Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Surreal Tide of Change
Well, this week it has begun. Layoffs announced on Monday. Rumors beginning to fly on Tuesday. Today, on Wednesday, the people begin to leave. One by one. You don't want it to be anyone you know. Especially since they've already told you you're safe. Then it happens. You turn the corner and someone is in tears. Then a closed office door opens and someone walks out with a box full of his lifetime with the company. This is our family. Many of us have spent ten to twenty years together. We know each others families. We play softball together. We've been through marriages and divorces, illnesses, and even death. But still this family, this one stable rock, has stood and been there for us to come to day after day. Somehow we knew that it would all be ok because on Monday, we would be able to laugh with the people we worked with, the people who seemed to understand us. And now, with the wave of an arbitrary wand, a new company owner has decided the fates of each of us. Some stay. Some go. No rhyme or reason. Just a surreal tide of change.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Gotta Give Them Hope
This is an excerpt from a Harvey Milk speech. Gotta give 'em hope. Gotta give 'em ALL hope.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Wanda Sykes is Pissed
On Saturday in Las Vegas, Wanda Sykes addressed the Prop 8 protesters. Wanda is proud to be a woman, she is proud to be black, and she is proud to be gay. And she is pissed!
Friday, November 14, 2008
Equal - for Six Months
The New York Times got it right today. In an op-ed piece entitled What It Felt Like to Be Equal, Judith Warner talks about the passing of Prop 8 from the perspective of a straight person. She saw the passing of Prop 8 and the other bans passed in Florida, Arizona, and Arkansas, as oh well, too bad. Not realizing that a right had been recognized, and almost as quickly taken away. Then she started getting emails from people and had her eye's opened. As one of the emails stated,
“I don’t feel equal anymore. It was a great feeling, while it lasted.”
“I don’t feel equal anymore. It was a great feeling, while it lasted.”
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
Irony
It seems that the large voter turnout for the Presidential election may have cost us the No on 8 initiative in California. African Americans are typically a very religious group and as a group they tend to be against gay marriage. Based on the exit polls as shown on the Advocate website, as a group they voted for Prop 8 in large numbers.
72% of black women voted Yes.
51% of Latin men voted Yes, while 54% of Latin women voted No.
The majority of voters (66%) ages 18-29 voted No, while the lion's share (57%) of those age 65 and older voted Yes.
Higher-educated voters who had completed college or post-graduate studies voted No, 54% and 64%, respectively.
Voters who had a high school degree or some college under their belts voted Yes, 52% and 53%, respectively.
72% of black women voted Yes.
51% of Latin men voted Yes, while 54% of Latin women voted No.
The majority of voters (66%) ages 18-29 voted No, while the lion's share (57%) of those age 65 and older voted Yes.
Higher-educated voters who had completed college or post-graduate studies voted No, 54% and 64%, respectively.
Voters who had a high school degree or some college under their belts voted Yes, 52% and 53%, respectively.
Tuesday, November 04, 2008
Voting History
November 4, 2008. Today I was part of an historical election. We got to the polling place at 6. Stood in line with a couple hundred of our neighbors. Joked about being sleepy and needing coffee. One woman was filming the line to show to her grandkids.
We all stood there as the dawn broke on this crisp autumn morning. Knowing that we were part of a new dawn for our country. Patriotism alive and at its best!
We all stood there as the dawn broke on this crisp autumn morning. Knowing that we were part of a new dawn for our country. Patriotism alive and at its best!
Monday, October 27, 2008
Married In London
I've always liked Janis Ian. Just heard this one. Thought it was fun, and so true!
Sunday, October 19, 2008
From the Dred Scott Case to Barack Obama
This is what I see when I look at the pictures. . .
In the background, the Old Capital Building, where the Dred Scott case was heard . . .
In the foreground, the first, serious, black contender for President of the United States. . .
And in between, 100,000 people who represent how far we have come and the change that has already taken place in the years in between.
And it brings me to tears.
In the background, the Old Capital Building, where the Dred Scott case was heard . . .
In the foreground, the first, serious, black contender for President of the United States. . .
And in between, 100,000 people who represent how far we have come and the change that has already taken place in the years in between.
And it brings me to tears.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Condescending Contempt
That's what McCain appears to have for Obama. His facial expressions, rolling eyes, and obvious displeasure during any time Obama talked coupled with the tone of his voice when speaking himself was unbelievable. I have always respected McCain even though I have deep disagreement with his positions on many things. After tonight, he no longer has my respect. I'm looking forward to the breath of fresh air that Obama will bring us over the next four years.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
The Royale
I'm sitting at the bar of the Royale waiting for our takeout order. This place is great. The bartender knows what I drink. Just kind of shoots the shit while I wait. It's the corner bar like CHEERS we all look for. Just bought "Southside for Obama" t-shirts. Will probably come here tomorrow night for the dabate.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
McCain Ditches Letterman
On the same day he ducked out of his campaign and tried to postpone the debates, it seems that McCain has ditched Letterman. And Letterman is pissed . . .
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Nostalgia
Ever find yourself longing to go back to some place in your past? Tonight for some reason, I' longing for those days, not to long ago, when I had next to nothing.
