Monday, June 07, 2010
Bush Glibly Admits Waterboarding Prisoners
Last week a comment by former president George Bosh slipped right by most media sources. I guess in terms of the American public’s attention span, Bush is “old news”.
In a speech in Grand Rapids, Michigan Bush made the following statement.
“Yeah, we waterboarded Khalid Sheikh Mohammed… I'd do it again to save lives."
So here we have a former President of the United States admitting he authorized torture which while sitting as President he denied. Not only is that duplicitous, something I am not at all surprised at by Bush. But this statement it is admitting a war crime and according to retired Brigadier General David R. Irvine, a scholar and teacher of military law and treatment of prisoners for over 18 years, “it cannot be demonstrated that any use of waterboarding by U.S. personnel in recent years has saved a single American life."
In an interview on Huffington Post Irvine further stated, “we are seen by the rest of the world as having abandoned our commitment to international law. We have forfeited enormous amounts of moral leadership as the world's sole remaining superpower. And it puts American troops in greater danger -- and unnecessary danger."
Bush’s glib statement will put American soldiers at greater risk of torture in the future because of the perception that all bets are off when it comes to treatment of prisoners. This is a giant step backwards and it will take a great deal of diplomacy and moral leadership to reverse.
The whole admission just confirms what I long believed, Bush and his administration was lacking in any kind of moral compass other than expediency. His leadership of the country was inept at best and criminal as worst. Perhaps it is time to reexamine his Presidency and more to the point hold him accountable for the breaches in both domestic and international law he and his cronies were responsible for.
I am sure more information will come out and I feel sure the gravitas of this will not fade away anytime soon.
In a speech in Grand Rapids, Michigan Bush made the following statement.
“Yeah, we waterboarded Khalid Sheikh Mohammed… I'd do it again to save lives."
So here we have a former President of the United States admitting he authorized torture which while sitting as President he denied. Not only is that duplicitous, something I am not at all surprised at by Bush. But this statement it is admitting a war crime and according to retired Brigadier General David R. Irvine, a scholar and teacher of military law and treatment of prisoners for over 18 years, “it cannot be demonstrated that any use of waterboarding by U.S. personnel in recent years has saved a single American life."
In an interview on Huffington Post Irvine further stated, “we are seen by the rest of the world as having abandoned our commitment to international law. We have forfeited enormous amounts of moral leadership as the world's sole remaining superpower. And it puts American troops in greater danger -- and unnecessary danger."
Bush’s glib statement will put American soldiers at greater risk of torture in the future because of the perception that all bets are off when it comes to treatment of prisoners. This is a giant step backwards and it will take a great deal of diplomacy and moral leadership to reverse.
The whole admission just confirms what I long believed, Bush and his administration was lacking in any kind of moral compass other than expediency. His leadership of the country was inept at best and criminal as worst. Perhaps it is time to reexamine his Presidency and more to the point hold him accountable for the breaches in both domestic and international law he and his cronies were responsible for.
I am sure more information will come out and I feel sure the gravitas of this will not fade away anytime soon.
Sunday, June 06, 2010
Librarians Do Gaga!
Who says Librarians don't have fun? Washington State Librarians doing a "Poker Face" parody.
Rand Paul Just Can't Shut Up!
A few days ago I called Rand Paul a walking train wreck. I was understating it. This guy is his own worst enemy. He knows the media spotlight is on him and he still makes amazing gaffs that anyone who has spent more than a few minutes in public life would avoid. Call it idealism? I think he is just naive and that is not the kind of person you want leading a state.
In his latest foray into the waters of controversy he said he things smoking in public restaurants should be a right. Specifically he stated, "For example, I am opposed to the government telling restaurant owners that they cannot allow smoking in their establishments."
OK fine, but what about the employees who have to work in the smoke filled restaurants? Then in the same Op-Ed piece for the Bowling Green Daily News, Paul compared himself to Martin Luther King, Jr. Strange from a man who thinks the Civil Right Bill infringes on the rights of businesses to discriminate and segregate.
Mr. Paul, you 15 minutes of fame is up.
In his latest foray into the waters of controversy he said he things smoking in public restaurants should be a right. Specifically he stated, "For example, I am opposed to the government telling restaurant owners that they cannot allow smoking in their establishments."
OK fine, but what about the employees who have to work in the smoke filled restaurants? Then in the same Op-Ed piece for the Bowling Green Daily News, Paul compared himself to Martin Luther King, Jr. Strange from a man who thinks the Civil Right Bill infringes on the rights of businesses to discriminate and segregate.
Mr. Paul, you 15 minutes of fame is up.
Corpus Christi Comes to Dallas
Terrence McNally's allegorical passion play Corpus Christi finally made it to Texas. When it opened back in 1998 it was received with protests and bomb threats. So what the heck could cause such hatred?
The story is told through characters living in Corpus Christi, Texas and the principal character Josh, is gay. As I noted it is a passion play and Josh represents Jesus and that was the key to all the anger. Protests and hatred have dogged this play since it was first performed, but I would suspect most of those who are angry have never seen it or read it.
In actuality the play is a very engaging and accessible portrayal of the life of Jesus and the actors in this production based out of LA carry it off with enthusiasm and sincerity without being preachy. That is a good trick, since the script is really what I call pure theater. The staging is minimal, most carried onstage by the actors in backpacks. Characters continuously assume other roles and personae and the changes are sometimes startling and a bit confusing. Gender is no obstacle to any character since men and women play roles of both genders.
The story is well known, yet this cast manages to being freshness to their roles and to the plot that you are actually wondering how it will end. But we all know that, and when Josh is arrested and beaten and finally crucified, there were few dry eyes in the house.
The traveling production performed at my church the Cathedral of Hope, and it was a great setting for the play since it begins and ends with a draped table resembling an alter with a single candle on it. Very moving and touching and poignant and even more so being performed in a predominately LGBT church. The final perfomance is tonight, so you probably won't have time to get tickets but if you can do it.
And if you are thinking about protesting the performance, forget it, the church property extends so far away from the building you wil be unnoticed except by the police who were in attendance for the audience and actors safety.
The story is told through characters living in Corpus Christi, Texas and the principal character Josh, is gay. As I noted it is a passion play and Josh represents Jesus and that was the key to all the anger. Protests and hatred have dogged this play since it was first performed, but I would suspect most of those who are angry have never seen it or read it.
In actuality the play is a very engaging and accessible portrayal of the life of Jesus and the actors in this production based out of LA carry it off with enthusiasm and sincerity without being preachy. That is a good trick, since the script is really what I call pure theater. The staging is minimal, most carried onstage by the actors in backpacks. Characters continuously assume other roles and personae and the changes are sometimes startling and a bit confusing. Gender is no obstacle to any character since men and women play roles of both genders.
The story is well known, yet this cast manages to being freshness to their roles and to the plot that you are actually wondering how it will end. But we all know that, and when Josh is arrested and beaten and finally crucified, there were few dry eyes in the house.
The traveling production performed at my church the Cathedral of Hope, and it was a great setting for the play since it begins and ends with a draped table resembling an alter with a single candle on it. Very moving and touching and poignant and even more so being performed in a predominately LGBT church. The final perfomance is tonight, so you probably won't have time to get tickets but if you can do it.
And if you are thinking about protesting the performance, forget it, the church property extends so far away from the building you wil be unnoticed except by the police who were in attendance for the audience and actors safety.
Saturday, June 05, 2010
Gallup Poll Shows More American's Approve of Gay and Lesbian Relations Than Ever
This one almost sneaked by. Gallup did a survey of American's Acceptance of Gay and Lesbian Relations and for the first time the folks who come down on the LGBT side are over 50%. The group who consider our relationships "morally wrong" dropped to 43%. That is the lowest percentage since the survey was started 10 years ago.
What is really interesting to me is the breakdown of this survey. Women's approval passed 50% last year and their approval rating increased only 2 percentage points since 2006. Men however, made real strides. Since 2006 their approval rating jumped 14 percentage points. That may just mean the Metrosexuals are more than a rumor! The change however is mostly among men under 50 years old.
No surprise that acceptance among Democrats and Independents was the most visible but one eye raiser was the number of Catholics who apparently have changed their minds. It's a 16 percentage point jump, more than 3 times that of Protestants.
I guess we are making progress? My suspicion is that the visibility of LGBT people in the media and politics is helping to make straight folks more comfortable with us and that can only be a good thing! God bless Will and Grace.
What is really interesting to me is the breakdown of this survey. Women's approval passed 50% last year and their approval rating increased only 2 percentage points since 2006. Men however, made real strides. Since 2006 their approval rating jumped 14 percentage points. That may just mean the Metrosexuals are more than a rumor! The change however is mostly among men under 50 years old.
No surprise that acceptance among Democrats and Independents was the most visible but one eye raiser was the number of Catholics who apparently have changed their minds. It's a 16 percentage point jump, more than 3 times that of Protestants.
I guess we are making progress? My suspicion is that the visibility of LGBT people in the media and politics is helping to make straight folks more comfortable with us and that can only be a good thing! God bless Will and Grace.
Friday, June 04, 2010
Anyone Have Anything On This Homophobe?
It's time we started actively looking for dirt on these holier-than-thou right wing asshats. Take this guy as a case in point. Brent Bozell, a spokesperson for the "Media Research Center" a right-wing propaganda group, is outraged that the TV show Glee portrays its homophobic bullies in a bad light. And just how would he make these characters lovable?
Like so many outspoken opponents of LGBT rights, I wonder when we are going to find out that there might be a few skeletons in a well locked closet somewhere? It seems that every week a new homophobe is caught with his pants down in a restroom, or hiring "rent boys" for European vacations. I just wonder if Mr. Bozell might have a few secrets of his own. Just sayin.
Here is his bio if it rings any bells with anyone, after all he is a University of Dallas graduate. If so, let me know. I feel sure my readers would find it fascinating.
