Update

I've been taking a break the past two weeks from email, news, internet, etc. Now working on a new feature for my Blog. I'll be posting information and links to free sweepstakes entries. I am reviewing the Terms & Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Web of Trust Rating for each site before listing it. Should be fun.

News: Reasons to Celebrate Columbus Day

One of my close friends posted a note on Facebook this morning, "Happy Columbus Day everyone." One humorous comment stood out: "How will you be celebrating Columbus Day this year? I tried to find anything other than a mattress sale but alas, no such luck!"

As today's news came in, I realized there are a couple of great reasons to celebrate today. Particularly for those in California, but the effects of these events will probably sweep across the country (as they usually do).

First, Senator Barbara Boxer and Senator Dianne Feinstein signed their names to a letter last Thursday insisting that the Senate include a strong public option in the merged health care bill. Previously, there was some doubt about Feinstein's resolve on the question. Courage Campaign is collecting signatures to a letter thanking the Senators for their action, and urging them to stand their ground when the matter reaches the floor.

Second, Governor Schwarzenegger today signed two historic LGBT rights bills into law. The Governor signed the Harvey Milk Day of Special Significance bill. A moment worth celebrating, as he vetoed similar legislation in the past. And more importantly, he signed the Marriage Recognition and Family Protection Act. It provides that same-sex couples married before the passage of Proposition 8, must be recognized as married spouses in California. Moreover, the law applies to couples married in or outside the State. It requires that such couples must be given all of the rights, protections and responsibilities of married spouses under California law.

These may seem like small steps, but in the larger picture of the LGBT rights struggle, these are monumental steps. The long-term impact of both of these accomplishments is immeasurable. A reason to celebrate!

Quote of The Day: John Stewart

"Why can't they have gay people in the army? Personally, I think they are just afraid of a thousand guys with M16s going "Who'd you call a faggot?" ~John Stewart

Clip of the Day: 575 Castro Street

Those of you who live in San Francisco, probably recognized this address immediately. It is the address of Harvey Milk's Camera Shop.

Take a moment of solitude, to reflect on this moment recorded some thirty years ago. About how far we've come...and about how far we have to go, to realize Harvey's dream.

News: D.C. March Reminds Equality Elusive

Hundreds of thousands of citizens march today on the U.S. Capital to remind their American brothers and sisters that second class citizenship still exists in our great country. At the forefront of their agenda is the end of the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy for serving in the military. Basically, this law informs a substantial portion of the citizenship: "It's okay to die for your country, as long as you don't claim equal recognition." Similar policies allowed African Americans to die for their country.

Additionally, LGBT voters are seeking inclusion in the federal hate crimes law. This law makes it a federal offense to assault someone based solely on their race, color, or religion. Conservatives contend that including LGBT citizens in this protection, amounts to "special rights". Apparently protection from having your body disassembled with assorted tools, having your genitals mutilated, and other abhorrent violence based on your perceived sexual orientation, is not comparable to lynching.

"Perception" of sexual orientation is noted when referring to hate crimes, because often victims of LGBT violence are straight. They suffer violence, or even death, because of a false assumption about their identity. What many voters and legislators fail to grasp, is that as long as LGBT citizens are not afforded the right to serve openly the military, or equal civil marriage rights, they are defined by law as separate, and unequal...second-class citizens. This substandard existence justifies violence in the mind of the perpetrator.

This past June marked the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, when a group of gays stood up to police harassment in New York's Greenwich Village and took to the streets. That night is most often noted as the birth of the modern gay rights movement. Equal rights, and more importantly equal protection, for LGBT citizens is long overdue.

Write your congressperson, and your senators. Let them know that you support an end to Don't Ask Don't Tell, and inclusion of LGBT citizens in the federal hate crimes bill:

• U.S. House of Representatives | Contact Directory
• U.S. Senate | Contact Directory

Quotes of the Day: Van Buren, Goldwater & Matlovich

"You could move." ~Abigail Van Buren (Dear Abby), in response to a reader who complained that a gay couple was moving in across the street and wanted to know what he could do to improve the quality of the neighborhood.

