The Shut Up Rosie Tour: Part 2

Not sure why this is breaking news but if Trump can shut her up then that's a good thing. I'm sure in the back of her mind she was thinking Trump was a homophobe because it was alleged that Conner locked lips with Miss Teen USA.

Enough

While many blacks are waiting for their forty acres and a mule, Juan Williams is busy telling them that the way to get the forty acres and the mule is through education, self determination and individual responsibility. In his book, Enough: The Phony Leaders, Dead-End Movements, and Culture of Failure That are Undermining Black America- and What We Can Do About It, Williams discusses the destruction of the black community and its not at the hands of whites.

Using Bill Cosby's, now infamous, speech at the anniversary gathering of the Brown decision, Williams takes a look inward at the black communities self destruction: gansta rap, out of wedlock births, etc. The Washington Post's Book World writes, "Williams believes that the 1954 Brown school-desegregation decision and subsequent activism virtually cured the disease of racism; that heroic era was a 20th century watershed. For him, the remedies for racism's remaining vestiges are education self-determination and individual responsibility. Regarding political leaders in the 21st century, her prefers mavericks in the mold of Bill Cosby, whom he considers courageous enough to 'call out' the predatory behavior of the black poor. On this score, Williams laments what he sees as a black underclass mesmerized by racial hucksters playing 'old school' politics: corporate blackmail desguised as boycotts, nake shakedowns leveraged by rhetorical threats and the like."

One of my favorite lines was, "Instead, the agreed message among sel-described progressive black leaders is that white people are in control of all the problems facing black America. And it follows, by this twisted logic, that white people owe a debt to black people because of slavery, and white people are never to be allowed to get out of that burden." How true. While not a perfect book, Williams speaks truth to power. If we could only have more people like him speak out. This is a book that should be read by everyone regardless of skin color.

Maybe I should send a copy to Jesse and Al.

Rosie outs Clay on The View.

Rosie does it again. Everywhere she looks she sees homophobes. Now Klly Ripa is a homophobe because she didn't want Clay Aiken putting his hand over her mouth. Rosie is what I call a professional lesbian - 24 hour a day seven day a week lesbian. I'm so gald Kelly called in and called her on the carpet. Barbara Walters should reconsider her idea of bringinh Rosie on the view. I say send her packing. She doesn't speak for the gay community especially not for me.

I was recently interviewed by the Amsterdam News and here is the result. I was very nervous about the actual article and was plesantly surprised at the outcome. Ms. Tanangachi Mfuni was very likable and most of what I said was printed correctly. However, there was one mistake in the piece and I hope they print a correction next week. In the article I'm quoted as saying that John Faso came out, no pun intended, in favor of civil unions and homosexual rights. It wasn't Faso but New York State Nick Spano who came out in favor of gay marriage and homosexual rights. Other than that I think the article was pretty good.

SHUT UPPPPPPPP!

Obama Mania Part I

I have a healthy respect for Barak Obama but I'm a little tired of the over the top race to make him the next savior of the Democratic party and the black community. Thomas Sowell has it right in his article.

This writer makes a valid argument and while I would normally agree with her that we should take care of our own I beleive that we need to take care of "all" children. Plus, I would bet a dollar that little David has a better chance of survival with Madonna than remaining in his village.

A Week To Go

We are one week away from the midterm elections and I for one wish it were over. The following list is that of the candidates in the Hudson Valley region. The race to watch is in the 35th Senate district and one that will probablybe decided after election night. Some of the other races are a forgone conclusion while others will go to the wire. The following list are candidates that I think deserve election based on their expereince.

AG: Jeanine Pirro
Jeanine went after pedophiles with an Internet sting operation. I don't know about you but pedophiles are lower than scum and should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. Jeanine has 30 years of experience with a 98% conviction rate in felony cases. She was also the DA that made a difference in the life of battered women and defenseless kids. Her opponent has no experience in these areas and has not been a practicing attorney. Experience counts people.

State Senator: Nick Spano
Nick Spano is the first state Senator to come out in favor of civil marriage. Nick has been a friend to the community and has done good work for our community in particular and the larger community in general.

State Assembly: Mike Spano
Mike Spano, like his brother, is a friend to the community. Mike has stood for gay Americans and our right to equality. He has stood for all Americans in Westchester County and should be re-elected.

Frist Diagnosing Terry Schiavo on Senate Floor

With the election 9 days away, this issue should be on the minds of voters. They should ask themselves the following: What made Terry Schiavo special? Why did Congress take up this case if not to score points with the religious right? As a Republican I'm disappointed in the party and as a human being I feel shame.

Heather MacDonald makes another very important point about religion and politics. As someone with Conservative opinions I couldn't agree with her more.

There are fifteen days untill the midterm elections and the Democrats are already celebrating. Nancy Pelosi is chomping at the bit and they are already talking about "President Barak Obama." The reasons for a Democratic win are enormous and they didn't start with the Mark Foley scandal. More on those issues later but for now here are some poll numbers that should be scaring the bejeezus out of Republicans.

Salute to My Favorite Blogger

One of my favorite bloggers is Andrew Sullivan. Andrew's erudite writings can be found at andrewsullivan.com and is a must read for those of us who welcome truth, intelligence and pure spunk. In addtion to his daily blog, Andrew has written his fourth book and is encouraging his faithful readers to not only read it but email him with comments. I just started the book last evening and look forward to learning more from Andrew on what it means to be a true Conservative.

With four weeks to the midterm elections it seems that Republicans are taking a hit in the polls. Much of it has to do with the Mark Foley scandal and the fall out has gay Republican staffers running for cover. The Republican party, in the mean time, is trying to figure out how to appease their social conservative base and still maintain control of Congress. Some are doing so by painting the pedophile picture but anyone in their right mind know better. What the Republican party will have to counter is what this writer suggests, "They know that homosexuals aren't devils."

Here We Go Again

I can see it now, the next time we see Rep. Mark Foley in public he will be behind a podium with his family with a prepared text before him that was editted by the Human Rights Campaign. And I'm sure that if Jim McGreevey is not standing there with Foley he will have contributed to his "coming out as a gay American." When will this stop? When will people like Mark Foley understand that his behavior is reprehensible and that he abused the power of his office as did Jim Mcgreevey? When will these gay people stop offending "all" Americans - both gay and straight? Why don't they just go away? The Washington Blade's Kevin Niff eloquently stated here what many of us think about this dispicable act.

As is typical in our society today, Mark Foley blames his transgressions on alcohol and abuse while countering that these are not excuses for his conduct. Well which is it Mr. Foley? You can't have your cake and eat it too. You are either an alcoholic who goes after young men or your own abuse made you an abuser. Please tell us which one it is. And as his role model before him - Jim McGreevey, Rep. Foley voted on anti-gay legislation when he cast his vote for DOMA and is said to brag about it to conservatives. I guess this can be blamed on alcohol as well.

As a gay person I fully understand the restrictions that the closet places on all of us. But at the end of the day you have to think about the people that you hurt while in the closet when you continue to heap lies on everyone around you. Mark Foley lied to himself, his family and to his voters. His excuse is not an excuse but more lies and for that we would be well off if we never hear from Rep. Foley again.

We Need a Barbara Jordan Right Now

Integrity (in teg ri te) 1. adherence to moral and ethical principles; soundness of moral character; honesty. This is a true definition of the former congressman Barbara Jordan. Jordan, in my opinion, is the epitome of what was and is integrity. When Jordan was faced with a choice of right and wrong she always chose what was right. In her speech before the judiciary committee, during the Watergate Hearings, she said the following: "Earlier today we heard the beginning of the Preamble to the Constitution of the United States, "We the People." It is a very eloquent beginning. But when that document was completed on the 17th of September in 1787, I was not included in that "We the People." I felt somehow for many years that George Washington and Alexander Hamilton must have left me out by mistake. But through the process of amendment, interpretation, and court decision I have finally been included in "We the People." Today I am an inquisitor. I believe hyperbole would not be fictional and would not overstate the solemnness that I feel right now. My faith in the Constitution is whole, it is complete, it is total. I am not going to sit here and be an idle spectator to the diminution, the subversion, the destruction of the Constitution."