Like so many outspoken opponents of LGBT rights, I wonder when we are going to find out that there might be a few skeletons in a well locked closet somewhere? It seems that every week a new homophobe is caught with his pants down in a restroom, or hiring "rent boys" for European vacations. I just wonder if Mr. Bozell might have a few secrets of his own. Just sayin.
Here is his bio if it rings any bells with anyone, after all he is a University of Dallas graduate. If so, let me know. I feel sure my readers would find it fascinating.
The Spill - How Bad Could It Get? BAD!
Meanwhile BP keeps trying one jake leg fix after another and so far none have stopped the flow. If this takes until August, we are in for a world of hurt and all the money BP has wont fix it. I am praying they succeed in stopping the gusher. Really!
Check out the story on CNN Money.
Picture of the Day
Actually published in a Miami Living magazine. Ooops!The tell tail shadow really works with the headline?
Gay Republicans Back Anti-Gay Candidate in California
For the life of me I cannot understand the Log Cabin Republicans. That group continues to amaze me with its ability to act against its own self interests. Yet, they are pikers compared to the other allegedly gay Republican group, GOProud. This bunch of supposedly LGBT people have really done themselves "proud" by endorsing the most homophobic candidate in a California primary.
GOProud is backing Carly Fiorina, who openly opposed same-sex marriage over moderate Republican Tom Campbell who approves same-sex marriage. Why? Well my guess is since GOProud is a puppet group run by the party elite, it's a no brainer. Fiorina is who the GOP wants to go against Barbara Boxer in November.
This puts this allegedly LGBT group in alliance with the National Organization for Marriage who successfully passed Proposition 8 in California last year. Say what?
OK you gay Republicans, explain this one to me!
GOProud is backing Carly Fiorina, who openly opposed same-sex marriage over moderate Republican Tom Campbell who approves same-sex marriage. Why? Well my guess is since GOProud is a puppet group run by the party elite, it's a no brainer. Fiorina is who the GOP wants to go against Barbara Boxer in November.
This puts this allegedly LGBT group in alliance with the National Organization for Marriage who successfully passed Proposition 8 in California last year. Say what?
OK you gay Republicans, explain this one to me!
SC State Senator Calls Obama "Rag Head"
Well you can take the boy out of the country but you can't take the bigotry out of the boy I guess. South Carolina state Senator, Jake Knotts decided he needed a little extra ammunition against the woman who is the front-runner for the GOP nomination for governor. Nikki Haley was raised in a Sikh family but has since converted to Christianity, but in Knotts book that still means she is one of "them".
In a delightfully colorful country slang Senator Knotts stated, "We already got one raghead in the White House, we don’t need a raghead in the governor’s mansion." Classy guy! And he is talking about a fellow Republican!
To me this just goes to show that the GOP really is the party of the "big tent". A big tent full of bigots!
Want further proof? Knotts is supporting the other GOP candidate, Andre Bauer who made the equally delightful statement about government assistance:
In a delightfully colorful country slang Senator Knotts stated, "We already got one raghead in the White House, we don’t need a raghead in the governor’s mansion." Classy guy! And he is talking about a fellow Republican!
To me this just goes to show that the GOP really is the party of the "big tent". A big tent full of bigots!
Want further proof? Knotts is supporting the other GOP candidate, Andre Bauer who made the equally delightful statement about government assistance:
“My grandmother was not a highly educated woman, but she told me as a small child to quit feeding stray animals. You know why? Because they breed. You’re facilitating the problem if you give an animal or a person ample food supply. They will reproduce, especially ones that don’t think too much further than that. And so what you’ve got to do is you’ve got to curtail that type of behavior. They don’t know any better."I state again, the GOP is a tent full of bigots.
Thursday, June 03, 2010
Crazy Car Jump Video at DFW Airport
Dallas Observer posted this video yesterday and it is amazing. A drunk driver trying to leave DFW ariport floored it and did a great Evil Kenevil jump over the safety barricades. Once the car crashed to a halt, she got out and promptly got on her cell phone. Meanwhile her car exploded! She was alive with minor injuries and now in jail.
Rand Paul Violates Copyright Law - Rush (The Band) Not Amused
The walking train wreck that is Rand Paul has slammed into another PR obstacle. Paul's campaign has been using the music of the Canadian band Rush as background in a fund raising video. The band is not amused.
Using music without a license in a political advertisement is a violation of copyright law. Not the kind of thing a potential Governor should be doing. Additionally, in an ironic twist the band is not even American!
Paul continues to make missteps and though they might not be big, after his comments about Civil Rights, birthright and a few other choice peccadilloes the press is waiting with baited breath for him to stumble again.
He shoots and SCORES! Keep it up Rand and you will end up as a bit on Saturday Night Live. That did wonders for Ross Perott and Sarah Palin!
Using music without a license in a political advertisement is a violation of copyright law. Not the kind of thing a potential Governor should be doing. Additionally, in an ironic twist the band is not even American!
Paul continues to make missteps and though they might not be big, after his comments about Civil Rights, birthright and a few other choice peccadilloes the press is waiting with baited breath for him to stumble again.
He shoots and SCORES! Keep it up Rand and you will end up as a bit on Saturday Night Live. That did wonders for Ross Perott and Sarah Palin!
Guatemala Devastated By Torrential Rains
I guess I sometimes forget how bad just plain old rain can get. In Guatemala City where tropical storm Agetha has caused flooding landslides and this amazing sinkhole that swallowed a 3 story building. (Photo from Guatemalan government)It is not Photoshop either!
Saudis Investigate Sinfulness of MTV Program
Saudi Arabia, the repressive kingdom we call our allie has started a new inquisition. This time it is into an MTV program. On the show, a documentary crew followed a trio of young Saudis around in their adventures.
Now these people are vocal in their desire to reform the fundamentalist theocratic laws of the country. The girl of the group makes her own colorful abayas which she wears and sells to her friends. She dresses like a boy so she can ride a bicycle, something not permitted for women.
Well, now their reality show has them in hot water and the authorities are investigating the show for its sinfulness. Yes that is the expression they used, "sin". Now this all comes after the rulers of the kingdom have stated openly they are considering reforms.
Does anyone else see the parallels between this kind of repressed fundamentalism and our own Christian right?
And we call these folks allies? OK, Saudi Arabia has long been our pusher. They supply the highest grade oil to feed our addiction, but they are far from friendly. Just like a drug dealer, once we stop buying, they will no longer care a fig about us.
Now these people are vocal in their desire to reform the fundamentalist theocratic laws of the country. The girl of the group makes her own colorful abayas which she wears and sells to her friends. She dresses like a boy so she can ride a bicycle, something not permitted for women.
Well, now their reality show has them in hot water and the authorities are investigating the show for its sinfulness. Yes that is the expression they used, "sin". Now this all comes after the rulers of the kingdom have stated openly they are considering reforms.
Does anyone else see the parallels between this kind of repressed fundamentalism and our own Christian right?
And we call these folks allies? OK, Saudi Arabia has long been our pusher. They supply the highest grade oil to feed our addiction, but they are far from friendly. Just like a drug dealer, once we stop buying, they will no longer care a fig about us.
Wednesday, June 02, 2010
Mark Kirk - Gay Republican, Votes Against DADT Repeal!
Mike Rogers who has been behind some of the most important "outings" of recent memory has done it again. This time it is Representative Mark Kirk of Illinois. This GOP lawmaker has been relatively benign in the past but when he had a chance to vote with 5 other republicans including Ron Paul to repeal DADT he voted against it. This wouldn't be such a big deal if he wasn't a closeted gay man.
Rogers gives the details including his own testimony that Kirk came out to him back in 2004 at a party, prior to Rogers' blogging activity. I understand a lot of folks have problems with "outing" but in the case of hypocrites who deny us our rights, my opinion is, "OUT THE BASTARDS"!
Rogers gives the details including his own testimony that Kirk came out to him back in 2004 at a party, prior to Rogers' blogging activity. I understand a lot of folks have problems with "outing" but in the case of hypocrites who deny us our rights, my opinion is, "OUT THE BASTARDS"!
Tuesday, June 01, 2010
President Obama Signs LGBT Pride Month Proclamation
This is a big deal. Obama is the first president to give such a whole hearted recognition of LGBT people and their effect on the culture and character of our country.
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release May 28, 2010
LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL, AND TRANSGENDER PRIDE MONTH, 2010
- – - – - – -A PROCLAMATION
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
As Americans, it is our birthright that all people are created equal and deserve the same rights, privileges, and opportunities. Since our earliest days of independence, our Nation has striven to fulfill that promise. An important chapter in our great, unfinished story is the movement for fairness and equality on behalf of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community. This month, as we recognize the immeasurable contributions of LGBT Americans, we renew our commitment to the struggle for equal rights for LGBT Americans and to ending prejudice and injustice wherever it exists.
LGBT Americans have enriched and strengthened the fabric of our national life. From business leaders and professors to athletes and first responders, LGBT individuals have achieved success and prominence in every discipline. They are our mothers and fathers, our sons and daughters, and our friends and neighbors. Across my Administration, openly LGBT employees are serving at every level. Thanks to those who came before us — the brave men and women who marched, stood up to injustice, and brought change through acts of compassion or defiance — we have made enormous progress and continue to strive for a more perfect union.
My Administration has advanced our journey by signing into law the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr., Hate Crimes Prevention Act, which strengthens Federal protections against crimes based on gender identity or sexual orientation. We renewed the Ryan White CARE Act, which provides life-saving medical services and support to Americans living with HIV/AIDS, and finally eliminated the HIV entry ban. I also signed a Presidential Memorandum directing hospitals receiving Medicare and Medicaid funds to give LGBT patients the compassion and security they deserve in their time of need, including the ability to choose someone other than an immediate family member to visit them and make medical decisions.
In other areas, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced a series of proposals to ensure core housing programs are open to everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. HUD also announced the first-ever national study of discrimination against members of the LGBT community in the rental and sale of housing. Additionally, the Department of Health and Human Services has created a National Resource Center for LGBT Elders.
