe my freedom to them), but I DO NOT, nor NEVER WILL support the US invasion of Iraq. It just amazes me how the BS keeps flowing. And again, Americans buy it!

Here's How Much Success We're Having

An Afghan man who allegedly converted from Islam to Christianity is being prosecuted in a Kabul court and could be sentenced to death, a judge said Sunday. The man has been offered to have charges dropped if he converts back to Islam. I guess the US is making a significant amount of success in Afghanistan, just like the US is making a great deal of significant change in Iraq. Maybe an official from the US, maybe the President or Vice President of the US, just needs to Afghanistan the US will not tolerate such backward thinking, and that part of democracy and freedom is the right to worship or not worship how one believes.

Smoking Is Like Playing Russian Roulette

"It won't happen to me!" That's what every person who smokes likes to think. But, just like playing russian roulette, you never know. It may not happen this pull of the trigger or the next, but your chances are slowly running out. And even if you don't die from smoking, your chances of having other health ailments certainly increases! You don't have to believe me; just do a GOOGLE search and find out for yourself. Keep on playing Russian Roulette and sooner or later the bullit will be discharged!

Bush Is Selling, But Who's Buying?

George Bush is trying again to sell his wares, well actually, his rationale and plan for the US being in Iraq, but not too many are buying this time. Yesterday, Bush was at George Washington University to deliver the first of a new series of cheerleading speeches for his Iraq adventure. But not too many are heading Bush's call to stay the course! Americans are fed up with his lies and mistruths about the reality of what is going on in Iraq. Even American troops have had it! 72% of US troops on the ground in Iraq want a withdrawl within one year, 22% of the 72% said troops should leave within 6 months, and 29% of the 72% said US troops should withdrawl immediately. WOW! When the military men and women of the US actually take a stand like that, something is seriously wrong! Other countries are also finally speaking out more and more about the quagmire the US is in! But, our genious president, who is either blind, in denial, or just plain stupid, thinks things are going well. So, are you going to buy Bush's bullshit anymore?

TRANSAMERICA Was Fantastic!

Just got back from seeing Transamerica, the movie starring Felicity Huffman, who portrays a pre-op transexual (male to female). I can understand now why Felicitiy was nominated for an academy award for her performance. She and the movie were fantastic! I was not that excited to see the film, but I am so very glad I went to see it. I would recommend it to everyone.

A Hilary Laugh!

I have no idea where this originated from, but it's worth a look: 2008: Hilary for President?

Did They Die In Vain?

Let me start by saying I respect and admire every service man and woman who dedicates his/her life to serving and protecting our country. I admire their sacrifices made as US soldiers head the call to duty when the US asks them to. But I ask, as the US death toll in Iraq reaches 2,300, did they die in vain? I will say what I believe alot are feeling, but maybe afraid to say: I cannot help but think the US soldiers fighting in Iraq have given their lives in vain.
I hear many say thanks to the US soldiers in Iraq who are fighting for our freedom. But I feel in my heart that my freedom would be the same with or without Saddam Hussein in power in Iraq. The US first went to war with Iraq because of the WMD's that were going to be used to destroy the US. The WMD's were never found! Then, the reason the US went to war in Iraq was revenge for 9-11. Saddam Hussein and Iraq had nothing to do with 9-11. Then, the US went to war in Iraq to establish democracy in the Middle East. That has not yet been accomplished, and more and more, it looks like it will not be. So, I ask then, why did US men and women die in Iraq? If the answer was to topple a heinous dictator and free the Iraqi people, I ask the question I have asked many times, was that the job of the US?
I cannot help feel our troops have died in vain! Their lives wasted because of Bush & Company! I am sorry for the families that have lost loved ones, and I wish them comfort, but I am sure many of them ask the same question day in and day out that I have just asked. And if they find the needed comfort in thinking their loved ones did not die in vain, then I accept that.

Enough Already!

Anyone else tired of hearing the jokes based on Brokeback Mountain? I am tired of hearing comedians and other tv personalities making jokes about "Daddy being with Jack" (reference to Ennis going off fishing with Jack, the characters in Brokeback Mountain). I know that humor helps break barriers, but enough is enough! Do television personalities still make jokes about lazy blacks? Do talk show hosts still make jokes about Hispanics carrying knives? No, that would be politically incorrect. Stop guys! It has worn out its welcome!

BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN Actress Disowned By School

Michelle Williams, who appeared in Brokeback Mountain as Heath Ledger's wife, has been disowned by her by her high school. Ms. Williams attended the Santa Fe Christian School, and the shool has stated that, “Michelle doesn’t represent the values of this institution . . . ‘Brokeback Mountain’ basically promotes a lifestyle we don’t promote,” he added. I would say to Michelle Williams, "WHO THE FU** CARES!!!!" If the school is that closed minded, who needs it anyway??!!

How Do You Like Me Now?

