Open the Gates - Part I

In 1970, my younger brother, my sister and I came to the U.S. It was our second trip to the U.S. but this time we were going to stay for good. We had been anticipating this trip for sometime and now that we were finally on American soil it was like we were in another time. I remember feeling almost alien when we walked out the big exit doors to a family member who had come to get us. As we were driving to our home I stared out the window in awe. I thought to myself, "I'm in America and things are going to be different." And it was different. I can still remember the first time I saw snow and I still remember the taste of my first slice of pizza. I was in America with my brother and sister, the three musketeers, and we would remain close for many years. One of the most important fact to our arrival on U.S. soil was that we were legal. Our "green card" said we were legal permanent residents. Our trip to the U.S. was on Air Jamaica. We were and continued to be legal residents until we raised our hands and renounced our allegiance to Jamaica and pledged to defend and protect the Constitution of the United States of America. Back then almost everyone knew the difference between legal and illegal but in 2007 the word illegal has taken on "legal" status.

I do not profess to be an expert on immigration issues but what I know to be true is that you don't reward someone who has broken the law. The most distressing part of the illegal immigration issue is when advocates for the law breakers say, "They are taking jobs Americans do not want and we are all immigrants." The latter statement is blatant canard that whoever utters those words should be ashamed of himself. Hear that President Bush? It's more like, the more unskilled labor you have the stiffer the competition becomes for those already here - thos legal low skilled workers. And these low skilled workers tend to be blacks and other Hispanics who happened to be natives. Yes, we are all immigrants but most of us did it legally. And to put a personal spin on it - my mother cleaned houses for rich white people. My sister cleaned houses for rich white people. My mother worked in hotels in Florida. So don't tell me about taking jobs that Americans do not want. Those of us who don't want to sit around on our backsides and collect money from the government seek out jobs such as these until we can get on our feet. My mom is retired and my sister has her Ph.D.

In 2004, Time Magazine in an article titled, Who Left the Door Open, stated that there were 4,000 illegals crossing the border everyday. And while they were doing that we were and are submitting to searches at the local airport. Our borders grow more porous, Hispanic men continue to congregate on local street corners, Hispanic men continue to get drunk and throw up on our streets, Hispanic women continue to drop their babies in our hospitals, and we have some states offering in-state college tuition for illegals. And now we have an immigration bill proposing that we make these miscreants U.S. Citizens. Are we out of our minds?

To be continued.

Money Talks

I love to read. I guess you could say that I am a voracious reader. I read everything and anything much to the chagrin of some of my friends and colleagues. I'm of the opinion that you really can't offer constructive criticism if you haven't read the document. Or better yet, reading everything I get my hands on, ok I don't read playboy, makes me a bit more knowledgeable. Correct? I also love school. Ok, I didn't always like it but I liked it more than my peers did. Much of this love for reading and school was influenced by my parents. For goodness sake my dad use to read the dictionary for fun. I learned how to work my first crossword puzzle at the urging of my dad. We all learned to appreciate the written word and the spoken word. I continue to love school and love to be in the classroom.

So what happened to the influence of parents? What happened to urging your kids to do well, go to school on time, read a book? Well it seems that once again parents are being absolved of their responsibilities and are now being offered money to do what they should do without encouragement from government or private organizations. Yes, we are now going to pay parents and our children to do the right thing. And of course the "experiement" is targeting black and Hispanic children and their parents. The mayor and Schools Chancellor Joel Klein seem to be enamored with economist and proffesor from Harvard, Ronald G. Fryer's idea of offering money to kids who do well on tests. He has now been named "chief equality officer." The question is, will he be paid for his role?

Here are a couple of reasons why I think this is a bad idea. First, you don't give money to people to do the right thing. How did being a responsible parent give way to the notion that in order for you to do the right thing you should be paid for it? If that were the case I should be a millionare by now just for going to to work on time. Second, you don't "influence behavior" (read be a good girl) by paying someone to behave. This is like Pavlov's dog experiement. Is there long time change other than at the sound of a bell he sits up and repeats the same behavior as before? Third, this idea reinforces the notion that blacks can only get ahead or at minimum, be able to be responsible citizens if and only if they receive help, i.e. affirmative action. In two years I would like to see the results of this bogus experiment. Here is the article in it's entirety.

Archie Bunker vs. Maude - All in the Family

I could watch this stuff all day long. Imagine Archie Bunker in 2007? Not only would the show be off the air but he would have to go into rehab.

And then there's Maude!

As I'm getting older I'm becoming more nostalgic. Remember this one?

John Edwards Feeling Pretty

This is just too funny for words.

Jim's Big Mistake

I recently attended a Pride event hosted by Mayor Mike Bloomberg. It is an annual event in honor of gay pride and usually brings out more than the pretty people of the gay community. There are people in attendance who really care about politics so you can actually have a decent conversation. This year's event, which is always held at Gracie Mansion, was held in a tent on the lawn and for good reason. The heavens opened while the mayor was speaking but everyone continued to have fun.

This year the plan was for a faux runway scene with yours truly as one of the models. This was done because the guest for the event was Tim Gunn of none other than Project Runway. It was a lot of fun and each "contestant" received a prize. I, believe it or not, received Jim McGreevey's book, The Confession. Of all the books to get and for me to get it is even funnier. Since I didn't buy the damn thing I may read it or I may just sell it on ebay. I cannot stand McGreevey and have written about my dislike on these pages in the past. So I'll just share this rather colorful commentary here.

Bush's War?

"The administration is relying too much on flawed information. These are documents found on the floor of burnt-out buildings, strewn all over the floor, and taken at face value and not being looked at by trained analysts."

"We warned that, 'Regardless of US postwar policy for Iraq, Iraqis would become alienated if not persuaded that their national and religious sensitivities, particularly their desire for self governance were part of the foundation for reconstruction. Iraqis would likely resort to obstruction, resistance and armed opposition if they perceived attempts to keep them dependent on the US and the West."

"Saddam and his search for African uranium had been based on questionable intelligence. The issue was not trivial-even if this bit of intelligence, his supposed attempts to obtain uranium suitable for enriching, known as 'yellowcake,' was far from solid information. The allegation was worthy of investigation. Based on what we found, however, it was not worthy of inclusion in a presidential speech."

"I wanted to convey that I thought it would be possible to declassify enough additional information-communications intercepts, satellite reconnaissance phots, sanitized human intelligence reports, and so forth-to help the public understand what we believed to be true. I told the president that strengthening the public presentation was a 'slam dunk,' a phrase that was later taken completely out of context and has haunted me ever since it first appeared in Bob Woodward's book Plan of Attack."

"As difficult as the problems in Iraq, Iran, and the Middle East might seem, they pale in comparision to the global challenge of terrorism. Terrorism is the stuff of everyday nightmares."