Much work remains to fulfill our Nation’s promise of equal justice under law for LGBT Americans. That is why we must give committed gay couples the same rights and responsibilities afforded to any married couple, and repeal the Defense of Marriage Act. We must protect the rights of LGBT families by securing their adoption rights, ending employment discrimination against LGBT Americans, and ensuring Federal employees receive equal benefits. We must create safer schools so all our children may learn in a supportive environment. I am also committed to ending “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” so patriotic LGBT Americans can serve openly in our military, and I am working with the Congress and our military leadership to accomplish that goal.
As we honor the LGBT Americans who have given so much to our Nation, let us remember that if one of us is unable to realize full equality, we all fall short of our founding principles. Our Nation draws its strength from our diversity, with each of us contributing to the greater whole. By affirming these rights and values, each American benefits from the further advancement of liberty and justice for all.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim June 2010 as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Pride Month. I call upon all Americans to observe this month by fighting prejudice and discrimination in their own lives and everywhere it exists.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-eighth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.
BARACK OBAMA
Monday, May 31, 2010
Israeli Commandos Kill Passengers Aboard Gaza Relief Ship
Israel has seized a ship in international waters. Commandos from Israel surrounded a relief ship bound for Gaza and have reportedly killed several people. The ship contined all civilians according to reporters on board the ship before it was attacked.
Meanwhile Benjamin Netanhayu has canceled a meeting with President Obama. I expect Israel is embarrassed about the botched military action or maybe they have just decided to become a rogue nation? Who knows?
Al Jazera has the report below. Don't expect the US news organizations to cover this attack, they probably will not.
Meanwhile Benjamin Netanhayu has canceled a meeting with President Obama. I expect Israel is embarrassed about the botched military action or maybe they have just decided to become a rogue nation? Who knows?
Al Jazera has the report below. Don't expect the US news organizations to cover this attack, they probably will not.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Top Kill Fails - Now What?
Well the whole Top Kill thing was a bust. I knid of figured they were not having success when I heard them try the junk shot, which just sounds desperate but supposedly it can work. Now it try to cap the thing with what is basically a big box again, this time bigger and better supposedly.
Meanwhile the gulf coast gets progressively worse. It may be time for the government to bring in Army Corps of Engineers and get the coasts better protected. It also is high time the press started looking to BP for solutions. The government is not at fault and they have no expertise in oil drilling. Unfortunately, it is up to the folks who caused the mess to stop the leak. Once that happens, my opinion? Nationalize BP's interests in the Gulf of Mexico and use the seized assets to pay for the damage. Press criminal suits against the well operators for cuting corners and using sea water instead of drilling mud and hold them responsible for the deaths of the 11 men on the rig who died in the explosion.
Meanwhile the gulf coast gets progressively worse. It may be time for the government to bring in Army Corps of Engineers and get the coasts better protected. It also is high time the press started looking to BP for solutions. The government is not at fault and they have no expertise in oil drilling. Unfortunately, it is up to the folks who caused the mess to stop the leak. Once that happens, my opinion? Nationalize BP's interests in the Gulf of Mexico and use the seized assets to pay for the damage. Press criminal suits against the well operators for cuting corners and using sea water instead of drilling mud and hold them responsible for the deaths of the 11 men on the rig who died in the explosion.
Malawi Pardons Gay Couple!
A couple of weeks ago I wrote about the gay couple who were being sentenced to 15 years in prison for getting married. Well Malawi's laws have not changed, but pressure from the UN and other human rights groups has softened the heart of the President of Malawi, Bingu wa Mutharika. The Mutharika said he was pardoning the couple for humanitarian reasons.
This means they will be freed without repercussions, however local human rights groups in Africa are going to take them to a safe location fearing reprisals by citizens.
This is great news, though LGBT people in Malawi are criminals by definition, this move may show a step toward the 21st century and basic freedoms for all Malawi's people. I applaud the president on his action and pray for the safety of Tiwonge Chimbalanga and Steven Monjeza.
This means they will be freed without repercussions, however local human rights groups in Africa are going to take them to a safe location fearing reprisals by citizens.
This is great news, though LGBT people in Malawi are criminals by definition, this move may show a step toward the 21st century and basic freedoms for all Malawi's people. I applaud the president on his action and pray for the safety of Tiwonge Chimbalanga and Steven Monjeza.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Rand Paul Hates the Constitution
OK strong headline, but check out this latest quote from an alleged libertarian.
This guy is a walking PR nightmare and the GOP must be trying to distance themselves from him as quick as possible.
"I recently have been talking more about satellite observation. They say you can sit in front of the store here and a satellite can read the headline on your newspaper. So I think you could also monitor your border with satellites, and then you just have to have some means of intercepting people who come in illegally. You could have helicopters stations positioned every couple of hundred miles. . .
We’re the only country I know of that allows people to come in illegally have a baby and then that baby becomes a citizen. And I think that should stop also."Paul made the statement that directly contradicts the 14th Amendment (birthright) in an interview with Russian television. Strangely enough he advocates an incredible level of surveillance for someone who claims to be for civil liberties.
This guy is a walking PR nightmare and the GOP must be trying to distance themselves from him as quick as possible.
DADT Repeal Measure Might Make It
Both the House and the Senate panels have passed an amendment to the Defense Appropriation Bill that would end Don't Ask Don't Tell as an official policy once the military gives their OK. This is both big news and no news. First of all it isn't a done deal. The obstreperous GOP has threatened to filibusterer this measure, and once signed into law it still depends on the military to "pull the trigger" and strike the policy from the books.
The military is doing a study to see how it could be enacted and how it would affect their operations. So far it looks promising, bu I will wait to celebrate until it actually becomes policy.
I applaud President Obama and Congressional leaders for getting this far. It's a tough step to take in an off year election cycle, but some apparently have the guts to actually vote their conscience.
Now it's up to the guys in uniform and that won't be until December. My fingers are crossed.
The military is doing a study to see how it could be enacted and how it would affect their operations. So far it looks promising, bu I will wait to celebrate until it actually becomes policy.
I applaud President Obama and Congressional leaders for getting this far. It's a tough step to take in an off year election cycle, but some apparently have the guts to actually vote their conscience.
Now it's up to the guys in uniform and that won't be until December. My fingers are crossed.
CEO of BP Admits Environmental Catastrophe in Gulf
The CEO of BP has finally acknowledged that the situation in the Gulf of Mexico is an "environmental catastrophe". Those are words I never expected to hear from an oil company executive about the situation their company caused, but I guess the British are less prone to spin than their American counterparts. Who knows?
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Oil Catastrophe Becomes Clearer - Biggest in US History
As BP comes closer to stemming the flow of the oil gusher that has polluted the Gulf of Mexico the magnitude of the tragedy is starting to become clearer. For those who have asked my why I am so concerned with this issue the answer is simple. I love our coastlines here in Texas and Louisiana and know the devastation the people and animals who call that area home had dealt with over the past few years. Now comes this and it's a whopper!
Latest estimates saw it dwarfs the Exxon Valdez.
To see just how bad it is, check out this photo essay on Huffington Post.
Latest estimates saw it dwarfs the Exxon Valdez.
To see just how bad it is, check out this photo essay on Huffington Post.
"Top Kill" May Be Working - Still Waiting for Confirmation
The oil mess in the gulf may have some good news today. News sources say the "top kill" tactic being used by BP is starting to work and reduce the flow of oil. Still a wait and see period right now. Below is the live feed from the underwater remote robots working on the well.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
American Family Association Claims Hitler Was Gay - Say What?
The American Family Association will stop at nothing to demonize LGBT people. They are a fountain of lies and if you ever needed proof here is a direct quote from one of their mouthpieces Director of Issue Analysis for Government and Public Policy, Bryan Fischer. Mr. Fischer in a radio broadcast makes the ludicrous assertion that Adolph Hitler was gay and it gets worse.
Hitler was a megalomaniac, a mass murder of gays, Jews and gypsies among others, but he had a long time girlfriend whom he married just before committing suicide. Which just proves how dangerous heterosexuals are. Now, shut the fuck up!
"So Hitler himself was an active homosexual. And some people wonder, didn’t the Germans, didn’t the Nazis, persecute homosexuals? And it is true they did; they persecuted effeminate homosexuals. But Hitler recruited around him homosexuals to make up his Stormtroopers, they were his enforcers, they were his thugs. And Hitler discovered that he could not get straight soldiers to be savage and brutal and vicious enough to carry out his orders, but that homosexual solders basically had no limits and the savagery and brutality they were willing to inflict on whomever Hitler sent them after. So he surrounded himself, virtually all of the Stormtroopers, the Brownshirts, were male homosexuals."OK Mr Fischer, here is the truth. Hitler was not gay. Ernst Röhm, one time director of the Brownshirts was but Hitler had him and his companions murdered. That little incodent called "The Night of the Long Knives" On June 30, 1934 was the beginning of that purge.
Hitler was a megalomaniac, a mass murder of gays, Jews and gypsies among others, but he had a long time girlfriend whom he married just before committing suicide. Which just proves how dangerous heterosexuals are. Now, shut the fuck up!
Pray the Top Kill Maneuver Works on the BP Disaster
The incredible amount of oil vomiting into the Gulf of Mexico might be stopped today or in the next few days if the risky tactic known as a Top Kill works. BP officials only give it a 70% chance since it has never been tried as the kind of depths where the leak is located.
The procedure involves pumping huge quantities of drilling mud down the well in hopes of stopping it up. If that works, cement will be forced down and the well will be capped permanently.
Aside from the technical gamble, the environmental problems are already myriad. Photos from the Louisiana coast show hopelessly clogged marshes and wetlands black with oil. Worse, the oil that has been dispersed is sinking to the bottom, where shrimp feed. This spill may kill the lucrative gulf shrimp industry for many years or perhaps permanently.
