Nov 7 2013

ENDA – Another National Disgrace for Nation – Boehner and the House

Today, the US Senate passed a bill banning workplace discrimination against LGBT individuals. What you say? It has not been illegal to fire people based on the fact they are gay or they are trans-gender? No, in the United States while no one can can lose their job simply because of their race, gender, religion or a disability, they can because of sexual orientation or gender identity. Of course, most all of the Fortune 500 companies (88%) have policies that cover this but there is no federal law that does. The Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) is legislation that was proposed for the first time in 1994 in the United States Congress. It prohibits discrimination in hiring and employment on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity by civilian, nonreligious employers with at least 15 employees. When I first read about this law I, like many, was surprised that we don’t have this law on the books already. In fact, there are 29 states where it is perfectly legal to terminate the employment of an individual who may be gay or transgender. The reality is that it is legal to fire or refuse to hire someone based on his or her sexual orientation in 29 states. For those who are transgender they can be fired or denied employment solely based on their gender identity in 33 states. Take a look at the map – won’t be real surprising which states but that is a whole other topic. Pretty astounding when you think about it that in 2013, more than five decades after passage of the landmark Civil Rights Act and then subsequent passage of the American Disabilities Act, we still have a country where this can happen. To be honest, this is one of those “duh” moments where you wouldn’t think there should be even a question – not like I’m forcing you to take healthcare. But we have a couple of key problems we need to cover as we look at why this has been taking so long and why, given the stance taken by those broad and deep thinkers in the US House – John Boehner in particular.

Credit: HRC.org

The arguments justifying this continued discrimination are several:

First, of course is the idea that it is okay to discriminate if something goes against the tenets of your so-called religion. One of the core objections against ENDA bases itself in the religious right and flails around with the oft-cited “religious freedom” banner. That too has been the rallying call behind the forces that have tried to stop many other causes that have come about to right the wrongs many of our citizens have endured over the years. I read it as “I should be able to discriminate against anyone and anything that doesn’t fit into my set of beliefs” – which of course makes sense because they are right and there are no other belief systems with any merit. But try to challenge their rights in any manner and listen to the cries of discrimination. They feel that this legislation affords special protection to a group that is not disadvantaged so it isn’t really an issue of discrimination. I don’t know but when I look around and see the second class citizen status these people have been pushed into, seems a bit disadvantaged to me. For anyone reading my blogs with any consistency, you will know I have little regard or time for those who profess religious base and demand special rights but don’t see the same rights for others and have no issue refusing to acknowledge that their view of the world, which might work for them, might not work for anyone else. See how far I would get if I, as an atheist, decided not to hire anyone who believed in a God because it somehow appalls me. Not sure that would fly. Of course, the immediate response would be that I couldn’t do that because you can’t discriminate against an individual based on their belief in a God. But believing in a God doesn’t fit into my belief framework around religion. Where’s my religious freedom? Again. ridiculous argument on one level but not sure where it is that different – mostly because reality and what is “real” as far as beliefs and what fits and doesn’t fit is in the eye of the beholder. And in the case of these religious zealots, the eyes seem pretty well closed. And, oh by the way, while I strongly disagree it since we are still allowing discrimination, religious organizations are provided an exception from this protection, similar to that found in the Civil Rights Act of 1964. So you already have your cake – you don’t need to eat it too. We don’t have to live as you do (well, not that most of you really live what you speak – again, a whole other topic).