Barbara Jordan was an incredible woman and an oustanding politician. I would recommend this book to all who care about politics in our lifetime. Mary Beth Rogers did an excellent job in bringing this incredible woman to life. In 2006 we could use more Barbara Jordans.

Smear Campaign

I'm sure everyone has heard about Jeanine Pirro's FBI investigation by now but it merits one more comment. I'm outraged that this has happened to Ms. Pirro and sees it for what it is - a smear campaign. Jeanine Pirro, candidate for attorney general, shouldn't have to explain herself to anyone about staying with her husband Al Pirro nor should she have to defend her conversation with Bernard Kerik. This is a very unfortunate situation but I believe Ms. Pirro will rise above it and go on to win the race.

Smear Campaign

I'm sure everyone has heard about Jeanine Pirro's FBI investigation by now but it merits one more comment. I'm outraged that this has happened to Ms. Pirro and sees it for what it is - a smear campaign. Jeanine Pirro, candidate for attorney general, shouldn't have to explain herself to anyone about staying with her husband Al Pirro nor should she have to defend her conversation with Bernard Kerik. This is a very unfortunate situation but I believe Ms. Pirro will rise above it and go on to win the race.

When I'm asked why I became a Republican I sometimes tell listeners that is was because of this book and its influence on me. Who is John Galt?

It seems that Senator George Allen continues to get himself into trouble. What is really ironic about all of this are the people, some of whom I have a lot of respect for, who are saying that this is a witch hunt. The bottom line here is that his recent slur set tongues a wagging. There are just so many times that you can get away with insulting people. I wouldn't be sad if he lost re-election since he is as nasty towards gay people as is shaping up as his nastiness towards blacks.

Food for thought.

Hurricane Katrina Part I

Race is everything to many in our society and as such the devastation that was hurricane Katrina is yet another example of racism in this country. I'm not sure why this sentiment exists but there are a lot of people not only perpetuating it but making money off this horrible situation. The latest person making money from the devastation is our good friend Spike Lee. Lee's show aired on HBO a few weeks ago, I did not watch it, to the acclaim of conspiracy theorists and members of the get whitey brigade. Unfortunately for this crowd the reality is that Katrina wasn't about racism as eloquently written here by John McWhorter. If McWorther were white he would be targeted as a racist but since he's black he will only be targeted as an Uncle Tom. He is spot on in his assessment of the real problems in New Orleans and many other urban areas in America.

The Confession

On August 14, 2004, the governor of New Jersey, Jim McGreevey, stood next to his wife and before reporters and announced that he was a "gay American." McGreevey made this shocking statement because he was threatened with a sexual harrassment lawsuit by his former homeland security aide. At the time many in the gay community labeled McGreevey a hero and showered him with praise for "coming out." To insure his warm welcome by the community he consulted with and had his message crafted by the Human Rights Campaign. He was in like Flynn. This article speaks volumes.

At the time, unlike other gays and lesbians, I wrote a scathing renunciation of McGreevey and his behavior and suggested that his "coming out" was not in the best interest of the community nor was it anything to celebrate. He was not nor is he now my hero. Unethical behavior is unethical behavior. It seems now that McGreevey has become the gay icon of the day as he prepares to promote his memoir, The Confession on Oprah next Monday. He wanted to start with Oprah because of her "sense of faith and spirituality." What a bunch of hogwash. No, Mr. McGreevey you are not going on Oprah because of these wonderful qualities but rather because Oprah sells books. Going on Oprah to promote your book pretty much guarantees a number one slot on best seller lists. So don't give me the crap about faith and spirituality.

Unfortunately I will not watch the interview due to chemotherapy but I don't think my opinion of McGreevey would change much if I did watch the interview. I don't consider McGreevey a gay hero nor do I feel his pain. He lied to the people of New Jersey and to his wife. The people of New Jersey should be reimbursed for their payment of security for McGreevey as he went on his trysts. McGreevey's book shouldn't be called confession it should be called, "How I Lied To The People of New Jersey."

RECALL MAYOR RAY NAGIN!

Read Carefully

I would like to respond to a recent comment from one of my readers. Doctorj2u made the following comment, "I didn't see The View but check out the link below and tell me WHY my home town of New Orleans should not be spoken of." First, let me say thank you to doctorj2u for the comment and I'm not delusional to think that every reader will agree with me but I do expect them to read my posts carefully. In my post I did not state that we should not speak of New Orleans. That would be sheer stupidity on my part. What I said was that we shouldn't make this the focal point of this administration. I also said that this should not be a color issue but that it has become one because of the likes of Rosie O'Donnel and other liberal elites. The fact that this devastation is now seen as a black issue is outrageous and flies in the face of reality as seen here.

Second, the federal government is not a first responder. Third, why isn't governor Kathleen Blanco and mayor Ray Nagin being raked over the coals as is Bush? Why is Nagin not berated for not calling a mandatory evacuation? Why is Nagin not being raked over the coals for leaving hundreds of buses empty when they could have been used to evacuate the mostly black evacuees? Why was Nagin re-elected? We will never get the answers to these questions because "race" is top billing in the wake of this devastation and because Nagin is black and a vicitm as are the evacuees.

Should we talk about New Orleans - most definitely. Should it be the number one issue for this administration - no. Should we hold our leaders responsible for their less than perfect response - yes. Should we make this a black issue - no.

Gay Ally Or Disingenuous Heterosexual?

I find it somewhat disingenuous when folks like Brad Pitt and Charlise Theron say they won't get married until "all people can get married." At first glance it may seem great that we have allies in the fight for equality but in actuality they are simply making an excuse for not being responsible to their partners. One of the many arguments made by same-sex advocates is the need to accept responsibility for their partners and their relationship and that marriage alows them to do just that. To assume that "putting off" getting married is somehow helpful to gays flies is idiotic at best. Second, it makes for big headlines and nothing else. Third, Brad Pitt cheated on his wife to be with Jolie. This is not what I want in an ally. Thanks but no thanks Brad.

Expectations

I have this problem, I have expectations of myself and everyone around me. I expect adults to behave as adults which means that they do not take advantage of nor harm children. I expect adults to know the difference between good and bad, right and wrong. I expect adults to treat children as children and not as peers. I expect children to be seen and not heard but that's another story for another time. I expect adults to be adults. Unfortunately, my expectations are often misguided at best when adults chose to behave in ways that run counter to these expectations. This story is just one example of how naive I think I have become in holding out expectations of good behavior.

We can blame this kind of heinous behavior on what LaFave refers to as "sex sells" or we can blame it on a belief system that has crept into our society that says bad behavior is to be overlooked because of "problems" in life.

And The Numbers Are In

With the exception of Yvette Clark winning by 31% in Brooklyn's 11th district there were few surprises last evening as the primary results rolled in. Spitzer, Clinton, Cuomo and Spencer raced to victory here and here.

I was very disappointed, however, in Ms. Clark's win. It seems to me that Yassky's moving three blocks into the predominantly black district was more of an issue for voters than Ms. Clark "forgetting" that she did not complete a college degree. Race wins again.

Off To The Races

As of 9:00pm tonight we are off to the races. The midterm elections will be in full swing come tomorrow morning and many are hoping that the GOP lose their control of both houses of Congress. I for one hope that Rick Santorum goes down in flames because I think he is an evil man. With that said, I will be focusing more on the races in the next several weeks and offer my humble opinion on who I think should win or lose. For the time being here are several interesting articles on why the GOP should lose in November. (hat tip to Andrew Sullivan for first publishing these articles).