Stories have surfaced that BP had a warning that there was a problem prior to the blowout, and operators of the well were using seawater instead of drilling mud. A worker for Trans Oceanic, operator of the platform, Truitt Crawford testified, "I overheard upper management talking saying that BP was taking shortcuts by displacing the well with saltwater instead of mud without sealing the well with cement plugs, this is why it blew out."
I suspect we will be hearing about this and other surprises in many days to come. Meanwhile, pray that the effort works, otherwise the leak may spew for months until relief wells can be completed.
The procedure involves pumping huge quantities of drilling mud down the well in hopes of stopping it up. If that works, cement will be forced down and the well will be capped permanently.
Aside from the technical gamble, the environmental problems are already myriad. Photos from the Louisiana coast show hopelessly clogged marshes and wetlands black with oil. Worse, the oil that has been dispersed is sinking to the bottom, where shrimp feed. This spill may kill the lucrative gulf shrimp industry for many years or perhaps permanently.
Stories have surfaced that BP had a warning that there was a problem prior to the blowout, and operators of the well were using seawater instead of drilling mud. A worker for Trans Oceanic, operator of the platform, Truitt Crawford testified, "I overheard upper management talking saying that BP was taking shortcuts by displacing the well with saltwater instead of mud without sealing the well with cement plugs, this is why it blew out."
I suspect we will be hearing about this and other surprises in many days to come. Meanwhile, pray that the effort works, otherwise the leak may spew for months until relief wells can be completed.
Miller Lite Goes Homophobic
I have to wonder when advertisers are going to realize that making juvenile sissy jokes is just downright offensive. The latest campaign without a clue is for Miller Lite. In the spot men who drink outher light beers are shown wearing skirts and being less macho. No I understand it's a joke, but it's every bit as offensive as a racial or ethnic joke. The agencies just don't get it.
It's time they did. Write to Miller and let them know their campaign is boorish and offensive. Better yet, tell bars that serve Miller Lite to STOP. It worked pretty well back in the 80's with Coors.
Miller Brewing Company is encouraging homophobic/transphobic attitudes and even though they are done tongue in cheek, it's crude and wrong.
It's time they did. Write to Miller and let them know their campaign is boorish and offensive. Better yet, tell bars that serve Miller Lite to STOP. It worked pretty well back in the 80's with Coors.
Miller Brewing Company is encouraging homophobic/transphobic attitudes and even though they are done tongue in cheek, it's crude and wrong.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Philippe Cousteau Dives Into the BP Spill - "It’s absolutely disgusting"
“I think this has got to be one of the most horrible things I’ve ever seen underwater.”
BP Trys Another Tactic to Stop the Gusher
Once again BP and its minions are going to try to stem the geyser of oil polluting the Gulf of Mexico. This time, they claim, they will try to "top kill" the well. This involves pumping a lot of mud into the well to try to clog up the flow.
The biggest problem is this has not been tired at the depth they are drilling in the Gulf. Oh boy! Another prototype!
Supposedly they will utilize the failed blowout preventer to do this, ramming tones of mud down the openings in the device. Some will most likely flow back out the damaged pipe that is the source of the trouble right now but they hope enough will go in to essentially smother the gusher.
I sincerely wish them all the luck in the world and I sincerely want to know why they didn't have some kind of plan-B in place should a blowout "preventer" fail as it did in this case. Apparently they never considered that.
On a personal note, I love with an engineer. These guys eat and breathe "what ifs" and it absolutely amazes me that BP just figured their only safety measure would work no matter what. My guess is that once the hearings start we will see how engineers were ignored in order to improve the bottom line. Already it looks like Halliburton and others finagled things and insufficient inspections, etc. are coming to light as well.
Once the leak is stopped, and the clean up begins, I will be interested to see how long BP stays in business. My guess is they will quickly sell off assets to another shell corporation and mysteriously evaporte before the big lawsuits can be filed. Just a guess.
The biggest problem is this has not been tired at the depth they are drilling in the Gulf. Oh boy! Another prototype!
Supposedly they will utilize the failed blowout preventer to do this, ramming tones of mud down the openings in the device. Some will most likely flow back out the damaged pipe that is the source of the trouble right now but they hope enough will go in to essentially smother the gusher.
I sincerely wish them all the luck in the world and I sincerely want to know why they didn't have some kind of plan-B in place should a blowout "preventer" fail as it did in this case. Apparently they never considered that.
On a personal note, I love with an engineer. These guys eat and breathe "what ifs" and it absolutely amazes me that BP just figured their only safety measure would work no matter what. My guess is that once the hearings start we will see how engineers were ignored in order to improve the bottom line. Already it looks like Halliburton and others finagled things and insufficient inspections, etc. are coming to light as well.
Once the leak is stopped, and the clean up begins, I will be interested to see how long BP stays in business. My guess is they will quickly sell off assets to another shell corporation and mysteriously evaporte before the big lawsuits can be filed. Just a guess.
Tony Perkins - Family Research Council - Is An A*&$#T
I normally refrain from calling names here, but sometimes I just can't avoid it. Tony Perkins (of Family Research Council, not the actor) is an ASSHAT!
Let me back that up with a quote from Mr. Perkins.
Now about those top militaries, most folks consider Isreal, Canada and the United Kingdom as having pretty darned good militaries and all three of those countries allow openly lesbian or gay service members. And another thing you ASSHAT, they do a lot more than parade!
Meanwhile Rep. Patrick Murphy (D-PA)is one of the sponsors of the measure to toss out the flawed policy of DADT. By the way, he's straight and he is a war veteran.
Let me back that up with a quote from Mr. Perkins.
"I know a lot of people point to militaries that have allowed homosexuality within the ranks – there’s twenty-five of almost two hundred nations but the top militaries in the world do not allow homosexuality to be openly engaged in, in the military – I mean, if you want a military that just does parades and stuff like that then I guess that’s okay."Parades and stuff? Excuse me you ASSHAT, but I have many friends who are gay who served honorably and heroically in the military, all the while hiding their sexual orientation. That takes guts. More over some of those same friends would have served just a honorably and heroically if they had been allowed to be open about their sexual orientation.
Now about those top militaries, most folks consider Isreal, Canada and the United Kingdom as having pretty darned good militaries and all three of those countries allow openly lesbian or gay service members. And another thing you ASSHAT, they do a lot more than parade!
Meanwhile Rep. Patrick Murphy (D-PA)is one of the sponsors of the measure to toss out the flawed policy of DADT. By the way, he's straight and he is a war veteran.
Monday, May 24, 2010
Fox News Slips - Host Asks GOP, Where Are "We" Now?
Think Progress found this tidbit and it is painfully obvious that the "fair and balanced" folks at Fox are just the GOP noise machine with a fancy wrapper. In an interview with Georgia Republican, Rep. Tom Price, host Bill Hemmer lets this one slip:
HEMMER: I want to know from you how you evaluate all these primaries we’ve been watching now. … As you evaluate things right now, some five a half months out, I mean, where do we stand? How strong a position are Republicans? Or what happened in Pennsylvania, in Jack Murtha’s old district, does that give people like you pause and say, hang on here, we’ve got a lot of work to do still.’What do you mean "we" Mr. Hemmer?
Oh No! Kung Fu Bears!
I can't wait to see what Stephen Colbert does with this. Remember his #1 enemy of America is BEARS!
Nancy Pelosi Speaks at Harvey Milk Day in SF - Ending DADT Will Happen This Year
OK, she makes about as much of a promise as I can imagine, so let's hold the Democrats to it.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Louisana Coast May Never Fully Recover From The BP Disaster
As the BP oil disaster grows, the coast of Louisana is beginning to feel the pain. The sensitive wetlands and marshes along the coast are filling up with oil. Pelican rookeries have been sighted with the birds and their eggs covered in oil.
The biggest problem with the marshlands is there is no effective way to clean them up. Waco suggestions such as burning them off and flooding them to "float the oil" off have been suggested but thankfully neither has been put into practice.
The coast may have to recover on its own which means many years from now it might be cleaner, but never the same. The industries that rely on this are may be destroyed as well. Shrimping, oysters, etc are not happening any time soon.
Thanks BP! Glad you are Beyond Petroleum. Now if you were only beyond incompitent that would be better!
The biggest problem with the marshlands is there is no effective way to clean them up. Waco suggestions such as burning them off and flooding them to "float the oil" off have been suggested but thankfully neither has been put into practice.
The coast may have to recover on its own which means many years from now it might be cleaner, but never the same. The industries that rely on this are may be destroyed as well. Shrimping, oysters, etc are not happening any time soon.
Thanks BP! Glad you are Beyond Petroleum. Now if you were only beyond incompitent that would be better!
Friday, May 21, 2010
How To Destroy A Landmark (Video)
This is what happens when you don't do your engineering studies prior to trying to move a century old landmark. Not pretty and I suspect not very funny for the folks involved.
Rand Paul Says Obama Un-American for Criticizing BP (Hint to Paul, It's British)
Meanwhile in the "can this guy stick his foot any further down his throat" department Rand Paul is calling President Obama "un-American" for criticizing BP over the gulf oil disaster they caused.
Paul is amazing in his ability to say precisely the wrong thing. First he debates the virtues of the Civil Rights Bill, arguing that it infringes on the personal liberties of businesses to perpetuate racist policies and now this. I believe he is trying to out "Palin" Sarah Palin! Way to go Kentucky!
Paul is amazing in his ability to say precisely the wrong thing. First he debates the virtues of the Civil Rights Bill, arguing that it infringes on the personal liberties of businesses to perpetuate racist policies and now this. I believe he is trying to out "Palin" Sarah Palin! Way to go Kentucky!
Tomorrow is Harvey Milk Day
Tomorrow, May 22 will mark the second observance of Harvey Milk Day in California. It was Harvey's birthday and it should be a day all people, LGBT or straight should observe. Milk sought to being people together to work for the common good. Funny, that sounds a lot like the same ideals of the founders of our country.