So for all the Bush supporters I ask, "How do you like him now?" I said after the 2004 election that America deserves everything it gets and I still hold fast to that statement! How do you feel, New Orleans? How do you feel, families and friends of the dead in Iraq? How do you feel citizens of the US that may have been spied on for making an oversees call? How do you feel, all those that live near a US port that a company from the UAE may soon run? How do you feel fiscal conservatives that have seen the deficit of the US rise and rise and rise? Still feeling safe? Still feeling that George Bush is one intelligent, great leader? Americans fell for the man's BS and believe it or not, some still do. I personally never did believe a thing Bush said, and I even more now do not take anything that comes out of that man's mouth as truthful. He lied about Iraq! He lied about Katrina! He lied, lied, lied. If George Bush were Pinocchio, what a long nose he'd have! But what amazes me even more is that the American people are not outraged and up in arms! What amazes me even more is that Democrats around this nation are not driving home the lies and mistakes of the Bush Administration! Sure, occasionally someone speaks up, but then it stops! Recently Hilary Clinton was singled out as being angry. Did Hilary say, "You better believe I'm angry"? Not at all; she denied it! Damn you, Hilary! Stop playing politics and trying to placate the masses and take a stand! Is every Democrat so shell-shocked that you can't take a stand. I applauded Congressman John Murtha when he began the debate of what the heck is going on in Iraq (and I still applaud him), but this was the chance for all Democrats and America to get on the bandwagon and demand some answers from the Bush Administration, but instead, this debate too has died out! So again, I hold to my statement that America deserves exactly what it gets! Maybe when the number of dead US service peopel reaches 5,000 we'll finally say enough is enough! Or are we just waiting until 2008?

A Response From CVS

Below is the response I received from a CVS Customer Relations Representative:

"Thank you for your e-mail regarding your thoughts on our new pharmacycommercials for CVS/pharmacy. The pharmacists in the commercials areactual CVS pharmacists sharing their stories of experiences they havehad with our customers. I am sorry to hear you have not had such apositive experience, and I apologize for any inconvenience.We appreciate the time that you have taken to express your thoughts onour company. At CVS, customer input plays an important role ininfluencing how we run our business. Therefore, I have advised theappropriate departments of your comments. We value your patronage and look forward to serving you again soon."
Sincerely,Melissa PinaCustomer Relations Representative

Believe it?

Ridiculous CVS Television Commercials

Anyone else seen the ridiculous CVS television commercials? The ones in which a caring, concerned pharmacist tells a story about how much they care for their customers, and how much they have personally done to help their customers? I have to laugh everytime I see one of these commercials. I have been in several area CVS stores, and never have I seen a caring, concerned pharmacist or pharmacy staff in the store! They are usually so busy and impersonal! What a crock of STUFF!

Our Impact

I just finished what I like to call my mini-winter break vacation. As a State employee, I have both Lincoln and Washington’s birthdays off, so I usually take a few vacation days in between to make it a nice vacation, usually one that does not include going on a trip. This year’s mini-winter break vacation seemed to have a theme throughout: DEATH. But, not to worry, it wasn’t DEATH as in a horrible, tragedy, but more a realization as to what LIFE is all about.
I started my brief vacation with a visit to the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia where I witnessed Body Worlds, the Gunther von Hagens’ anatomical exhibition of real human bodies. As you enter the exhibit, there is a memoriam to the men and women who have donated their bodies to the exhibit. These were once, living, breathing human beings, now preserved, displayed for all the curiosity seekers like me to see, bones, muscles, nerves, and other anatomical parts in full view. The viewer is informed that no information would be provided as to who these people were in their living state. In addition to the full grown human beings, there were fetuses in varying stages of development, from the beginning of the fourth week in uteri, to infants that were stillborn, many with different ailments. I must say this exhibit was amazing!
On Saturday night, I went to hear one of my favorite country music duos, Brooks and Dunn at the Taj Mahal in Atlantic City. What a fantastic show! During the song, “You’re Gonna Miss Me When I’m Gone”, visuals of many in the country music business that have died flashed behind the musicians. One could not help but recognize greats such as John and June Carter, Merle Haggard, and Tammy Wynette. All these individuals touched many lives.
Then it hit me! Not all of us become famous individuals that will touch the masses, but we all touch someone in our lives. Like those anonymous donors to Body Worlds, most of us will never be known but by our immediate family and friends. Many of us will live and die, never known to the world, but remembered only by those we did come in contact with. So what is important in most of our lives the impact on those we do become involved with. This, and “grabbing all the gusto” we can in our hopefully long lives. But, whether we’re here a few minutes or 60, 70, 80 years or more, we need to keep in mind the only thing that really matters is what affect we have on those we interact with. And hopefully, it will be a positive remembrance of us when we’re gone.

Now To Wait For The Decision

Well, the NJ Supreme Court heard arguments today that could legalize gay marriage in the state. David Buckel, senior staff attorney for Lambda Legal, argued this morning in front of New Jersey's Supreme Court that the state, "has created a second-class citizenship" by denying same-sex couples the right to marry. The case, Lewis v. Harris, was heard with a unusually filled courtroom. Now the wait is on as the court is not expected to rule on the case until sometime this spring.