My View of The View

Ok, I admit it I was actually watching The View this morning before leaving to do somehting important like take my partner to the doctor. I got caught up in Rosie O'Donnel comments on president Bush's address last evening. She was practically salivating as she went on to berate Bush on the war in Iraq and everything else she could thing of to throw at him. Her comments that New Orleans should be the most important concern of this presidency is typical liberal gibberish. It is typical because like everything else, the devastation in New Orleans has become a racial issue as opposed to a human issue. I never knew that hurricanse selected the race of its victims but liberals like Rosie see race wherever they go. I was surprised, however, to see that there was someone there to challenge Rosie and her assumptions and that was Elisabeth Hasselbeck. I'm not sure what her political affiliation is but it was nice to see someone oppose or speak over Rosie. I'm not a fan of The View because I consider it trash tv but I had to watch Rosie just once to reinforce my dislike of her.

This Is Not A Gift!

Melissa Etheridge has been quoted as saying, "With cancer, you start looking at your whole life and cutting the dark things out of it. I often say that cancer is a gift in that way. " I wish I could agree with Etheridge but I can't. Cancer is not a gift it is a ripping away of your very soul. It is a sapping of energy that you once took for granted.

On April 8, 2005 I was told by my doctor that I had colon cancer. The news hit me like a ton of bricks and as they say, my life changed forever. I called my sister to tell her and she broke down and started to scream that I was goign to die. I had to calm her down while wondering to myself, who is the sick one here. I then called my girlfriend and broke the news to her. She was quiet as she always is and simply told me she was there for me. I then drove slowly, the slowest I have ever driven, to my sister's house where I was met by my sister and my brother in law. The rest of the day was spent wondering if this was indeed happening to me. I tried to get drunk that night but that failed miserably as my body had failed me that day. I awoke the next morning feeling like I had travelled to another world.

In the year since my diagnosis I have undergone chemotherapy and have endured side effects that one can only read about. I didn't lose my hair but I lost a lot more as my body was ravaged by cancer drugs. I would have gladly traded hair loss for some of the side effects I experienced. Through it all my partner stayed with me and loved me. She saw me through retching, pain and prolonged nausea. Throughout all of it I never thought it a gift nor did I think there was a lesson to be learned as a family member insisted there was. The only thing I was grateful for was that I was still alive.

A year later I have a re-occurance of cancer and have undergone liver resection and am back on chemotherapy. If there is a lesson here someone please fill me in. A year later I'm feeling angrier than I have felt in my life. The chemotherapy is worse and I'm sick for three to four days of my treatment. This is not a gift.

As I move through my days I have to accept my limitations which reinforces my anger. I have to accept the nausea, the constipation, the smell of cancer drugs from my pores, the inablility to concentrate, and the feeling that this may be for naught. All of this and more is what a cancer patient goes through on a daily basis. But, and there is a big but, I have my partner, family and friends that will not let me give up when I think of giving up. I also have an oncologist who believes that the drugs will work and for that I'm grateful.

On this the 5th anniversary of 9/11 I wish to express my heartfelt sorrow for those who lost their lives on that dreadful day. America owes you much more than we can say in words. We are all stronger because of you.

Its Showtime For Katie Couric

So its official, Katie Couric devut as the new anchor on CBS nightly news and her much anticipated debut was just average. But its her first show so there will be more to write about. On her first night Couric tried desperately to get away from her perky demeanor that made her so famous on the Today show but it still came across during her debut last evening. I heard from a friend that she hates being referred to as "perky" but what the hey. In any event, I was ready to hand her her head when she had Thomas Friedman on to share his disgust of Bush but then backed off when she said she will be interviewing Bush tonight. Maybe my fear of her partisan view coming across, even though this is suppose to be a news show, is unfounded for now. But we will have to keep tuning in for awhile to break that fear.

Provincetown MA Come Alive

I had the opportunity to take a break from chemotherapy to celebrate my partner's birthday last week in Provincetown, MA and it was wonderful. We had a great time celebrating her birthday by having great food, sharing meals with good friends, went whale watching and attended some lively shows. One such show was Rand Roberts Live. Randy is a female impersonator and one of the very best I have seen in a long time. P'town has some of the best drag shows so this is the place to go. Randy is the best in my book for the simple reason that he sings live and has a wonderful voice. He is also quite a beautiful woman when made up to look like Cher, Bette Midler and others. We saw his show on Thursday night at the Crowne and Anchor and absolutely loved it. So if anyone is heading to Cape Cod in the next several weeks be sure to check out Randy at the Crowne and Anchor for one of his shows and if not check out his website at randyroberts.net for other performances. I promise you will not be disappointed.

Recall Mayor Ray Nagin!

RECALL MAYOR RAY NAGIN!

Mr. Chocolate City

Tomorrow will be one year since hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans and one year later that Mayor Ray Nagin is still shucking and jiving. During a 60 Minutes inteview last evening, Mayor Nagin came across as the person he is - stupid and arrogant. He is probably the most stupid person I've seen on television in a long time. During the interview with correspondent Byron Pitts, Nagin came across as the local pimp selling his wares to new customers. And he has ben selling his wares to the poor of New Orleans ever since.

Standing at the base of a newly constructed wall he answers Pitts question, "And will it hold in the face of a Category 3 or Category 4 storm?" with enough arrogance to fill the Superdome that housed thousands of Katrina victims. In his slickster fashion Nagin responds by rapping the wall with his knuckles and stating, "Look at this man, where's this gonna go?" This is a man who didn't call for a mandatory evacuation. This is a man who let hundreds of buses flood when he could have used the same buses to evacuate people from before the hurricane hit. This is a man who cavalierly chided New York for the hole in the ground. This is a man who supposedly cares about the poor of New Orleans but have agreed to build high rise condos that many if not all cannot afford. Yes, Trump Towers will be coming to New Orleans at whose expense?

RECALL MAYOR RAY NAGIN!

I thought this wasn't about race Mr. Reed.

Mr. Chocolate City

I think it would be wise for Mayor Ray Nagin to shut up. His recent remarks about the "fixing the hole" at ground zero reinforces his stupidity and refusal to accept responsibility for his ineptitude.

Similar Situation With A Twist

The controversy surrounding the Congressional seat being vacated by Major Owens in Brooklyn seems to have spilled over into the state of Alabama - with a twist. It seems that this race is about more than race but that of the candidates sexual orientation.

Go Dems, Go!

I love to see when Democrats beat up on one another. And this fight is even more heated than any other because "race" takes a front seat. I find it hard to believe that in 2006 four candidates are fighting over who should represent a district based on skin color. Is it a birthright of Chris Owens? Does the color of the candidates skin bring more jobs and money to the district? And what about Ms. Clarke? Word had it that she was a former Republican until this seat became available. And, not having a degree is not something you forget. This should shape up to be an interesting run to the primary.

A Good Article For A Lazy Friday

I couldn't have said it better.

Is She Running?

Ok, what's better to do on a rainy Friday morning than wonder if Hillary Clinton is going to run for president in 2008. So, if you are so inclined write and tell me if you think Hill is running, is she not or you don't give a darn. Then you can go back and do something special with your Friday.

Ok, let me see if I get it. Ex-president Clinton stumps for the incumbent (let's call him a friend) who is beaten in the primary because of his vote on the war. Now the winner meets with another Clinton (former friend of the incumbent) who voted for the war but is not facing a tough primary because of it. Hmmmm, I think they call this politics or is it more of a double standard?