USA Today has a nice interview with Cleve Jones about Harvey. Cleve has been active in the LGBT movement since the days back in the Castro and was instrumental in the AIDS Quilt Project. Take a moment and listen to him.
USA Today has a nice interview with Cleve Jones about Harvey. Cleve has been active in the LGBT movement since the days back in the Castro and was instrumental in the AIDS Quilt Project. Take a moment and listen to him.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Malawi Sentencing - Prison For Loving
As Steven Mojenza, 26, and Tiwonge Chimbalanga, 20, were sentenced to 14 years in prison for loving each other in the Malawi courtroom, Tiwonge made this statement. I warn you it will make you cry.
"I love Steven so much. If people or the world cannot give me the chance and freedom to continue living with him as my lover, then I am better off to die here in prison. Freedom without him is useless and meaningless." Tiwonge ChimbalangaMeanwhile the politicians of Malawi, the land locked, dirt-poor African country were belligerent of criticism by the international community.
"I do not think that in this particular case that these two people were prejudiced against," he said. "We have no law that criminalizes sexual orientation, just certain sexual acts." Anthony Kamanga, Malawi's solicitor general.In years past the west looked at Africa and unfairly called the people living there "savages". In this case, I can understand why.
PeeWee Herman On Broadway!
Just heard from PeeWee that his Broadway show will open in October for 6 weeks. Some lucky people already have seats!
The official show site is here. Hint: the secret word is SCREAM.
The official show site is here. Hint: the secret word is SCREAM.
Rand Paul Wants End To Civil Rights
Rand Paul, wunderkind of uber-libertarian Ron Paul has been in the news a lot lately. Finally his real values have come out in an interview with the Louisville Courier-Journal Paul declares that he thinks it should be OK for businesses to deny service to people because of their race. Trying to reconcile an ultra-libertarian philosophy with the Civil Rights Act Rand is exposed for what he really is.
Now I know many folks will call me radical for saying this, but come on, if you take away the provisions that insure businesses treat everyone equally regardless of race, you take away the whole Civil Rights Act and you are right back to separate but equal. So let's call it like it is, Rand Paul is racist at his core and he masks it in libertarian "values" but the reality is clear.
Think Progress says it this way:
Now I know many folks will call me radical for saying this, but come on, if you take away the provisions that insure businesses treat everyone equally regardless of race, you take away the whole Civil Rights Act and you are right back to separate but equal. So let's call it like it is, Rand Paul is racist at his core and he masks it in libertarian "values" but the reality is clear.
Think Progress says it this way:
INTERVIEWER: But under your philosophy, it would be okay for Dr. King not to be served at the counter at Woolworths?
PAUL: I would not go to that Woolworths, and I would stand up in my community and say that it is abhorrent, um, but, the hard part—and this is the hard part about believing in freedom—is, if you believe in the First Amendment, for example—you have too, for example, most good defenders of the First Amendment will believe in abhorrent groups standing up and saying awful things. . . . It’s the same way with other behaviors. In a free society, we will tolerate boorish people, who have abhorrent behavior.
For the record, here is an example of the “boorish people” that Paul thinks a free society must tolerate:
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
NASA Photo Shows Oil Slick Growing and Going Toward Open Ocean
Click on the photo for a larger version.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Mark Souter Video - Endorsing Abstinence with His Mistress!
Disgraced Re. Mark Souder discusses abstinence with the woman he had the affair with. Oh the irony is so rich!
Of course the Daily Show is on hiatus this week, which is probably why he resigned this week!
Of course the Daily Show is on hiatus this week, which is probably why he resigned this week!
Malawi - Gay Couple Goes to Prison for 14 Years Because of Love
File this under the category of places you don't want to visit!
Malawi, the tiny land locked nation that borders Zambis, Mozambique and Tanzania has struck a blow for homophobia by convicting two men for gross indecency and unnatural acts...in other words being gay.
According to a BBC article, the couple faces 14 years in prison for celebrating their engagement ahead of a wedding planned for 2010.
For a country with the motto "Unity and Freedom" it seems that only unity of heterosexuals and freedom only if you are straight. Perhaps they should rethink that motto?
Malawi is one of the most populated and poorest countries in Africa. Right now 40% of the country's development budget depends on donors, therefore the government there would be more likely to listen to international concerns about this matter. Human rights in Malawi are abysmal for LGBT people, please write your congressperson and let them know you oppose further aid to this country is it does not reform it's anti-LGBT laws.
Malawi, the tiny land locked nation that borders Zambis, Mozambique and Tanzania has struck a blow for homophobia by convicting two men for gross indecency and unnatural acts...in other words being gay.
According to a BBC article, the couple faces 14 years in prison for celebrating their engagement ahead of a wedding planned for 2010.
For a country with the motto "Unity and Freedom" it seems that only unity of heterosexuals and freedom only if you are straight. Perhaps they should rethink that motto?
Malawi is one of the most populated and poorest countries in Africa. Right now 40% of the country's development budget depends on donors, therefore the government there would be more likely to listen to international concerns about this matter. Human rights in Malawi are abysmal for LGBT people, please write your congressperson and let them know you oppose further aid to this country is it does not reform it's anti-LGBT laws.
Another GOP Family Values Politician - Caught in a Sex Scandal
It has almost become a given if a politician runs on "Family Values", he or she will get caught in a sex scandal. Well, more proof to that hypothesis comes in the form of Rep. Mark Souder (R-IN). He has long run on that old platform, family values, and so I guess this should come as no surprise.
In a Fox News exclusive, Souder says he is leaving office to spend more time with his family. Sound familliar? Seems Souder was having an affair with a 45-year-old staff member. That infraction would have ended up with him in front of an Ethics Panel and a messy press situation.
Thanks to AmericaBlog for finding this nifty tidbit.
In a Fox News exclusive, Souder says he is leaving office to spend more time with his family. Sound familliar? Seems Souder was having an affair with a 45-year-old staff member. That infraction would have ended up with him in front of an Ethics Panel and a messy press situation.
Thanks to AmericaBlog for finding this nifty tidbit.
Monday, May 17, 2010
ADHD Linked To Pesticide Use
I wondered why the whole ADHD thing was so prevalent these days and this new study may have the answer. Organophosphates used in pesticides like Malathion are toxic to the nervous system. Traces of these are higher in children with ADHD than those without. Interesting study.
Indiana Stonewall Democrats Shun Party Pick to Replace Bayh
Sometimes the Stonewall Democrats make me so proud! The Indiana Stonewall Democrats refused to endorse the party's pick to replace Evan Bayh. Here is theri statement in full:
For Immediate Release - - Today, the Indiana Stonewall Democrats (ISD) spoke resolutely and loudly by saying nothing on our ballot to determine Evan Bayh's successor for Democratic candidate for United States Senate.
To any who would question our commitment to the Democratic Party based on our abstention, we would respond with a simple question, "What does it mean to be a Democrat?"
We find our answer in the Indiana Democratic Party's 2008 platform, which includes the following statements:
As a party of the people, we strongly oppose restriction of opportunity to Hoosiers based on their race, religion, ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or economic background.We also encourage legislation addressing hate crimes that would protect the freedom of all Hoosiers and create tougher penalties for those who infringe, criminally or otherwise, on those freedoms.We must work to ensure that all people - without regard to race, religion gender, ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or economic background - have the right to achieve the American dream. For the sake of current and future generations, it is our duty as Democrats to put an end to any injustices that threaten that goal.We find further guidance in the Democratic National Committee's 2008 platform, which states:
We support the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" and the implementation of policies to allow qualified men and women to serve openly regardless of sexual orientation.We support the full inclusion of all families, including same-sex couples, in the life of our nation, and support equal responsibility, benefits, and protections.We believe it is time for the Democratic Party at all levels to live up to our expressed ideals.
Our abstention is born, in large part, from the frustration of feint support from the Indiana Democratic Party, which has taken our support for granted too long and shown no interest in developing ISD further.
We do not intend our abstention, in any manner, to be taken as support for Republican nominee Dan Coats. His objection to permitting highly-qualified gays and lesbians to serve in the armed services is well-documented, as is his historical hostility to the gay and lesbian community. Further, we doubt a high-paid, Washington, D.C. lobbyist is what average Hoosiers needs in this time of economic insecurity.
Nor do we intend our abstention to be construed as an indictment of Congressman Ellsworth's personal sentiments towards gays and lesbians. By all accounts, the Congressman interacts respectfully and meaningfully with our community, and to his credit, implemented a gay-friendly employment policy as Vanderburgh County Sheriff at great political risk to himself.
But as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. stated, "Shallow understanding from people of goodwill is more frustrating than absolute misunderstanding from people of ill will."
Regrettably, there has been, up to this point, a disconnect between not only the Democratic Party's words and deeds, but in the Congressman's personal conduct toward gay, lesbian, and transgender Hoosiers and his votes and public statements on their issues. Specifically, Congressman Ellsworth voted against the Hates Crimes bill and the version of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) that provides protection to transgender Hoosiers, and he has not expressed publicly his willingness to vote for the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell." Moreover, and perhaps most tellingly, when asked during our meeting whether he supports adoption by gay couples, Congressman Ellsworth stated he "needs more information."
Given the number of children suffering in the foster care system, the Congressman's reservations about gay adoption are deeply troubling
But, in fairness, we must say that our meeting with Congressman Ellsworth was constructive overall. Our hope is that he will continue to learn about our issues, moderate his positions on areas of disagreement, and follow through on our many areas of agreement.
Had the Congressman spoken publicly for the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell, voted for the Hate Crimes bill, or supported a transgender inclusive version of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, or had the Indiana Democratic Party shown interest in facilitating the growth of our caucus, perhaps our path today would have been different. But we see a clear distinction between an elected official with a record forged under the crucible of political pressure like Senator Evan Bayh's and a candidate who claims to be supportive but whose voting history and public rhetoric show an effort to too frequently side with those who demonize gay, lesbian, and transgender Hoosiers, and a political party that does the same.