I was living in a one bedroom apartment. The kitchen was small, but it was just enough. Didn't have a lot of things. I just guess I was looking around wondering where all this "stuff" came from.
Can I go back? Can I?
I was living in a one bedroom apartment. The kitchen was small, but it was just enough. Didn't have a lot of things. I just guess I was looking around wondering where all this "stuff" came from.
Can I go back? Can I?
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Survived by Her Partner
Everyone has seen the story of the MetroLink train crash on Friday, Sep. 12. We've seen the pictures of the LA Police Officers saluting the body of one of their own as it was taken from the train.
It is sad that in our country, the fact that she was gay has made headlines. Because of her and people like her all across the nation, one day it won't. One day the paper will read, Officer Spree Desha, 35 years old, is survived by her partner. And that will be that.
I think the real story here is that she was a person first. She had a family and they will miss her. That can't be changed. However, for the rest of us out here in the heartland, it is comforting to know that someone in a such a conservative profession as law enforcement was able to live her life, just as anyone else does
It is sad that in our country, the fact that she was gay has made headlines. Because of her and people like her all across the nation, one day it won't. One day the paper will read, Officer Spree Desha, 35 years old, is survived by her partner. And that will be that.
I think the real story here is that she was a person first. She had a family and they will miss her. That can't be changed. However, for the rest of us out here in the heartland, it is comforting to know that someone in a such a conservative profession as law enforcement was able to live her life, just as anyone else does
Friday, August 29, 2008
Day of Surprises
Wow - that's all I can say, Wow. First, I went to bed on a high after listening to Obama's acceptance speech. Then this morning, I hear the announcement that McCain's running mate is the governor of Alaska. An unknown named Sarah Palin. That just left me bewildered. But once I found a little bit about her, I thought, ok, he's trying to cement the Religious Right. Imagine my surprise when I talked to my mom this evening. I consider her to be one of the founders of the Religious Right, but she's considering voting for Obama. I think the world has stopped spinning. It's because of Palin's lack of foreign experience that she is considering Obama. Wow!
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Why Am I a Democrat?
I hate to admit it, but I voted for Bush in 2000. Then immediately regretted my vote when the whole Florida debacle went down. I felt it was a sign of things to come, and, IMO, I was right.
I don't vote on a single issue. I consider myself to be slightly left of middle of the road. Some would say I'm conservative because I believe individuals have the right to bear arms and that we should have a death penalty. But I do so with caveats. While we have the right to bear arms, I have no problem with extensive background checks to prevent the criminal class from purchasing them and when applying the death penalty, make sure you've got DNA evidence because killing an innocent person is wrong.
On the other side of the coin, I think we have an obligation as society to educate our children, to take care of the elderly and truly disabled, and to provide health care for all of our citizens. While I could never have one myself, I think that abortion should be a legal option for a woman who unexpectedly finds herself pregnant.
I also happen to think that every person in our country should have the same rights, regardless of sexual orientation and that the laws governing those rights should have no correlation with any religious belief. Maybe gay rights are the tipping point that makes me a Democrat. But to me, gay rights are just civil rights, and civil rights are rights that we all have. So, maybe civil rights are what actually make me a Democrat.
That's my two cents worth.
I don't vote on a single issue. I consider myself to be slightly left of middle of the road. Some would say I'm conservative because I believe individuals have the right to bear arms and that we should have a death penalty. But I do so with caveats. While we have the right to bear arms, I have no problem with extensive background checks to prevent the criminal class from purchasing them and when applying the death penalty, make sure you've got DNA evidence because killing an innocent person is wrong.
On the other side of the coin, I think we have an obligation as society to educate our children, to take care of the elderly and truly disabled, and to provide health care for all of our citizens. While I could never have one myself, I think that abortion should be a legal option for a woman who unexpectedly finds herself pregnant.
I also happen to think that every person in our country should have the same rights, regardless of sexual orientation and that the laws governing those rights should have no correlation with any religious belief. Maybe gay rights are the tipping point that makes me a Democrat. But to me, gay rights are just civil rights, and civil rights are rights that we all have. So, maybe civil rights are what actually make me a Democrat.
That's my two cents worth.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Summer Rain
There's nothing like a good thunderstorm in July. Fireworks on the 4th don't compare to the lightening show in the clouds. The thunder rolls and resonates, competing well with any bass booster on the planet. Then the air begins to cool. And you know that in only minutes, there will be rain, possibly a downpour.
Couple this phenomenom with a night at the Muny and you have the makings of a fun walk back to the car. The rain was coming down in sheets, running down my face, and getting in my eyes. It tasted sweet and cool. But the most fun was the puddles. They formed quickly. Those small oasis of fun that gather in the concrete just waiting to be jumped in. So yes, after a wonderful performance that was cut oh so short, we had a grand time enjoying the show after the show.