He Doesn't Get It

I admit it, I was a fan of Tom Cruise. I first saw him in Risky Business and really liked him and Cocktail is still my favorite movie. Unfortunately, and I'm not simply jumping on the "tear Cruise apart bandwagon," I think he has lost every ounce of sense he purportedly had. The Oprah couch jumping was one thing but when he said to Matt Lauer, "You don't know psychology Matt, I do" that was enough to split a gut. Because in the end this is all meant for the funny pages. The only question I have is, when did Tom Cruise received his medical degree so that he could evaluate pregnant women?

His over the top behavior has become de rigueur in Hollywood so I don't see any change coming anytime soon. A morals clause is a good way to head off obnoxous and stupid behavior but how many will actually sign one. Not the ones listed here.

I Hope He Goes Down In Flames

It seems that Rick Santorum is gaining on Bob Casey, the state treasurer in Pennsylvania. I hope come November 7th that Mr. Santorum goes down in flames as I have no use for any Republican who uses me as fodder. Rick Santorum is an evil man and one that does not deserve re-election. Here is just one reason why he should not retain his seat.

Blaming The Victim

I don't think its blaming the vicitm if a reader asks the question, "What was she doing out on the West Side Highway at that hour?" I don't think its blaming the vicitm if a reader asks, "Where were her friends?" I don't think its blaming the vicitm if a reader asks, "Why didn't she go with her friend in the ambulance?" Since when is asking questions immediately assumed to blame the victim? I've have done some stupid things myself as a youngster and I would bet a dollar that my family would ask some of those questions. Maybe asking some of those questions will go a long way in saving lives as opposed to looking back and wondering how this could have happened in the first place.

And This Man Wants To Be President?

It seems as though George Allen needs to do more than apologize he needs to educate himself on US history. Whatever his hopes are of running for president should be put on the back burner until he learns from Virginia's history. Its obvious that he has learned nothing from his past actions as presented here.

Its Not Just About Asians Councilman Liu

Its one thing to address the concerns of your constitutents and another to do so at the expense of others. Anyone driving through Flushing, NY would wonder if they had just entered Chinatown. The inlfux of Asians is quite obvious as one drives along Northern Boulevard. On every block establishments are adorned with Chinese and other languages non of which can be translated by non-Asians. This is very sad for the whites that live in these neighborhoods who have to travel miles to shop at an English speaking supermarket. These are the things that Councilman John Liu need to address as an elected official. His district is made of more than Asians who vote. Here is the money quote from Madhulika Khandelwal, director of Asian/American center at Queens College, “You could say he made history in this sense, but I think the next step is more important, and that is having this elected official appeal to New Yorkers across ethnic and racial lines,” she said. “It is a huge hurdle.” Listen up Councilman Liu.

My Case For Excluding The T

In 1996, I attended a Creating Change Conference in Chicago. I attended the conference as the co-president of a local gay and lesbian community center. The conference was organized and hosted by the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force (NGLTF). NGLTF is a gay and lesbian advocacy group that had its beginnings in New York City in the 1970’s. In 1985, the organization changed its name from NGTF to NGLTF to include lesbians: “To make clear gender parity and lesbian issues.” It was in 1996, by my observations, that the organization was once again about to make a change. During the four day conference, as I was taking a break between sessions, I happened upon a protest of sorts. It seems that the transgender contingent was protesting the organization because they were not being heard. They wanted the "T" for transgender to be added to the acronym that was NGLTF. And by including the "T" there was an implicit request to start including transgender issues. I was rather dismayed at the protest and suggested to one of the organizers that educating gays and lesbians about transgender issues was a far more effective strategy than simply adding another letter to an already crowded acronym. My suggestion, however, was met with blank stares and annoyance at being asked to educate rather than harangue. How dare I ask for pragmatism rather than brute action? That was my introduction to the trans community. In that same year, Kerry Lobel, executive director, said the following: “NGLTF strongly supports civil rights protections and affordable health care for transgender [people]. We loathe discrimination and violence perpetuated against transgender people and stand in solidarity with transgender people in their struggle for respect, inclusion, equality and justice.” Thus began the love affair between gay and lesbian organizations with the transgender community.

Years later, I share comments about the transgender community with trepidation as they may be viewed as discriminatory by many. However, I have very strong opinions on this issue and cannot control the comments or feelings of my readers. In the Sunday New York Times styles section the following article appeared on its front cover. My take on gender reassignment is very similar to those of the lesbians interviewed for the article with some additional comments. The history of the gay movement has shown the gradual inclusion of lesbians, bisexuals and transgender people to the fold. Over the years organizations like NGLTF have broaden their definition of gay by including bisexual and transgender. But the problem is that bisexuality and transgender people cannot be automatically classified as gay. Bisexuals, in my limited experience with them, do not necessarily consider themselves gay nor do transgender people. So why are community centers, gay rights organizations etc., extending the acronym and confusing the issue? I have several reasons for this lumping of all that claim discrimination.

First, in politics and to politicians numbers play a crucil role hence the lumping of bisexuals and transgender numbers. So, show me the numbers and I'll show you my support. For this I blame the gay organizations. Second, gender identity is light years away from being the same thing as sexual orientation. As one interviewee stated in the article, “I am a lesbian because I am attracted to women and not men.” I continue to say this when groups keep insisting that the T be added to the l&g. Third, and I think this most important, gender reassignment does not mean that the person will then remain "gay or lesbian" as is obvious in the article.

When a man transitions from male to female and continues to date women he cannot be considered a lesbian because by definition he is a man. Lesbians don't date men. And when a woman transitions from female to male "she" cannot consider herself a lesbian - simple end of story. Fourth, none of these people can consider themselves truly the opposite sex because they have not changed their x & y chromosones. Fifth, the confusion that this causes children will make the g&l struggle even harder. Sixth, the struggle for transgender rights is not my fight and I will not take it up. In 2000 when the sexual orientation non-discrimination act - SONDA was about to pass Senator Tom Duane (D-NY) almost derailed it by his 11th hour plea to include transgender rights. Thank goodness it was not included and the votes went forward to enact SONDA. So, my point here is simply this, the "T" should not be added to l&g because it is completely different than that of sexual orientation. I do not deny equality to transgender folks I just don't want gender rights lumped with my rights as a lesbian who has no wish to become a man.

Everyone Should Be Outraged

If this article is not enough to outrage parents and those without children then nothing will. I do not have children but I'm mad as hell abou this and we all need to do something about this. Pedophiles should and must be stopped at every turn. Thanks to former district attorney Jeanine Pirro, law enforment officials have the capability to catch these people. To suggest that these comments may not be real but fantasy assumes that fantasy is less immoral than the real thing.

I Don't Think So Natalie

So, I'm watching LOGO television last night and the Dixie Chicks are being interviewed about their latest album. LOGO television is a gay network that shows gay movies, shorts, documentaries etc. I had my doubts about it but its not a bad network. Some of the shows are a bit much for me but overall its not horrible tv. In any event, I'm sitting there watching the Chicks and they are going on about some video they did for the new album and they are asked the question, "Why do you think gay people like you?" And their answer is, or I should say Natalie Maines' answer is, "Well I think its because we know what its like to be discriminated against." Hello, what the hell do you know about discrimination? Discrimination is when someone tells you that you can't sit somewhere because of the color of your skin. Discrimination is when you are fired from a job simply because your gay. Discrimination is NOT when radio talk show hosts speak out against you for saying you apologize for being from the same state at President Bush. Discrimination is NOT when concert goers refuse to buy your tickets because they disagree with you. Discrimination is NOT when your record sales drop because people don't want politics mixed in with their music. Please don't equate your stupidity with the pains that come about from discrimination. I'm sick and tired of gays and lesbians associating themselves with every and anyone who they deem victims of attacks. Natalie Maines and her "sisters" know nothing about discrimination so please don't lump them with me.