"You don't have to be straight to be in the military; you just have to be able to shoot straight." ~Barry Goldwater

"When I was in the military, they gave me a medal for killing two men and a discharge for loving one." ~Leonard P. Matlovich

Clip of the Day: Boy George: Turn to Dust

This following song "Turn to Dust" is Boy George's best work in years. The video is from a YouTube member. FYI: "Chi Chi Man" is a derogatory Jamaican term for homosexual.

Quote of The Day: e. e. cummings

"The most wasted of all days...is one without laughter." -e. e. cummings

The Starter Wife: Fantasy Dream Sequences

I'm a huge fan of The Starter Wife, starring Debra Messing. I think it's the smartest, funniest comedy series to hit television in years. It costars Judy Davis, who I also really like. At the beginning of each episode Molly (Debra Messing), has a fantasy dream sequence, in which she portrays the character in a famous movie scene. The fantasy applies her current predicament to the situation in the movie scene. Really cool. You can occasionally catch reruns on the USA Network. I don't know if they're going to do a third season.

Here is The Tomb Raider Fantasy from one of the episodes. Molly and Rodney go searching for Molly's BFF Joan (Judy Davis). Joan and her husband Pappy disappeared on their cruise...


The USA website has a page with all of the fantasy scenes available for viewing. Each fantasy is only one or two minutes long. Just scroll down on any of these pages to find the thumbnails. A few of my favorites:

The Godfather (Molly Finds Ex-Husband Kenny)
Cinderella (Molly Meets New Boyfriend Zach)
Mission Impossible (Retrieving her Journal from Boyfriend's House)
Hello Dolly (Hollywood Outcast Molly, Gets a Movie Deal for her Book)

Quote of The Day: Playing For Change

"It became very clear that as a human race we need to transcend from the darkness to the light...and music is our weapon of the future." -Playing For Change

Playing For Change: War / No More Trouble

You may have heard of Playing For Change..."a multimedia movement created to inspire, connect, and bring peace to the world through music. Music has the universal power to transcend and unite us as one human race." One of the goals of my blog is to help promote understanding...love...and peace. So, I'll be featuring selected episodes of their journey here over the next few weeks. You can view the all the episodes I've posted to date here.

The caption for this next performance reads:
"As we made our way around the world we encountered love, hate, rich and poor, black and white, and many different religious groups and ideologies. It became very clear that as a human race we need to transcend from the darkness to the light and music is our weapon of the future. This song around the world features musicians who have seen and overcome conflict and hatred with love and perseverance. We dont need more trouble, what we need is love. The spirit of Bob Marley always lives on."

Episode Two: A multinational performance of "War/No More Trouble". (5:09)

Super Majority Proves Impotent

Despite a "Super Majority" in the Senate, and the fact that 65% of Americans support a public option in health care reform (New York Times/CBS poll), the Democrats just don't get it. Last week, the Senate Finance Committee voted down two different amendments that would have included a public option.

Experts continually point to a public option as the only viable hope for reigning in health care costs. Write your congressperson, and your senators. Let them know that you expect them to deliver what the American taxpayers want, in healthcare reform legislation: A Public Option.

Contact Your Representative Here
Contact Your Senators Here

Quote of the Day: Dylan Ratigan

"...As we watch the senators debate a public option that most of us would never be able to use, and it seems, lawmakers in general shying away from a bill that would subject health insurance companies to anti-trust laws. Other than Major League Baseball, only health insurance has an exemption from the Sherman anti-trust laws.

Instead of improving our health care systems by creating and enforcing free and fair markets, our politicians continue to engage in back room deals with health insurance companies and big pharma...instead of seeking answers to the problem of paying for and providing medicine to us.