And We Think We Got Alot of Snow!

The National Weather Service measured the snow in NYC's Central Park...26.9 inches! Down my way near AC, we got about 4-5 inches, and the most I've seen registered in NJ was 11.5 inches. Now double that, and add a few more inches, and that's what NYC got! Now that's alot of snow. There is nothing more beautiful than Central Park in the snow! And there's nothing more ugly than the NYC streets come tomorrow afternoon after all the cars and people have made their way through it. It'll no longer be white snow, but dark muck! But the park will continue to be in its beauty for a few days anyway!

No Wonder Bush Doesn't Hunt With Cheney

Dick Cheney accidentally shot a hunting partner during a quail hunting weekend. Cheney was said to have been uttering, "There's Osama" shortly before spraying his hunting partner with gunshot. Bush was reported to have said, "No way do I hunt with Cheney."

A Big Week For Gays In NJ

This week could see another huge benchmark in NJ for gay individuals. NJ could become the second state to legalize gay marriage in a case that will be heard before the NJ Supreme Court. The New Jersey Supreme Court will hear oral arguments on Wednesday that gay and lesbian couples hope will lead to same-sex marriage rights in the garden State. While alot of states in the US are moving to ban gay marriage, with amendments making the only legal marriage that between a man and a woman, NJ has been among the few states that instead has chosen to give more rights to gay couples. Seven gay and lesbian couples, some together as long as 30 years, and some raising children, sued the State of NJ in 2002, arguing that a state statute defining marriage as a union between a man and a woman was unconstitutional. This case was rejected at trial and appellate court levels, but legal analysts say the NJ Supreme Court could swiftly legalize gay marriage. "New Jersey's court has a long and proud history of interpreting cases in favor of civil rights, and a victory in this case would be in keeping with that tradition," said Sally Goldfarb, a family law professor at Rutgers University Law School in Camden who studies family law issues. "The New Jersey Supreme Court has not hesitated to overturn state laws, and so these litigants are in a better position than they would be before most other courts across the country." So, the 3,700 registered same-sex domestic couples and many more may soon realize the benefits of real, legal marriage in NJ. One can only hope for the best.

The Arrogance of NJ State Officials Is Unbelievable!

Last week, those of us like myself who work for the State of NJ, learned that former Human Services Commissioner James Davy was being investigated by the US Attorney General's Office. It appears Davy may have violated federal corruption laws when he solicited business from state contractors four days before he resigned from his position of Human Services Comminssioner as part of the usual "house cleaning process" that is done anytime a new Governor comes into office. (Governor Jon Corzine accepted Davy's resignation and appointed Kevin Ryan to replace Davy). The probe follows a report in The Star-Ledger about an e-mail Davy sent to all 21 county Human Services directors on Jan. 13, four days before his departure. In it, he encouraged them to hire him as a consultant to advise them on spending $1.7 million in child abuse prevention grants they were expecting to receive from the department. The "Plain Language Guide to New Jersey's Executive Branch Ethics Standards," published by the ethics commission, spells out restrictions for state officials seeking employment, which include not soliciting employment with any vendor doing business with the State if one has "direct and substantial contact with any consultants or vendors doing business with the State." Davy could not be reached for comment, but in earlier interviews he said he was "kicking himself now" for sending the e-mails before he left office Jan. 17. (DUH!!!). Davy also said he had researched post-employment restrictions. "The advice I've always gotten is that, if you're not the one who's directly involved in negotiating or shaping the initiative or contract, then it is not necessarily a conflict under the law."
So, you can imagine the talk around the office following this report. Some chalked it up to just plain stupidity, but I have to say it is just plain arrogance! Most ethical and moral individuals would not even need a law to say this is wrong! Why would anyone think he/she has the right to seek employment from a contractor with whom you have oversight on the contracts received, directly or indirectly. Sure, as Commissioner, Davy himself would not directly negotiate the contracts, but he could certainly influence staff under him in awarding contracts! But, because individuals like Davy think they can do whatever they damn well feel like, do such arrogant, unethical, immoral things!
Those of us who are the low peons in the system are afraid to take a $2.00 box of chocolates or some homemade jam from someone contracted with the State, or as appreciation for work well done by a family, for fear we are violating State Ethical Standards. But people like Davy can look for employement, probably involving hundreds of thousands or dollars, for their own personal gain! It makes one stop to think just what kind of people we have in the higher echelons of State government!

Maybe The World's A Better Place....

...Without him!

Cindy Freed!

Police dropped the charges filed against anti-war activist Cindy Sheehan after she was arrested prior to Tuesday's State of the Union Address. The unlawful conduct charge against Sheehan was being dropped, said Deputy House Sergeant of Arms Kerri Hanley. An apology was also given to Ms. Sheehan. "They (Capitol Police) were operating under the misguided impression that the T-shirt was not allowed," Hanley said. Maybe there is justice afterall? Or maybe the Bush people just wanted Cindy out of the way for the night, but realized what a negative impact the arrest would have on Bush's erroding approval rating?