The Hypocrisy of it all
credit: http://www.believeoutloud.com

Now, onto John Boehner, the majority leader of the US House who has consistently demonstrated he doesn’t get that he is there at the will of the people in this country. He, single-handedly, will keep ENDA from hitting the House floor and therefore will try to ensure we continue to allow states to discriminate. Now, I happen to think that Johnny B. is somewhat of an asshole. Okay maybe not somewhat but entirely. Anyone who can effectively allow our government to shut down and bring us to the brink of default seems to have some flaws in leadership capability and really doesn’t get any points for style. But I digress. In the case of ENDA we see his opposition is really about jobs and the economy. His spokesman, Michael Steel said the bill “will increase frivolous litigation and cost American jobs, especially small business jobs.” Anyone seeing a pattern here. I think he has one page of talking points and it is “one size fits all”. Aside from helping continue the Republican death march they started with the shutdown last month, this stance continues to play politics with our citizens and their rights. Not sure I understand the frivolous litigation other than the reality that we won’t allow businesses to discriminate in this area and we are protecting the rights of real people – doesn’t sound frivolous. Also easy to fix – don’t discriminate. I don’t know what you can do about Johnny boy here other than hope that the cigarettes and tanning booths actually take an early toll. In the meantime, I do have to wonder what skeletons he has in his closet – he doth protest too much.

Maybe John has a small secret?

So why did this particular item lead me to a blog? Despite the rant and the throwing of my usual rocks, I hope this one is a little educational. I pride myself on being up on most things but was taken entirely by surprise on the issue behind ENDA. This is a national embarrassment that needs to be rectified as soon as we can. If it be by election (hopefully it won’t take that long) then we need to inform.

Okay, last surprise – Fox News didn’t see ENDA as a news-worthy item as it advanced toward the Senate vote today – and of the 4 minutes of coverage it got, two minutes was spent discussing how ENDA was a planned distraction to take attention away from coverage of Obamacare.

credit: mediamatters.org

Nov 5 2013

Pocono Township – Fear and Half-truths Defeated

It would seem from unofficial results that the Pocono Township First Class Initiative has overwhelmingly passed with 77% of voters supporting the change to how we are governed. Congratulations to all that worked on getting the first class initiative passed – kudos for your hard work and great results. I’m also pleased that the people of Pocono Township were intelligent enough to vote for what is best for our community as well as send a message to the Concerned Citizens of Pocono Township that we aren’t as dumb as they think. It is no longer the time of the good old boy network and it is time we actually have citizens step up with the skills, experience and integrity needed to help manage and grow our community as it demands in the coming years.

All that being said, I’ll take a chance of being seen as a poor winner but I would suggest that we not underestimate the drive and willingness of the Concerned Citizens of Pocono Township to do whatever possible to undermine progress since returning to anything resembling the status quo will protect and ensure their personal gains no matter the cost to the township. Don’t be fooled as many of these people have been working behind the scenes for years to push their agenda. our elected officials essentially only pawns in the process. We all have a view into who many of the “Vote No” business people are and anyone who has attended the information meetings have heard the slanted and misrepresented views and information they were willing to spew and stand behind in order to further their gains.

So what can we do? Within our family, we have made it a point to speak loudly thru our wallets when we encounter businesses or people who work directly against that we believe – especially those who make it clear their concerns are only for personal gain and profit and care little for the needs or wants of others. We will do the same to the extent we can locally and make sure that we do not support any of these people or their businesses. If that sounds harsh I would ask you to think about who they have been concerned with over this needed change for Pocono Township and where they put their priorities. I don’t believe they will just lick their wounds and skulk off into some corner. No, they will work to find ways to undermine the changes and will look for alternative means to influence and turn decisions in their direction. There needs to be ongoing vigilance of the upcoming changes as they happen. I have no doubt that the people who have been most influential in this Initiative will remain fully engaged and attentive. We, as the rest of Pocono Township, need to do the same to support them and to make it clear to those looking to step backward that it isn’t going to happen.

Ding Dong the Witch is Dead. It’s time we know who is behind that curtain.