We are doing the exact opposite in fact. Taxpayer money continues to be played with by politicians who are desperately trying to protect the status quo, leaving patients and doctors as fodder for their money game." -Dylan Ratigan

Clip of The Day: The Daily Show on Dem Majority

The Daily Show's John Stewart gives us a rundown on how the Democratic supermajority fails to pass health care reform, but succeeds in funding abstinence-only education. (6:54)

The Daily Show With Jon Stewart	Mon - Thurs 11p / 10c
Democratic Super Majority
www.thedailyshow.com
Daily Show Full Episodes Political Humor Ron Paul Interview

Clip of the Day: Craig Ferguson on Email

Craig attempts to read email during his monologue. (4:09)

Dr. Weil: Are You Depressed or Just Human?

In his recent blog on The Huffington Post, Dr. Weil discusses the stratospheric explosion of depression diagnoses in the U.S. "An astonishing 10 percent of the U.S. population was prescribed an antidepressant in 2005; up from 6 percent in 1996." Read the Full Article Here.

Quote of the Day: Plato

"Music and rhythm find their way into the secret places of the soul." -Plato

Viral Video: Yale Student's Jackson Tribute

This a cappella medley of Michael Jackson's songs appears to be performed by a very talented boy band. In fact, this Yale University student sang all six parts himself. His friend (left), edited the six performances together, and contributes some of the sound effects. The video is up to 1.2 million hits and counting. Recently, the two of them appeared on The Bonnie Hunt Show. Kudos...a great performance. (3:56)

Perspectives on Jackson's Life & Legacy

Like myself, you are probably burned out on the endless news coverage of Michael Jackson. The night before his memorial, I discovered something that I wanted to share…particularly with my family. But, I thought I should wait for the media madness to die down a bit. With the recent airing on Dateline of the Jackson tapes, there is no end in sight. So, I've decided to publish it now.

As reported previously here, my cousin visited Michael in 1984. Because of the great sense of gratitude I felt towards Michael, I was an ardent defender of his for two decades. But I must confess, that during the 2005 trial I began having serious doubts about Michael’s innocence in the abuse cases that surrounded him. Certainly I am not alone in my experience of conflicted feelings, about this curious, and occasionally disturbing, Iconic personality. After reviewing accounts of the evidence presented at the trial, and reading extensive discussions on both sides of the argument, I’ve resolved the issue for myself based on three observations:

First: In America we live by the rule of law. Not the least of which, is the presumption of innocence. All too often, we exclude those with fame from this basic right. The more salacious the charges, the less likely we are to presume their innocence. Logically, we understand that those with fame and power are susceptible to extortion. (Recent events with David Letterman and John Travolta come to mind.) Celebrities are often targets of extortion...and very often with false charges. Sadly, the more famous they become...the more likely they are to be victimized. But emotionally, we don’t give that fact equal weight in our rush to pass judgment.

Second: Matthew 7:1 tells us to “Judge not, that you be not judged.“ Many Christians consider this citation overused and misunderstood: that we should not judge the person, but that we are able to judge one’s behavior. Perhaps. But further examination reveals in Wesley’s Notes to: “Judge not any man without full, clear, certain knowledge, without absolute necessity, without tender love.” Additionally, the People’s New Testament extrapolates that “What [Christ] designs to prohibit is rash, uncharitable judgments, a fault-finding spirit, a disposition to condemn without examination of charges.”

Which brought me to my Third observation: Michael Jackson was found innocent by a jury of his peers. Considerable evidence exists to support the possibility that this man was in fact extorted, repeatedly. Reports indicate that the payoff made in the 1993 case, which many point to as "evidence" of his guilt, was done at the urging of his advisors. In 2005, again urged to do otherwise, Jackson refused to pay off his accusers and to stand trial instead. He did so to find vindication, which most still refuse to afford him. Jackson was once quoted with stating that: "Before I would hurt a child, I would slit my wrists."

