A recently proposed bill in the Ugandan Parliament provides for the following penalties:
1. Alleged homosexuals face life imprisonment or death.
2. Parents failing to denounce a homosexual child, face $2,650 fine, or three years in prison.
3. Teachers failing to report homosexual students, face $2,650 fine, or three years in prison.
4. Landlords suspected of giving housing to a homosexual face seven years in prison.
Just how close to Nazism do these acts have to be, before the international community stands up and protests in disgust? For more on this story, and how you can help, visit The International Humanist and Ethical Union.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Quote of the Day: Vincent Lombardi
"It's not whether you get knocked down, it's whether you get up.
~Vincent Lombardi
~Vincent Lombardi
$weeps Issue #5: New York Trip - $30,000 Cash!
Here are four new listings of my sweepstakes/contest referalls. For the whole story, and useful information, read $weeps Issue #1: Introduction before jumping into this. You can find all the sweepstakes articles under the label $weeps.
First Up: Project Runway Fashion Week Trip
Project Runway and Lifetime television are giving away a trip for two to attend the Bryant Park fashion week in New York City. Includes round-trip airfare, two nights hotel stay, tickets to the Project Runway finale at Fashion Week, and $5,000 cash. Total value of prize is approximately $11,000. You are allowed to enter once each day, per person. (Promotion ends 1/4/2010.) Average WOT* Rating: 88.3
Second Up: Taste of Home $30,000 Dream Kitchen
TasteOfHome.com (a subsidiary of Reader's Digest), is giving away a "Dream Kitchen" valued at $30,000. The actual prize will be a check in the amount of $30,000, so you don't have to buy a kitchen if you'd rather have car or something! You are allowed one entry per day, and the promotion ends on 2/16/2010. Average WOT* Rating: 88.8
Third Up: Better Homes & Gardens $2,500 Get Cozy Sweeps
The Find-A-Pro division of Better Homes & Gardens, is having a drawing for your home improvement project. The prize is a check for $2,500. You are allowed one entry per day, per person. Deadline for this drawing is 12/31/2009. One entry daily allowed. Average WOT* Rating: 89.5
And Finally: $600 Shopping Spree at T.J. Maxx
Woman's Day magazine and T.J. Maxx are teaming up for this promotional giveaway. One winner will receive a $600 gift card, good at any T.J. Maxx store. One entry per day, per person is allowed. Deadline for this drawing is 12/20/2009. Average WOT* Rating: 85.0
*WOT: WebOfTrust rates websites on their trustworthiness.
First Up: Project Runway Fashion Week TripProject Runway and Lifetime television are giving away a trip for two to attend the Bryant Park fashion week in New York City. Includes round-trip airfare, two nights hotel stay, tickets to the Project Runway finale at Fashion Week, and $5,000 cash. Total value of prize is approximately $11,000. You are allowed to enter once each day, per person. (Promotion ends 1/4/2010.) Average WOT* Rating: 88.3
Second Up: Taste of Home $30,000 Dream KitchenTasteOfHome.com (a subsidiary of Reader's Digest), is giving away a "Dream Kitchen" valued at $30,000. The actual prize will be a check in the amount of $30,000, so you don't have to buy a kitchen if you'd rather have car or something! You are allowed one entry per day, and the promotion ends on 2/16/2010. Average WOT* Rating: 88.8
Third Up: Better Homes & Gardens $2,500 Get Cozy SweepsThe Find-A-Pro division of Better Homes & Gardens, is having a drawing for your home improvement project. The prize is a check for $2,500. You are allowed one entry per day, per person. Deadline for this drawing is 12/31/2009. One entry daily allowed. Average WOT* Rating: 89.5
And Finally: $600 Shopping Spree at T.J. MaxxWoman's Day magazine and T.J. Maxx are teaming up for this promotional giveaway. One winner will receive a $600 gift card, good at any T.J. Maxx store. One entry per day, per person is allowed. Deadline for this drawing is 12/20/2009. Average WOT* Rating: 85.0
*WOT: WebOfTrust rates websites on their trustworthiness.
Clip of the Day: Protect Insurance Companies PSA
This great little clip is from Funny or Die, and has received their "Chosen One" designation with 2.8 million views to date. (2:20)
Thursday, November 26, 2009
And I Thought I Could Write
After reading back over what I wrote this morning, I couldn't believe how poorly constructed my thoughts were. I was still half-asleep when I wrote it. Nevertheless, my point came through.
To leave you with a final thought on Thanksgiving Day:
"Not what we say about our blessings, but how we use them, is the true meaning of our thanksgiving." ~W.T. Purkiser
Here's to using my editing abilities better next time...LOL.
To leave you with a final thought on Thanksgiving Day:
"Not what we say about our blessings, but how we use them, is the true meaning of our thanksgiving." ~W.T. Purkiser
Here's to using my editing abilities better next time...LOL.
Giving Thanks: Deliberation & Forethought
On this day, I am most thankful for my dear friends and family. They are the foundation upon which I build my life and experiences. I am thankful for courageous leaders in the struggle for equal rights; for the fallen angels who led the early struggle with AIDS/HIV, and for the heroes among us who continue their fight.