A Christian "Backlash" Against BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN?

ABC's World News Tonight did a story about the Christian Backlash against the movie BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN. I have not heard of any such "backlash" of any significance yet, but ABC's ratings must be down so they will cater to the conservative Christian right. Time Magazine did a story on BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN in the January 30, 2006 issue bringing to light the lack of protests and concern the movie has brought. Time's story actually said, "In a more benign and constructive way, America is now experiencing the Brokeback breakthrough." So to ABC I ask, "Where is all this backlash?"
In the World News Tonight story, ABC reported that religious groups say gay-themed movies show just how out of touch Hollywood is with America. "It's a sad day for American when a small group of very determined activists are dominating the awards ceremony," said Janice Crouse, the senior fellow at the Beverly LaHaye Institute, a think tank associated with the Concerned Women for America. I would argue with Ms. Crouse that perhaps it is she and her group that is the "small group of very determined activists," not those gays in Hollywood pushing their agenda. BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN was released in a limited number of theatres, but it has moved into more and more movie theatres in more and more areas of the US. Sure, as ABC put it, "The Oscar best picture nominees are apparently not playing in Peoria, as the saying goes," but who really cares!
I am so sick and tired of the conservative Christian right thinking they are the only right people in this country. And I am tired of ABC news trying to make more of this "backlash" than really exists! I think America is ready for a movie like BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN. And more importantly, I think America is ready for more tolerance of gays. It is the "small group of very determined activists" like Crouse and other conservative Christians that keep us in the dark ages!

Way To Go Cindy!

Cindy Sheehan was arrested in the House of Rep's Gallery just before Bush's State of the Union Address because she refused to cover up an anti-war t-shirt. "She was asked to cover it up. She did not," said Sgt. Kimberly Schneider, U.S. Capitol Police spokeswoman, adding that Sheehan was arrested for unlawful conduct, a misdemeanor. Sheehan could receive up to one year in jail, but I doubt she'll get any time. However, if Bush wanted, he could get rid of Sheehan for at least a year. Sheehan seems to be the only one in the US continuing to voice her opposition to the war in Iraq. Way to go, Cindy!
I did not watch the State of the Union Address last night, as I previously said I would not do, but from what I have read, Bush did not offer many answers to the continued presence of the US in Iraq, or when that presence would end. How many more will have to die, Mr. Bush? Isn't it about time the American people get some answers? Isn't it about time our troops and their families get some answers?
Thank you, Cindy Sheehan!

Bush's State of the Union Address? No Thanks!

I don't know about the rest of you, but I will not be watching President Bush's State of the Union Address tomorrow night. I simply cannot watch that man speak! First of all, I am embarrassed for Mr. Bush. Granted, his address will be scripted, and I am sure he will have practiced it several times, but I cannot watch him fumble around and savagely murder the English language. And secondly, I am embarrassed for the US! This is supposed to be our leader! But the man cannot even speak! Below are just a few "Bushisms" that I found on the net:
"Rarely is the question asked: Is our children learning?" —George W. Bush
"Drug therapies are replacing a lot of medicines as we used to know it."
"I have a different vision of leadership. A leadership is someone who brings people together." —Bartlett, Tenn., Aug. 18, 2000
"Will the highways on the Internet become more few?"—Concord, N.H., Jan. 29, 2000
Not everyone shares my views. One writer that I found actually believes, "George W. Bush is not the most articulate of men." Is this person hearing the same thing I am? But everyone is entitled to his/her opinion. (Just like assholes, everyone's got one)!
I can't watch and wait in anticipation for the blunders. It is too nerve wracking for me. So I will not watch the State of the Union Address. Call me un-American if you want, but it's my choice. At least so far, Bush cannot make any of us watch him.

NO To Zulima Farber, Corzine's Attorney General Nominee

The NJ State Senate is expected to approve the nomination of Zulima V. Farber as NJ's new Attorney General, probably today. Farber would be the first Hispanic to hold the position, which is great. However, in her confirmation hearings, Republican oppenents brought up Ms. Farber's driving record. She has 13 speeding tickets and 4 bench warrants. I have to agree with the Republicans on this one: Farber is not fit to be Attorney General, often referred to as NJ's "top cop." She apparently has no respect for the law. A person could not even qualify to be a NJ State Trooper with her record! I could understand and make an exception if Ms. Farber was being nominated for another post, such as Human Services Commissioner or Dept. of Education Commissioner. But this is for the position of Attorney General! I know we are all human, and believe me, I am not without fault. But I would not consider even myself qualified for NJ Attorney General with a criminal record! SO I SAY NO TO FARBER for NJ Attorney General.