Nov 2 2013

Pocono Township, PA – Scumbag Politics & Tactics Flow Downhill all the Way to Local Politics

I don’t normally blog about local issues but we citizens of Pocono Township, PA in the heart of the Poconos are in the midst of a ballot referendum that has become rather heated. At issue is the governing structure of our approx. 12,000 resident community. The question is whether to move to a First Class Township structure or to stay as a Second Class Township. In reality, the guidelines and rules are quite similar across class of townships with only several key areas of difference – albeit important differences. While I don’t intend to go into the details to a great extent, my opinion and perspective is that the change reduces the likelihood of personal agendas and influence, governance by proxy (who is really pulling the strings behind the curtain) and the myriad of unethical and unacceptable actions that have taken place in local government for years. While we have slowly moved forward from the “old boy” network that was evident when we moved here 26+ years ago, the back room dealings and decisions remain an ongoing event. Is it just Pocono Township? No, it is rife throughout Pennsylvania if one does a google of incidents of impropriety in local government in PA. The move to put this First Class initiative on the ballot was driven by the actions of several of our current Supervisors. In fact, we now sit on a million $ lawsuit as a result of these supervisors. But back to the issue at hand. As with any change there are those who support and those that don’t. Same here but interestingly enough (not surprising though) the “citizen” group that supports the current Second Class Township structure is made up of local business interests who fear the change as their level of influence will weaken if not disappear entirely. My opinion only but given the tactics and the information spin their campaign has taken you can see fear and loathing as they look at the potential shift in power. Again, not surprising, this is primarily a group of Republicans. Now if we have learned anything at all about the current Republican Party, whether national or state, taking care of the people’s needs is not a priority. One needs look no deeper than the recent Federal Government shutdown to see it at the national level. At the state level, look at the havoc Tom Corbin, our Republican Governor, and his massive cuts to education and social programs to see it isn’t about anything beyond politics. And we in Pocono Township now can be our own microcosm of what we see at higher levels.

Our three Supervisors – Guess which one is the RoadMaster?

This struck home very clearly this past week when we attended a “non-partisan” information session advertised to objectively address the differences between a First and Second class township structure. The attorney, experienced in dealing in both structures, was actually very good. However, on the table as one walked in was the propaganda literature being offered by the “Concerned Citizens of Pocono Township” (let’s call them CCPT) – a non-profit organization leaning heavily to the right. I, for one, judge any organization by the honesty and accuracy of its message and supporting information – which means I do try to read and research most any statement or position taken before I decide my stance. In this case, I’ve read (several times) both the First and Second Class Township Code documents so I think I’ve got the detail. While it is obvious the CCPT has read and understands the differences, they have taken the liberty to play loose with the facts – something very obvious in their political literature. Let’s take a look.

Concerned Citizens of Pocono Township Propaganda

So – we have only CCPT choosing six statements to scare the public into voting against the First Class Township initiative this Nov 5th election. When you dig a bit into the detail it becomes quickly clear that not one of these statements is really true – if we define true as meaning it is entirely true – so we have the spin factor to contend with. These are all partially true – leaving out important details that when considered take the bite out of all of them. To help put, I’ll rate these on a simple scale – the Bullshit Scale. Pretty simple – the more BULLSHITs – the larger the lie or partial truth or the larger the manipulation. I don’t really need a symbol for entirely true since none of the statements actually qualify.

Let’s take a look at each one –

1. Raises the maximum general purpose tax rate to 30 mils. Okay – in a First Class township this is true. They are comparing to a Second Class Twsp where the GENERAL PURPOSE TAX RATE is capped at 14 mils. However, there are several additional opportunities to add other tax mils to that number in the Second Class code – in actuality when comparing apples to apples, the total potential tax burden is actually higher in a Second Class Township – they just don’t have it all in the general tax bucket. And, by the way, this is really about the maximum potential mils – doesn’t really read that way in this literature leaving quite a bit of room for interpretation that our taxes will rise. So this is not only misleading but implies something (raised taxes) that it has nothing to do with.