All of the above quotes are from George Tenet's book, featured to the left. It is a hefty book and requires a lot of time keeping all the players in the forefront of the reader's mind. The book was disturbing for several reasons but most importantly my fear that we still aren't doing enough to protect the US. I don't always appreciate the need to write a book after a resignation or a firing but I'm changing my thought processes as more books are written. After reading the book I still have many questions and am quite disturbed at what has been presented as to the war in Iraq. While I supported the war in Iraq I do believe now that more could have been learned about the kind of people we are fighting. I also believe that Saddam did have WMD's and one day president Bush will be vindicate. This I'm sure sounds naive at best to many reading this but so be it. I say that in light of my former statement on us not knowing who we are dealing with.

I'm not about to debate whether or not Tenet is telling the truth or not. I will, however, encourage people to read everything and anything and not be sucked in to the fallacy that the truth is only the truth when stated my a particular party or a particular person.

Diversity?

Years ago I was a member of the "Diversity" team at my job. I participated in the group for about two years and eventually left after I realized that they really didn't believe in diversity. The goal of the team, as I understood it, was to bring about an understanding of minorites by implementing programs, events etc. With this goal in mind, we set out to plan and execute programs that we thought were going to get people talking and ultimately change the "culture" of the institution. We brought in speakers, teachers brought their classes and our diversity officer was happy and the administration was happy. At the time, I believed that our students were engaging in important discussions on issues relevant to all people and through these discussions we could come to an understanding about one another without playing the race card, the gay card or any other card. It was about, from where I sat, adding to what they were already learning in the classroom. I was wrong.

While I argued for including some of our more tangible objectives, i.e. writings from a more varied group of writers, in the overall curriculum my team members were bent on organizing programs which ended up blaming whitey. The programs ended up as sermons and gave little in the way of give and take "discussions". They soon became monthly and yearly back slapping, resume building look at us diversity festivals. Everyone in the group was of the same ilk and everyone agreed that progress was a myth and gays needed a safe zone and blacks needed more people to feel their pain. I had left the team before attending a safe zone training.

My reason for leaving was simple, I had not bought into the myth that me and my kind hadn't made progress. I left because I questioned what whites were getting out of feeling sorry for our poor black students. I left because these programs weren't helping our students feel part of the conversation but rather they were being put upon to hold their opinions if they differed from the panel participants. I left because I felt guilty when a colleague said she felt intimidated when she attended a "diversity" class. She was afraid to ask a question for fear that she would come across as ignorant or worse yet, racist. I left because ulitmatley this is the goal of diversity programs - to make whites feel guilty and everyone with a different opinion shut up.

Unfortunately, there are many such groups in many schools throughout the US. And while I fully agree with "talking" about tough issues, diversity groups, diversity officers, multicultural groups do not accomplish this important task. And why don't they? Because these groups do not suffer "diversity" well. Ask any diversity director when was the last time they invited a Conservative to speak at their school and you will get a "what are you crazy" look. Ask when or if at their next panel discussion on gays if there was someone arguing against having half naked men gyrating on cars and trucks be eliminated from the annual pride parade. Ask them if we must celebrate Dr. King's birthday each year over fried chicken and waffles why we can't have a "student of color" speak at the podium who can actually make a speech without using black english. We should ask this and more of our diversity officers. Here is a similar take on the diversity gig.

Only in America

Ah, race wins out again. Give us your tired, your poor and your illegal immigrants. I predict that this case in Mamaroneck is just one of many that will be coming down the pike in the days and weeks to come. We have allowed illegal immigrants to spurn our laws and then reward them with $500,000 settlements and hiring sites. And what do we get? We get to tie the hands of our police and pretend that there is no difference between legal and illegal immigrants. Thanks.

Hail to The Sopranos

I don't know about you but last night's final episode of The Sopranos was a major disappointment. My expectattions of a series finale was realized in a slow moving boring episode whose sole great moment was when Phil got it in the head. But as this article points out David Chase succeeded in confounding his audience. I would have preferred a different ending bu alas that is not to be.

A Month of Pride

Well, I'm off to my first gay pride event as June is Gay Pride Month. I'm not a fan of "theme" months but this is more about politics than watching gay boys gyrate on top of moving vehicles. I'm of the opinion that you don't need a month to show your pride nor a month to salute my blackness, nor a month to celebrate my womanhood. I'm still waiting for illegal immigrant pride month. Can't wait for that one. In any event, as president of a Log Cabin Republican Chapter I try to attend some of these events because we get to educate gays and lesbians about Republican issues. Unfortunately, Bush hasn't always made that easy but we haven't been denied access to an event yet so I guess that's a good thing.

Next week we celebrate with Mayor Mike at Gracie Mansion. I'm sure I'll have something to report from that outing. Happy Gay Pride!

Money Makes the World go Around

"Money makes the world go around. That clinking clanking sound can make the world go 'round." And it can even encourage kids to do well on their tests. I'm sitting on the fence on this one. On my initial read of the article it offended every principle I have about encouraging kids to do well in school. And while no one, including me, has the definitive answer on how to accomplish this task I'm not sure I agree that handing out money for the best scores is the way to go about solving it. Dr. Frye is a well respected economist and so I guess I would have to hear his reasons for why this is a good idea. I guess I'll have to some read through his paper on this one.

If anyone cares to write in and give reasons why this maybe a good idea, I'm listening.

Ivan G. Barnes

I'm from a family of nine kids. Born and raised in Jamaica until the age of 10 I became an American citizen in 1984. My parents are not unique, nor rich, nor members of high society. My mother worked in a local hospital as a nurse's aid and my father, before his death, was retired for many years after working in the refernce library of the Gleaner, one of Jamaica's local newspapers.

As fathers day approaches, it makes sense to reflect on our fathers and their influence on us. As such, I'm posting below an article written by my sister Judith that will be picked up by a local paper in Atlanta, Georgia. The article gives a good account of how fathers can leave an imprint on their offspring.

My Father made me The Woman I am
Judith E. Barnes, Ph.D.

He was perhaps five feet eight inches tall; slim in build and possessing a booming voice that belied his thin stature. He was a man not lent to condoning silliness in the speech or behavior of others; not that he resisted the subtleties of telling a good joke or laughing at same being told by others. But sound reasoning, processing on the intellectual environs and bringing about healthy dialogue between others and he was surely at the core of his character.

As a child I saw him read the dictionary and he gloried in the spoken and written word; he was a master at repartee and could easily beguile a woman into thinking that she was the most beauteous creature that God had created. But as all humans can he was often lent to great anger especially when he felt his intelligence was being attacked or his authority as a husband and or as a father. My father Ivan G. Barnes never had any qualms in correcting adults with the use of his ample and eloquent vocabulary spun into almost poetic cadence and a voice that was sonorous in its power. With his children, all nine, he felt no timidity in employing his more than ample speech patterns in correcting their faux pas. Likewise, he had no issue with implementing the well-accepted rule of caning well advocated by the British system under which he and his off springs were born and raised.