Also, I've noticed much press lately, (really "talking heads'", not real journalists), considers President Obama slipshod, with no clear plan of action. They consider his deliberate and steady hand a "lack of decisiveness" on the war in Afghanistan. Frankly, I don't think he's exhibiting indecisive behavior at all.
Conversly, I believe he has been, and continues to be, decisive about his intent to remain informed, deliberate, and bring serious forethought to the impact of his actions. Past attempts to approach these decisions without the type of scrutiny he is giving them, have cost the U.S. untold blood and treasure...in Afghanistan and elsewhere. "What are your thoughts?"
So my thanks to Obamas; "Don't Listen to the Barbarians at the Gate". Review, deliberate, and push everyone to think out of the box, until you have a plan that will most efficiently invest what remaining blood and treasure we have for this endeavor. God speed to you, your advisors, and the soldiers on the ground who will carry out your orders.
These "talking heads" obviously don't care that the majority of our allies see Obama's caution and deliberation with great pride and admiration. So do I. Even one less dead soldier, will be worth Obama's time investment. It takes courage to drown out the barbarians at the gate, while you devise a way to save their homes and country. Happy Thanksgiving to the First Family. Our prayers are with you.
Also, I've noticed much press lately, (really "talking heads'", not real journalists), considers President Obama slipshod, with no clear plan of action. They consider his deliberate and steady hand a "lack of decisiveness" on the war in Afghanistan. Frankly, I don't think he's exhibiting indecisive behavior at all.
Conversly, I believe he has been, and continues to be, decisive about his intent to remain informed, deliberate, and bring serious forethought to the impact of his actions. Past attempts to approach these decisions without the type of scrutiny he is giving them, have cost the U.S. untold blood and treasure...in Afghanistan and elsewhere. "What are your thoughts?"
So my thanks to Obamas; "Don't Listen to the Barbarians at the Gate". Review, deliberate, and push everyone to think out of the box, until you have a plan that will most efficiently invest what remaining blood and treasure we have for this endeavor. God speed to you, your advisors, and the soldiers on the ground who will carry out your orders.
These "talking heads" obviously don't care that the majority of our allies see Obama's caution and deliberation with great pride and admiration. So do I. Even one less dead soldier, will be worth Obama's time investment. It takes courage to drown out the barbarians at the gate, while you devise a way to save their homes and country. Happy Thanksgiving to the First Family. Our prayers are with you.
Clip of the Day: WKRP's Turkey Drop
Adam Lambert: Double Standard for Gay Men?
If you saw the American Music Awards, you most likely saw the controversial performance by Adam Lambert. While Lambert admits the performance got a bit more sexual than he intended, he points out that it was nearly 11pm by the time he took the stage. He emphasized that "family hour" was over at that time, and suggested that parents should Tivo such programs before allowing their children to view them. Active parenting, a radical concept.
An interview with Lambert slated on ABC's Good Morning America was canceled. CBS's Early Show picked up the ball, and invited Lambert. In the promotional tape prior to the show, CBS showed a photo from the 2003 MTV Music Awards, with Madonna kissing Britney Spears. During the interview, a photo of Lambert's performance was shown, but with the controversial kiss pixelated. Lambert contends a double-standard exists for media tolerance of gay men. That it's somehow acceptable to view two women kissing, but unacceptable to see two men doing the same. CBS's actions seemed to support his contention.
For more, see Ed Kennedy's blog on AfterElton.com
An interview with Lambert slated on ABC's Good Morning America was canceled. CBS's Early Show picked up the ball, and invited Lambert. In the promotional tape prior to the show, CBS showed a photo from the 2003 MTV Music Awards, with Madonna kissing Britney Spears. During the interview, a photo of Lambert's performance was shown, but with the controversial kiss pixelated. Lambert contends a double-standard exists for media tolerance of gay men. That it's somehow acceptable to view two women kissing, but unacceptable to see two men doing the same. CBS's actions seemed to support his contention.
For more, see Ed Kennedy's blog on AfterElton.com
Quote of the Day: Joseph Francis
As long as society is anti-gay, then it will seem like being gay is anti-social."
~Joseph Francis
~Joseph Francis
Monday, November 23, 2009
Say No to Church Mandates
Your spiritual and religious beliefs should inform your political viewpoints, and your vote. But it should not mandate them. For a major religious institution to step up and refuse to support health care rights for everyone, unless it includes restrictions on reproductive rights, is tyrannical. This behavior is the antithesis of the American dream: the pursuit of life, liberty and happiness, under a state that is free from church rule.
Top Ten Chillaxin Songs (Part 2)
For your musical enjoyment, part two of my top ten songs for chillaxin. The Urban Dictionary defines chillaxin as: "Way-far laid back. Chillin' and relaxin' at the same time. An extreme state of contentedness. Good vibes."
Number Six: Soul of the Sea - Heart (6:29)
Number Seven: Nights in White Satin - The Moody Blues (7:20)
Number Eight: Libertango - Grace Jones (4:14)
Number Nine: Time - Alan Parsons Project (5:05)
Number Ten: Sweetest Taboo - Sade (4:23)
Hope you enjoyed my selections, and you are now "chillaxed".