Rating – BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT

2. Mandates that all future police officers qualify as Civil Servants. Yes, all future police officers will have to pass a test established by a Civil Service Commission established to oversee all matters related to the Police Department. Not sure the problem with requiring that future police officers be required to pass a test that is specific to Pocono Township as it is a test created by the commission. I guess the problem is that a board of three, non-paid commissioners can’t play favorites as easily and having it establish an equal playing ground for police qualifications means there might actually be a test to get a job. No criticism of our current police force in Pocono Township at the moment but having to demonstrate qualifications is not a new concept for getting a job. No current policemen lose their jobs and yes, there is qualification to be a police officer in the future. Then again, anyone working for any form of government can be considered a civil servant – not sure why today’s policeman don’t fall into the same category.

civil servant

noun

: a person who works for the government : a person who works in the civil service

Rating – BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT

3. Mandates a Township Manager Position. This one is somewhat true but it does require a bit more examination at which point it becomes less than forthright. Our illustrious supervisors, since they all hold down township positions (part of the problem – they are their own bosses and accountable to no one other than at election time) felt the need to hire a Township Administrator at somewhere around $60K salary. So the current position is not called “Manager” but it essentially does what the “mandated” role will do – especially since the commissioners can define the job generally as they please. So to protest the new position might be a little disingenuous. The other interesting consideration here is that the Code also provides the Commissioners with the power to abolish the position of Township Manager. As I read it, doesn’t sound like a mandate.

Rating – BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT

4. Substitutes elected Supervisors with Court Appointed Commissioners. Not really but in the initial transition to a First Class Township there is no provision for a special election and the new Commissioners need to be in their position by the January following the election. A board of judges from our County Courts does the initial appointment but that is the only time there is not an election to select the Commissioners. So part truth but a bit misleading all the same. Once established, all Commissioners are elected as current Supervisors are.

Rating – BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT

5. Mandates that anyone holding a position with the township must quit their job before they can seek public office. The only consideration close to this that I can find in the Code is that Policemen cannot hold any public office while being a policeman. I’m calling this one a total fabrication – sounds good as a talking point but this is an outright lie. I’m only deciding not to give it 10 BULLSHITs since I can’t find it and I could have missed it – doubtful but maybe.

Rating – BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT

6. Can result with 5 new commissioners who have no experience running the township and potentially no experience with the sewer system and its known deficiencies. Okay – I guess this is true but again we have an intent to mislead and make a problem where there is not necessarily one. To be honest, this can happen anytime anyone new is elected to Supervisor in the current structure. All we need to do is look at the current Supervisors (kind of our local Moe, Larry and Curley of sorts) to see that this concern about experience is not a new one. Our current trio consists of an ex-policeman who most recently sold advertising for billboards, a road department employee and a plumber. Don’t get me wrong, these can be honorable professions but I fail to see the deep experience that any of these three brought to the table with they were elected. Not really anyone with broad and deep management experience or capability among them. As far as sewer knowledge, I’ll give the plumber some latitude when it comes to dealing with crap but given the size of the sewer project (many millions, many years, much coordination), I might concede this point a bit if the number and the size of problems being realized wasn’t so large – and the plumber has been around for most of it.

Rating – BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT BULLSHIT

Total BULLSHITs – 47 (yes, that’s a lot of BULLSHIT)

Average BULLSHITs – 7.83 – on my scale, I’d say this average rating positions the good Concerned Citizens of Pocono Township as pretty high up there on the BULLSHIT scale – pretty much full of shit. Just the type of people I want leading my township and its future.

So when we look across the “concerns” and the “facts” as to why we should stay a Second Class Township, one would think that it should stand on its own merit – not the lies, spin and manipulation that is evident in this case. Maintaining the status quo in this case only really seems to be good for those running things today – whether as supervisors or puppet masters pulling the strings in the background. They all have something to lose and it is personal in every case.

We can only hope that there are enough of us Pocono Township citizens who can see this for what it is when Tuesday rolls around.