It is almost an understatement to say that Ivan G. Barnes managed to include passion in whatever task he undertook and so when he bellowed vociferously at one of his children or his wife or someone else that he might be engaging in a heated debate with; it was clear, he meant every emotion and every word that was observed and heard. It is from that man that had had he lived; he would now be in his 91st year, that I learned how to be who I am today. It was he exhibited to me that I had value and even though I was a girl, the message was clear; read, read, read, think, think, and let no one defeat you in manipulating you because you cannot think things through. Some 15 years since his being divested of this earth, I glory in the legacy that he has left me for because of him I have never thought I was less because I am a female.

Make no mistake though my father Ivan G. Barnes had very strong and oftentimes negative opinions about women, their role and their behaviors. Most of those opinions I am sure was easily colored by the fact that his own mother though having sired only one child, never seemed able to muster much maternal love toward him. That fact which I saw as a child saddened me deeply because imperfect as he was, there was none better than he. The same message that he issued as if edicts to my brothers, he issued also to my sisters and myself; we were to be self-respecting, clean in our physical self, honest, honest and honest again. He taught us not to fear others but to respect authority. He told us that we were not better than others, but no man or woman was to dare garner the temerity to think that he or she could look down on us. We were financially poor most of my young days growing up with this man, but I never wanted for anything and my father made me acutely aware by example that if there was only food enough for us children, we would and could eat and he would go without. By the way his negative opinions about women were and are true and even as a woman I had to admit it then and I admit them now. But despite those opinions about women, he sorely loved them and never missed an opportunity to share in the niceties of a woman’s presence.

So today as I sit and think of him and his legacy to me, and I often think of him because he is so much apart of who I am, I am grateful that despite all my poor choices and the folly of my ways as I have matured; his teachings resonate throughout my being and I can easily continue to forgive the errors that he made as he fathered nine children doing it the only way he knew how. Certainly this man whom shortly before he died and was experiencing the beginnings of Alzheimer’s, continued to look only to the needs of his children and I saw him cry profusely at the last family reunion of which he was a part of as he spoke of how proud he was of us all. He never pursued education on a high level although had he done so he would have been listed among one of the great minds of his time. He never sought to travel away from the shores of Jamaica, and though it was sometimes suggested that he didn’t because he experienced bouts of cowardice, he was a champion as a father. He loved his children with the greatest fervor possible especially for one who never experienced great maternal or paternal love or devotion himself.

I thanked my father before he left this earth and I look forward to seeing him again when I go to where he now resides and I thank him today within these lines and on these pages for not having left me out of his lectures and his pronouncements about how I was to be and how I should live. I did not agree with all his edicts, but I respected him for taking the time to tell me them. I did not agree with all his ranting and raving, but I always even as a small child, knew that he felt pain that was only expressed when he shouted and so he needed to shout. I thank my earthly father today for having imbued in me a sense of self that today continues to lift me up and keep me buoyed to such a degree that along with my relationship with God, I am a force to be reckoned with; to some degree like he was. I thank my father that as I have reached forward for academic and vocational achievements, I have seen his face before me encouraging me to do more. And I thank my father that he never even suggested in the slightest that I could not achieve because I was a girl.

It was he that recommended me for my first full-time job as a 15 year old child; he believed in me you see and for that I will always thank my father. He had faith in me that I could do the job of an adult in a place so appropriate, the local newspaper company where he worked in the reference library. You see in the end and toward the waning days of his life he spent many hours amongst literary tomes and reference materials; and I worked at the tender age of 15 writing words, words that he so dearly loved and which I have grown to love so dearly because of the rich heritage that he leant over and whispered in my ears as I grew. Love it surely I would, if he would have been here to see me walk the carpet to receive my doctorial degree in counseling and to become ordained; for I know he would have felt pride in one that quite willingly carries his gene of humility no matter what I have achieved. I somehow suspect he sees me and knows what I am doing even right at this moment.

Even as a child I believed that one should as often as possible tell others of my love for them; I thank God that my father knew of my love and regard for him and as he so often communicated by mail after I moved to the States at 17 years old, I would frequently remind him that though he didn’t father me perfectly, he fathered me the best he knew how and that has made all the difference in my life!!!!

La vien Rose Trailer

Stephen Holden of The New York Times says, "Marion Cotillard's feral portrait of the French singer Edith Piaf as a captive wild animal hurling herself at the bars of her cage is the most astonishing immersion of one performer into the body and soul of another I have encountered in a film." This description is dead on and throbbing with realism. You cannot help being touched by this movie be it the music or the tragic life of Piaf. It is a must see. I can actually brag that I saw the movie on our flight back from Paris before it's NY debut this week unless it's a re-release. In any event, it's worth seeing the movie and eventually buying the DVD and Piaf's cd's.

Here We Go

The Senate passed the immigration bill today. More on this later. Of course I have a lot to say.

Fresh and New

As part of my 9 to 5 job I ocassionally interview candidates for open positions in my office. Depending on the opening, I look for the following: 1) experience; 2) work history; 3) longevity at previous positions; and 4) daily tasks and increased responsibilities. I also look at how well the cover letter is written and for an error free resume. This may sound strange to many but I'm often surprised when candidates submit cover letters and resumes with glaring typos and poor grammar usage. One would think that if you are looking for a job you would attempt to put your best foot forward, but not so for some. In any event, after sifting through resumes I decide on ones that best fits our needs. The final step in this arduous process is the interview at which time the candidate can make or break their opportunity for a job offer. Sometimes we hit a home run and hire a great candidate and sometimes we strike out and we end up severing ties with the candidate several months later.

Several months ago we went through an interview marathon and ended up with three candidates. One candidate blew me away on the interview by her energy, marketing experience, articulation of past and future involvement and her desire to continue to learn and grow. After much debate she was hired along with one other candidate. Several months later I'm sorry we hired her and felt that I was sold a bill of goods. The fresh and new perspective I had anticipated quickly vanished and the professionalism I gleaned from her resume was suspect. All in all, I wish we had gone with another candidate but now as the saying goes, we are stuck with her.

I relay this story because I think it necessary for all of us to look at the presidential elections as a job interview. We need to look at all of the things I presented above and more. What we cannot afford to do is to be caught up in mundane things like good looks, scripted speeches, faces that look like ours, and whether or not the face is fresh and new. Which leads me to Barak Obama. First let me say that I like Barak. If his resume were in front of me I would definitely call him in for an interview. Based on past experience, however, I would not buy into the things I presented above. I think voters need to hear more from the fresh new face other than "he gives us hope." I hope everyday that my cancer goes into remission, I hope that pedophiles will be eradicted from our society forever, I hope that poor people will have more to offer their children, I hope that Iran won't bomb us into eternity. I hope for a lot of things, it doesn't mean I can run the country.