A statement by Quincy Jones in a recent interview confirmed my long-held feelings about Michael: “He was the most lovely…most loving…man I ever knew. But, he was a tortured soul.” None of us will ever know the truth for certain. But I for one, have chosen to assume he was innocent. And I remain, not an apologist...but a defender. It pains me deeply when I read comments like: "Michael was a great entertainer, yes...but that is all. He does not deserve the kind of attention and adulation given him." What they don't realize, is that Michael was much more than an entertainer. He was one of the greatest humanitarians we will ever know. If you have any doubts, check out the massive chronology of his works here: JacksonAction. Make no mistake, Jackson liked living large. But, it's apparent that he gave nearly half his fortune away. I challenge you to find more than a handful of people who did the same, while they were still living.

Finally, I want to share something I discovered while reminiscing through some of Michael’s videos. Outside of his music, and the overwhelming curiosities we’ve been fed by the media, there is little insight into what kind of man he really was. In 2001, Michael addressed the student union at prestigious Oxford University with a speech entitled “Heal the Kids”. Some refer to the speech using the title "How to Forgive Your Father". In it, Michael demonstrates much of what his close friends keep repeating…what an intellectual, and truly loving person he was. He reveals deep empathy for the empty lives some live, despite all the success and fame they may achieve, and material wealth they may come to possess. To speak of such an inner void caused him to pause three times during his speech to weep. His speech was interrupted by four standing ovations – a rare thing at the Oxford Union, where cool headed intellectuals are not noted for being outwardly emotional.

If you’re interested in hearing the audio files, they are split into four parts and are about 36 minutes total. While the text alone does not have the same impact as the audio files, you can read it here, if you prefer: Heal The Kids.

Most importantly for my family, you will discover that Michael spoke briefly about David in his speech (located in Part 2, between 3:00 and 4:50). He does not name David specifically. And while he obviously (and perhaps purposely), has turned the facts of the story inside out, it is the profoundness of the experience that he's communicating to the audience...and I'm reasonably certain that it’s David he’s speaking of. While there may have been another child with the same experience, it's just as likely he's speaking of David, as it is someone else. Judge for yourself. Hearing it was quite moving for me, as I’m certain it will be for you. If you’re reading the text instead, you will find the discussion of David about ¼ of the way through the text.

Presented in order, here are the four parts of Michael's address:




Rest in Peace, Michael.

Quote of the Day: Rabbi Schmuley Boteach

"It is time, that we delve more deeply into the pain that [Michael Jackson] suffered...and judge him more charitably." -Rabbi Schmuley Boteach

Clip of the Day: Michael Jackson - Gone Too Soon

You may recall Usher's emotional performance at the Michael Jackson tribute. What you may not know, or recall, is that the song he performed was written by Michael for Ryan White. Ryan was the namesake of the "Ryan White Care Act", which provides funding for ADAP (Aids Drug Assistance Programs), and for prevention programs across the country. In the clip below, Michael performs the song for the first time at Bill Clinton's inauguration celebration. I can't help but consider, that as you see the Clinton's notably moved by this performance, if Michael's plea didn't plant a seed for some of Clinton's future endeavors.

Today, nearly half of the people receiving treatment for HIV in developing countries, benefit from medicines purchased under the Clinton HIV/AIDS Initiative. That influence my friends, is what people talk about when they refer to Michael as a great humanitarian. When they speak to the immeasurable impact that his life had, on so many.

Farewell Walter: San Francisco Will Miss You

Last night I spent several hours helping a dear friend of mine pack up his life. Another member of my "Left Coast Family" is leaving San Francisco: Walter Breen. Another of Walter's friends happens to have several vacant houses in Salt Lake City, and offered to let Walter live in one them, rent free. An offer he couldn't refuse...and though saddened by his departure, I am happy about his good fortune.

Walter is more than a friend, he is one of my Heroes. And, I prefer my Heroes over my Angels. My Angels include Rick, Vincent, Flynn, Sam, Robert, Bill, Fred, Reggie...and on, and on, and on. They are countless. Each of them were taken from me by AIDS...but now they each watch over me, and protect me. I love them and think of them daily. When I consider how many friends I've lost, and how early it began, I am reminded of something Bette Midler said once, when asked about the friends she made in New York during her early years. She responded, "They're dead. They are all dead. I never realized that at such an early age...I would be on such intimate terms with death."