NJ & PA Battle Over Mud

Today's The Press of Atlantic City had an article about the quiet quarrel that has been going on between NJ and PA on whether to make a 103 mile stretch of the Delaware River 5 feet deeper so larger ships can sail into the port of Philadelphia. PA wants the Delaware deepened to compete with other ports along the east coast. NJ lawmakers say the dredging project is economically and enviornmentally unsound. The quarrel is about to "flow downstream into the nation's capital."
Rick Santorum, Republican Senator from PA has threatened to block any federal legislation that benefits NJ if the state continues to oppose the river dredging project. Ed Rendell, Governor of PA, said he would stop commuter trains from running into PA if NJ continues to oppose the project. But NJ remains unswayed. Rendell has pledged that if NJ supports the dredging, PA will take 75% of the mud, with NJ taking the remaining 25%. But many New Jerseyans question whether Rendell will keep his promise.
Politics, of course, comes into play. Santorum and Rendell both face upcoming elections, so they want their constituents to view them as pushing the dredging project to benefit PA. And NJ legislators do not want to be seen as caving in to more mud than promised.
So, I would say, come on boys. Let's come to some agreement that can benefit both NJ and PA. Let's be neighborly. And besides, I still want to use the train to come to Philly if I choose.

Palestinian Election. Help Me Understand!

OK. The Palestinians had a legitimate election in which the militant group Hamas won the majority of seats. (Probably old news for most of you). This was a democratic election monitored by groups to make sure it was legit. Even Jimmy Carter was one of the officials monitoring the election. But the US, which formally views Hamas as terrorists (and they sure are), is refusing to recongnize Hamas until they renounce their wicked ways. Condy Rice said last week of Hamas, "You can't have one foot in politics, and the other in terror." Funny, I thought politics and terror, especially in the current US administration, went hand in hand. So, I am confused. Doesn't the US preach Democracy and the will of the people? Isn't that what Iraq is all about? In Palestine, the people voted, and chose the party they wanted in power, correct? There was no fraud. There was no ballot stuffing by Hamas. It was a legitimate show of the people of Palestine as to what kind of leadership they want. It may not be what the US or Israel want, but it is apparently what the Palestinians want. I guess the US can decide with whom it does business. And if the official position of the US, rightly or wrongly, is that we do not do business with Hamas as it currently exists, is this the explanation. Whether the US wants to recongnize the Palestinian government or not, it exists! It will be very interesting to see how the US reacts. I can only imagine what the US response would have been if the Iraqi election didn't turn out the way it was supposed to.

Not All Conservative Republicans Oppose Gay Rights

I happened upon a commentary on Advocate.Com written by Bob Hall, a former Massachusetts lawmaker, who describes himself as a conservative Republican who wants everyone to know that the only people who threaten traditional marriage are straight couples. Hall, an unlikely supporter of gay rights explains why he does not support a constitutional admendment in Wisconsin banning gay marriage. I have to say that I do not agree with many of Hall's positions, but he has shown me that not every conservative, Republican is against gay marriage. Hall recalls how he became a supporter of gay rights in 1973, when Massachusetts state representative Barney Frank had filed bills prohibiting employment and housing discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. "The bills received a favorable report—but no one in the committee’s Democratic majority was willing to carry (be floor manager) for them. So I volunteered", according to Hall. "The Republican floor leader had a minor stroke when he learned I was carrying gay rights bills," Hall continued. Today that antidiscrimination act is law in Massachusetts. Hall addresses the argument that legalizing gay marriage will hurt the institution of marriage: "Trust me, no true heterosexual wakes up and thinks, Hey, I’m really angry with my partner. I think I’ll try dating someone from my own gender from now on. So who has destroyed traditional marriage in America?" Hall ends his commentary by stating that "The anti–same-sex-marriage amendment isn’t going to help my marriage by so much as a red whisker. If you think it will protect your marriage or any marriage, that marriage is already shot."

No More US Air Strikes In Pakistan

Pakistan has informed the US government that there will be no more air strikes in its country. This came as a result of yet another recent screw-up by US intelligence leading to an air strike that killed several Pakistanis and destroyed a few homes, but did not take out the intended target. Pakistani Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz made the remarks at a news conference in Islamabad, with former U.S. President George H.W. Bush, in attendance. So much for the hunt for Osama bin Laden if he is indeed in Pakistan. And who knows where this will lead in relations between Pakistan and the US. Who knows; Bush may now put Pakistan on alert that it too is in the "axis of evil."

Gay Marriage Ban Overturned In Maryland

Well for all you MARYlanders out there, good news! A Baltimore judge struck down a 33-year-old state law against gay marriage Friday, declaring it violates the Maryland Constitution's guarantee of equal rights. Judge M. Brook Murdock immediately stayed her order, allowing for an appeal to Maryland's Court of Appeals. We can only hope that the Appeals Court will also agree with Judge Murdock.
February 15th is an important date for NJ gay rights activists. The NJ Supreme Court will hear a similar case brought by same-sex couples seeking the right to marry, claiming that the NJ Constitution does not prohibit gay marriage. Again, let's hope the NJ Supreme Court also decides in favor of gay marriage.

Bush V. Google...What Next?