Coming up next: My top ten "Get Up and Move" songs.
Number Six: Soul of the Sea - Heart (6:29)
Number Seven: Nights in White Satin - The Moody Blues (7:20)
Number Eight: Libertango - Grace Jones (4:14)
Number Nine: Time - Alan Parsons Project (5:05)
Number Ten: Sweetest Taboo - Sade (4:23)
Hope you enjoyed my selections, and you are now "chillaxed".
Coming up next: My top ten "Get Up and Move" songs.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Quote of the Day: Kahlil Gibran
"And in the sweetness of friendship let there be laughter, and sharing of pleasures. For in the dew of little things the heart finds its morning and is refreshed."
~Kahlil Gibran
~Kahlil Gibran
$weeps Issue #4: Berlin, Electrolux W&D, $20,000
Here are three new listings of my sweepstakes/contest referalls. For the whole story, and useful information, read $weeps Issue #1: Introduction before jumping into this. You can find all the sweepstakes articles under the label $weeps.
First Up: AllSaints Escape to Berlin Sweepstakes
AllSaints fashion brand is celebrating the opening of their first U.S. store. In partnership with Elle magazine, they are holding a sweepstakes for a trip to Berlin. Prize includes round-trip airfare for two, three nights at a luxury hotel, a $1,000 shopping spree at AllSaints Berlin, and $1,000 for expenses. Valued at $10,000. You are allowed to enter once each day, per person. (Promotion ends 12/26/2009.) Average WOT* Rating: 85.0
Second Up: Electrolux Front-Load Washer & Dryer Giveaway
Woman's Day magazine and BrandSource.com are joining up to give away an Electrolux front-loading washer and dryer set. Color options include Red Hot Red, Turquoise Sky, Silver Sands, and Island White. Prize is valued at $3,600. Deadline for drawing is 1/9/10. One entry daily allowed. Average WOT* Rating: 84.8
Third Up: CMT's World's Stricktest Parents Poll & Drawing
Country Music Television is conducting weekly polls about strict parenting. Each week, one winner is chosen to receive a $100 SpaFinder gift certificate. The final grand prize drawing is for a $20,000 check. You must register an account on this site to participate in the polls. One poll participation is allowed per person daily. Each poll answer earns one entry in the drawing. Deadline for this drawing is 12/13/09. One entry daily allowed. WOT Rating unavailable for entry web page. Average WOT* Rating for CMT.com: 89.8
*WOT: WebOfTrust rates websites on their trustworthiness.
First Up: AllSaints Escape to Berlin Sweepstakes
AllSaints fashion brand is celebrating the opening of their first U.S. store. In partnership with Elle magazine, they are holding a sweepstakes for a trip to Berlin. Prize includes round-trip airfare for two, three nights at a luxury hotel, a $1,000 shopping spree at AllSaints Berlin, and $1,000 for expenses. Valued at $10,000. You are allowed to enter once each day, per person. (Promotion ends 12/26/2009.) Average WOT* Rating: 85.0Second Up: Electrolux Front-Load Washer & Dryer Giveaway
Woman's Day magazine and BrandSource.com are joining up to give away an Electrolux front-loading washer and dryer set. Color options include Red Hot Red, Turquoise Sky, Silver Sands, and Island White. Prize is valued at $3,600. Deadline for drawing is 1/9/10. One entry daily allowed. Average WOT* Rating: 84.8Third Up: CMT's World's Stricktest Parents Poll & Drawing
Country Music Television is conducting weekly polls about strict parenting. Each week, one winner is chosen to receive a $100 SpaFinder gift certificate. The final grand prize drawing is for a $20,000 check. You must register an account on this site to participate in the polls. One poll participation is allowed per person daily. Each poll answer earns one entry in the drawing. Deadline for this drawing is 12/13/09. One entry daily allowed. WOT Rating unavailable for entry web page. Average WOT* Rating for CMT.com: 89.8*WOT: WebOfTrust rates websites on their trustworthiness.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Stupak Amendment Shifts U.S. Abortion Policy
Anti-choice representatives in the house slipped a late-hour amendment into the health care reform bill passed last weekend. The Stupak amendment makes it virtually impossible for women who access coverage through the newly created insurance exchange, to get coverage for an abortion. Even when they pay the premiums for coverage themselves!
This restriction effectively creates new federal policy on reproductive rights, by expanding limitations on access to abortion under the Hyde Act of 1976. Most notably, the policy disproportionately affects struggling lower income women. What never ceases to amaze me, is that those who would legislate restriction on reproductive rights, are often the same folks who would restrict, or eliminate, assistance to poor families. Where are the values in that? Keep the poor and disadvantaged, poor and disadvantaged, that's where.
If this amendment and it's impact on women concerns you, write a letter. MoveOn.org recommends writing to your local newspaper, as it creates a louder overall response, and has a bigger impact in Washington. They have a great letter-writing tool you can use available here.