Oct 16 2013

Losers by the Handful

Just what we want in a Leader

The last couple of months I’ve struggled a bit to keep my focus on this blog – something obviously not a problem prior to the last election cycle. It is not that there is nothing to share feelings about – I think it has been more I’m not sure where to start. My head spins as I look at what is going on around me – not the world but here in the United States. For any one reading this blog it is obvious I’ve got a bit of anger – most of the time – and anger has fueled much of what I have written. While it isn’t also the most pleasant for those around me, I’ll have to say that anger sits reasonably well with me. I’m not saying it is good but it is an emotion I can deal with. And I don’t see it going away any time soon – not with the direction we seem to be going as a nation. But recently, there is a “buddy” to sit alongside my anger and this emotion is one I have always tried to avoid at all costs. That “buddy” happens to be embarrassment. While there is a lot to be angry about but we have reached a point in this country where we should all be embarrassed. Not only because of the state of our politicians and the mess they have made but also about many of our people. In particular the know-nothings and the loudmouths that continue to say they represent the American public or they are looking out for our country. I’m embarrassed that Ted Cruz (and some others of his ilk) are US senators – but even more embarrassed there are people supporting them – and it’s not because they don’t believe what I believe – I’m used to that and I don’t expect that my views and beliefs work for anyone else. It is because these people are generally not nice people in any sense of the word. They are basically self-centered, don’t care about anyone but themselves, narcissists. They feel better about their state in life by bringing down others. And they are stupid enough to actually believe that Ted Cruz believes in the same things they do and not that he is taking advantage of their ignorance to prop his own interests to the forefront. I’m embarrassed we have congressional leaders that let freshman congressman wield the power to bring our economy to its knees. I’m embarrassed we have become a people who generally don’t care about those that are not so well off and because there are some who take advantage and cheat the system, then everyone in need is bad. I could go on and on.

Fool me once….
credit: theguardian.com

But today I read something that really encapsulates what we should all be embarrassed about as it speaks volumes of what we have become as a nation. Take a swing over to The Huffington Post – take a read of this article – http://www.huffingtonpost.com/niels-gerson-lohman/us-border-crossing_b_4098130.html?utm_hp_ref=mostpopular.

For some out there, they will see nothing wrong – it is just the US looking out for our safety and security. I’m embarrassed for you people too.

For once, Pennsylvania had some sense and got rid of at least one loser….
credit: pumabydesign001.com

Dec 5 2012

Welcome Back Ricky!

It has been a bit difficult to figure out what I want to blog about as of recent given much of the political landscape and turmoil is almost laughable. If I didn’t know better, I would almost assume the Republicans had actually won this last election cycle and that they increased whatever political collateral they had last time we went around on the debt ceiling and how to best handle the issues of deficit reduction. Their continuing stance of protecting the upper 2% of taxpayers while refusing to acknowledge the problems of the middle class will no doubt be discussed in future political science classes as they ponder what appears to be a death march celebrating the ongoing decline of the Republican Party. But that is not where I want to spend my time today.

For anyone who has paid any attention to my blogs for going back into the beginning of the last election, one of my favorite targets has been Ricky Santorum. Hasn’t taken much skill on my part as here we have a man who essentially put the proverbial “Kick Me” sign on his own back as he continually and consistently demonstrated his anachronistic stance in terms of moral, ethical, cultural and almost every form of bias and short-sighted bigotry of everything that didn’t fit cleanly in the mold he has established around his world. I don’t have time nor interest in repeating all my reasons and all my conclusions about this asshole of a human being but, again, he has made it easy as he works to stay in the limelight – really more around bad attention is better than no attention at all. So where does he climb out of his hole in the ground? He’s taken a job as a columnist for the birther bible WorldNetDaily. I’ll admit I hadn’t been aware of the site or organization prior to Ricky’s announcement of his new job but this is a site and organization that makes News Corporation and Rupert Murdock look almost like a real new agency. Aside from maintaining that Obama is not a US citizen and all the like, WorldNetDaily has maintained what I think is one of the most shattering headlines that most of the world has undoubtedly overlooked – that Obama hid gay life in order to become President. I knew Obama was pretty smart – who would have thought.

So here we have Ricky stepping down a notch (hard to believe that was possible) and signing on with an organization that maintains credibility with only those who aren’t really sure what year it is and where they left their car keys. But wait, it gets a bit better because what is his first column about? He basically shits all over the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons With Disabilities, which he feels “crushes U.S. sovereignty.” What is this convention all about? It is intended to protect the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities. Those parties that sign and support the Convention are required to promote, protect, and ensure the full enjoyment of human rights by persons with disabilities and ensure that they enjoy full equality under the law. Sounds pretty bad to me – oh wait – didn’t we in the US pass the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 to essentially get to the same place?