I can't believe the Bush Administration has subpoenaed Google for details on what its users have been using Google to look for on the net. This is all part of the Bush Administration's efforts to revive an online pornography law that was previously struck down by the US Supreme Court. Google, fortunately, has refused to comply with the subpoena which was issued last year. The subpoena asks Google for a broad range of material from its databases, including a request for 1 million random Web addresses and records of all Google searches from any one-week period. US Justice lawyers have now filed papers demanding Google comply with the subpoena. I only hope Google does not give in. Although Google pledges to protect personal information, the company's privacy policy says it complies with legal and government requests.
First illegal spying on citizens of the US. Now monitoring where US citizens go on the net. What next for the Bush Administration? I know some would say, "If you're not doing anything wrong, then you have nothing to worry about." But, this is the US! It is illegal to spy on people without proper authorization from a court, and it is a violation of privacy to be monitoring where someone goes on the net, or what anyone does in the privacy of his own home.
Enough is enough! Is this also due to Bush's war on terror, like everything else Bush thinks he can do?

My Message To Osama

Now that Osama bin Laden has put out a message for the US, threatening more attacks, I would like to respond to Osama and give him a message from me: "F**K you, Osama! I will continue my life as I am planning! I will still be taking my summer vacation, and getting there via air travel. I will still be going to NYC, using the Lincoln Tunnel. I will not be putting my plans on hold because you want to threaten my way of life! I will continue to live! Go to Hell, Osama!"
I hope everyone else also has the same message for Osama!

We Got One! We Got One! Oops! No We Didn't!

US and Pakistani officials have now stated that Osama bin Laden's right-hand man, Ayman al-Zawahiri, second man in the al Qaeda terrorist network, was not in a remote Pakistani village targeted by a recent CIA airstrike. However, Friday morning's strike killed eight men, five women and five children, in the three homes reportedly targeted. "Their information was wrong, and our investigations conclude that they acted on a false information," a senior intelligence official told The Associated Press on Saturday. This incident no doubtedly will cause major outrage toward the US. And remember, this occurred in Pakistan, not Afghanistan.
Osama bin Laden and the rest of his people must be laughing their assess off about now. Believe me, I wish we could get these bastards just as bad as anyone. Problem is, I'm not really sure we can. And "al Qaeda" is so big, even if we get one or two of them, the network will continue to do its dirty work. I'm not even sure if "al Qaeda" is really flesh-and-blood men, or more of an idea. I don't know the answer to al-Qaeda, but the US seems to be having a real problem dealing with them/it. And God only knows where Osama is....the US certainly doesn't!

King George Calls For Silence

George Bush has again warned critics of the war in Iraq to be careful what they say, so as "not (to bring) comfort to our adversaries." And even though he hasn't called for compete silence, he wants debate over the war that "brings credit to our democracy, not comfort to our adversaries." I am sure Bush would rather there be no debate over what he is doing in Iraq. When the war began, critics were afraid to speak; 911 had just happened and saying anything in contrary to Bush's "war on terror" was seen as unpatriotic. Maybe if more debate had taken place the US would not be in Iraq today and 2,200+ American soldiers would be alive today. And maybe thousands of Iraqis would still be alive, and Saddam Hussein defeated anyway. (There were certainly other methods of getting rid of Hussein). If Bush were King, he'd have anyone who criticized the war placed in prison as traitors. And who knows, the way things are going, Bush still may be able to do so. He can illegally approve wiretapping, mail-reading, and other techniques to fight the "war on terror" so who knows what Mr. Bush might get away with in the future!

Somebody Get Bush A Dictionary! Or Don't Let Him Leave Home Without A Script!

I had the displeasure of seeing George Bush comment today about the start of Judge Alito's Supreme Court nomination after having breakfast with Judge Alito. I must say it was almost painful to watch the President of the United States fumble around for words and make facial gestures that pretty much resembled some lunatic in an aslyum. "Sam’s got the intellect necessary to bring a lot of class to that Court," Bush said. What the ****? Now that was a profound statement! I don't know about anybody else, but I have the hardest time in the world watching Bush speak. I usually try to avoid his speeches. He's ok when he has a written script in front of him, but when he tries to adlib, OH MY GOD! It is absolutely embarrassing! Hard to believe this man graduated from Yale and Harvard, let alone any community college. (Guess money can get you any degree). And what to me is even more amazing is there are people out there that still think George Bush is an intelligent, great leader!

Brokeback Mountain

Finally got to see Brokeback Mountain last night. It was a good movie, for a love story. (I personally don't get that into "love stories" whether between straight or gay characters). Both actors Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal were very convincing in the roles they portrayed. The scenery was beautiful, and the movie began in 1963 in Wyoming, a place and time where being gay was much more difficult than it is in 2006. The movie's main theme was the difficulty these 2 men had in expressing their true love for each other. And what a shame that is; that people, even today, cannot love who and how they want to without being ridiculed, or in some cases, physically abused or even killed.
The theatre where I saw Brokeback Mountain was packed. It appeared to me that many straight couples were in the audience, more so than I had expected. If nothing else, I do believe this movie will indeed help in moving forward gay rights. The movie was only postive in its portrayal of the love these 2 men had for one another. There was no "Jack McFarland" (Will & Grace) type characters; these were 2 ordinary, hard working men who happened to be gay. When most straight people think of gays, they immediately envision flambyont queens prancing around. If there's one thing I learned the first time I went into a gay club, was that every type guy imaginable, from construction worker to retail clerk, can be gay. And lesbians: not all butch with mullets, but some that would knock the socks off the straightest straight guy. And Brokeback Mountain furthers this understanding.
I would suggest that everyone see Brokeback Mountain, even if you don't necessarily like "love stories" as I don't. It may just enlighten you a little.