If you prefer to write your representatives directly, here are the contacts:
House of Representatives Contact Directory
U.S. Senate Contact Directory
You should create your own letter, which is in your own words. But for inspiration, here is the letter I sent to the San Francisco Chronicle, my representative Nancy Pelosi, and my senators Barbara Boxer and Dianne Feinstein. Brief, and to the point:
"The Stupak Amendment effectively shifts policy on reproductive rights in the United States. It will have a disproportionate impact on poor and disadvantaged women. This hijacking of health care legislation is a travesty, and must be reversed."
This restriction effectively creates new federal policy on reproductive rights, by expanding limitations on access to abortion under the Hyde Act of 1976. Most notably, the policy disproportionately affects struggling lower income women. What never ceases to amaze me, is that those who would legislate restriction on reproductive rights, are often the same folks who would restrict, or eliminate, assistance to poor families. Where are the values in that? Keep the poor and disadvantaged, poor and disadvantaged, that's where.
If this amendment and it's impact on women concerns you, write a letter. MoveOn.org recommends writing to your local newspaper, as it creates a louder overall response, and has a bigger impact in Washington. They have a great letter-writing tool you can use available here.
If you prefer to write your representatives directly, here are the contacts:
House of Representatives Contact Directory
U.S. Senate Contact Directory
You should create your own letter, which is in your own words. But for inspiration, here is the letter I sent to the San Francisco Chronicle, my representative Nancy Pelosi, and my senators Barbara Boxer and Dianne Feinstein. Brief, and to the point:
"The Stupak Amendment effectively shifts policy on reproductive rights in the United States. It will have a disproportionate impact on poor and disadvantaged women. This hijacking of health care legislation is a travesty, and must be reversed."
Quotes of the Day: Dennis Miller & Hillary Clinton
"And by the way, my belief is that if men were the ones getting pregnant, abortions would be easier to get than food poisoning in Moscow." ~Dennis Miller
"I have met thousands and thousands of pro-choice men and women. I have never met anyone who is pro-abortion." ~Hillary Clinton
"I have met thousands and thousands of pro-choice men and women. I have never met anyone who is pro-abortion." ~Hillary Clinton
MediaMatters: Impact of Stupak Amendment
From MediaMatters, the following CBS report explains how the Stupak amendment will have an unprecedented impact on reproductive rights (1:27):
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Top Ten Chillaxin Songs (Part 1)
For your musical enjoyment, here are my top ten songs for chillaxin. The Urban Dictionary defines chillaxin as: "Way-far laid back. Chillin' and relaxin' at the same time. An extreme state of contentedness. Good vibes."
Number One: Europa - Carlos Santana (5:01)
Number Two: Orinoco Flow - Enya (3:58)
Number Three: On The Road - Hans Zimmer (4:49)
Number Four: Crazy - Seal (4:29)
Number Five: Us And Them - Pink Floyd (7:49)
Hope you enjoyed...
Part 2 of my Top Ten Chillaxin Songs coming soon.
Number One: Europa - Carlos Santana (5:01)
Number Two: Orinoco Flow - Enya (3:58)
Number Three: On The Road - Hans Zimmer (4:49)
Number Four: Crazy - Seal (4:29)
Number Five: Us And Them - Pink Floyd (7:49)
Hope you enjoyed...
Part 2 of my Top Ten Chillaxin Songs coming soon.
Monday, November 9, 2009
$weeps Issue #3: Luxury Laptop, Broadway, Xbox
Here are three new listings of my sweepstakes/contest referalls. For the whole story, and useful information, read $weeps Issue #1: Introduction before jumping into this. You can find all the sweepstakes articles under the label $weeps.
First Up: Elle Magazine's Luxury Dell Laptop Sweepstakes
A high-concept laptop PC from Dell and Bergdorf Goodman's, adorned with a Swarovski Crystal serpent. Valued at $5,000. You are allowed to enter once each day, for each drawing. (Promotion ends 11/27/2009.) Average WOT Rating: 84.8
Second Up: New York Style (Nonni Foods) Broadway Trip
This is a Second Chance Drawing, for the instant win prizes inside their products. The majority of these type of prizes are generally given out in the second chance drawings. Ten first prizes include round-trip coach air transportation for two to New York, two nights hotel accommodations, tickets to a Broadway show of your choice, and $750 spending money. Deadline for second chance drawing is 11/30/09. One entry daily allowed. Average WOT Rating (Nonni Foods Site): 70.0
Third Up: Pazsaz Xbox 360 Modern Warfare Limited Edition Contest
This limited edition console and additional accessories is valued at $400. Deadline for this drawing is 11/30/09. One entry daily allowed. Average WOT Rating: 90.5
First Up: Elle Magazine's Luxury Dell Laptop Sweepstakes
A high-concept laptop PC from Dell and Bergdorf Goodman's, adorned with a Swarovski Crystal serpent. Valued at $5,000. You are allowed to enter once each day, for each drawing. (Promotion ends 11/27/2009.) Average WOT Rating: 84.8
Second Up: New York Style (Nonni Foods) Broadway Trip
This is a Second Chance Drawing, for the instant win prizes inside their products. The majority of these type of prizes are generally given out in the second chance drawings. Ten first prizes include round-trip coach air transportation for two to New York, two nights hotel accommodations, tickets to a Broadway show of your choice, and $750 spending money. Deadline for second chance drawing is 11/30/09. One entry daily allowed. Average WOT Rating (Nonni Foods Site): 70.0
Third Up: Pazsaz Xbox 360 Modern Warfare Limited Edition Contest
This limited edition console and additional accessories is valued at $400. Deadline for this drawing is 11/30/09. One entry daily allowed. Average WOT Rating: 90.5
Quote of the Day: Dr. Seuss
"Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind." ~Dr. Seuss
Clip of the Day: Protect Marriage, Protect Children
The Upright Citizens Brigade seeks to put a new initiative on the California ballot, which will protect families and children. (2:00)
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Don't Lose Perspective: Keep Loving
It seems the deluge of news about violence and hate just won't stop. Well I believe we have the power to make it stop. It's easy to give in to fear, sorrow, and grief. It takes just a little more effort to have faith. Peace is not elusive, and faith is not futile.