I’ll admit I haven’t reviewed all the nuances of the UN Convention but it would seem that we in the US should be ready and willing to fully support the UN effort. Well, sorry folks but here we go again with this new Republican mindset of somehow being entirely out of step with most everyone else in the US if not the world. Just yesterday on December 4, 2012, the Senate rejected the U.N. Convention on the Rights of Persons With Disabilities by 61 to 38. The 38 Republicans voting against the agreement prevented it from receiving a two-thirds majority, necessary in the ratification of treaties. This was despite strong support from John McCain, John Kerry, Bob Dole and others who approached this in a non-partisan manner. What was the rationale of voting against the convention? They took the stand that to vote for the U.N. treaty would mean that the U.N. committee overseeing the ban on discrimination against the disabled, including children, could violate the rights of American parents who decide to home school their disabled children. Visions of Big Brother at it’s finest – you do have to wonder what all these Republicans are really doing behind closed doors that they are that concerned about infringements on their personal freedom. Again, lead by a Tea Party Senator, Mike Lee from Utah, the use of fear and confusion remains a key weapon by those who don’t seem intelligent enough to be making decisions for the citizens of this country. And how embarrassing for the United States – this is not a position to be taken by the greatest country in the world.

So here we continue down a path that is astounding in its lack of civility and compassion for those who probably need help the most. Boy, the elections in 2014 can’t get here soon enough.

I guess for Ricky Santorum he thinks this is somehow going to enhance his bid for the Presidency in 2016. If nothing else, he is consistent – once a fool, always a fool.

Sep 13 2012

Best of the Best and Worst of the Worst

There are very few people I really see as really good people. I was lucky enough to find one of them who actually agreed to marry me 31 years ago – definitely a crap shoot on her part but no doubt great for me. I don’t think I’m one of those good people – I’m not a bad person but I come no where close to membership in that group of those who are truly good from the heart. So when I see one of them (and I think in these times it is relatively rare), I notice and appreciate. There is one person of whom I consistently see as an appropriate role model as one of those rare people. I’m never sure what brings someone to be truly good but I have to believe that a part of that is overcoming some adversity (beyond the norm) at some point in their life that opened them to an awareness, empathy and caring most of us will never realize. Could only be me but just watching what these people do and the ease with which they do it somehow makes me feel better in general and gives me hope in times where I often wonder what happened to us as people.

Credit: “Just be Nice” Facebook page

So, in following a recent theme of also trying to recognize people in a positive way instead of only focusing on the jerks and low-lifes (no that won’t go away – that’s one of the benefits of not being in the group of good people), I want to add someone to that list of day-to-day heroes. This person has been someone I have often seen and commented on how nice she is. I was again reminded this morning as I did my time on the treadmill and wandered around the TV channels and found myself settled on watching the Ellen DeGeneres Show. This is after watching CNN and MSNBC for awhile amidst the current rising tensions and anger against America on the other side of the world. Ellen has got to be one of the nicest (and bravest) people out there. I don’t watch her show often but given the number of times she reaches out to help others in the shows that I see, I can only imagine it happens all the time. I get no sense of self-aggrandizement (which I see in many other celebrities – I’m always suspect of Oprah ) – more a sense of probably how good it makes her feel that she makes others feel. Ellen has no doubt gone thru some tough times in her career and the treatment she has often received has been shameful but here she is looking outward and past those who would put her somewhere out of sight, and trying to add positive to the world, one step at a time.

So today, the Hero of the Day award goes to Ellen – thanks for being one of those people who can make us all feel good and set an example the rest of us should strive to match.

Ellen DeGeneres – One of the “Good” ones

I would like take a moment and mention the tragic events in Libya yesterday. I am sure all our thoughts and sympathies go out to the friends and families of Christopher Stevens, the U.S. ambassador to Libya and the others (at least one who is American) whose lives were so needlessly taken yesterday. These are brave people (in each embassy we maintain around the world) who are all too often at risk. While most of Ambassadors face a good deal of risk, Chris Stevens put himself unselfishly at risk taking on this role in Libya. He is a hero in his own right.