The Honeymoon Goes On

As someone with cancer the story about the Georgia man with TB scares the living heck out of me. When you have a compromised immune system you pretty much live in fear of coming in contact with minor ailments such as a cold mcuh less something as threatening as TB. It seems to me, however, that there is blame to go around for everyone connected with this story but of course for me "individual" responsibility is paramount. It's scary to think that this guy flew all over the place before walking into a hospital. I guess the honeymoon must go on regardless of how many people you expose to a life threatening disease. Scary!

Rosie vs Elizabeth ALL IN ONE

Thanks for the birthday present Rosie.

Parlez-vous anglais?

Bonjour, Parlez - vous anglais? Oui! Boy were we happy for that response. My gf and I just returned from gay Parieee and we had a wonderful time. So, now you know the reason for my absence from blogging. This was my second trip to Europe and I think I have been bit by the travel bug. I just have to work on my fear of flying.

So, our trip was short enough to make us fall in love with Paris and long enough to miss home. We visited all the places that tourists visit and found a couple of out of the way places to have dinner. My gf took me to a wonderful restaurant for my birthday and it was magnificient. What a way to spend my birthday. I think we both gained 40lbs or more but it was all worth it. When all is said and done the French weren't so bad; just indifferent to everyone. One of the tings that I appreciated reading in our guide book was that the French are a quiet people and that was very evident even in restaurants. Of course, we got a glimse of the ugly American one morining while having breakfast in our hotel.

There were three American girls talking quite loudly and wouldn't quiet down even though we glared at them. We were very happy when they exited the dining room. We decided then and there that they were a perfect example of the label - the ugly American. But it seems like Americans have given up their monopoly on said phrase and thus this article was quite fortuitous. It seems that "ugly" applies to a lot of different people who travel to Europe and other places like New York City. Unfortunately I have to agree with the article as we encountered some but I won't say which group made me the craziest. Well as they say, ce la vie. I'll upload some of my favorite pics next time. Now, there is a lot for me to get to. See you on the funny pages.

No More Shame

I'm not sure but I guess it's normal for minorities to want role models. I don't like the word and have stayed away from essays or discussions where people keep insisting that I should have a role model. So, I'm not surprised that gay folks want their own role models and threaten to out them if they dare to live in the closet. In a recent article in Out magazine, Michael Musto's article The Glass Closet talks about gays we know are gay but continue to avoid the question. And I say, so what? Don't get me wrong, I would like it if Jody Foster came out but the fact that she she lives a quiet life makes her a role model to me. But I will offer this caveat, I am all for outing a closeted elected official whose votes scream anti-gay.

So, this brings me to the governor turned gay icon. I remember the day Jim McGreevey came out as a gay American. It was a Friday afternoon and I was in my car listening to talk radio when I happened to turn the dial to a news station. When he said the words I wanted to throw up in my car but thought it best not to mess up my clean car. I was furious and very disappointed in the back slapping that ensued shorthly thereafter that Governor McGreevey was one of us. I didn't welcome him with open arms then and I sure as hell don't now.

But, if I thought I had heard and seen it all before I'm once again surprised at McGreevey's arrogance and total disregard for anything moral. And unfortunately we live in a society where people like McGreevey is exempt from shame. He like many others are allowed to continue on a path that says it's ok to make a mockery of marriage vows, engage in indiscriminate sex in the backrooms of bookstores and lie to your constitutents while using their hard earned money by using state troopers to take you on trysts. But instead of holding McGreevey accountable for his horrid behavior we offer him a book deal, parade him on Oprah Winfrey where he talks about his "religion" and how hard it was to hide his orientation. And on top of it he wants custody of his daughter. Does anyone else see a problem here but me?

But the two most recent episodes in McGreevey's life are the real slap in the face of decent behavior. This article by Jonah Goldberg makes my point. It's an old article but it supports my point. And here is McGreevey getting paid for his pain as a gay American. I love the quote from Senator Lesniak, "He has a lot to offer. I wouldn't mind going to the class myself if I were a student." You gotta love it, McGreevey teaching ethics. But here is the real kicker folks. And who will he minster to, little boys? And we wonder why our society is so screwed up. So much for psychological tests.

Come Again?

Ok, I admit that I wasn't going to write about this but I can't help it. I can't help it because this is just another example of gross behavior with a result that screams to our kids, "Screw up but you can get a pass because of your wealth." There is no longer an opportunity to face the music there is just an opportunity to get more contracts and a party to welcome you home after serving your "punishment." I guess the new term, "overburdening" prevents the likes of Hilton to serve the necessary time in jail. Amazing!

Viva La Sarkozy!

It seems that conservative, Nicolas Sarkozy, won the election in France over the socialist, Segolene Royal. Sarkozy is considered the hard right conservative and has been accused of fomenting hate by calling young people bums. But at the end of the day, Royal "felt too much" and lost the women's vote to Sarkozy. But we will have to watch and see if change will happen in France because as writer Craig Smith tells us in this article, change may not be forthcoming even with a new president.

So Much for Rudy

Another feckless politician. This from a man who cheated on his wife. For shame Rudy. I think I'll mail him a pair of flip flops this weekend.

There Is a God

I knew today was going to be a good day when I heard the birds chirping and watched the bloom on the trees but this was the icing on the cake. Yahoooooooooooooooooooo!

Reparations Part I

Bring on the reparations! Dr. Leary has got to be kidding me. "People who let it slide suffer the damage. The hurt seeps through the epidermis and it breaks their hearts over and over again." Until blacks learn to discount how whites "feel" about them then and only then will they move forward and stop thinking in this vein. This is truly silly.

Akon in Trinidad Nightclub PICTURES

A reader writes, "Where is Sharpton?" I guess he would say this took place on the island of Trinidad so I can't comment. Hypocracy abounds.

A Time of Sorrow

My heart goes out to all the families and frends of all those who were killed on Monday in what now has been called the worse shooting in American history. I cannot begin to imagine the grief that these families must be experiencing right now. We all should take time to share in this sad time and more importantly allow the families the privacy they need at such a horrible time. I'm not a religious person but I do have a favorite prayer that I would like to share below.

The 23rd Psalm
The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want,
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures;
He leadeth me beside the still waters,
He restoretyh my soul:
He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name sake.

Yes, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death

I will fear no evil: For thou art with me;

Thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me.

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies;

Thou annointest my head with oil; My cup runneth over.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life,

and I will dwell in the House of the Lord forever.

Bingo!

Bingo! Bingo! Bingo! Mr. Whitlock is spot on with his assessment of this shameful debacle. Thank you sir.

akon-smack that

Where is the outrage? Where is Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton? Why aren't they calling for people not to boycott this "artist?" Why is this guy number 1 on the Billboard's hip hop charts? And we are worried about Don Imus? Give me a break.