The law of attraction reminds us that we can manifest reality through positive affirmation. Let's each remember to take a little time out each day for that. Contemplate love. Contemplate peace. Can you imagine the universal vibrations that would result, from one billion humans meditating on peace at the same time? Do your part.
If you have a little difficulty with meditation, or affirmations, may I suggest that you view this video with focus and sincere contemplation:
The law of attraction reminds us that we can manifest reality through positive affirmation. Let's each remember to take a little time out each day for that. Contemplate love. Contemplate peace. Can you imagine the universal vibrations that would result, from one billion humans meditating on peace at the same time? Do your part.
If you have a little difficulty with meditation, or affirmations, may I suggest that you view this video with focus and sincere contemplation:
Selections from "Why I Meditate" #3
This is third in a series. You can view all the selections here.
"I meditate because I'm building myself a bigger and better perspective, and occasionally I need to add a new window." ~Wes Nisker
Wes Nisker is a Buddhist meditation teacher, author, radio commentator, and performer.
"I meditate because I'm building myself a bigger and better perspective, and occasionally I need to add a new window." ~Wes Nisker
Wes Nisker is a Buddhist meditation teacher, author, radio commentator, and performer.
Quote of the Day: Kahlil Gibran
"When you pray you rise to meet in the air those who are praying at that very hour, and whom save in prayer you may not meet.
Therefore let your visit to that temple invisible be for naught but ecstasy and sweet communion.
For if you should enter the temple for no other purpose than asking you shall not receive:
And if you should enter into it to humble yourself you shall not be lifted:
Or even if you should enter into it to beg for the good of others you shall not be heard.
It is enough that you enter the temple invisible."
~Kahlil Gibran
Therefore let your visit to that temple invisible be for naught but ecstasy and sweet communion.
For if you should enter the temple for no other purpose than asking you shall not receive:
And if you should enter into it to humble yourself you shall not be lifted:
Or even if you should enter into it to beg for the good of others you shall not be heard.
It is enough that you enter the temple invisible."
~Kahlil Gibran
Clip of the Day: Michael Jackson - Smile
How does one choose a favorite Michael Jackson song? Impossible.
Instead, here is Michael's favorite. A deeply moving rendition of "Smile".
Instead, here is Michael's favorite. A deeply moving rendition of "Smile".
Friday, November 6, 2009
Ballots a Bust: Obama Fierce Advocate? Not.
Once again using fear-mongering and distortion tactics, fundamentalists squeaked out a victory against civil rights for LGBT citizens this Tuesday. The passage of Proposition 1 in Maine, was by a mere 6 percent of the voting public. Proposition 8 passed in California last year with a similar overwhelming majority, by a margin of just 5 percent.
Many of these voters state that they support equal rights for gays, just not for marriage. They support a "domestic union" policy, that would grant gays and lesbians full rights, as if they were truly equal. Apparently the electorate still doesn't understand: separate, is not equal.
The reality is, that it's a religious issue. It is for them, and it is for me. In my religion it is absolutely acceptable for same-sex partners to marry. But my religion is not the issue, and neither is theirs. The state does not confer a religious license of marriage upon it's citizens, it approves a civil agreement between them. To separate the two, breaks two firm covenants of the American legal system: Equal Protection and Religious Freedom. Which group are we going to deny? The minority group, of course. The question we should ask ourselves is, who will the minority be in 50 years? Or 100 years?
President Obama ran on a platform of "fierce advocacy" for gay and lesbian issues. Yet, he and his administration remained deafeningly silent during the debate on these propositions. Columnist Dan Savage stated that "President Obama is a fierce advocate of gay rights the same way I'm a ladies man. He isn't...and I'm not."
The ballot proposition initiative process was designed to give voters the opportunity to reign in excessive taxation, approve bond proposals, and occasionally sound off on inadequate or improper administration of government. Not to decide constitutional issues that effect an entire class of citizens. Issues that should, and historically have been, decided through careful and deliberate legislation with strong oversight by the courts, and typically requiring a super-majority (67%) for passage.