Couple this phenomenom with a night at the Muny and you have the makings of a fun walk back to the car. The rain was coming down in sheets, running down my face, and getting in my eyes. It tasted sweet and cool. But the most fun was the puddles. They formed quickly. Those small oasis of fun that gather in the concrete just waiting to be jumped in. So yes, after a wonderful performance that was cut oh so short, we had a grand time enjoying the show after the show.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Silly Putty
We're all just kids at heart. I remember when I was a kid Ioved the Sunday funnies. When I finished reading them, I would pull out the Silly Putty and transfer the cartoon images to it. Then I would stretch the faces to make them even funnier than they were to start with.
I think we do that today with politicians. They tend to say some outrageous things sometimes. In an effort to understand what they were really trying to say, we start discussing them with people. By the time we think we have it, we have really only managed to stretch what they said into what we are sure they really meant to say considering what they have said and done in the past. I think it's time we start listening to what they actually say instead of what we think they meant to say. Stop using mental Silly Putty.
By the way, I found what I call adult silly putty. It's a version of a stress ball, comes in different colors, and is really fun. It's sold by a company called Crazy Aaron's Putty World.
I think we do that today with politicians. They tend to say some outrageous things sometimes. In an effort to understand what they were really trying to say, we start discussing them with people. By the time we think we have it, we have really only managed to stretch what they said into what we are sure they really meant to say considering what they have said and done in the past. I think it's time we start listening to what they actually say instead of what we think they meant to say. Stop using mental Silly Putty.
By the way, I found what I call adult silly putty. It's a version of a stress ball, comes in different colors, and is really fun. It's sold by a company called Crazy Aaron's Putty World.
Monday, July 07, 2008
Late Night Discussions
No, this is not a post about Late Night with David Letterman. It is, instead, a post about discussions after midnight over a beer. My significant other works nights. I work days. It makes for some long stretches without much meaningful discussion. So when we find the time in to talk, they are some of the best discussions.
Saturday night was one of those nights. She got in about 12:30. I had cold beer and the night was not too humid. We took up residence on the back steps and just talked. We would finish one beer and open another. We didn't solve the problems of the world or discover a new galaxy. But we did talk about life. We made a plan for the planting bed in the front - our next big project. We talked about moving to the country in a few years so we could see the stars. We wondered what our kids would be like. We wondered what our friends were doing. You know, the stuff couples are supposed to talk about. And it was good.
Saturday night was one of those nights. She got in about 12:30. I had cold beer and the night was not too humid. We took up residence on the back steps and just talked. We would finish one beer and open another. We didn't solve the problems of the world or discover a new galaxy. But we did talk about life. We made a plan for the planting bed in the front - our next big project. We talked about moving to the country in a few years so we could see the stars. We wondered what our kids would be like. We wondered what our friends were doing. You know, the stuff couples are supposed to talk about. And it was good.
Saturday, July 05, 2008
St. Louis Pride
Anheuser-Busch has recently began forming Employee Resource Groups. The first group to form was the GLBT and Friends group. The members were able to come together and organize participation for this years parade. About 20 employees and their friends were in attendance. It was a really emotional experience for everyone. At least one participant voiced that 20 years ago just admitting to being gay would have gotten us all fired. Now we were representing our company for the whole community to see. All I can say is, WOW. AB, you've come a long way in a short time. Thank you.
Jessie Helms dies on July 4th
Today we should all feel a little more free. Jessie Helms died yesterday at the age of 86. Senator Helms would have probably liked knowing that he passed away on our Independance Day. In his warped way, the Senator believed that his view of freedom was correct. Lucky for us, there are few still alive today who agree with his views.
Senator Helms saw the world through racist, Southern eyes. He fought integration, gay rights, and believed completely in the cold war. He wasn't afraid to go against his own party when he believed they were compromising too much with the left. He will always be known as a conservative's conservative.
So, rest in peace Senator Helms. And we will all rest a little more peacefully with one less bigot in this world to worry about.
Senator Helms saw the world through racist, Southern eyes. He fought integration, gay rights, and believed completely in the cold war. He wasn't afraid to go against his own party when he believed they were compromising too much with the left. He will always be known as a conservative's conservative.
So, rest in peace Senator Helms. And we will all rest a little more peacefully with one less bigot in this world to worry about.
Park Avenue Coffee
Tonight I'm sitting in a coffee shop reading the news and writing. Since I upgraded to Vista, I've had trouble connecting in some coffee shops. Apparently due to some glitch in Vista that prevents it from talking to XP. Leave it to Microsoft. Anyway, I came in tonight just to see if I could get it to work, and voila! It worked when I booted up.
So I'm having coffee, enjoying the sounds of my fellow man and people watching. Some of my favorite things. I've just finished a slice of Gooey Butter Cake. If you're not from St. Louis, you can't understand the delectible goodness of a Gooey, but it truely a small slice of heaven. And the best in town is at Park Avenue Coffee. Enough of my commercialism. Actually I just enjoy the ambiance of this place. It's quirky and easy going. Comfortable.
So I'm having coffee, enjoying the sounds of my fellow man and people watching. Some of my favorite things. I've just finished a slice of Gooey Butter Cake. If you're not from St. Louis, you can't understand the delectible goodness of a Gooey, but it truely a small slice of heaven. And the best in town is at Park Avenue Coffee. Enough of my commercialism. Actually I just enjoy the ambiance of this place. It's quirky and easy going. Comfortable.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Damn the Mississippi . . .