Enough About Racism

I'm tired of people yelling racism every time someone calls for English only - be it street signs or in the work place. Here is a perfect example of such rhetoric as Councilman Tony Avella is attacked for his advocacy of English only signs in Queens. The original issue was over the attack on young Asians by bigoted thugs but easily turned into overt racism because of the councilman proposing English only signs.

Is This The Best They Can Do?

I have to admit that I tuned in late to the Democratic debate for attorney general last evening and by all accounts I was happy to be late. Within five minutes I asked my self the question, is this the best they can do? All four candidates behaved like errant schoolboys playing tit for tat in the schoolyard. Ok, maybe it was better in the first half an hour and deteriorated by the time I tuned in and if so it is unfortunate. By far, the most prepared were Cuomo and Green and now we know why they are ahed in the polls. All the candidates behaved like they were at their local bar backslapping and handgladding one another as they consumed more beer.

In one instance, Charlie King compared himself to Elliot Spitzer when answering a question on Medicaid fraud by saying, "We were born three days apart, we both attended Harvard - I didn't stay." Could someone tell me what the hell that has to do with Medicaid fraud? Sean Patrick Maloney - the least prepared of all, seemed like he was rehearsing for a stint on Saturday Night Live and kept repeating, "I'll do my job, I'll do my job and kept insisiting that he would be independent. I don't know if Mr. Maloney knows this or not but the attoney general position is not an independent position. His smiles seemed inappropriate at times and I wondered if he thought he was posing for a magazine ad.

Of the candidates, Cuomo and Green were more prepared and actually answered questions in an intelligent manner. There were, as to be expected, swipes at one another as Green accused Cuomo, as head of HUD, of failure to comply with laws to reduce pesticides use to lessen the risks to children. He went on to say that a suit was brought by Spitzer to comply with these laws. Cuomo kept insisting that the suit was filed after he left HUD but that he would look into it. Sounds a little suspicious to me but is worth soem research.

The debate, in my opinion, is a clear indication that these candidates are not ready for prime time. In their closing remarks Sean Maloney attacked the president of the United States and his administration. I don't know if anyone told Maloney this but the attorney general position has no bearing on arresting and killing Osama Bin Laden and his attack on the president was an obvious ploy on the part of his handlers. I see whay he has only 3% of the votes.

While Mark Green and Andrew Cuomo were the stronger of the four candidates the question still stands, is this the best the Democratic party can do? It seems clear to me that the best candidate for the position of attorney general is the Republican candidate, Jeanine Pirro. Pirro is not only the best candidate for this position but could easily run circles around these guys even on her off day. For those interested here is what the Times had to say about the debate.

Town Hall Meeting

Not much being said this morning, except here, about the town hall meting last night of the candidates for attorney general. The meeting was one of a kind with the candidates spread throughout the state. First annoying response from one of the candidates came from Sean Maloney when asked about racial discrimination in which he said, "white people are priviledge in society." This rather gratuitous statement says a lot about Democrats. First, keep the blacks happy by condescending to them and second, white guilt gets votes.

The Cool Parent

This quote from Marcus Caruso in another teen survey says it all - "My parents keep a very close eye on me. I think whats kept me out of it." There is always hope that baby boomers wake up before its too late.

Expectations

The results of this national survey says a lot about the expectations that teens have of their parents. Unfortunately these expectations are not being realized as kids are engaging in behavior that they now feel is detrimental. How are parents responding? Well, according to these kids parents are doing everything but respond. In a way, the results shouldn't come as a surprise to anyone reading them as the results pretty much sum up what parents are doing wrong. Of course, a parent reading the results they will probably come up with the standard retort: "I try my best." Well, according to these kids thats not good enough. It is obvious from the survey results that teens are saying, "We need discipline." If parents don't know that then they are not trying their best.

As someone who works with young people here are some additional things parents can do for their kids:
1. Stop trying to be your kid's best friend.
2. Say NO every once in awhile.
3. Stop dressing like your kids.
4. Accept that your kids do bad things.
5. Talk to teachers/administrators not at them.

If You Don't Know The Meaning...

We teach young people to check the dictionary when they are unsure of the spelling of a word. We also tell them that it is wise not to use a word if they are unsure of its meaning. Well it's obvious from all accounts that Senator George Allen of Virginia never learned this important lesson. In this article Senator Allen claims he did not know the meaning of the word macaca but went ahead and used it anyway. If that is not sheer stupidity I don't know what is. Maybe Senator Allen should invest in a good dictionary and heed the words of Abraham Lincoln, "Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt."

I'm not a liberal and I still don't like Ann Coulter. As far as I'm concerned she is to the right what Michael Moore is to the left. I'm not politically correct and can take a joke but Coulter goes beyond joking when she insists that Bill Clinton is a latent homosexual becuse of his womanizing. And when asked to explain this absurdity she posits gay bath houses as the culprit for gay promiscuity.If gay bath houses lead to gay promisutiy then wouldn't it be true that brothels lead to heterosexual promiscuity? It makes no sense Ann. What makes it worse is her rationaization at telling fag jokes by saying that she has gay friends. Is that suppose to make it better? That's the same as telling a colored joke and then saying some of my best friends are black. Stupid and sophmoric.

I have never thought it necessary to resort to ad hominem attacks in order to make a point but Ms. Coulter has made a career out of it. Her attack on the widows of 9/11 victims could have been convincing until she referred to them as broads. As to her books - I've tried reading the first one only to be assaulted by her emotional rhetoric. Its obvious that this writer thinks she's the cat's meow. What's interesting about the writers take on Coulter is that the things she despises in liberals is the same things that Coulter perpetuates - a loudmouth with little to offer to the debate but emotional diatribe.

Breaking News!

Call me stupid but I don't understand why this woman was let out of jail. She'll have to get used to carrying a purse again? Hello? She shot her husband in the back. This is one to watch.

Two From Column A And Three From Column B

I find it interesting that there is already a call for rights beyond same-sex marriage. Did I miss the memo that said that same-sex couples had the right to marry? So you can undertsand my surprise when I read this article.

Here I'll say it, I'm in favor of same-sex marriage but there is a caveat to that statemnet. And that is, that I would be perfectly fine with civil unions if they came with the same rights and priveledges of marriage. Now let me share my concerns after reading this article.

Number 1: Like all "movements" the gay and lesbian movemement has decided that inclusivity works better than exclusivity even though an argument could be made against such inclusivity. The inclusion of the B&T is a perfect example of such inclusivity. It is also an example of ramping up your numbers so that politicians take you more seriously and the people get to hear your story. The clout in numbers phenomena is not new and depending on you ask - can be quite beneficial.

Number 2: When the B&T were added someone forgot to ask the following questions: A) Could you share with us examples of overt discrimination based on your being bisexaul, i.e. fired from your job, refused an apartment etc.? and B) Are transgendered individuals gay? I would guess that it would have been politically incorrect to pose those questions.

Number 3: How does inlcuding all the groups presented in the article help the gay and lesbian movement?

It is my humble opinion that this group is not helping matters but hurting same-sex advocacy. My number one issue with the group is that it confuses the argument by adding all these different goups. The group's argument detracts from the important conversation surrounding same-sex equality to one of derision.

Gives You Something To Laugh About

The only thing to do here is to laugh out loud at this insane article on Boy George. I don't think I've been in love with any star to see them 98 times. Are you for real? Just goes to show you, rehabilitation doesn't work for everyone. He should have gotten more than community service but who am I. And by the way, gay grannies have stronger wrists.

Par For The Course

This is par for the course in a city run by an incompetent mayor. But he keeps getting re-elected so what is that about? More later.

