Vermont Governor will Veto Marriage Bill

To update my post earlier this week, Vermont Governor James Douglas, a Republican, has announced that if the marriage bill passes and makes it to his desk, he will veto the same-sex marriage bill now before the Vermont House.  Although the Vermont Senate passed the bill with a 26-4 majority, at this point, it is not clear whether there is enough support in the Vermont House to over ride the veto.

Big Day for Marriage

Lot's of people think that just because Prop 8 passes in California that nothing new is happening on the marriage front.  That couldn't be further from the truth.  Small steps are being taken every day in the quest for equality.

Today, Senator Schumer of New York came out in favor of same-sex marriage and for the repeal of DOMA.    Senator Schumer is the last state-wide elected official of that state to take a stand for equality.  This is a big step for the senator, who was one of those voting for DOMA years ago when it became law.  In it's statement to the NY Daily News, Senator Schumer's office said,

"It’s time. Equality is something that has always been a hallmark of America and no group should be deprived of it. New York, which has always been at the forefront on issues of equality, is appropriately poised to take a lead on this issue."

Also in the news today, the Vermont senate voted 26-4 in favor of legalizing same-sex marriage for the state.  The issue will now move to committee in the house before being presented for a full vote.  With a majority of Democrats in the House, the measure is expected to pass.  However, there is still uncertainty around whether or not the Republican Governor Jim Douglas will sign the bill if it is passed.  Vermont was the first state to legalize civil-unions back in 2000.

City of Characters

New York City is home to a diverse and rich population.  Each person has his own story.  The New York Times is chronicling some of these stories through a series of narrated slide shows.  It's worth the few minutes a week to learn a little about a person you'll never meet and maybe understand where someone else is coming from.  Take a look at One in 8 Million.  You may come away with a new perspective on things.

Breaking News - AIG Employees the Best and Brightest

I love irony.  Currently, AIG is brimming over with irony.  Did you know they employ the best and brightest?  These best and brightest were able to engineer the largest quarterly loss in American corporate history.  And they are being rewarded for this unmatched feat.  Collectively, the best and the brightest are going to receive $165 million in bonuses.  Don't know about you, but normally bonuses are given for positive performance.  But then, maybe they are being rewarded for their ability to screw up so royally.  After all, only the best and brightest could have possibly lost as much money as the employees of AIG have.

Adam Lambert and Equality

If you don't watch American Idol, you've missed the unfolding story of Adam Lambert.  Adam Lambert is an experienced musical theatre performer who has landed a spot in this years American Idol top 12.  There has been no mention of whether he is gay or straight on the show.  In fact, unlike the other contestants who talk about their wives, husbands, and kids, there is a glaring absence of any mention of his personal life during the short vignettes of the performers.  However, it only takes a short trip on YouTube to discover his caberet performances as well as performances for gay charities.

This week on Idol, Adam performed Michael Jackson's "Black and White".    Adam emphasized the word Equality early in the performance.  Then, toward the end, the words "don't tell me you agree with me when I saw you kicking dirt in my eye"  came through loud and clear.  Whether he meant to or not, Adam sent a message to many of his followers.

Thank you Adam.  Middle America may not realize the statement you're making in your performances on Idol, but some of us totally get you.  Keep it up.

Good Day, Mr. Harvey

Yesterday our small piece of this universe became a little less inspiring.  Paul Harvey, long time commentator of radio, passed away.  I will miss forever his wit and wisdom.  I learned a lot from The Rest of the Story he so eloquently broadcast.  I think his So God Made a Farmer may be one of his best pieces.  If you have about 10 minutes, take a listen.