Damn the Mississippi . . . Damn the Levees . . . Damn the Rain
I am really so damn proud of her. She wears the uniform of a soldier. She has been to Iraq twice. And the stripes on her arm are those of a Seargent. But this will be night seven. Night seven of knowing that she is walking the top of a levee, wearing night vision goggles and a life vest, looking for signs that the levee is not going to hold. Night seven of worrying that the levee won't hold where she is walking. Night seven of knowing she would have it no other way.
Night seven of missing her and knowing I can't live without her. Night seven to wake in the dark startled that she isn't there. And one less night until she is home again.
I am really so damn proud of her. She wears the uniform of a soldier. She has been to Iraq twice. And the stripes on her arm are those of a Seargent. But this will be night seven. Night seven of knowing that she is walking the top of a levee, wearing night vision goggles and a life vest, looking for signs that the levee is not going to hold. Night seven of worrying that the levee won't hold where she is walking. Night seven of knowing she would have it no other way.
Night seven of missing her and knowing I can't live without her. Night seven to wake in the dark startled that she isn't there. And one less night until she is home again.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Heinz pulls Mayo Commercial over Men Kissing
Don't know if you've seen it or not, but Heinz had the cutest Deli Mayo commericial that only aired for a week in the UK. The commercial showed a gentleman (a New York deli man) in a kitchen making sandwichs for the kids. As they leave for school, another man enters the kitchen, grabs his lunch and makes to leave. At which point, deli man asks, hey - you forgot something. Second guy turns around and gives deli man a peck. It was pulled because it apparently offended the sensibilities of some of the viewers. So what about the sensibilities of Heinz' gay consumers? Didn't they think pulling the ad would offend us? Don't they realize we have quite a large commercial presence and offending us could hurt their bottom line? When will companies stop bowing to the pressures of a shrinking minority and just publish the ads they produce?
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Gay Marriage is Good for America
I didn't expect to see this op-ed piece when I logged into the Wall Street Journal this morning. But there it was. An opinion in one of the most conservative papers in the U.S., for all the conservatives to read. Wow - I'd love to see the reactions on main street this morning.
Anyway, Jonathan Rauch makes an excellent case for why gay marriage is good for America. His words lead the reader to imagine life the way most gay people live it, without the hope for marriage. A world where committment usually means 'until something better comes along' and where abandonement and lonliness abound. Pieces like this move gay marriage closer to acceptance than the pictures that are shown on CNN or the Nightly News. This kind of writing attempts to put the reader in the shoes of the lesbian who can't protect her partner's inheritance or the gay man who isn't allowed to make medical decisions for his partner of many years.
Keep up the good work, Jonathan. With more editorials like this I may just see gay marriage accepted all across the country before I die!
Anyway, Jonathan Rauch makes an excellent case for why gay marriage is good for America. His words lead the reader to imagine life the way most gay people live it, without the hope for marriage. A world where committment usually means 'until something better comes along' and where abandonement and lonliness abound. Pieces like this move gay marriage closer to acceptance than the pictures that are shown on CNN or the Nightly News. This kind of writing attempts to put the reader in the shoes of the lesbian who can't protect her partner's inheritance or the gay man who isn't allowed to make medical decisions for his partner of many years.
Keep up the good work, Jonathan. With more editorials like this I may just see gay marriage accepted all across the country before I die!
Saturday, June 21, 2008
I Kissed a Girl . . .
For those of you who use iTunes, check out the number one song. It's by Katy Perry. And get this - the name of the song is "I Kissed a Girl"!
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Responses to the 2008 Flood from our Politicians
Keith Olbermann, on Countdown, focuses on the responses to the current flooding in the Midwest. See how Bush, McCain and Obama have responded to this current crisis.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Sunday's Will Never Be the Same
Political junkie, Sunday mornings I have a ritual. Go to the kitchen and start the coffee. Walk out front to pick up the paper. Turn on NBC to watch Meet the Press. Had to have my weekly dose of Tim Russert and the fair view of our political landscape he would paint. Today just wasn't the same. Tim, you are missed. And you will be missed for many years to come.
Ceasar fiddled while Rome Burned . . . Bush dined in Paris while IowaFlooded
He gave up golf because it would appear unseemly for a president to be playing a game while America's finest were involved in a war in Iraq. But he still travels the world and meets with world leaders, just as a president should. But President Bush still hasn't discovered when he should be home responding to a crisis and when he should on his diplomatic jaunts. Iowa is currently experiencing a flood worse than the 100 year flood of 1993. In fact, some are saying it could be a 500 year flood. And where is our president? Well, you can find him in Paris, dining the French leaders. Surprised?
Friday, June 06, 2008
Lesbian Kiss at Mariners Ballpark
Last week, at a Seattle Mariners game, two people engaged in a public display of affections. Like many other couples in ballparks across the country, they kissed. And another patron at the game complained that their action was inappropriate. Why? Because the couple was a same-sex lesbian couple and the woman complaining didn't want to have to explain two women kissing to her child.