On April 8, 2005 I was diagnosed with cancer and ever since I have been asking the question, why me. Like many cancer patients, I wondered if there was something I did to bring this on myself. Was it my diet? Was it one too many beers? Of course, if I left it up to others I would get a plethora of answers none of which I probably want to hear. A close relative of mine, who is a born again Christian, suggested that there was a lesson to be learned in having cancer. I'm not sure what lesson I'm to learn as I puke my guts up from the side effects of chemotherapy. I'm not sure what lesson I'm to learn as my toes remain numb because of neuropathy. I'm not sure what lesson I'm to learn as I stare at the 8 inch scar on my belly after surgery for the resection of my liver. The bottom line is there is no lesson to be learned. When I think about lessons I have learned I think about the time when I was probably too angry to have sent that email. Or the time I told a lie that hurt someone. Those are instances in which inportant lessons are learned but not in having cancer.

The point I'm trying to make here is simply this, I don't want to be told that God is in everything that I do, say, think, believe etc. Unfortunately, there are those among us who think that everything has to do with God and religion. For example, many see the war between Israel and Hezbollah as Armageddon. And still others see the destruction of the World Trade Center as God's second coming. And those among us see God in every aspect of politics and if you are not with them you are against them. That is where this article comes in. Heather MacDonald makes what I consider to be the best argument for true Conservatism. While I'm sure there are issues that Ms. MacDonald and I would disagree this is not one of them.

I have to give a hat tip to Andrew Sullivan, my hero, whose blog is where I first read the article.

No Right To Privacy

Several years ago I found myself spouting an unpopular opinion about the right to privacy in public places. I argued that individuals should not have the expectation of the right to privacy as they walk down any street in Manhattan, or elsewhere for that matter, where there are cameras. The conversation was with a group of lesbians who feared being outed by such cameras. While they gritted their teeth and shot dirty looks at me I still maintained my position and asserted that I probably had the law on my side. More recently, I had a similar conversatuon with my partner's brother (he's not gay) about a proposal he heard about to install cameras in nightclubs. It seemed, from his reading of the story, that this was being proposed as a safety measure against heinous acts like that perpetuated against a young college bound student several weeks ago. I once again stated my agreement with such installation but suggested that while this was a good way to deter crime, groups like the ACLU would oppose it based on privacy issues. And here we have it.

I guess I must have been reading the mind of city council speaker Christine Quinn as she proposed the installation of cameras in nightclubs. And my prediction that it would be challenged on grounds of the right to privacy was also spot on. Here we have Ms. Quinn being attacked for her proposal by gay activists and the New York Civil Liberties Union. While there are some legitimate concerns about cost and monitoring of said cameras I stll maintain that there is no right to privacy in public places. And to be different, gay activists are suggesting that gays will be outed because of such invasive measures. Well I guess the guy who is cheating on his wife could make the same argument, no?

No Muss No Fuss

Simple, send them home. Were they sightseeing?

The People We Live For

I saw the movie, World Trade Center last evening and all my emotions from that dreadful day came flooding back with a vengenance. The movie's main story centered around two of New York City's Port Authority police officers as they attempted to evacuate the fifth tower of the WTC. Officers John McLoughlin (Nicholas Cage) and William J. Jimeno (Michael Pena) were buried under the rubble as the towers fell and waited hours before finally being rescued by two marines and police officers.

Oliver Stone did a wonderful job in bringing the story of two families waiting to hear the fate of their loved ones and the two officers who struggled to stay alive. The movie touched on some raw nerves as I lost it emotionally and heard nothing but gasps and sniffling from the audience. I had not expected this reaction on my part much less that of other audience members. My partner and I walked out asking the question of each other, "I thought we weren't going to see another tear jerker?" Be aware, however, that tears are not the only things that you will experience. My anger at the brutality of that dreadful act was very much present as I squirmed in my seat. I realized that my anger at such brutality has not subsided and probably never will.

Time magazine describes it as, "gripping, a powerful movie experience." I agree.

Its Not The Test Stupid: Part 2

"Minority students are innately as smart as anyone else and deserve nothing less than a high school education that will allow them to compete on merit." If anyone thought differently it would be those who push affirmative action as the panacea for black enrollment into major colleges. The problem is not in enrolling black students but in keeping them and graduating them four years later. If black kids are ill prepared to enter college because of failing high schools, which seems to be the number one issue, then all the changes in admission standards will still be for naught because they would still be shut out. Maybe the CUNY schools should have put the the $56 million they spent on building their new dorm into high school programs that help underpriviledge kids.

No Longer The Material Girl?

Good for the orphans of Malawi. More of this private funding should be taking place and not total dependence on the American government.

Will They Stop?

A cease fire needs to happen now.

The Right To Know

Call it naive, but I don't think I need to know everything that my government is doing when it comes to protecting me from people who despise everything I stand for. The threat of a terrorist attack became a way of life after 9/11 and yesterday was a case in point. Allowing the government to run surveillance and track phone calls is only a tiny part of what is needed to rid the world of terrorists and we need to let them do it. Liberals who posit that this government has gone too far need to stop the blathering and give us specifics as to what they would do differently.

Every Mole Made Plain...

For a minute there I thought I was reading about one of the many overrated movie stars of Hollywood. I love the line, "The lawmaker is at work. He is not posing or posturing." Hello? You just spent several paragraphs telling me he's posing for a magazine.

Today, we can breathe a sigh of relief because British officials foiled a plot that by most estimates would have outdone 9/11. See here and here.

I agree with City Council Speaker Christine Quinn in wanting to bring together groups that can really affect change in what appears to be a frightening trend. However, I think it important to include in the conversation, alternatives to underage kids clubbing their nights away.

Totally Different Destinies?

What the heck is going on here and how much money is being spent on this farce? Does the federal Education Department have nothing better to do with our money than to spend it on nonsense? Starting this month, many of the nations children will head back to school and regardless of their race I hope that they will end the year on a successful note and be allowed to continue to the next grade. In the meantime, the federal Education Department is worrying about adding more check off boxes so that students can "identify" themselves appropriately. The solution to kids rebuffing calls to box them in is not to add more boxes but to simply leave them alone. On the flip side, adding more check off boxes because a growing number of people feel a sense of frustration because they can't easily identify themselves within one box is ludicrious. And I'm not so sure what to make of the statement, "Those categories are related to totally different destinies in our society." Is there something I'm missing here? This statement is leaving a very bad taste in my mouth. You decide.

I din't watch the debate last night but gathering from this article I'm glad I didn't. It doesn't seem as though audience members nor anyone else learned much about the candidates. I do have one comment, however, and its to Ms. McFarland, shame on you. And I say that in reference to her letterto her parents explaining why she cut off all communication with her brother. I hope your not calling yourself a christian Ms. McFarland.

It's Not The Test Stupid!

The old canard that blacks are leaving or not attending college because of higher admission standards has again rasied its ugly head. In this article, we are lead to believe that higher admission standards means less blacks at local CUNY schools. But when you read further you realize that this is not the real issue. But whats most vexing about this article is the notion that black kids can't cut it. So instead of talking about what should be done to lift these kids up we are talking about lowering standards. Ms. MacDonald's point, "It should set its standards in a colorblind fashion, based on the skills necessary to perform college-level work," is spot on. The kicker is the dean for diversity (gotta love these titles) stating that many qualified students didn't know that much about Hunter College. Maybe its not the test but poor recruiting efforts.

Hillary Rides Again!

It's not going to happen to Hillary so why all the fuss. Do we really think that her "tongue lashing" of Donald Rumsfeld wasn't premeditated? Come on!

Stupid, Stupid, Stupid!

I've always disliked smoking and after trying it once I realized that I hated it. It didn't appeal to me the way ice cream or chocolate cake appealed to me and it sure as heck didn't appeal to me because one of my favorite actresses smoked. Unlike my peers, I wasn't influenced by movie stars othert than simple entertainment. It seems, however, that this generation has some other ideas on the subject of stars and their influence on teenagers. To smoke or not to smoke, that is the question.