In sum, we will no longer go along for the sake of "party unity" with a party that too frequently fails to unify with us under its own guiding principles.
We want to state emphatically on behalf of our members and our fellow progressives in the Democratic family that our support must be earned by living up to the Democratic Party's principles through action. When that is done, we will respond accordingly. Approximately two weeks ago, we hosted a fundraising event for several Indiana House of Representatives candidates. We did so to support our friends who have lived up to our platform and to help preserve the Democratic House leadership that has done the same.
It is our hope that we will soon be able to likewise embrace Congressman Ellsworth without reservation and usher in a more fruitful relationship with the Indiana Democratic Party.
The Indiana Stonewall Democrats will have no further comment at this time.
Video of Last Weeks Bombing in Iraq
If you have a weak stomach don't watch this. YouTube may remove it soon but if it is still online and you want to know what kind of hell Baghdad is right now, watch it and pray. This is not a bomb by the US but one set by internal Iraq factions fighting for control of the country and seeking to destabilize the existing government.
Why am I posting this? Because wars that we helped start should have a face, ignoring the suffering of others gives us a false impression of the world. To the terrorists who did this and their heartless cruelty, they have stepped out of the human race and into something entirely different. I cry for their victims and for their own loss of humanity.
Why am I posting this? Because wars that we helped start should have a face, ignoring the suffering of others gives us a false impression of the world. To the terrorists who did this and their heartless cruelty, they have stepped out of the human race and into something entirely different. I cry for their victims and for their own loss of humanity.
Miss USA - And the Winner is...
My partner and I were having a nice meal at Lucky's Cafe in Dallas last night. Lucky's is a Dallas institution and serves great food for all tastes. One of the annoying things about the cafe is the ubiquitous TV screens. It seems that today you cannot go anywhere without seeing television, and in most cases, more than one channel at a time.
One screen was playing a baseball game and the other, since this is the gayborhood, had the Miss USA Pageant.
My partner and I had a close encounter with this event a few years back when we stumbled into the press conference in front of the then, Aladdin Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. The hotel is not Planet Hollywood, but the pageant still resides in the massive performing arts theater in that venue.
As we casually watched the proceedings we took bets on who would be Miss USA. It was a toss up between Miss Oklahoma and Miss Michigan. Seems we were spot on, and Miss Michigan won the title. \
We were too far from the set to see the names of the contestants and the sound was thankfully off, so all we saw was perfectly coiffed young impossibly pretty women competing and answering what I feel sure were softball questions.
Imagine our surprise today when the right wing noise machine begins complaining about Miss Michigan winning the contest. Why? Because her family is of Arab descent! Turns out she was raised in a dual faith family and attended a Catholic High School. OMG! That is just too much diversity for the right wing media.
These insane people see any diversity as something imposed from some sort of liberal/PC agenda. I guess they can't understand that the large Arab American population of Michigan might lead to at least a few entrants being of Arab heritage?
OK lets call it what it is, bigotry. FOX and Beck and the rest of these talking heads are pretty much bigots wrapped in American flags and pretending to be news reporters. Enough already! Let the pretty girl have her title and save the world, or whatever Miss USA's do.
One screen was playing a baseball game and the other, since this is the gayborhood, had the Miss USA Pageant.
My partner and I had a close encounter with this event a few years back when we stumbled into the press conference in front of the then, Aladdin Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. The hotel is not Planet Hollywood, but the pageant still resides in the massive performing arts theater in that venue.
As we casually watched the proceedings we took bets on who would be Miss USA. It was a toss up between Miss Oklahoma and Miss Michigan. Seems we were spot on, and Miss Michigan won the title. \
We were too far from the set to see the names of the contestants and the sound was thankfully off, so all we saw was perfectly coiffed young impossibly pretty women competing and answering what I feel sure were softball questions.
Imagine our surprise today when the right wing noise machine begins complaining about Miss Michigan winning the contest. Why? Because her family is of Arab descent! Turns out she was raised in a dual faith family and attended a Catholic High School. OMG! That is just too much diversity for the right wing media.
These insane people see any diversity as something imposed from some sort of liberal/PC agenda. I guess they can't understand that the large Arab American population of Michigan might lead to at least a few entrants being of Arab heritage?
OK lets call it what it is, bigotry. FOX and Beck and the rest of these talking heads are pretty much bigots wrapped in American flags and pretending to be news reporters. Enough already! Let the pretty girl have her title and save the world, or whatever Miss USA's do.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Recent Oak Lawn Robbery Not A Hate Crime and Other Lies!
OK folks, if you don't like reading my stuff when I am on my soapbox, leave now.
Friday night two men walking down Throckmorton Street toward the bars were attacked and savagely beaten with baseball bats by thugs screaming anti-gay epithets. Now our esteemed police force decided that since the victims were robbed of their wallets, it was just a simple robbery and assault and not a hate crime.
Excuse me? This is what used to be called back in the bad old days "rolling queers" and even though there was a robbery involved it is about as clear a hate crime as you can find. Apparently our police cannot or will not protect the LGBT community and refuses to understand that calling people who you are beating into unconsciousness with a baseball bat, "faggot" is hate speech.
I guess the LGBT community is going to have to start protecting ourselves, because the police do not take seriously this kid of crime. Sad day for Dallas and even sadder for the LGBT community who has seen a rise in these kinds of attacks recently.
I recall the 1970's and 80's when a group of trained gay men and lesbians donned pink berets and patrolled the gayborhood. They carried radios and whistles as well as cans of mace for protection. Most knew self defense moves and were not itching for a fight, but their presence deterred a lot of crime. The Dallas Gay Alliance handed out whistles to people at bars and clubs and we became vigilant. The attacks diminished and he police took notice of our actions and increased patrols in the area.
Well I am willing to take a few shifts and I have a very nice uniform that could look even snazzier with a pink beret. With the advent of cell phones it should be easier to stay in touch and I believe pepper spray works even better than Mace.
Anyone with me on this?
Friday night two men walking down Throckmorton Street toward the bars were attacked and savagely beaten with baseball bats by thugs screaming anti-gay epithets. Now our esteemed police force decided that since the victims were robbed of their wallets, it was just a simple robbery and assault and not a hate crime.
Excuse me? This is what used to be called back in the bad old days "rolling queers" and even though there was a robbery involved it is about as clear a hate crime as you can find. Apparently our police cannot or will not protect the LGBT community and refuses to understand that calling people who you are beating into unconsciousness with a baseball bat, "faggot" is hate speech.
I guess the LGBT community is going to have to start protecting ourselves, because the police do not take seriously this kid of crime. Sad day for Dallas and even sadder for the LGBT community who has seen a rise in these kinds of attacks recently.
I recall the 1970's and 80's when a group of trained gay men and lesbians donned pink berets and patrolled the gayborhood. They carried radios and whistles as well as cans of mace for protection. Most knew self defense moves and were not itching for a fight, but their presence deterred a lot of crime. The Dallas Gay Alliance handed out whistles to people at bars and clubs and we became vigilant. The attacks diminished and he police took notice of our actions and increased patrols in the area.
Well I am willing to take a few shifts and I have a very nice uniform that could look even snazzier with a pink beret. With the advent of cell phones it should be easier to stay in touch and I believe pepper spray works even better than Mace.
Anyone with me on this?
Saturday, May 15, 2010
BP Trying Again to Stop The Disaster They Caused
British Petroleum continues their quest to stem the geyser of oil polluting the Gulf of Mexico. The latest scheme is to insert a pipe inside the broken pipe to siphon off the oil. That hasn't been easy using robots at the bottom of the sea. Meanwhile, at the surface oil soaked wildlife is starting to show up along the US coastline in alarming numbers.
Personally, I think everyone has been soft peddling this disaster. The sheer volume of oil bubbling up into one of the world's most productive fisheries is going to have a big impact on the US economy and the lively hood of not only fishermen, but the entire gulf coast. I have heard harsh words from Washington, now if they will only follow them up with action.
First stop the leak. Then once a relief well is drilled by BP to siphon off the oil and essentially dry up the gushing broken well head, the government needs to either confiscate the entire operation as a criminal enterprise since they did not have a permit and were knowingly using defective equipment or fine BP enough to pay for the damages. That is going to be a LOT of money, maybe even enough to put them out of business.
Offshore drilling needs to be reevaluated and monitored much more closely. Otherwise the Gulf of Mexico will end up as a stinking dead cesspool of petroleum waste.
Personally, I think everyone has been soft peddling this disaster. The sheer volume of oil bubbling up into one of the world's most productive fisheries is going to have a big impact on the US economy and the lively hood of not only fishermen, but the entire gulf coast. I have heard harsh words from Washington, now if they will only follow them up with action.
First stop the leak. Then once a relief well is drilled by BP to siphon off the oil and essentially dry up the gushing broken well head, the government needs to either confiscate the entire operation as a criminal enterprise since they did not have a permit and were knowingly using defective equipment or fine BP enough to pay for the damages. That is going to be a LOT of money, maybe even enough to put them out of business.
Offshore drilling needs to be reevaluated and monitored much more closely. Otherwise the Gulf of Mexico will end up as a stinking dead cesspool of petroleum waste.
Lewis Black - Glenn Beck Has Nazi Tourette's
I only hope some day I could be as funny as Lewis Black... without his blood pressure!
| The Daily Show With Jon Stewart | Mon - Thurs 11p / 10c | |||
| Back in Black - Glenn Beck's Nazi Tourette's | ||||
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Friday, May 14, 2010
Latest Chart of the Oil Disaster
Meanwhile, stay away from BP stations just so they know somebody is going to hold them accountable.