Many point to the courts and decry their involvement as "legislating from the bench". In fact, the balance of power was afforded the judicial branch for exactly such cases. To protect the few, from the tyranny of the many. Can we state with certainty that the civil rights movement of the 1960s would have ever occurred, if not for Brown v. The Board of Education? Obviously progress would come eventually, but at what pace?
President Obama has a "bully pulpit". And like his predecessors, the ability to shape the national conversation when he chooses. Having run as a "fierce advocate", LGBT advocates have every right to feel anger and betrayal over his silence. Comedian Lewis Black once stated, "I believe that the reason that it's difficult for the gay community to be integrated into the society at large, the way they should be, is because there are no champions for them...in congress or in the white house. And, that is the way that every group of people, has basically been integrated into the society. That's the way it works."
If Mr. Black is eluding to political personalities, those with real national influence on the debate, I would sadly agree...as of August 25, 2009. On that date, arguably the strongest political advocate for LGBT equality passed away: Senator Ted Kennedy. His death was a great loss to our community, and we need desperately for someone of his stature to take the torch.
While personalities play a strong role in steering public debate, in the final analysis, we cannot rely on Obama, Kennedy, or any other public figure. Nor can we rely on ballot initiatives that allow a simple majority of voters, (not of the population), to determine our freedom and equality. For absolute and unqualified equality, it is in the courts that we will get final resolution. I submit that the place to start is challenging the constitutionality of state initiatives, when used to amend or restrict individual rights through a simple majority of voters.
Many of these voters state that they support equal rights for gays, just not for marriage. They support a "domestic union" policy, that would grant gays and lesbians full rights, as if they were truly equal. Apparently the electorate still doesn't understand: separate, is not equal.
The reality is, that it's a religious issue. It is for them, and it is for me. In my religion it is absolutely acceptable for same-sex partners to marry. But my religion is not the issue, and neither is theirs. The state does not confer a religious license of marriage upon it's citizens, it approves a civil agreement between them. To separate the two, breaks two firm covenants of the American legal system: Equal Protection and Religious Freedom. Which group are we going to deny? The minority group, of course. The question we should ask ourselves is, who will the minority be in 50 years? Or 100 years?
President Obama ran on a platform of "fierce advocacy" for gay and lesbian issues. Yet, he and his administration remained deafeningly silent during the debate on these propositions. Columnist Dan Savage stated that "President Obama is a fierce advocate of gay rights the same way I'm a ladies man. He isn't...and I'm not."
The ballot proposition initiative process was designed to give voters the opportunity to reign in excessive taxation, approve bond proposals, and occasionally sound off on inadequate or improper administration of government. Not to decide constitutional issues that effect an entire class of citizens. Issues that should, and historically have been, decided through careful and deliberate legislation with strong oversight by the courts, and typically requiring a super-majority (67%) for passage.
Many point to the courts and decry their involvement as "legislating from the bench". In fact, the balance of power was afforded the judicial branch for exactly such cases. To protect the few, from the tyranny of the many. Can we state with certainty that the civil rights movement of the 1960s would have ever occurred, if not for Brown v. The Board of Education? Obviously progress would come eventually, but at what pace?
President Obama has a "bully pulpit". And like his predecessors, the ability to shape the national conversation when he chooses. Having run as a "fierce advocate", LGBT advocates have every right to feel anger and betrayal over his silence. Comedian Lewis Black once stated, "I believe that the reason that it's difficult for the gay community to be integrated into the society at large, the way they should be, is because there are no champions for them...in congress or in the white house. And, that is the way that every group of people, has basically been integrated into the society. That's the way it works."
If Mr. Black is eluding to political personalities, those with real national influence on the debate, I would sadly agree...as of August 25, 2009. On that date, arguably the strongest political advocate for LGBT equality passed away: Senator Ted Kennedy. His death was a great loss to our community, and we need desperately for someone of his stature to take the torch.
While personalities play a strong role in steering public debate, in the final analysis, we cannot rely on Obama, Kennedy, or any other public figure. Nor can we rely on ballot initiatives that allow a simple majority of voters, (not of the population), to determine our freedom and equality. For absolute and unqualified equality, it is in the courts that we will get final resolution. I submit that the place to start is challenging the constitutionality of state initiatives, when used to amend or restrict individual rights through a simple majority of voters.
Quote of the Day: John W. Smart
“Until gay rights advocates get off the Obama kool-aid…no progress will be made. A petition will not move this debate either. It is time for non-violent civil disobedience. There was no ballot initiative in Selma. Start with sit-ins at courthouses. We must be brave now. The first step is to STOP the errant nonsense of ballot props. We are forced to defend against bigots, and beg people to treat us as equals. It is degrading. Rosa Parks did not ask the voters to approve of her seat on the bus.” ~ John W. Smart
(Mr. Smart's comments respond to an article about the elections, on the California Ripple Effect Blog)
(Mr. Smart's comments respond to an article about the elections, on the California Ripple Effect Blog)
Clip of the Day: Prop 8 - The Musical
On subject, but providing some much needed comic relief, I'm offering up "Prop 8 - The Musical" from Funny or Die. It goes by so quickly, that you may find yourself trying to identify all the players. Here's just a few of who you'll see: Jack Black, John C. Reilly, Jenifer Lewis, Margaret Cho, Andy Richter, Maya Rudolph, Nicole Parker, Allison Janney, Kathy Najimy, Rashida Jones, Seth Morris, and Neil Patrick Harris. (3:16)
Hint: With Funny or Die embedded videos, be sure to click the small orange arrow on the control bar. If you click the large yellow arrow on the video image, you will be redirected to the Funny or Die website.