Is It The State's Job To Take Care Of Families?

I'm going to do something I don't usually do: defend NJ's Division of Youth & Family Services (DYFS). I work for another State entity, and believe me, I have my problems with DYFS, but I think some of the flack DYFS is receiving from the state child advocate is unwarranted. Now, granted, children in DYFS care have been injured and killed, and the DYFS system was in need of repair, and I'm sure still is to some extent. But come on! I don't care how much reform there is, unfortunately, children in NJ are going to be abused and even killed. It's just a fact of life! And is DYFS totally responsible for protecting every child in NJ? Or, is DYFS there to lend some assistance to families to lessen harm to children?
Two reports released by the state child advocate yesterday has found that the Division of Youth and Family Services sometimes fails to help New Jersey's abused, neglected and otherwise vulnerable children _ even amid an ambitious reform effort. Most of NJ's children under the care of DYFS remain in the homes of their families, not in foster care. "Too many families in this study appeared to be left to their own devices to solve their problems," said Arburta Jones, the chief of staff for the child advocate's office and the lead author of the report on families. Let me ask you, what's wrong with families solving their own problems? Who solved your family's problems? Who solved my family's problems? Was it the State? NO!
We live in a time when nobody takes responsibility for their own actions. It is not the State's job to take care of families; it is the family's job to take care of itself. Why does everyone think the State is responsible to provide the care? State agencies are there to lend support and assistance, but not be totally responsible for the care of families. Women (and men) have child after child, then expect the State to take care of them. Then if there's a problem, blame the State! Even for a child taken from his/her family and placed in foster care, who is ultimately to blame if something bad happens to that child? I would argue it is ultimately the natural parents to blame who for whatever reason shirked their parental responsibilties! It is not the State's fault. The State comes in to provide help, but cannot be held accountable for the problem in the first place.
Instead of blaming DYFS, maybe we should be supportive of the work it does. Budgets are limited, and nobody wants their taxes raised to provide the adequate funding needed. Caseworker try their best to provide assistance to families in need, but they are not in the situation 24/7, and bad things happen when they're not there. It is not the State's responsibility to care for families! It is the family's responsibility. And I would suggest that if someone does not want the responsibility of caring for their own children, then don't have them in the first place!

Bush To Blame For Retiree Benefits' Cuts?

Has anyone else noticed the correlation between Bush's proposed privatization of Social Security (which thankfully has not gone anywhere) and the recent push by companies to cut the benefits of retirees? Back in October GM had reached a tentative agreement with the United Auto Workers Union to cut health benefits of retirees, and other car manufacturers were following suit. Today, IBM announced that it too would be changing its traditional pension plan by 2008. Could it be that companies have caught onto Bush's plan to make workers contribute to 401K and other retirement plans instead of the companies having to contribute to the pension and retiree benefits of those workers retiring? Could this be the wave of the future? Have private companies, in an effort to cut costs, and make more profits for the owners and stockholders, screwed those men and women who for year sacrificed for this company, with the understanding and agreement that there would be a pension and health benefits at the time of retirement? Could it have been the Bush Administration that is to blame for this trend? I would say that it sure as hell could be. Bush & Company have done more to hurt the "little guy" than any president in recent history. And Americans don't seem to be able to see through this. Just look at how many of the "little guys" supported Bush in 2004 because he promised safety from the evil terrorists. But, Bush has done nothing to keep Americans safe from the terrorists within, the big company owners!

Come On, People! This Is 2006!

It's hard to believe stuff like this still happens in America, the nation that is supposed to be so freedom-loving, so example-setting, and the big melting pot! A 19-year old Army Private who was beaten by one soldier and threatened by another after they learned he is gay has been discharged. Private Kyle Lawson (pictured to the left) was punched in the face by a fellow member of a training unit at Fort Huachuca at an off-post party in October after a friend let it slip that Lawson was gay. Of course Private Zaccharias Pierre, the soldier accused of hitting Private Lawson, has used the excuse that Lawson was coming on to him. Private Zacharias Pierre was charged with felony aggravated assault - a charge that draws an average 3 1/2 years in prison upon conviction in Arizona, more if a judge finds the crime was hate-based. And I only hope the judge does indeed find Pierre to be in violation of a hate-based crime. The military should also be doing the same thing, but using military regulations officials at Fort Huachuca took control of the case, dropping the charges laid by Sierra Vista police. They have refused to say if any appropriate action has been taken to hold his attacker accountable but media reports indicate that Pierre has received only a slap on the wrist - the withdrawal of a weekend pass. The US military needs to make an example of Pierre and any others who commit such crimes! Private Lawson left the military with an honorable discharge, and even military police doubt there was any provocation on Lawson's part.
Here is a man who was serving his country. A man that gave up everything to be a good soldier, and he was not abused by any enemy, but by a fellow officer! “The command at Fort Huachuca owes Private Lawson, Congress and the public an explanation about why an anti-gay attack appears to have gone unpunished," said C. Dixon Osburn, executive director of Servicemembers Legal Defense Network. " Congress and the Pentagon must repeal ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ immediately and impose strict penalties against those who engage in any form of harassment. If America is fighting for democracy abroad, it must abide by those same principles at home." The US needs to lead not only with words, but with example!