Like the parent at the stadium, there are those who don't want their kids exposed to what they call perversion. They don't want tolerance taught in the schools because it is seen as pushing an agenda they don't agree with.
So how does this parent respond when her kid comes home talking about the new kid in class who has two mommies or two daddies? Should the new kid not be allowed to go to school in order to keep the other children from being exposed to the idea that not all families are alike?
You don't have to believe that homosexuality is moral, but you do have realize that your children are going to be confronted with the reality of homosexuality at young ages. I have several friends in same-sex relationships who have children. Their kids will be attending school. And if the other children are not taught tolerance, then my friends kids will become the victims of bullying or worse.
There are reasons to expose children to things you may disagree with. They exist in society. You cannot shelter your children. Teach them. And if you must believe that homosexuality is wrong, teach them to hate the sin and love the sinner so that they will not inflict harm on the children of same-sex relationships.
And maybe they will grow up to see that we are all the same.
Like the parent at the stadium, there are those who don't want their kids exposed to what they call perversion. They don't want tolerance taught in the schools because it is seen as pushing an agenda they don't agree with.
So how does this parent respond when her kid comes home talking about the new kid in class who has two mommies or two daddies? Should the new kid not be allowed to go to school in order to keep the other children from being exposed to the idea that not all families are alike?
You don't have to believe that homosexuality is moral, but you do have realize that your children are going to be confronted with the reality of homosexuality at young ages. I have several friends in same-sex relationships who have children. Their kids will be attending school. And if the other children are not taught tolerance, then my friends kids will become the victims of bullying or worse.
There are reasons to expose children to things you may disagree with. They exist in society. You cannot shelter your children. Teach them. And if you must believe that homosexuality is wrong, teach them to hate the sin and love the sinner so that they will not inflict harm on the children of same-sex relationships.
And maybe they will grow up to see that we are all the same.
Sunday, June 01, 2008
Chief Justice Ronald George - Unlikely Ally
Most who disagree with the California Supreme Courts decision legalizing gay marriage in California would say this is what happens when courts are made up of activist judges. You know, those activist Democratic judges appointed by Democratic governors and approved by Democratic legislators.
But how to account for this California court? It's made up of a majority Republican bench, elected by the people of California. Who's ever heard of an activist Republican judge? Maybe it's because the judges aren't activist. They are following legal precedent set by rulings from an earlier time. They are doing what our founding fathers expected of them - examining the constitutionality of legislation and protecting the rights of the minority from the will of the mob majority.
None knows this better than Chief Justice Ronald George. Justice George even took it upon himself to pen the ruling, willing to take the heat of controversy he knew would be coming. And, even knowing of the controversy to come, he did what was right casting the deciding vote for justice and right in the face of fierce opposition from those in his own party. Thank you Justice George. History will smile favorably on you.
But how to account for this California court? It's made up of a majority Republican bench, elected by the people of California. Who's ever heard of an activist Republican judge? Maybe it's because the judges aren't activist. They are following legal precedent set by rulings from an earlier time. They are doing what our founding fathers expected of them - examining the constitutionality of legislation and protecting the rights of the minority from the will of the mob majority.
None knows this better than Chief Justice Ronald George. Justice George even took it upon himself to pen the ruling, willing to take the heat of controversy he knew would be coming. And, even knowing of the controversy to come, he did what was right casting the deciding vote for justice and right in the face of fierce opposition from those in his own party. Thank you Justice George. History will smile favorably on you.
Saturday, May 24, 2008
McCain and the New GI Bill
As I've said before, the least we can do for our returning vets is to give them the opportunity to go to college and realize dreams that they may have thought unreachable. Most of the Senate and House agree with me. Unfortunately, the presumptive Republican nominee, a Vietnam vet and POW, doesn't agree. He's more concerned that our current military doesn't start leaving the service in order to go to college. As Cynthia Tucker, of the Atlanta-Journal Constitution, points out,
Now, Sen. Jim Webb (D-Va.), joined by his colleagues John Warner (R-Va.) and Chuck Hagel (R-Neb.), wants to give veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan a similar package of benefits, since those young men and women, like the vets of the Greatest Generation, have made enormous sacrifices for their country. But their proposal has met stiff opposition from the White House and from Arizona Sen. John McCain, the presumptive GOP presidential nominee.
McCain claims the proposal is too expensive; he has offered a scaled-down version of the plan. Webb's new GI Bill, which covers the entire cost for a veteran attending a public college, would require about $5 billion a year. The continued U.S. troop presence in Iraq costs much, much more — about $144 billion a year. Surely the nation can afford to give a fraction of that to the troops.
Perhaps the real reason for McCain's refusal to support more generous college benefits lies in a letter Secretary of Defense Robert Gates wrote to Congress a few weeks ago: The Pentagon fears the plan would lure soldiers away from re-enlistment and back into civilian life. With the Republican establishment lined up behind an open-ended commitment to Iraq — and with some chicken hawks screaming for military action against Iran — they need cannon fodder. They don't want enlisted men and women to have the alternative of a college education paid for by a grateful nation.