Not Your Typical Nappy Haired Negro

In case you haven't heard let me be the first to tell you that there are two sets of rules in our society: one for blacks and one for whites. The rules go something like this, when it comes to race blacks can say whatever they want because they are now and will forever be the downtrodden victims of a failed America. On the other hand are white folks who must be quiet because they are still the oppressors and unles they are acknowledging their guilt they have no credibility on race issues. However you cut it whites will never be able to say certain words, make jokes, nor will they be able to redeem themselves after making a stupid blunder. After several days it seems like Don Imus is another victim of this outrageous double standard.

When I was a little girl my family lived next door to a white family. The family was by Jamaican standards, rich. My brother and I became friends with the two kids and we played kids games and attended birthday parties. During the years that we lived next door I started to wish for soft curly hair like my friend Tanya. I also started to wish that my lips were thin like my friends next door. My nappy hair was a bone of contention for me until I had the opportunity to "perm" it. Years later people are paying thousands of dollars to make their lips look full and I get to have the last laugh.

I share this story to make a point and that point is that its not that Don Imus is a racist it's that he touched on something that is taboo in the black community. That "thing" is one of many things that we as blacks hate about ourselves. Having "nappy hair" is not a horrible thing but its horrible when a white person calls attention to it. Everything that we hate about ourselves is somehow intensified when a white person calls attention to it even though these same people laugh at nappy head jokes when told by the likes of Chris Rock, Sinbad or any other black comedian that may have used it as part of their material. But there is more to just making jokes about black hair its about breaking the agreed to rule that whites not speak negatively about the "chosen" people. If you do then you kiss your career goodbye regardless of your mea culpas.

So Don Imus made a stupid remark and he is not only suspended but he continues to be battered by the media, Al Sharpton, Jesse Jackson and many blacks who thing whitey has gone too far. But some of the same people now standing on moral high ground have they themselves contributed to, engaged in and perpetuated some of the more vulgar and out right racist rants this country has witnessed in many years. The fact that these people are black is where the double standard becomes evident. The fact that Harry Belafonte can call former secretary of state Colin Powell and current secretary of state Condileeza Rice house niggers and no one call him on if is outrageous. The fact that Jesse Jackson can call Jews "hymies" and New York "hymie town" and get away with it without a peep from blacks is down right disgusting.

The fact that Andrew Young, former U.N. ambassador for the United States, can say that Jewish Korean and Arab merchants are "overcharging" blacks and who sell "stale bread and bad meat" to blacks without asking him to retract his statement is unjust. The fact that Julianne Malveaux can state, "I hope his wife feeds him lots of eggs and butter and he dies early like many black men do, of heart disease," without any push back from blacks is sickening. And to top it off she is rewarded with the post of president at Bennett College. I'm sure Dr. Malveaux will say that she "deserves" the post because she has served her people. Where is the outrage?

The bottom line here is simply this, black people can't have their cake and eat it too. If we are going to condemn Don Imus for what he said then we have to start doing the same to everyone regardless of race. And here are just a few: Miss Jones in the morning appears on Hot 97 a local hip hop station in New York. In some circles the station is known as "shot97" because of the gun fights outside the station. Let's see, Ms. Jones calls women bitches. She and her partners use the word nigger like its everyday language. She advocates violence against cops. And Al Sharpton has appeared on her show not asking for her to resign nor is he calling for demonstrations outside the building; Charles Barron, New York City councilman, advocating violence against white people without censor from the council; and Al Sharpton and I don't think I need do anything else but type his name.

So, do I think Don Imus should be fired? No way in hell. He has apologized profusely and we need to move on. And until evryone else that I mentioned above and others like them are called on the carpet then I say he should stay right where he is. But here is just some of what's happening as I write this. And here.

What is Wrong with this Woman?

Could someone please explain to me, like I'm a six year old, what's wrong with Ann Coulter? In this article from her web site Coulter proves to me that she is not only stupid but nasty. "This is truly a war in which we have absolutely no interest? What? The killing of humans beings is of no interest to the world community? Should we simply turn our backs on this dreadful march to death the way the world ignored the Holocust until everyone wised up? This woman really needs to shut the hell up.

What Next?

This article is so stupid it's funny. The best line has to be, "If you feel you might make a noise, please cover your mouth tightly with your hand." It's obvious that the folks in this Sacramento town has nothing better to do with their time. Aren't amusement parks about making noise? Too much.

Obama Mania

Let the fireworks begin. Obama is off and running and the flood gates are open. Who would have thunk it, especially Hillary, that he would have raised as much money as the senator from New York? Senator Clinton had no comment on Obama's fundraising. I bet a dollar that this will be the last time she keeps her mouth shut. Let the mud slinging begin.

No To Jamaica Part 2

In doing more research on homophobic attacks in Jamaica and other places in the Caribbean I realized that many of the articles dated as far back as 2001 and thought I wouldn't be making a cogent argument especially if things were "better" on the island. Unfortunately, I was wrong as you will read momentarily. So for the sake of research and establishing some kind of timeline, I will include most of those articles in this post. I want to fully drive home the point that these islands should not benefit from tourism dollars be the tourists gay or straight. For now, most of the articles are about Jamaica as it seems to be the most homophobic and brutal.

The articles I'm posting depicts the violence and hatred that these people have for other human beings. And I really don't care that homosexuality is illegal in Jamaica because none of the people in the articles were engaging in "homosexual acts" in public which is what the law outlines. In this article the chair of reggae studies at the University of West Indies in Kingston claims that dancehall has been misunderstood. She states, "Homophobia is one part of dancehall but you shouldn't reduce it to its homophobic lyrics." Excuse me? What should I reduce it to, playtime at the local jamboree? Be serious. When dancehall "artists" advocate KILLING gay people how can you not reduce it to its most basic forms? Leave it to the educators.

Here is another example of irrational behavior on the part of common folks who in some cases preach the word of God. When I was a young girl I was told over and over again that God loved "everyone." I now realize, according to "christians" that he loves you unless you are gay.

Here is yet another example of the rage that Jamaicans exert against gay people. When I was a child I heard the words but knew they didn't apply to me. I heard the word "battyman" used by strangers and family. It didn't occur to me that there was so much hatred on the island towards gay people and all I can say is, why would a gay person vacation there. I guess that's one of the questions being asked in this article. And just when you thought it was safe to go back in the water here comes another creature. Oh island in the sun...

Buju Banton - Murderer

Want more evidence not to go to Jamaica?

Buju Banton says

Dip in record sales helps ignorant dancehall artist see his ignorance and hate.