Hint: With Funny or Die embedded videos, be sure to click the small orange arrow on the control bar. If you click the large yellow arrow on the video image, you will be redirected to the Funny or Die website.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
$weeps Issue #1: Introduction
This is the first post in a series of free sweepstakes listings. I'll be posting more in the future. I've reviewed the Terms & Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Web Of Trust Rating, to confirm they are not spam machines. No sites with an average rating under 65% by WOT (Web Of Trust) are suggested.
Generally, I'm looking at sites with an ongoing sweepstakes, a duration of 30 days or more, prizes valued over $500, and that allow daily entries. This cuts down on time investment, because once you've registered you can enter each day with just a click. You may want to set up a specific dedicated email address, so you can monitor for prize notifications, and isolate any potential spam.
You can find all past and future listings under this Label: $weeps. So...good luck to you. And if you win, don't forget about your friendly helper at Blognizance! LOL
The fist three listings will follow this post, and include a PC Giveaway, a drawing for a seven-day cruise for two, and contest for $2000 in cash.
Generally, I'm looking at sites with an ongoing sweepstakes, a duration of 30 days or more, prizes valued over $500, and that allow daily entries. This cuts down on time investment, because once you've registered you can enter each day with just a click. You may want to set up a specific dedicated email address, so you can monitor for prize notifications, and isolate any potential spam.
You can find all past and future listings under this Label: $weeps. So...good luck to you. And if you win, don't forget about your friendly helper at Blognizance! LOL
The fist three listings will follow this post, and include a PC Giveaway, a drawing for a seven-day cruise for two, and contest for $2000 in cash.
$weeps Issue #2: PCs, Vacations & Cash
Here are the first three listings of my sweepstakes/contest referalls. For the whole story, and useful information, read $weeps Issue #1: Introduction before jumping into this. You can find all the sweepstakes articles under the label $weeps.
First Up: CompUSA's PC-A-Day Giveaway
Promoting the release of Windows 7, CompUSA is giving away one PC valued at $700 every day for 77 days! You are allowed to enter once each day, for each drawing. (Promotion ends 12/24/2009.) Average WOT Rating: 91.3
Second Up: Frommers Vacation Getaway
Frommers has an ongoing sweepstakes for vacations. You can enter once daily. The current prize is a trip for two, on a seven-day Caribbean or Mexican cruise. Includes roundtrip airfare, and an ocean view stateroom. Average WOT Rating: 80.3
Third Up: MySecretSound $2000 Contest
The first person to guess the secret sound wins $2000 cash. You can guess once daily. When someone wins, they start over with a new sound. They have given out seven prizes so far. This is pretty cool. The website is in Australia, but accepts entries worldwide. I'm assuming the prize is in $AUD, not $USD. As of this writing, the conversion is roughly $1825 USD. The dollar is WEAK folks. Average WOT Rating: 67.0
First Up: CompUSA's PC-A-Day Giveaway
Promoting the release of Windows 7, CompUSA is giving away one PC valued at $700 every day for 77 days! You are allowed to enter once each day, for each drawing. (Promotion ends 12/24/2009.) Average WOT Rating: 91.3
Second Up: Frommers Vacation Getaway
Frommers has an ongoing sweepstakes for vacations. You can enter once daily. The current prize is a trip for two, on a seven-day Caribbean or Mexican cruise. Includes roundtrip airfare, and an ocean view stateroom. Average WOT Rating: 80.3
Third Up: MySecretSound $2000 Contest
The first person to guess the secret sound wins $2000 cash. You can guess once daily. When someone wins, they start over with a new sound. They have given out seven prizes so far. This is pretty cool. The website is in Australia, but accepts entries worldwide. I'm assuming the prize is in $AUD, not $USD. As of this writing, the conversion is roughly $1825 USD. The dollar is WEAK folks. Average WOT Rating: 67.0
Selections from "Why I Meditate" #2
This the second in a series. You can view all the selections here.
"I meditate because there are so many other things to do." ~Wes Nisker
Wes Nisker is a Buddhist meditation teacher, author, radio commentator, and performer.
"I meditate because there are so many other things to do." ~Wes Nisker
Wes Nisker is a Buddhist meditation teacher, author, radio commentator, and performer.