Revelations like that always give me a shudder — a momentary feeling of disorientation. Is this still America? Aren't we the nation that claims we absolutely support the troops, that we will never dishonor their service again, that we all should be wearing flag pins to show our pride and patriotism?
Applause . . . A Tribute to the Troops
This weekend, as we all take a three day holiday, the troops in Iraq and Afghanistan are still working their jobs and carrying their weapons without the possibility of having even one day off. They voluntarily wear the uniform and serve their country. Let's take a minute to pause and think of them - male and female, gay and straight, black and white, citizen and immigrant - all of those who wear the uniform.
Thank you!
Thank you!
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Hillary and the Super Delegates
I know, I know - I said in an earlier post that Hillary should do the honorable thing and step away from the primary. Let Obama have the nomination that he has already won. Well - has he won it?
It's my understanding that the super delegates were first put into place for just this type of situation. They are supposed to ensure that the emotions of the people don't sweep into the nomination the wrong candidate. They exist to make sure that the interests of the party are upheld no matter what the people say. In essence, all those super delegates are supposed to make sure that Hillary wins the nomination. After all, she has won the states with largest electorate college votes. And she has primaries, which are open, as opposed to caucuses which Obama has won.
The only problem is that the democratic rules don't allow for winner take all. So Hillary has had to share her delegates in California and Ohio and other large states. Something she wouldn't have to do in the general election.
So, lets sit back and take a breath. Maybe Hillary has something here. Maybe the super delegates should do their job and make sure the best candidate gets the nomination. Keep playing Hillary, the fat lady hasn't sang yet.
It's my understanding that the super delegates were first put into place for just this type of situation. They are supposed to ensure that the emotions of the people don't sweep into the nomination the wrong candidate. They exist to make sure that the interests of the party are upheld no matter what the people say. In essence, all those super delegates are supposed to make sure that Hillary wins the nomination. After all, she has won the states with largest electorate college votes. And she has primaries, which are open, as opposed to caucuses which Obama has won.
The only problem is that the democratic rules don't allow for winner take all. So Hillary has had to share her delegates in California and Ohio and other large states. Something she wouldn't have to do in the general election.
So, lets sit back and take a breath. Maybe Hillary has something here. Maybe the super delegates should do their job and make sure the best candidate gets the nomination. Keep playing Hillary, the fat lady hasn't sang yet.
Update on the New GI BIll
Last week the House voted to expand education benefits for today's veterans by a vote of 256-166. Today, the Senate joined them by approving the bill with a vote of 75-22. The two versions will be reconciled in committee and the final versions will be sent to President Bush's desk for approval. Unfortunately, President Bush has threatened to veto the bill because he is afraid more soldiers will leave the service and go to college. Did he ever stop to think that signing the bill could actually increase recruitment? Or does he even realize that our men and women in uniform can attend school for free while they are still on active duty?
Don't Ask, Don't Tell - Beginning of the End?
In a ruling that may signal the beginning of the end for the Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy on gays in the military, A California appeals court reinstate the case of Air Force Major Margaret Witt. Witt served as a military nurse and was honored for her service in Oman by President Bush. After being discharged with only two years left until retirement, Witt sued. The court ruled that rather than apply on the rationale that gays in the military disrupt morale and interfere with unit cohesion, there must also be evidence, for each individual case, that dismissal of the person serves an important government interest.
Currently, there are thousands of gays and lesbians in our nations military, many of them in harms way in Iraq or Afghanistan, some for the second or third tour of duty. These men and women are loyal US citizens, willing to give the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. Many of them serve openly within their units with no backlash from their fellow soldiers. It's time for our country to end this policy. We need these dedicated people just as we need all military personnel.
There are those in our country who will say, there goes that court in California again. I, for one, say thank you. It's about time reason and logic stood up and said Enough!
For more information on Major Witt's case, go to the stories on MSNBC or The New York Times.
Currently, there are thousands of gays and lesbians in our nations military, many of them in harms way in Iraq or Afghanistan, some for the second or third tour of duty. These men and women are loyal US citizens, willing to give the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. Many of them serve openly within their units with no backlash from their fellow soldiers. It's time for our country to end this policy. We need these dedicated people just as we need all military personnel.
There are those in our country who will say, there goes that court in California again. I, for one, say thank you. It's about time reason and logic stood up and said Enough!
For more information on Major Witt's case, go to the stories on MSNBC or The New York Times.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Mildred Loving's Take on Equal Marriage
Mildred Loving supported us -
“I am proud that Richard’s and my name is on a court case that can help reinforce the love, the commitment, the fairness, and the family that so many people, black or white, young or old, gay or straight seek in life. I support the freedom to marry for all. That’s what Loving, and loving, are all about.”
Mildred Loving, who with her husband won the 1967 Supreme Court case that overturned laws against interracial marriage, in a June 2007 statement about the case. Loving, 68, died May 2; her husband preceded her in death. (New York Times, May 3)
The Bells are Gonna Chime
They did it. The High Court of California overturned the state statutes that ban gay marriage. It may only last until November, when there will be a state constitutional amendment on the ballot to ban gay marriage. But until then, let the wedding bells ring.