The Most Homophobic Place on Earth

While this story may have come out last year it is still worth noting here. And in an earlier post I presented a 2007 incident in Jamaica where a mob forced several gay men into hiding in a local pharmacy. Whether it's 2006 or 1996 Jamaica is not the place to go if you are gay or lesbian. And the way things are shaping up it seems like the Caribbean on a whole is not the place to vacation if you are gay or lesbian. So, starting today I will start a one woman campaign to ask gays and lesbians and our straight friends to stop spending their hard earned money on these islands.

As example of the hatred of gays on the islands here is a sample of lyrics by a reggae dancehall favorite Buju Banton. Some of the is repeated for emphasis.

DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEY IN JAMAICA!

Who Said Life Was Easy?

I was diagnosed with colon cancer on Friday, April 8, 2005. I don't plan on celebrating its anniversary on April 8, 2007 especially since my cancer has grown. After my three month check up, when I was expecting to hear good news, my oncologist told me and my partner that the damn thing had grown and so it was back to chemo. As I sat in the office of my oncologist I vacilated between jumping out the window and strangling him. I guess neither would have done me any good nor would send the cancer kicking and screaming from my body. As he started to describe a new protocol I tuned out and started to wonder if I would make it through a second time. Would I be able to go to Greece with my partner? Would I be able to see my precious niece grow up? Would I be able to dance at my wedding? Would I be able to... Our drive home was silent as we both succumbed to our own thoughts and fears.

In the last several weeks people like Elizabeth Edwards and Tony Snow have had a similar diagnosis to the chagrin of their families. As Andrew Sullivan notes here, cancer doesn't discriminate across party lines nor any other line. It is an insiduous disease that claims lives and souls. And while I don't plan on giving into this disease I do get angry and frustrated. In my first go round with this disease my partner purchased the book "It's Always Something," by Gilda Radner, and it helped me to put things into perspective. I didn't read this as a self help book but as a book written by someone who experienced the same journey. The book made me laugh and cry and boil over with anger. I guess it is time to re-read it. I also read Lance Armstrong's book, "It's Not About the Bike," years before I was diagnosed. I'm not one for heroes but if I were forced to give names it would have to be Gilda Radner and Lance Armstrong.

General Peter Pace comments on Gays in the Military

In his own words.

Something To Think About General Pace

When I served in the military I was "approached" by a major but thank god after one drink too many he went to sleep and didn't follow through on his more basic instinct. Throughout my tenure in the Army Reserve I did not encounter anything that would be considered harrassment or any other form of male agressive behavior. I'm one of the lucky ones. This story, however, is quite disturbing on many levels and it is obvious that something must be done about it. I present it here to make a statement about the military's Don't Ask Don't Tell policy. General Pace should be more concerned about this kind of dreadful behavior on the part of male soldiers that the supposed "immoral" behavior of gays serving in the military.

UNBELIEVABLE!

This has to be the most unbelievably ignorant article I have read in a very long time. This has reinforced my view that "christians" have more problems that those "claimed" to be immoral.

I don't know whether to laugh or cry at this article.

HRC vs Bloggers

I'm not sure why everyone is surprised at HRC's behavior. I have known for years that HRC was not the bi-partisan group they claim to be. They have made a mockery of the word. I knew they preferred playing with the Dems for years but was crstalized when they insisted on including the T (transgender) in the ENDA legislation. When any organization starts believing their own hype it's time to close up shop.

Gays vs Straights

I'm not sure what to think of this letter from Larry Kramer but I will post it here and think on it. I will post my comments tomorrow.

Coulter Criticized

As is the norm with The New York Times, this article was buried on page 24 of the main section of the Sunday paper. Why? Because The New York Times would be the last publication to show that the GOP actually decries bad behavior. I guess I should be happy that they printed the criticsm.

Sen. Hillary Clinton at Human Rights Campaign Board Meeting

There is a great line from "Cat On a Hot Tin Roof" by Big Daddy played by Burl Ives where he says, "What is that smell? It's the smell of mendacity." It's not exact but the use of the word mendacity is what I'm after. This speech by Hillary Clinton to HRC is just that "mendacity." And why is it so? Because like HRC, Senator Clinton is about making gays feel good.

Let me start at the beginning. First, Senator Clinton may have voted against the FMA but she is against same-sex marriage. When she first ran as Senator she stated that marriage is between a man and a woman and she continues to say that to this day even though she claims that her "opinions" have "evolved." Sounds like Romney. She made this revelation at a meeting with gays back in October saying that she would not oppose Spitzer's enactment of a same-sex marriage law in New York State. Before this meeting, another high powered gay and lesbian group had this to say about her, "She is a complete disappointment and does not deserve an LGBT fundraiser." This came from Executive Director Alan Van Capelle of the Empire Pride Agenda.
Second, her "support" for gays serving in the military is mendacity at its highest level especially since her husband gave us "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," several days after he stated at an ESPA dinner in 1990 that he saw gays as part of the American fabric. His signature adorned this policy several days after his "feel good" speech at ESPA's fall dinner. Third,Hillary is on record as saying that she would vote for Don't Ask, Don't Tell. So for her to say that she supports soldiers who are gay is a crock like the rest of her speech.

Senator Clinton is very similar to her husband in words if not in deeds. If gays, with the help of HRC, believe that they have an advocate in Hillary I would suggest they stop smoking that weird weed.

Ann Coulter calls Al Gore a

I'm not sure where to start when commenting on Ann Coulter. I play this video because Youtube did no have her latest sophmoric rant about John Edwards being a "faggot." It seems that Ms. Coulter knows a lot of faggots, Al Gore, Bill Clinton and now John Edwards. Is this what Conservatives have to offer the larger community as a way of making their case? This woman has a law degree, have sold several books, most of which are nothing but blowhard crap, and is continually courted by Conservatives? Come on, any thinking human being, be they Conservative or otherwise, can do better than this. I have to admit that I was a Coulter fan until I read her first book, "Slander" and realized that I could have written a better book. The book was full of "emotions," what Conservatives accuse liberals of and opinions and nothing nearing "facts." It is obvious that Ms. Coulter survives on ad hominem attacks to sell books and garner speaking engagements. There are several things I could say about Ms. Coulter but unlike her I don't lower myself to such attacks. I'm all for freedom of speech but when its so offensive and sophmoric it should be jeered and not cheered.

Black History Month

In honor of Black History Month (BHM) I submitted a letter to the editor of my local newspaper regarding the banning of the N-word. This is what they published it is somewhat different than my original but the essence of the letter was preserved. Now we are in another "theme" month. More on that later.

Oh Island In The Sun...

I was born on May 22, 1960 on the island of Jamaica in the West Indies. I grew up in a poor family like many of the people around me and moving to the United States was a blessing. I left Jamiaca when I was 10 years old and before I left I knew a thing or two about Jamaica. First, I knew that the people of Jamaica were a hard working and proud people. Years later, I would laugh at a skit on "In Living Color" about all the jobs that Jamaicans held in New York. Second, my father and mother taught me that family and not drive by friends were most important in life. Third, I knew that taboos existed - one of which was homosexuality.