So, the show that brought us unbridled sex now brings us the sophisticated female smoker. As the young woman in the article declares, "Whenever I think of how to smoke, its the way Sara Jessica Parker exhales, and I'm like obsessed." And I'm like, going to throw up. The question that I have for this young woman and all the others who have chosen to smoke becasue of the characters in Sex and the City is this - have you actually looked at yourself while smoking? It is one of the most disgusting habits known to man. The entire act is disgusting especially for women. To watch women inhaling, as though their lives depended on it, from a cancer stick is like watching ants eat the remains of a downed fly. And this is attractive? I don't think so. I wonder how many of these girls know what they'll major in this fall as they prepare their nails and purchase their cartons of cancer sticks.

Today would have been a very hard day for me since I hate to fly. But I would have no problems in throwing away anything, except my medication, I was told to by authorities. This is not about immediate explanations it's about complying with authorities and getting to your next destination safely. Thank goodness it was thwarted.

And She Is Still Complaining

I could not be a happier person today knowing that Cynthina McKinney went down in flames last night. 59% of the votes went to Hank Johnson. I think these numbers prove how dissatisfied the voters of Georgia are with Rep. McKinney. Even my sister helped vote her out of office. So thanks to her as well. I think her comments says it all and makes clear who is the more professional is of the two candidates. I'm sure everyone slept well last night. Congratulations to Hank Johnson.

The Usual Retort...Blame It On The System

I could think of a harsher punishment than the 25 years to life imposed on this woman. My question is, where did she find the money to do her nails but not buy food for her kid? And the crap about not being taught about being a good parent. You don't need to be a parent to know that a child needs food. That is common sense not the copyright of parents.

If this is indeed true it's not only sad but sick. The sudden refrain from "Christians" that this war is a prelude to armagedon is reckless and disgusting. This war like any other war is not about about who believe in equality but about people with a hatred for the Jewish people. If this is lost on rabbi Levin then I suggest he consult his history in which 8 million Jews were killed because they were "different." remember your history Levin.

McKinney's Last Stand!

I really, really hope that Cynthia McKinney goes down in flames tonight. It will prove a very importan point - the time is over for race baiters and now is a good a time as any. And I hope her friends Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson, both have endorsed her, will heed that message lound and clear. Of course, McKinney is already claiming that there are problems with the voting machines even though no problems have been reported to election officials. When she loses tonight she'll again blame it on Republican infiltration. I can't wait to blog about her loss tomorrow.

I don' think I could have said it any better than in this article. I cannot agree more with Mr. Cline's comments. There is a hypocracy on the part of those on the left that it makes me want to shout from every rooftop - when is this going to stop? There are two conclusions that I have come up with to explain this outlandish behavior and the first is thhis, the left loves to shy away from comments by the likes of Jesse Jackson, Al Sharpton, Spike Lee, Cynthia McKinney (more about her next) Maxine Waters, et al., because they are afraid that if they continue race baiting their their jobs are secure and if they don't then Afican Americans will have to do what other Americans do everyday - go about their daily lives and continue to contribute as do evey other American. And by the way, I hate the made up name African-American they same way I hate every other hypenated name. But more on that in another article.

The second and more overarching reason is this - white guilt. I posit that white guilt became evident shortly after the death of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., when whites, along with blacks, felt that blacks couldn't do if for themselves anymore so they needed assistance in getting a leg up from gulity whites. Guilty whites saw their role as avenging the wrongs of not only white slave traders; continually leaving out the very important point that if it wern't for blacks helping to sell the slaves the slave trade may not have happened. Because of this "white guilt" they think they should dig their heels in and give into, or worse, stay silent when hateful, whiny, reparations begging comments are made by people who feel that something is owed to them. Nothing is owed to the black community other than respect. Nothing is owed to the black community for the ills of slavery other than to never let it happen again. The old canard that America owes blacks because they were brought here in chains is a bunch of crock.

What is owed to the blcak community is this - a demand that you fulfill the American dream of pulling themselves up by their bootstraps and make something of themselves. And no it doesn't mean being the next Michael Jordan. It means gaining a good education, without affirmative action, getting a good paying job and making a simple life your self. I don't see what else American can do.

Mea Culpa!

Mea culpa, mea culpa. Had to report to sick call yesterday so I apologize to those who read my blog and only received a feeble attempt at intelligent writing yesterday. Don't go away.

Why Not Hillary?

The fate of Joe Lieberman hangs in the balance as the hours to Tuesday's primary tick away. The New York Times reports here on Lieberman's last ditch effort to bring back voters by explaining his vote on the Irag war. Allow me to opine. First, in politics 101 we learn that in order to pass legislation you need both party's approval. But while a lot is being made of his vote, much more is being made of his friendly relationship with Bush. That, seems to be more of a problem for voters in Connecticut than what he has done as a senator. Second, while the article goes on to talk about other Democrats who voted for the war and the criticisms they face very little is said about whether or not Hillary Clinton will face a similar fate. Unfortunately, Ms. Clinton, will not face such a fate as she is safely ensconced in her senate seat. And why is that? Simple, Ms. Clinton, like her husband, regardless of their votes, get a pass each and every time. Yes they are citicised but very little comes of that criticism. Of course, Hillary is now trying to make up for her vote by her public flogging of Donald Rumsfeld. While I don't really care about either Democrat I want to point out the double standard when it comes to the Clintons.

To Havana And Back

I think the more important question now is, is there going to be a mass exodus of "free" Cubans to the city of Miami?

One Has To Wonder

I continue to be surprised at the levels at which people will stoop to get their point across. In every policital year it seems that people lose not only their minds but their sense of decency. While I have no problem with disagreeing on the issues I have a major problem with name calling, parodies etc., of the candidate and his/her views. When people resort to ad hominem attacks it almost makes you feel like you want to take a shower. This is a perfect example of the kind of nastiness that replaces intellectual discourse and civility. The worse part is Hamsher's hubris. And if that wasn't bad enough how about trashing an elected officials campaign office because he supports equality for "all" Americans.

Just the begining...

The issue of illegal immigration hit a high this year when protests and political debate hit the front pages of newspapers. The problem is a big one and affects just about every community in the United States. Debating the issue is important and necessary and a solution, while months away, is a necessary evil. Here is another example of it hitting home. Ball is trying to unseat the incumbent Willis Stephens.

Pain and Glory!

Who needs charisma and oratory skills when a .45 pistol will do.

While this discussion is somewhat dated, it will surely become a front page issue as kids head back to school in September. As someone who has experience with high schoolers and college students I find the conversation on banning cellphones in public schools by Mayor Mike Bloomberg a necessary one. Putting aside the fact that cell phone use in public is way out of control, high schoolers and college students need to spend more time on study and less time on texting about American Idol or whatever else they text about. I would bet a dollar that its not about last nights science homework.

As is the norm, the idea of banning cell phones has met with ire and consternation by parents and some politicians. As usual, the number one canard presented is that kids need cell phones for safety reasons. While this is not completely irrational, considering the world we live in, the tendency to exaggerate this point is obvious. I have visited high schools where it takes the teacher roughly 10-12 minutes to quiet down the class and get them to start their work for the day. Allowing kids to have their cell phones in classrooms will only serve to exacerbate that problem. Why do we want to give teachers more non-educational activites to engage in on a daily basis? Common sense would dictate that we shouldn't add to their burden but who ever said common sense was common.
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From his lips...
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Back to School Part II

I still think that faculty and administrators have some responsibility in what goes on in the ivory towers of colleges/universities but Walter Williams make a valid argument. If this, "not one of the top 50 colleges and universities today requires American history for its graduates," isn't scary I don't know what is.
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Dead or Alive?