Walter, on the other hand has survived AIDS longer than anyone I know of (except maybe Larry Kramer). Walter has been living with AIDS for nearly 30 years (based on his doctors' estimates). When his doctors virtually hung up the towel on three different occasions, Walter persevered. He has such a bright burning flame, and such lust for life. He refuses to let AIDS win. God bless you Walter...and stay well. You are forever, My Hero.

Quote of the Day: Michael Jackson

"Let us dream of tomorrow where we can truly love from the soul, and know love as the ultimate truth at the heart of all creation." -Michael Jackson

Playing For Change: "Stand By Me"

You may have heard of Playing For Change..."a multimedia movement created to inspire, connect, and bring peace to the world through music. Music has the universal power to transcend and unite us as one human race." One of the goals of my blog is to help promote understanding...love...and peace. So, I'll be featuring selected episodes of their journey here over the next few weeks. You can view the all the episodes I've posted to date here.

Episode Two: A multinational performance of "Stand By Me". (5:27)

Love & Prayers for Earthquake & Tsunami Victims

The 20th anniversary of the Loma Prieta earthquake is rapidly approaching. Memories of the devastation I witnessed are still remarkably easy to recall. It is with great empathy, that my love and prayers go out to the victims in Indonesia and Somoa, as they reassemble their lives and spirits in the aftermath of yesterday's devastating events.

Call Gov. Schwarzenegger Today: Sign SB 572!

As you may already be aware, on September 3rd, State Assembly Bill 572 (Harvey Milk Day), passed by a considerable majority (45/27). Unfortunately, Governor Schwarzenegger has not yet signed the bill. He must sign or veto the bill no later than October 11th. It calls for the creation of a "Day of Special Significance", in honor of slain civil rights leader, Harvey Milk. Notably, Milk appears in Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People of the [20th] Century. And on August 12th, President Obama posthumously honored him with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nations highest civilian honor.

It should be noted, that in order to make this bill as palatable as possible, the "Day of Special Significance" designation was chosen specifically, because it holds significantly less weight than a state holiday. California's "Days of Special Significance" currently include: Day of the Teacher, John Muir Day, and California Poppy Day. Who is it that would step forward, and say that Harvey Milk was less significant than a flower?

I could ramble for pages about the significance of this bill. But a young man by the name of Dustin Lance Black, can do so more eloquently than I ever could. Take a moment, and listen to the moving testimony that he gave before the California Senate Education Committee. (4:09)



As they did with Proposition 8, fundamentalists are now stooping low to subvert passage of this important bill. Their media campaign is spreading lies that Harvey Milk was a child molester, and that passage of the bill will result in forced "homosexual indoctrination of schools". And its working. As a result, the Governor has received over 100,000 calls, mostly against passage. Save California Families delivered 14,255 signatures to the Governor opposing Harvey Milk Day. Equality California responded with a petition to support passage, and within 24 hours delivered close to 40,000 signatures.

Call Schwarzenegger TODAY, to show your support at 916.445.2841.

Footnote: If you don't know who Dustin Lance Black is, (or if you missed the Oscars), watch his heart wrenching and inspiring acceptance speech for Best Original Screenplay, "Milk". The Academy is quite fervent about copyrights, and won't allow me to embed the video here. But you can view his speech on YouTube. (2:04)

Quote of the Day: Harvey Milk

"If a bullet should enter my brain...let that bullet destroy every closet door." -Harvey Milk

Clip of The Day: Viral Video: Gay Banditos

This is a few years old. It was somewhat a "viral video" at the time it came out. But, it is still my favorite expose on the absurdity of DOMA (Defense of Marriage Act). Lewis Black enlightens us on the subject, with his unique brand of humor. Warning: Highly Explicit Language. (5:16)