I knew at a very young age that I was "different" than my siblings but I did not have a word for my "difference." But I knew that a "battyman" was not a good thing and if you were one, God help you. At the age of 10, I knew that a battyman was a man who liked men and he was to be avoided at all costs if not to be pummmeled. I figured I wasn't a battyman so I was ok. But I still didn't have a word for who and what I was.

Years later I know who and what I am and I sure as hell know what a battyman is. Unfortunately, my "homeland" hasn't forgotten either. In 2007, homosexuality is a crime in Jamaica and it's ok to beat, maim and kill battymen. In 2007, in Jamaica, a crowd can gather to chant, "battyman" and feel no remorse. In 2007, police officers can ridicule, beat and cast off "battymen" the way they beat and cast off citizens and non-citizens who don't conform to their way of living. In 2007, "battymen" wish they were never born. This is the "island in the sun" with promises of sun and fun, unless you are a homosexual.

Here, here, and here are just some examples of what has been going on in Jamaica with no end in sight. I contend that most of this has to do with illiteracy and just plain barbaric behavior. But what is truly defining, if one were to believe in the myths about gay people, is the HIV/AIDS rate in Jamaica. If one were to believe that HIV/AIDS was just a gay disease then this report would be suspect.

To say that something must be done is an understatement. Maybe if jamaica lost it's tourism dollars it would awake to the injustice that spreads like wildfire on the island. Only time will tell.

Wacky Florida Judge Rules in Anna Nicole Custody Case

What a piece of garbage. I could hardly get through this video because this "judge" was so offensive. Where the hell did he come from? This is a travesty of all that is real and true and honest. I know this much is true, the law school that this guy graduated from should not be looking for donations from it's alumni. This guy should have stayed a taxi driver. What a sad commentary on our socisty.

I Love Lucy- Does A Commercial 2

Now this is comedy.

What a sad life. And her daughter, five months old, will now be fought over like a piece of furniture. Kind of reminds me of another blond who had more pain, self inflicted or not, than happiness in her life.

Obama Mania This Is Not

This article sheds light on a problem within the black community that many would prefer to sweep under the rug. It is the issue of the light skinned black versus the dark skinned black. This has been an issue for the 46 years that I have been alive and it has intention of going away as it is alive and well in 2007. As such, its a problem among blacks who view Obama as an outsider. The article is offensive on many levels but to suggest that Obama is not a "real" black is stupid if not laughable if it weren't so sad. And to a certain extent it shows the ignorance of those commenting in the article including those working in higher education.

Mr. Lanier;s comment, in particular, emphasises the ignorance of the electorate when he says, "We have been taught that a president should come from right here, born, raised, bred fed in America. To go outside and and bring someone in from another nationality, now that doesn't feel right to some people." And this delicious quote from Debra Dickerson, "I've got nothing but love for the brother (isn't that brotha?) but we have nothing in common. His father was African. His mother was white. He grew up with white grandparents." Well there you go, there is no way Barack Obama can be legitimate because he's got white blood in him. And people are surprised by what Biden had to say about Obama?

First, someone should tell Mr. Lanier that Hawaii is a state within the United States which makes Obama a US citizen. Second, Obama spent more time with his "white" grandparents than he did with his biological father as told in his memoir. His grandparents did more for him than his biological father ever did or will ever do. So his white blood and light skin should be a problem for blacks?

So blacks should be careful when they say things like Obama isn't "authentically black" because by saying that they play into the stereotypes of blacks, i.e. high black, chitlin eating hoodlums. So the bottom line is this, if you didn't march with King, if you don't have two parents who are black, even if he's the "baby daddy," if you have never listened to rap but to the Drifters, if you dare to graduate from a "white" school and speak a language other than ebonics, if you have kids but didn't name them Shaniqua or Mohammed then you are not "down with your people" hence not "really black. Now that's progress.

Black History Month: Part I

For those out there who insist on celebrating Black History Month, here is something worth pondering and executing.

1984 All Over Again?

Ahhh, its Black History Month and what better way to start the celebration than to legislate thoughts. I guess there aren't more important issues in the city for Councilman Leroy Cormie to concentrate on hence this needless resolution. I guess he was tired of chasing after miscreants who use recording devices in movie theaters. I think Councilman Cormie's time would be better spent by encouraging blacks to stay in school.

Someone please explain to me, like I'm a six year old, how stuff like this happens? And instead of apologizing for screwing up Lt. Van Gillock states, "If they did it voluntarily they have the stigma of homosexuality." (emphasis added) Only ignorant people continue to believe that pedophilia is proof of homosexuality or vice versa.

I'm not sure why this is a surprise to anyone. It just shows the sheer stupidity of someone who is constantly running for higher office. Just shut up already Senator Biden.

Gay & Republican Is Not an Oxymoron

In 2001 I changed my party affiliation from Democrat to Republican and haven't looked back. To say I became disenchanted with the Democratic party is an understatment. I also became disenchanted with many of the gay groups and their partisan rhetoric. Something had changed for me and I knew that I couldn't be a part of any organization that pushed the victim button nor could I be part of any organization that made claims to "saving" the gay community.

During this time, I took a break from "advocacy" work and started reading and researching. One of the books I read at the time was this book by Rich Tafel, former executive director of the Log Cabin Republicans. This book, I know its a cliche, changed my life. I found myself agreeing with everything Rich had to say and I knew at that moment that I had made the right decision in switching parties and his words reinforced my internal debate of several years. Many years later I still think this is an important book and it continues to dispel the myth that gay and Republican is an oxymoron. And it reinforces the notion that HRC is not now or have ever been non-partisian.

Here is some comments on the book including mine. "Tafel rejects the identity politics that lead to such unproductive alliances, favoring instead an emphasis on individual rights and responsibility in which political commitment is based on a desire to personally do the right thing rather than be "accepted" or "loved."

And my review: "Rich Tafel answered many of my questions as I struggled to figure out why I was still commited to the Democratic Party. Tafel makes clear and cogent points about the differences between the Democratic and Republican parties and comes out on top everytime. He gives evidence to the contrary that gay and Republican is an oxymoron. This is a must read for anyone who cares about the political future of gays and especially for those who see morals and values not as buzz words used by the Right but a way of life that should not be anathema to the gay community." I still stand by those words.

Where Is The Outrage?

Where is the outrage? Blacks killing blacks doesn't warrant a march from Al Sharpton and his entourage. Why? Because black life is worth more when taken by whites.

I'm sorry but I think this issue has gone too far.

Casablanca

"Here's looking at you kid."