Clip of the Day: Jackie Makes a Phone Call
This is a classic clip from the Roseanne show. Roseanne and Jackie's father has passed away, and Jackie is forced to call a relative. Hilarious! (2:40)
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
News: Medication and Your Kids
Although I don't have children, I have many friends and family who do. The alarming increase in medicating children with pharmaceuticals concerns me greatly. The following text is the introduction to a Frontline investigation on the medication of children:
"In recent years, there's been a dramatic increase in the number of children being diagnosed with serious psychiatric disorders and prescribed medications that are just beginning to be tested in children. The drugs can cause serious side effects, and virtually nothing is known about their long-term impact. 'It's really to some extent an experiment, trying medications in these children of this age,' child psychiatrist Dr. Patrick Bacon tells FRONTLINE. 'It's a gamble. And I tell parents there's no way to know what's going to work.'
I urge all parents of children under 18, to view the full story. The decisions you make regarding the medication of your child are your business, but it's important to understand the risk vs. reward when doing so. The full program is 60 minutes long. It is split into eight segments (roll your mouse over the faded images just above the video, to see all the segments). You can watch it online here:
FRONTLINE: The Medicated Child
"In recent years, there's been a dramatic increase in the number of children being diagnosed with serious psychiatric disorders and prescribed medications that are just beginning to be tested in children. The drugs can cause serious side effects, and virtually nothing is known about their long-term impact. 'It's really to some extent an experiment, trying medications in these children of this age,' child psychiatrist Dr. Patrick Bacon tells FRONTLINE. 'It's a gamble. And I tell parents there's no way to know what's going to work.'
I urge all parents of children under 18, to view the full story. The decisions you make regarding the medication of your child are your business, but it's important to understand the risk vs. reward when doing so. The full program is 60 minutes long. It is split into eight segments (roll your mouse over the faded images just above the video, to see all the segments). You can watch it online here:
FRONTLINE: The Medicated Child
Selections from "Why I Meditate" #1
This the first in a series, I'll be posing on my blog:
"I meditate because I'm composed of 100 trillion cells, and from time to time, I need to reassure them that we're all in this together." ~Wes Nisker
Wes Nisker is a Buddhist meditation teacher, author, radio commentator, and performer.
"I meditate because I'm composed of 100 trillion cells, and from time to time, I need to reassure them that we're all in this together." ~Wes Nisker
Wes Nisker is a Buddhist meditation teacher, author, radio commentator, and performer.
Clip of The Day: 100 Seinfeld Moments
If your a Seinfeld fan, you'll love this mash-up of 100 Seinfeld quotes. Put together with a music soundtrack, and under four minutes. Nostalgic and funny!
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Thoughts on the Upcoming Holidays
This time last year, food banks around the country reported sharp decreases in donations and sharp increases in demand. With today's unemployment rate, the situation is likely to repeat itself this year...possible worse.
One of the most common things I recall from last year, was food banks running out of turkeys. If you are able, consider buying two turkeys this year. One for your family, and one for a family less fortunate.
If there are folks on your Christmas card list that you know are unemployed, consider enclosing a gift card from their local grocer. If you are unable to make donations to your local food bank, consider donating your time.
If you have never been the recipient of grocery assistance, you can't possibly grasp the profound impact it makes. I have been. And, I can tell you that one bag of groceries goes a long way to warming the soul.
When I've been able to, I've provided grocery gift cards to friends in need. There is no gift that compares to the satisfaction I received, witnessing their delight. Keep these things in mind as we prepare to celebrate the great abundance in our country.
National Directory of Food Banks (Formerly Second Harvest):
Feeding America
One of the most common things I recall from last year, was food banks running out of turkeys. If you are able, consider buying two turkeys this year. One for your family, and one for a family less fortunate.
If there are folks on your Christmas card list that you know are unemployed, consider enclosing a gift card from their local grocer. If you are unable to make donations to your local food bank, consider donating your time.
If you have never been the recipient of grocery assistance, you can't possibly grasp the profound impact it makes. I have been. And, I can tell you that one bag of groceries goes a long way to warming the soul.
When I've been able to, I've provided grocery gift cards to friends in need. There is no gift that compares to the satisfaction I received, witnessing their delight. Keep these things in mind as we prepare to celebrate the great abundance in our country.
National Directory of Food Banks (Formerly Second Harvest):
Feeding America
Quote of the Day: Kahlil Gibran
"There are those who give little of the much which they have - and they give it for recognition and their hidden desire makes their gifts unwholesome.
And there are those who have little and give it all.
These are the believers in life and the bounty of life, and their coffer is never empty."
~Kahlil Gibran
Playing For Change: Chanda Mama
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 occasionally feature selected episodes of their journey. You can view the all the episodes I've posted to date here.
The caption for this next performance reads:
"This Song Around the World is a folk tune from Chennai, India. We started the track in New Orleans and added musicians from across the globe before finally delivering it the people of it's origin. We ended up in Chennai recording and filming the vocals from the Oneness Choir. The track has a feeling of perseverance and joy and features vocalists from four continents."
Episode Seven: A multinational performance of "Chanda Mama". (3:28)
The caption for this next performance reads:
"This Song Around the World is a folk tune from Chennai, India. We started the track in New Orleans and added musicians from across the globe before finally delivering it the people of it's origin. We ended up in Chennai recording and filming the vocals from the Oneness Choir. The track has a feeling of perseverance and joy and features vocalists from four continents."
Episode Seven: A multinational performance of "Chanda Mama". (3:28)
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