NJ Moves Still Closer to Full Gay Partner Rights!

Way to go NJ! The New Jersey Senate late Thursday passed sweeping amendments to the state's domestic partner law that would, upon a partner's death, give the surviving partner control of the estate and inheritance in the absence of a will. The legislation also would give the surviving partner control of burial decisions absent a directive otherwise. Here we go again, NJ! First Domestic Partner rights, now this amendment, and who knows, soon gay marriage...or at least civil unions? I still think NJ is a great place to live!

Poor Jeb Bush!

The Florida Supreme Court ruled yesterday that using tax payers' dollars to pay for tuition at private schools is unconstitutional. This venture was the "centerpiece" of Jeb Bush's educational reform in Florida. When are the Bush's going to realize that public money is for public things, not for private, mostly religious things?

Preacher Of Doom, Pat Robertson!

Now Pat Roberson is suggesting that Israeli Prime Minister, Ariel Sharon was "smote" by God because of his decision to "divide" Israel. "He was dividing God's land, and I would say, 'Woe unto any prime minister of Israel who takes a similar course to appease the [European Union], the United Nations or the United States of America,'" Robertson told viewers of his long-running television show, "The 700 Club." When are people going to realize Pat Robertson is off his rocker. (I have to admit, years ago, I was a big fan of Robertson's, so it took me awhile to realize what a moron he really is). I can only imagine how far back Robertson's comments will put Christian/Jewish relationships.

Thank You For Your Answer, Pat Robertson! It Had Nothing To Do With My Request!

A few days ago I wrote to Pat Robertson, Christian Broadcasting Network/700 Club, requesting his prayer for the people in Oklahoma and Texas as God’s purging continued there in the form of heavenly fires. I informed Mr. Robertson that I felt God was punishing these states for supporting a war monger and divisive president. I received a response from CBN, but it had nothing to do with Oklahoma and Texas. It was a general response about my asking for prayer for others. It was a generalized, probably computer-generated response. Shows how much CBN/700 Club really care. The following is their response:

Your prayers to God in behalf of others are pleasing to the Lord. The Bible tells us that the Lord is far from the wicked, but He hears the prayers of the righteous and is pleased by them (Proverbs 15:8, 29). We encourage you to continue in prayer for those you are concerned about.James 5:13-16 presents a powerful lesson on the prayer of faith. Here we learn that if anyone is in trouble, he should pray. If anyone is happy, he should sing songs of joy. And if anyone is sick, the elders of the church should pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. Whatever the need is, general or specific, we should stand together in prayer for those needs to be met.Prayer that is offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven. We are to confess our sins to each other and pray for one another. If we do these things, we can know that any concern we have for others, whether for salvation, healing, or financial need, can be brought before God in faith, and He will hear and answer that prayer.Prayer for another is an outreach of God's love through us to other people. It is something we can do for anyone, anytime, and anyplace, and it is definitely something we all need! It costs so little to give, only our time and spiritual energy, but it reaps so much good in return. If we will trust in Him, the results are priceless!CBN has a 24-hour prayer line that you can call anytime you need someone to pray with you or for you personally. Just call 1-800-759-0700. Someone is here for you!

Thanks for the help!

My Hopes For 2006

The following are just a few of my hopes for the year 2006:

1. George Bush will be impeached and convicted of crimes against humanity and
abuse of power, and tossed out of office along with his cronies;
2. The senseless killing will end in Iraq, and the US will get the hell out;
3. Gays across this nation will win respect and the right to marry, or at least experience
civil unions;
4. Discrimination of all kinds will end in the US

It's a big order, but if we all band together and fight, it can happen. As Andy Warhol once said, "They say that time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself." Let's all change, then change our society...for the better.

Heavens Purging Fires on Texas and Oklahoma?

Well, Pat Robertson and the likes of you? How do you explain the current wild fires in Oklahoma and Texas? Perhaps it’s God’s wrath and Heaven’s purging fires being brought down on a people who supported a war monger and divisive president? I wrote Mr. Robertson at the 700 Club asking him to pray for the people of these states. The following is my correspondence to Mr. Robertson:

Please pray for the people of Texas and Oklahoma who are experiencing Heaven's purging fires for supporting a war monger and divisive president. God's wrath is upon them.

Let’s see if Mr. Robertson responds.