Booze and Dope

"Broadway doesn't go for booze and dope." They don't? They don't make them like they used to.

Too Much Information

"And I soon realized that having the secret out was liberating." These words are from Oprah Winfrey about her pregnancy as the result of sexual molestation. My reaction to the latest news that Oprah was pregnant because of sexual molestation is one of sympathy. However, while I have a great deal of respect for Oprah I'm tired of the tell all stories from her and others. I realize that her latest revelation came about because of a craven relative's need for quick money I maintain that she need give it more attention.

I have respect for Oprah because she has done a lot for a lot of people and she has brought attention to issues that many would not talk about before now. And I especially like her emphasis on education as in her 40 million dollar creation of a school for girls in South Africa. However, it makes me wonder if her latest revelation is not simply a way to increase ratings. Call me cynical but it makes me stop and wonder about what's really going on. And if it's not about ratings then I would suggest to Oprah to seek out professional help and no I'm not suggesting Dr. Phil. I would ask Oprah to share this information with a therapist in the privacy of his/her office and not on camera or in the mainstream press. To Oprah: continue to do good things for young people but turn off the camera on your personal life.

Something worthwhile to keep in mind as we debate one another.

I think everyone would agree that the fatal shooting of Sean Bell was horrible and should be investigated. However, I don't think it beneficial to the investigation to scream racism. Crying racism does more harm than good to the black community. Two of my favorite writers drives this idea home here and here.

Let The Games Begin

It's official, Hillary Clinton has formed an exploratory committee to run for the presidency. Let the games begin.

Dreams- Performing Dreamgirls

I saw Dreamgirls this past weekend and loved it. All the women were wonderful but Jennifer Hudson stole the show. I would recommend it as a must see. Enjoy!

Obama Mania

Well, well, well, Barak Obama has formed an "exploratory" committee to look into running for the presidency of the United States of America. And we all fall at his feet. Don't get me wrong I like Obama. What's there not to like? He's handsome, he's educated, he's well spoken, he's of African descent, AND (drum roll please) HE's BLACK. I seem to recall another black who has stellar credentials but wait I forget, she's a Republican. Sorry folks I forgot my head there for a moment. It's not just "any" black person with stellar credentials it has to be a black Democrat with stellar credentials.

Well, I have not jumped on the Obama train and I have no intention of doing so and I know many will be disappointed because after all I'm black. And that is exactly why I'm not on that train and why this love for Obama is so sickening and disingenuous. If you listened to the Democrats and most liberals you would think that Obama was the best thing since sliced bread (dark sliced bread). He is the first black man that could string two complete and grammatically correct sentences together and walk at the same time. He is the first black man to look good in rolled up sleeves. And on and on. Whether or not he's qualified is of no concern to the Democrats because what is more important is that he has HOPE. I also find it ironic that he made his announcement the day after Dr. King's birthday. Please Senator Obama, don't even think of putting yourself in the same category as Dr. King.

Here are some worthwhile comments from one of my favorite bloggers.

Martin Luther King

"Let us not wallow in the valleys of despair."

"I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia, the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood."

"I have a dream that my four little children will live in a nation where they will not be judged by color of their skin but by the content of their character."

As we celebrate Dr. King's life and legacy let us remember his words but most of all let us not wait for another "leader" like Dr. King to come along but rather be leaders ourselves.

I Too Have A Dream

Not sure what is going on with Youtube but my earlier post on Dr. King never made it to my website. So let me do another in anticipation of the post showing up sometime tonight or tomorrow. Here is probably the most important speech of the 20th century and brilliantly executed.

The lines that continue to inspire me are as follows:

"Let us not wallow in the valley of despair."

"I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia, the sons former slaves and the sons former slave owners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood."

"I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character."

The dream that I have is that the black community stop looking for another Dr. King and take it upon ourselves to be leaders and fulfill his dream.

Correction

I made an error in my last post regarding the documentary Deliver Us Frm Evil. The pedophile priest's name is Father O'Grady and not Gagan. That's how riled up I become about scum.

Who Should Care?

I've never been fooled into believing that women stick together as do blacks because they "understand" each other. Not that I want them to but if you listen to liberals they should unless of course they happen to have an "R" behind their names. Another misnomer by many, not just liberals, is that if you are childless you have no "valid" opinion on rearing, loving, feeling the loss of or anything for that matter to do with children as shown here by Barbara Boxer. How impertinent is that?

deliver us from evil

"For all of America's 'children' the House will be in order." These comments are from Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi as she convened the 110th Congress. I call on Pelosi and ALL Democrats and Republicans to do the right thing regarding OUR children and protect them by delivering them from this evil. It's one thing to fight for healthcare for all children and quite another for a healthy child to be abused by scum like Father Gagan. Let's stop the lip service people. If you have not seen this movie go see it and let me know if you feel the kind of hate that I feel towards pedophiles in general and "God fearing" people who perpetuate hate in particular.

Barbara Walters on Donald Trump, Rosie O'Donnell

The Shut Up Rosie Tour: Part 3

While I don't agree with Trump calling O'Donnell names I still think she should shut up and go away. This clip with Walters, where she has to read her "support" of Rosie is laughable.

Excuse Me, But You're Stepping On My Shoes

For sometime now I have been saying that there are too many people in Manhattan. Everywhere you go there is a queue for one thing or another and forget about the subway. Strangers breathing down the back of my neck is not the way I like to spend my time. And I can never figure out why people "intentionally" stand on line for some new trendy restaurant. I never wanted a meal that badly.

Noise, dirt, germs and crowds make me wish for a time when life was not so harried, noisy and people had manners. I share most of this with my partner, who is probably tired of hearing it, but I'm happy to see that there are others with similar thoughts. In this article, Paul Theroux describes what I feel about crowds and noise but mostly about our lack of civility. The article reminded me of a recent trip to the pharmacy to pick up one of my many medications. I had been going to this pharmacy for sometime and was, unfortunately, serviced by a young lady who seem to have a trademark on rudness. I was getting tired of it so I decided to say something on my last trip.

Here is how it went. Me: "I realize that working with the public can be stressful and frustrating but I really do think you need a lesson in customer service." Pharmacy Aide: "Customer service? I aint got no problem with nobody." Other than walking away and shaking my head what else could I have done other than correct her grammar? And this is just one example of what we are facing in our society today. As Theroux states in his article, "Yes, it is just silly and fogeyish to yearn for that simpler and smaller world of the past. But one could ask for the past's better manners, the instinctive decorum that has served to mitigate conflict." A girl can wish can't she?

A Charlie Brown Christmas

I have been scratching my head trying to figure out how to start the new year with a happy entry and I have finally come up with one. Yes, I know Christmas is over but its always Christmas when I think of Charlie Brown. What better way to start the new year than with Charlie Brown and friends? Enjoy!

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.