President Obama Weighs in on BP Fiasco at Hearings
If you saw any of the testimony on Capitol Hill by the execs from BP and their vendors you probably feel as frustrated as I do. Nice to see our president shares that frustration. Here's President Obama's quote:
I know BP has committed to pay for the response effort, and we will hold them to their obligation. I have to say, though, I did not appreciate what I considered to be a ridiculous spectacle during the congressional hearings into this matter. You had executives of BP and Transocean and Halliburton falling over each other to point the finger of blame at somebody else. The American people could not have been impressed with that display, and I certainly wasn’t.
I understand that there are legal and financial issues involved, and a full investigation will tell us exactly what happened. But it is pretty clear that the system failed, and it failed badly. And for that, there is enough responsibility to go around. And all parties should be willing to accept it.
Lisa Murkowski Sells Out To Big Oil - Blocks Liability Cap Expansion!
Sometimes I think Alaska doesn't see itself as a state. Their Senator, Lisa Murkowski must be completely in the pocket of the oil companies to do this. Huffington Post reports:
Oh and Lisa? Murkowski, a drilling supporter, has received almost $300,000 in campaign contributions from the oil and gas industry.Can you say SELL OUT YOUR COUNTRY?
A bill to increase the liability cap for oil spills from $75 million to $10 billion was defeated Thursday by Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska.Why now? And why such a low cap? Personally I think there should be no cap on liability for these guys if they drill without a permit or proper safety precautions like BP.
Oh and Lisa? Murkowski, a drilling supporter, has received almost $300,000 in campaign contributions from the oil and gas industry.Can you say SELL OUT YOUR COUNTRY?
Colbert Skewers Glenn Beck - Very Funny!
Stephen Colbert is one of my favorite court jesters, and last night he was really on his game. He skewers Glenn Beck for his comparison of himself (Beck) to Martin Luther King. Watch.
| The Colbert Report | Mon - Thurs 11:30pm / 10:30c | |||
| Glenn to the Mountaintop | ||||
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BP Chief Says Leak is "Relatively Tiny". Say What?
I heard a quote by the Chief Executive of British Petroleum, Tony Hayward this morning on NPR. He said of the massive oil gusher that is surely to become the worst ecological disaster of the past century, "it's relatively tiny". Of course he was talking about the volume of the leak when compared to the Gulf of Mexico. AssHat!
A "relatively tiny" amount of strychnine in a cup of tea either is just as deadly as a cup full. When it comes to pollution like this trying to minimize the problem is the worst kind of spin I can think of. Meanwhile I would like to ask this jerk, "were the the deaths of those 11 workers relatively tiny"?
Scientists, after examining the video that BP had refused to release for weeks say the volume of the spill is not the 5000 barrels a day we have heard bandied about, but more like 70,000! That is like the Exxon Valdez rupturing every four days.
Meanwhile as the lying fops testify before Congress, the spill moves closer to shore and already hundreds of marine animals are washing ashore dead and coated with oil. The fisheries may or may not be usable this season, and that could devastate the economy of the coast. These photos from NASA give a hint as to the magnitude of the spill.
This one isn't going to go away and BP, Transoceanic and Halliburton have their fingerprints all over it. If it means these companies have to be gutted to pay for the cleanup and damages, that would be just dandy with me.
A "relatively tiny" amount of strychnine in a cup of tea either is just as deadly as a cup full. When it comes to pollution like this trying to minimize the problem is the worst kind of spin I can think of. Meanwhile I would like to ask this jerk, "were the the deaths of those 11 workers relatively tiny"?
Scientists, after examining the video that BP had refused to release for weeks say the volume of the spill is not the 5000 barrels a day we have heard bandied about, but more like 70,000! That is like the Exxon Valdez rupturing every four days.
Meanwhile as the lying fops testify before Congress, the spill moves closer to shore and already hundreds of marine animals are washing ashore dead and coated with oil. The fisheries may or may not be usable this season, and that could devastate the economy of the coast. These photos from NASA give a hint as to the magnitude of the spill.
This one isn't going to go away and BP, Transoceanic and Halliburton have their fingerprints all over it. If it means these companies have to be gutted to pay for the cleanup and damages, that would be just dandy with me.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
More Music Videos from the Front. Blah blah blah - Iraq Mix!
Gays in the military? They might already be there! Or not.
Cute video by one of our enlisted men. His words about this:
"Created by Codey Wilson and his elite step team of volunteers. The video is an EXAGGERATED act of a possible future military that is open to any sexual preference. Please don't try to cause us any problems. We're just a few good guys trying to enjoy ourselves and get this deployment over with. No one in the video is gay... that we know of, nor am I. Sorry guys.(political correctness) I am NOT saying it IS ok to be gay in the military. I am not saying it's NOT OK. As a wanna be student actor and film maker I was forced to release this early due to our friend in Afghans lip sinked music video. I have to admit I feel a bit more creative but he has my respect. Making these things around here is really scary because we're taking major risks. You know you love it. Enjoy it. Spread it."
Cute video by one of our enlisted men. His words about this:
"Created by Codey Wilson and his elite step team of volunteers. The video is an EXAGGERATED act of a possible future military that is open to any sexual preference. Please don't try to cause us any problems. We're just a few good guys trying to enjoy ourselves and get this deployment over with. No one in the video is gay... that we know of, nor am I. Sorry guys.(political correctness) I am NOT saying it IS ok to be gay in the military. I am not saying it's NOT OK. As a wanna be student actor and film maker I was forced to release this early due to our friend in Afghans lip sinked music video. I have to admit I feel a bit more creative but he has my respect. Making these things around here is really scary because we're taking major risks. You know you love it. Enjoy it. Spread it."
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Tennessee Lawmakers Want Guns in Bars? Yup!
In an effort to return to the days of saloon shootouts and other wild west idiocy, the Tennessee legislature has caved to the NRA and voted to allow concealed handguns to be carried into bars and other establishments serving liquor. Now the caveat is that the person carrying the gun is not supposed to drink....yeah right!
Apparently the NRA wants that changed as well. Gee, I am glad these folks are standing up for our rights to carry lethal weapons and get tanked up! Heck it's an old mountain tradition. Get drunk and shoot guns....oy vey!
I just hope Texas doesn't hear about this or next thing you know there will be gun toting booze hounds making our bars as safe as our streets! Not!
Apparently the NRA wants that changed as well. Gee, I am glad these folks are standing up for our rights to carry lethal weapons and get tanked up! Heck it's an old mountain tradition. Get drunk and shoot guns....oy vey!
I just hope Texas doesn't hear about this or next thing you know there will be gun toting booze hounds making our bars as safe as our streets! Not!
Great Dancing, Sexy Costumes, Hot Video - Wrong Age!
OK I am not a complete prude, but even though this dance number is very well done, the idea of prepubescent girls doing this and dressed like hookers just makes me wonder. This kind of sexualization of children is child abuse in my book. You decide and let me know!
George Rekers Resigns from NARTH
NARTH, the infamous homophobic group that claims it can de-gay gays, issued this announcement:
Blah blah blah! The "truth" is that Georgie got caught with his cock in the cookie jar and his whole raison d'etra for being with this bogus group just flew out the window. Don't let the door kit you on the way out Doc!
NARTH Responds to theRecent Media Coverage of Dr. George Rekers
"I am immediately resigning my membership in NARTH to allow myself the time necessary to fight the false media reports that have been made against me. With the assistance of a defamation attorney, I will fight these false reports because I have not engaged in any homosexual behavior whatsoever. I am not gay and never have been." --George A. Rekers, Ph.D.
NARTH has accepted Dr. Rekers' resignation and would hope that the legal process will sufficiently clarify the questions that have arisen in this unfortunate situation. We express our sincere sympathy to all individuals, regardless of their perspective, who have been injured by these events. We also wish to reiterate our traditional position that these personal controversies do not change the scientific data, nor do they detract from the important work of NARTH. NARTH continues to support scientific research, and to value client autonomy, client self-determination and client diversity.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
13 Year Old Boy Does Lady Gaga - Perfection!
This kid is 13 and he already does a kick ass Lady Gaga! Future as a performer is secured. I suspect the girls in the background who are clearly smitten will be disappointed by his lack of interest in them someday. (Just my guess!)
Seattle Police Captured in Racist Assault on Video
So to those folks who can't understand why the Arizona Illegal Immigrant law bothers me so much. They say that police will enforce it fairly...and other such crap. Watch this video from Seattle. Tell me how you think this would have turned out if a similar law was enacted there. The officer's comment "I will kick the Mexican piss out of you". to an innocent man, kinda sums up my fear about this kind of thing. By the way, the video title "alleged beating" is bullshit. It is a clear and visible beating not an allegation.
Emergency Prayer Groups and Nature's Fury
As some of you know my partner and I chase severe storms on occasion and contrary to the hype and drama seen on television the reality is lots and lots of driving followed by occasional really nifty encounters with Mother Nature. The ration of successful chases is somewhere around 10-20%, so lots of frustration and driving and driving and driving.
Having seen the amazing wonders of a tornado up close and personal and having captured the phenomenon on video several times, I can tell you that these incredible storms are awe inspiring. That's why I am kind of amazed a group of the "faithful" in Miami, Oklahoma formed an emergency prayer group to deal with the severe weather.
Apparently these folk figure if they pray hard and long enough the storms will abate and clear skies will result.
Now, I am sympathetic to their cause, nobody wants people hurt or injured from a tornado, but I am reminded of the story of the man who was stuck in the flooding after a hurricane.
I suspect his answer would be, "well we gave you the weather service and radar and education as to how to protect yourself in a storm!"
Meanwhile, my partner ended up chasing the storms yesterday, but nature had the last laugh. Our storm chase car broke down mid chase and the wind tore the door loose. Luckily he is safe and back in Dallas now.
Sometimes you get the bear, sometimes the bear gets you.
Having seen the amazing wonders of a tornado up close and personal and having captured the phenomenon on video several times, I can tell you that these incredible storms are awe inspiring. That's why I am kind of amazed a group of the "faithful" in Miami, Oklahoma formed an emergency prayer group to deal with the severe weather.