I like to think that exiles have the inside track to the governments they have escaped from. So why is it a surprise to exiled Cubans that Raul Castro hasn't been seen since the hand off of power? But more importantly, why are they surprised at not knowing if Fidel Castro is dead or alive?
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Naming or renaming...you decide

At 62, Billy Jean King is being honored today by the USTA as her name is added to Arthur Ashe's name or replacing his as the new name for the stadium in Queens, NY. I'm not sure how I feel about it. I have no qualms in naming something for King but the queasiness in my stomach, which is right more times than wrong, is telling me, I don't like this. Why couldn't the USTA find another stadium or building within the existing structure? Maybe I should get breakfast and to help with the queasiness.
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Get out of the wagon...

Ten years ago this August, Bill Clinton signed into law a bill that would require the states to push welfare recipients into jobs. The Democrats, as usual, attacked the law on grounds that it would end up hurting the worst among us - the poor. At the time, comments like those of Republican senator Phil Gramm, "get out of the wagon and help everybody else pull" rankled Democrats and their supporters. The comment, while a fair one, spurred Democrats and their supporters to speak against the bill. But by all accounts the "workfare" programs, as they were later called, have done better than had previously thought. So maybe Gramm and the Republicans had it right afterall.
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Back to School!

Its August and the tempatures are soaring. While many are thinking about relief there are those thinking about the "fall semester." Yes, back to school is on the minds of many including the stores where notebooks and baggy jeans go hand in hand. For those returning to college as sophmores or starting as freshmen it is important to keep in the mind the true role of an institution of higher learning.

No, its not simply about getting a degree and finding that great job. Its not about joining a fraternity or sorority. Its not about dating the captain of the football team. Its not even about playing on a Division 1 or 2 athletic team. Its not about intellectual stimulation and honing critical skills. Its not about learning and accepting individual responsibility. Its not about studying abroad and internship experience. Its not about experiencing those extra 30 pounds as a freshman. Its not about missing class and cramming for exams. Its not about making the deans list and being inducted into the honor society. Its not about the best roomate in the world or the worse roomate in the world. Its not about formulating your own opinion albeit different to your parents. Its not about realizing that there is a word called "NO." Its not about any of those things but all of those things.

Many forget these things as sophmores trudge back to school and parents heave foot lockers into SUV's. But sometimes even administrators and faculty members forget these things. But most importanly all parties forget that the most fundamental lesson to be learned in college is accepting responsibility for every and all actions. And this is so because parents demand that their kid was taught that lesson at home and administrators acquiesce because of numbers and the balance due. So kids assume the role of customer and threaten to take their money elsewhere if deals aren't met and grades aren't changed. They complain to higher ups and leave out the part about the missed class, the missed assignment, the hang over on a Wednesday morning. And the administration, fearing that their retention rate will be affected and reputation compromised, initiate a working committee to address the situation.

So, what lesson is learned and who learns the lesson? The lesson is that you can force a university/college to spend time running committee meetings and formulating the tenth new policy on handling complaints. And the person learning the lesson is the front end person relegated to attending "servicing the customer with a smile" workshops while the kid rests against the tree listening to his ipod.
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Cynthia McKinney's Hype!

On August 8th, the 4th district in Georgia will have a run off between U.S. Rep. Cynthia McKinney and former Dekalb Commissioner Hank Johnson. They will have a run off because none of the three Democrats, McKinney, Johnson and John F. Coyne, III failed to get more than 50% of the vote in the primary. In the primary, held in July, McKinney received 47% to Johnson's 44% and Coyne's 8.5% A local tracking poll has Johnson leading McKinney at 49% to 34% I hope those numbers continue till the polls close on August 8th. So, why am I concerning myself with a congressional race in another state? Simple, Cynthia McKinney is typical of the so-called black leader who believes everything is about race.

In her fight to get back her congressional seat, McKinney defends her voting record by implying that she has been "effective" and because of this effectiveness Congress.org rated her highest on legislation. Which when you delve into the facts (tricky things those facts) the ranking was for the only member of the Georgia delegation to succesfully introduce legislation in 2005. In that ranking she came in 285 of 437. Not bad but not good enough. But if you look further, and you should look further, "the power rankings - which ranks on committee position and general influence, the same organization places McKinney at the bottom, at 408.

A current bill that caught my eye was HR4210 - Tupac Amaru Shakur Records Collection Act. The long and short of the bill is to "protect" the records of Tupac Shakur. The following is some of the language in the bill: "There is a compelling public interest in the life of Tupac Shakur because he was and remains a well-known public cultural figure." The bill was fashioned after a similar bill protecting the records of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. So, if that doesn't get Congress to move its butt I don't know what will because afterall Tupac and King are equals right. Because I know when you think of Dr. King's words you immediately think about Tupac. How about these words from Tupac: I came for the party to get naughty get my rocks on...Sneezin, but still I'm pleasin to all the slimmies...But I dont go nowhere without my jim hat...If I'm rappin, cause she's clappin. Yes, I can see how Tupac could run in the company of Dr. King.

Rep. McKinney is also the congresswoman who accused Capitol Hill police of racism. She is also the congresswoman who claimed that the Bush administration knew 9/11 was about to happen. She is also the congresswoman who made this speech in 2003 at the Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem. The introduction is from her friend Michael Ruppert who shares in her conspiracy theories. If the above is not reason to not re-elect Rep. McKinney I hope the speech will do the job. Friends don't let a friends vote McKinney.


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The Beginning?

I have never claimed to be an expert on human beings and bad behavior but after forty-six years I think I know a thing or two about both. I know that hatred exists as I write this. I know that many among us hide behind well sculptured facades but cracks invariably surface. This is true of Mel Gibson, who I always thought was overrated anyway, as his true character surfaced this weekend. Of course, many will claim that alcohol was the culprit and not Gibson and I would say, shame on you. To disassociate the two is to engage in wishful thinking. How many examples exist where the "nice" guy/girl at the holiday party perform acts known only to the more "professional" among us? How many examples exist where the well soused miscreant goes on a tirade about those people? And in every instance it should be denounced and the person held accountable. It should also be a lesson learned in the true nature of evil. So, Mr. Gibson should not be given a pass as some have suggested but rather I hope the outcry from Jewish groups and others will continue.
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One Can Hope!

It is my sincere hope that the words of Rev. Gregory A. Boyd sparks a much needed conversation on the issue of separating politics from religion.
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Ok, enough is enough. It's time for the world to find out about the woman behind the name. I have been putting this off for a long time now while trying to figure out what I want this blog to say and/or what I want it to become. Well, I haven't come up with any earth shattering answers so it will be what it will be.

I am a black Republican. And for those of you who think this is an oxymoron all I can say is that you have a right to your opinion however stupid. My political ideology was formed at an early age especially listening to my father, who if he were alive today would be a staunch Republican. I was raised to believe that I'm owed nothing and whatever I get is from hard work and perseverance. I was taught to share and be respectful of my elders. I was taught that education is more important than standing on the street corner blaming the white man. I was taught that with every action there is a reaction. and most of all, I was taught that individual responsibility is the key to being an adult.

While in college I was told by a peer that I was not a Democrat even though I was registerded as one. Yes, I was a registered Democrat but my values and beliefs fit squarely into the Republican camp. But I didn't change my political affiliation until much later which I chalk up to living the life of a college student and trying to figure my life as an adult. In any event, I am a Republican with many Republican beliefs and some Conservative ones as well. Now here comes the kicker, I'm also a lesbian - hence the oxymoron retort. There is quite a lot to say about that and I will but let me opinine about that on another day. For now let's get this started.

I pledge allegiance to the Flag
of the United States of America
and to the Republic for which it stands,
one nation under God indivisible,
with liberty and justice for all.

Welcome to my world.