Full Faith and Credit
I've been saying all along that any laws or state constitutional amendments banning gay marriage would eventually be deemed unconstitutional under the Full Faith and Credit Clause of the Federal Constitution. The clause is short and basically states that any state must recognize the contracts and judicial proceedings of any other state. It is the, in essence, the glue holding our nation together. It makes legal in this state what is legal in another.
Loving v. the State of Virginia was decided on the basis of the Full Faith and Credit clause. Today, the California Supreme Court will issue its ruling in a landmark gay marriage case, just as it did in an inter-racial marriage case 19 years prior to Loving v. the State of Virginia. The arguments presented to the court included the reference to the Loving case. Lets hope that California does the right thing. Because it seems that as California goes, so goes the rest of the nation. Eventually.
Loving v. the State of Virginia was decided on the basis of the Full Faith and Credit clause. Today, the California Supreme Court will issue its ruling in a landmark gay marriage case, just as it did in an inter-racial marriage case 19 years prior to Loving v. the State of Virginia. The arguments presented to the court included the reference to the Loving case. Lets hope that California does the right thing. Because it seems that as California goes, so goes the rest of the nation. Eventually.
Thursday, May 08, 2008
The Bidding of the Leaders
My cousin brought this quote to my attention. No commentary here, just let it speak for itself.
“Naturally the common people don't want war; neither in Russia, nor in England, nor in America, nor in Germany. That is understood. But after all, it is the leaders of the country who determine policy, and it is always a simple matter to drag the people along, whether it is a democracy, or a fascist dictatorship, or a parliament, or a communist dictatorship. Voice or no voice, the people can always be brought to the bidding of the leaders. That is easy. All you have to do is to tell them they are being attacked, and denounce the pacifists for lack of patriotism and exposing the country to danger. It works the same in any country.”
Hermann Goering
Hitler's Reich Marshall
At the Nuremberg Trials after WWII
And Now - For a Commercial Break . . .
In this highly charged political we are living in, it is sometimes nice to sit back and take a breath. Every now and then, even watch a commercial that you might forward through on your TIVO. For a bit of a laugh, I've found this spoof of the Bud Light Hello guy. This one happens to have a gay theme to it. Enjoy!
Disclaimer: This parody is not a production of Anheuser-Busch.
Disclaimer: This parody is not a production of Anheuser-Busch.
Wednesday, May 07, 2008
New GI Education Bill
Senator Jim Webb of Virginia, himself a veteran of Vietnam, has sponsored a new GI Education Bill to increase the educational assistance for our veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. Basically, the bill would cover the entire cost of tuition and books as well as room and board. It would also offer a monthly stipend of $1,000 over and above the costs associate with school to ensure that the veterans would not have to work and could concentrate on their studies.
The bill has large bi-partisan support in both houses of Congress. But guess who isn't supporting the GI Bill for the 21st Century. Neither President Bush nor Republican Presidential hopeful (and Vietnam POW) Senator John McCain. They say it would cost too much. They contend that it would hurt retention efforts. Well Mr. President and Honorable Senator, this bill can't possibly cost as much as the wars we are currently fighting. And I imagine that recruitment numbers just might increase as a result of knowing that education benefits would actually cover the cost of higher education.
We made benefits like this available to veterans of WWII. It is the least we can do for this generation of veterans.
The bill has large bi-partisan support in both houses of Congress. But guess who isn't supporting the GI Bill for the 21st Century. Neither President Bush nor Republican Presidential hopeful (and Vietnam POW) Senator John McCain. They say it would cost too much. They contend that it would hurt retention efforts. Well Mr. President and Honorable Senator, this bill can't possibly cost as much as the wars we are currently fighting. And I imagine that recruitment numbers just might increase as a result of knowing that education benefits would actually cover the cost of higher education.
We made benefits like this available to veterans of WWII. It is the least we can do for this generation of veterans.
Time to Go
I love Hillary. I think she'd be the best president, given our choices. But after last night, she needs to recognize reality and step down gracefully. At this point, a graceful exit, followed by an endorsement of Obama, would gain respect. If she stays in, she will be seen as a sore loser. I love you Hillary - but it's time to go.
Sunday, May 04, 2008
The Last Lecture
Almost all of us have childhood dreams; for example, being an astronaut, or making movies or video games for a living. Sadly, most people don’t achieve theirs, and I think that’s a shame. I had several specific childhood dreams, and I’ve actually achieved most of them. More importantly, I have found ways, in particular the creation (with Don Marinelli), of CMU’s Entertainment Technology Center of helping many young people actually *achieve* their childhood dreams." - Randy Pausch
If you knew you had only a few months to live, how would you spend those months? Who would you talk to to? What would you say to them? Would you take the chance to give a final lecture? Carnegie Mellon a has lecture series in which professors give their Final Lecture. It is supposed to represent what they would say if the lecture they were giving was their final one.
Randy Pausch, a professor at Carnegie Mellon actually got the chance. Several months ago, Randy was diagnosed with terminal cancer. A month later he delivered his final lecture. It was on realizing your childhood dreams. Carnegie Mellon has made the lecture available for all of us who didn't get to see it.