Apparently these folk figure if they pray hard and long enough the storms will abate and clear skies will result.
Now, I am sympathetic to their cause, nobody wants people hurt or injured from a tornado, but I am reminded of the story of the man who was stuck in the flooding after a hurricane.
First a truck came by and offered to rescue him before the flood waters came, and he declined saying the Lord would save him. Then as he sat waist deep in water a boat came by and offered to rescue him, he declined again saying the Lord would save him. Finally a helicopter flew over his house as he sat on the roof to escape the floor and he declined again with the same refrain, the Lord would save him.I figure these folks would be better served to spend their energies educating people to storm safety and digging storm shelters than having emergency prayers. I would hate to be in the position of asking the question to St. Peter, "Why didn't you answer our prayers?"
He drowned.
At the pearly gates he met St. Peter and asked , "So why didn't God save me from the flood?"
St. Peter responded, "well we sent a truck a boat and a helicopter!"
I suspect his answer would be, "well we gave you the weather service and radar and education as to how to protect yourself in a storm!"
Meanwhile, my partner ended up chasing the storms yesterday, but nature had the last laugh. Our storm chase car broke down mid chase and the wind tore the door loose. Luckily he is safe and back in Dallas now.
Sometimes you get the bear, sometimes the bear gets you.
Colbert Has Solution To Oil Guyser
| The Colbert Report | Mon - Thurs 11:30pm / 10:30c | |||
| Oil Containment Solution Randomizer | ||||
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Monday, May 10, 2010
Historic Frank Lloyd Wright House for Sale in LA
Check out the listing, it has been reduced from $10M. The foundation that owned it has been forced to sell the house because it cannot afford to stabilize the structure and repair it from the previous earthquakes. Still a great architectural masterpiece and with a little work....who knows?
Rekers Phone Conversation With Rentboy Transcript Published!
The whole Rekers thing just keeps getting better. Turns out Rekers, (the homophobic anti-gay activist) has a lengthy phone conversation with the escort he hired for his European fling. What he didn't know is that a reporter for the Miami New Times was in the room listening on speakerphone. The transcript is here and it's painfully obvious that Professor Rekers is trying to do damage control. Priceless!
Florida AG Fudges Figures - Actually Paid Rekkers $120,000 As Expert Witness
Expert witness? When it comes to the "long stroke" he is! Rev. Rekers, rabid anti-gay "scientist" of recent Rentboy.com scandal and associates were paid $120,000 by the state of Florida to testify as to the unsuitability of LGBT parents in adoptions in the state.
Why is this a big deal other than the complete hypocrisy? Well the Attorney General lied about the amount when first pressed for it. Equality Florida is mounting a campaign to expose the lie and put pressure on the AG.
Florida, though sunny and delightful is not a great place to be LGBT. The state legislature continues to try to deny equal rights to Floridians based on their sexual orientation. Go get 'em Equality Florida!
Friday, May 07, 2010
Florida Fails to Pass Bestiality Law - Open Season for Sex with Animals!
And I thought Texas had a lock on stupid! Oh heck no!
The lovely folks in Florida, the same legislators that had time to make it a crime for same sex couples to marry missed a little loophole that lets people legally have sex with animals. Yup, all you bestiality fans, Florida is the place!
Legislators didn't want to debate the bill that actually would make having sex with animals a crime for fear they would be seen as wasting time. There are a whole lot of sheep in Florida who sure wish they could vote!
Sorry, but that joke was just to easy.
The lovely folks in Florida, the same legislators that had time to make it a crime for same sex couples to marry missed a little loophole that lets people legally have sex with animals. Yup, all you bestiality fans, Florida is the place!
Legislators didn't want to debate the bill that actually would make having sex with animals a crime for fear they would be seen as wasting time. There are a whole lot of sheep in Florida who sure wish they could vote!
Sorry, but that joke was just to easy.
Stock Market Rollercoasters and Other Thrill Rides
Yesterday's heart stopping stock market dive left several investors and market gurus in a total panic. When I saw it I suspected it was a glitch and didn't get too excited and now it looks like I was right. Even though the NYSE first denied that the problem was computer-based, it turns out it might have been.
There is a "safety net" built into the trading program of the market that should have stopped a panic and instead it triggered one. As best I can understand the big casino that is Wall Street here's what may have happened.
Proctor & Gamble stock dropped close to 10% mid afternoon. That drop triggered what is known as a "circuit breaker" that is designed to pause trading so things don't go south. That pause lasted for only 80 seconds when trade opened up again on other exchanges. That coupled with a mini-panic about Greece put the Dow off about 200 points. It put lots of people in the mood to sell, and more specifically the computer trading programs.
When these programs saw noting to sell on the NYSE, they switched to other exchanges and found the pause looked like there were no bids for the paused stocks. The programs are set to bid 1 penny more than the last price, and they interpreted this as 0. Bingo! Stocks suddenly sell for pennies and everyone dives off a cliff.
Like I said, it is only how I understand it, but there has to be some truth in it because NASDAQ is canceling almost 300 trades though there are losers in the mess.
This whole thing firms up my belief that Wall Street is a really badly rigged casino where "whales" get the deals and everyone else gets a raw deal. Heck in Vegas, the big money might get more perks, but the rules of the table don't change for anyone. My portfolio, if I had one would include lots of money on Craps, at least in that game you can get true odds!
There is a "safety net" built into the trading program of the market that should have stopped a panic and instead it triggered one. As best I can understand the big casino that is Wall Street here's what may have happened.
Proctor & Gamble stock dropped close to 10% mid afternoon. That drop triggered what is known as a "circuit breaker" that is designed to pause trading so things don't go south. That pause lasted for only 80 seconds when trade opened up again on other exchanges. That coupled with a mini-panic about Greece put the Dow off about 200 points. It put lots of people in the mood to sell, and more specifically the computer trading programs.
When these programs saw noting to sell on the NYSE, they switched to other exchanges and found the pause looked like there were no bids for the paused stocks. The programs are set to bid 1 penny more than the last price, and they interpreted this as 0. Bingo! Stocks suddenly sell for pennies and everyone dives off a cliff.
Like I said, it is only how I understand it, but there has to be some truth in it because NASDAQ is canceling almost 300 trades though there are losers in the mess.
This whole thing firms up my belief that Wall Street is a really badly rigged casino where "whales" get the deals and everyone else gets a raw deal. Heck in Vegas, the big money might get more perks, but the rules of the table don't change for anyone. My portfolio, if I had one would include lots of money on Craps, at least in that game you can get true odds!
Peter LaBarbera Hates - The Southern Poverty Law Center
If you have never heard of the Southern Poverty Law Center, you should. They play a vital part in protecting your freedoms and specifically tracking groups that would infringe on them. For years the SPLC has kept a list of hate groups. These include blatant ones like the Ku Klux Klan to the more subtle ones like Americans for Truth About Homosexuality. That last group lead by the infamous Peter LaBarbara spreads venom regarding LGBT people at a furious rate. Their "reports" are often cited by other fringe hate groups like the Family Research Council and their like.
LaBarbera is not happy being on that list and so is trying furiously to discredit the SPLC. Apparently in one of their briefs they confused LaBarbera with Paul Cameron the psychologist expelled from the American Psychological Association for refusing to cooperate in their investigation of how Cameron was distorting other researchers work.
That confusion aside, LaBarbera frequently has quoted Cameron and they are both cut from the same homophobic cloth. Pam's House Blend has more.
Meanwhile, take a look at the SPLC Hate Map. You will notice that my state, The Great State of Texas, seems to have more hate groups than any other. Whoopee! We're number one!
LaBarbera is not happy being on that list and so is trying furiously to discredit the SPLC. Apparently in one of their briefs they confused LaBarbera with Paul Cameron the psychologist expelled from the American Psychological Association for refusing to cooperate in their investigation of how Cameron was distorting other researchers work.
That confusion aside, LaBarbera frequently has quoted Cameron and they are both cut from the same homophobic cloth. Pam's House Blend has more.
Meanwhile, take a look at the SPLC Hate Map. You will notice that my state, The Great State of Texas, seems to have more hate groups than any other. Whoopee! We're number one!
Thursday, May 06, 2010
Rekers and His Rentboy - Photos
If I was looking for a "smoking gun" in the case of rabid anti-gay activist George Rekers, the photo in this story would pretty much be it. If you have been following this sad story Rekers, who hired a gay male escort for a "getaway" claimed the young man was only along to help with his baggage. This pic shows Rekers and his escort in the airport. Rekers is clearly toting the baggage!
I think he has a lot more emotional baggage to deal with than luggage. Time you came out and stopped bashing your brothers and sisters George!
I think he has a lot more emotional baggage to deal with than luggage. Time you came out and stopped bashing your brothers and sisters George!
Wednesday, May 05, 2010
Man Who First Alerted NY Police Was Muslim
In the fog of media babble and the various spin machines spewing talking points about the failed car bomb attempt one small but very important fact is being ignored by the media. The man who first reported the suspicious events in Times Square to police was...(drum roll) a Muslim!
Aliou Niasse, a Senagalese immigrant who sells photos in Times Square to tourists was the first to report the smoking car that contained the failed bomb. He contacted a nearby vendor to call 911 since he was afraid his English wasn't understandable enough. According to an article in the UK’s Times Online, Aliou who is originally from Senegal has been a vendor in Times Square for about eight years.
So while some in the media are slapping the "Islamic" or "Muslim" label on the alleged terrorist, they neglect to use the same label for the hero. Figures!
Aliou Niasse, a Senagalese immigrant who sells photos in Times Square to tourists was the first to report the smoking car that contained the failed bomb. He contacted a nearby vendor to call 911 since he was afraid his English wasn't understandable enough. According to an article in the UK’s Times Online, Aliou who is originally from Senegal has been a vendor in Times Square for about eight years.
So while some in the media are slapping the "Islamic" or "Muslim" label on the alleged terrorist, they neglect to use the same label for the hero. Figures!
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