The Wall Street Journal also published an article, A Final Farewell, that gives some insight into the man, his family, and his beliefs. Randy has also written a book called The Last Lecture. Check out the video and the article. Randy is an inspiration to us all.
Saturday, May 03, 2008
Small Group of Citizens
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has." Margaret Mead
As a nation we should remember this. What smaller group of citizens has the authority to make changes to our world than the Supreme Court. The fight between Obama and Clinton, the two leading contenders for the Democratic nomination, has started to look like a school yard brawl. Both candidates are throwing barbs and trading punches. Whatever the outcome though, we need to remember that they are both Democrats. Either of them would make an excellent president. And either of them would guard against a continued shift of the Supreme Court to the right.
After the convention, when one or the other has been chosen, we Democrats must come together and ensure that a Democrat wins the presidency. If we are Obama supporters and Clinton wins or if we are Clinton supporters and Obama wins, we have to stop insisting that our candidate would have been better. We've got to rally around the cause and make sure that a Democrat is seated in the White House. Otherwise, we could find ourselves facing a Supreme Court that becomes untenably tilted to the right. And with it, we would see many of our hard won freedoms, and freedoms yet to come, left on the pages of the history books.
Friday, May 02, 2008
Balding Penguin!
Pierre, a 25 year old penguin, found himself with a problem facing many men in their twilight years. Pierre was going bald. But unlike balding men, losing his feathers meant that Pierre couldn't stay warm enough to swim with his penguin buddies. The solution - a wetsuit to keep him warm. And as an added bonus, he started to grow his feathers back!
America . . . at Gate 14
Anyone who knows me knows that I would never be mistaken for a conservative. I'm not so far left that I'd tip the boat over, but I am definitely a liberal. But I believe in the saying keep your friends close and your enemies closer. So I read the Wall Street Journal. I read Peggy Noonan fairly regularly, and I rarely agree with her. But this time around, I think she has a point.
Peggy is sitting in AnyAirport, America at Gate 14. She's tuning out Wolf Blitzer as he talks of the Pennsylvania primaries. And she's looking around realizing who Barak Obama's real enemy is. It's not Clinton or McCain. It's the average American who understands, truely feels, what patriotism is. The people of middle America who see the understanding in McCain's patriotism and in Clinton's time in Arkansas. The America that realizes Bush wasn't the president they could sit down and have a beer with. Peggy sees what Barak is missing, she sees the America that is beginning to get a whiff of Barak's elitism.
Peggy is sitting in AnyAirport, America at Gate 14. She's tuning out Wolf Blitzer as he talks of the Pennsylvania primaries. And she's looking around realizing who Barak Obama's real enemy is. It's not Clinton or McCain. It's the average American who understands, truely feels, what patriotism is. The people of middle America who see the understanding in McCain's patriotism and in Clinton's time in Arkansas. The America that realizes Bush wasn't the president they could sit down and have a beer with. Peggy sees what Barak is missing, she sees the America that is beginning to get a whiff of Barak's elitism.
Hillary in 2012?
I admit I voted for Hillary in the primaries. I think that she is the best candidate overall to make the changes we need in Washington. But I'm coming to terms with the very real possibility that Obama will take the Democratic nomination. So I ask myself, with the race going this way, why is Hillary staying? Is she staying so that a dialog will remain open in the Democratic party? Is she hoping that some miracle will happen and all the super delegates will swing her way? (Which, by the way, I'm praying for!) Or is she laying the groundwork for her next run in 2012?
Friday, April 04, 2008
Missing Her . . .
The house is quiet. Just me and Ben, the dog. You'd think Ben would make enough noise that the house would have it's normal sounds, but it's just not right. She's in a hotel room for the weekend. Her once a month routine that I'll never get used to. I miss the scruff of her foot on the floor. The sound of her breathing. The fall of foot on the stairs. I miss her being here. And I postpone climbing the stairs to climb into our bed, where I'll miss her warmth. It's as if part of me didn't make it home from work. Ben even senses it. He looks at me from time to time as if to say, well, where is she? Let's go get her. Sunday won't be soon enough . . .
Friday, March 28, 2008
The Price of a War
We hear daily the cost of fighting a war in Iraq. Estimates are in the billions, sometimes even in the trillions. Who knows what the war will eventually cost us in dollars and in lives. What many don't realize is that the cost in lives isn't always those of the men and women who are in harms way. Some of the lives belong to the underprivileged in our urban neighbors. A program called YouthBuild, started in 1994, provides construction training and education to help high school dropouts obtain their GED and learn a trade while giving back to their communities. The people enrolled in the program renovate and rebuild houses in their own neighborhoods. For the fourth year, the program is marked to receive only $50 million in funding. 23% less than in 2004. And is causing many of the programs to close their doors. Read the YouthBuild story in the St. Louis Dispatch.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Learning from the youth . . . .
All of us have faced some kind of negative reaction to who we are or what we believe at some time in our lives. It takes a lot to stand up to that and be who we are in the face of ridicule. Teenagers and their friends across the country in small towns and big cities are standing up for themselves. Read this story about a Gay Straight Alliance in small St. Charles, MO.
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