Given the murder of our citizens in Libya, I have been moved to create a new award I’m putting out there that will sit alongside the current “Head in the Butt” award. (See, I said I wasn’t going to be going entirely positive.) The risks our ambassadors and their staffs face just as a normal course of business should not be further increased as a result of actions of people who stay safe back in the US. To look at this in the broadest sense, any US citizen that leaves the relative safety of our shores is actually put at increased risk as a result of these people who are more focused on personal attention and influence than demonstrating broader concern for others.

While I hate to give this person any more attention than needed (which is really none), in reading thru the news this morning, I picked up on a name I haven’t seen in a few months who has again stepped into the limelight to further his own intentions, again without concern for how others are affected. Pastor Terry Jones originally gained both national and international attention when he notified the world he would be burning the Quran (or Koran – multiple spellings are out there) on the 10 year anniversary of 9/11. He initially agreed to not complete that act and managed to wrangle a new car or two out of the deal but then apparently could not do without the attention and went ahead a completed the burning around six months later. This resulted in the first blood on his hands as there were 12 people killed in the ensuring violence that predictably followed his actions. This lowlife, who has announced his candidacy for President in the 2012 election, made a very public endorsement of this anti-Muslim film that has led to the increased violence we are now seeing in Libya, Egypt and Yemen. While maybe not directly attributable to his support and advocacy of this film, I would offer he carries more blood on his hands for these latest killings as it is at a minimum felt that the increased violence was possibly a cover for the attacks on the US Embassy.

I would suggest the actions taken by Jones borders on historical limits to free speech, the classic being you can’t yell fire in a movie theater and maybe it is time we, as a country, look a little more at our assumed freedoms and take these people to task. As it is, Pastor Jones (there’s that religious connection again), you are lower than whale shit – only matched by the Westboro Baptist Church who I expect will slink from whatever holes in the ground they inhabit to share views similar to Jones at some point. For today, though, Pastor Jones, you get the honor of being the first recipient of the “Shitbag” award. This is the only area where I hope my views as an atheist are wrong and you actually get to spend eternity burning in hell.

Pastor Terry Jones – Shitbag of the day

Sep 11 2012

Why is it always these religious assholes?

I strongly doubt that I am on the front edge of putting out there the recent news about a Maryland politician and local pastor, Emmett C. Burns Jr. and his letter to the owner of the Baltimore Ravens regarding statements made by one of the Raven players on support of gay rights but the news and particularly the supporting letter back to Burns from a teammate were so impactful I thought I’d re-post it in case anyone reading this blog missed it. I apparently did (sometimes too busy to keep up with the news and not a strong sports news person) but as soon as my wife pointed this news item out to me, my immediate response was “need to get it out in my blog”.

Quick facts – Baltimore Ravens linebacker Brendon Ayanbadejo has spoken out in favor of a Maryland ballot initiative that would legalize gay marriage. Burns shot off a letter on Maryland House of Delegate letterhead to Ravens owner Steven Bisciotti seeking action against Ayanbadejo. That letter follows. An NFL teammate of Brendon, Minnesota Vikings punter Chris Kluwe’s, then shot off a response to Burns – and it has to be one of the best letters/responses to an asshole of Burns caliber that I have ever read – I can only dream of writing so clearly and thoughtfully. Not a whole lot more comment necessary on Chris Kluwe’s note – pretty much sure most thinking people would pretty much read it and go “f”ing A” – nice response.

So, first, Pastor Dimwit’s letter:

Credit: Yahoo Sports

This is even better given Burns is black and should be a bit more understanding of prejudice and equal rights – but then again, many of these small thinkers don’t take it that far – pretty much a view of “I’ve got mine – time to shit on others”.

Now the best part. The reply from Minnesota Vikings punter Chris Kluwe:

Dear Emmett C. Burns Jr.,

I find it inconceivable that you are an elected official of Maryland’s state government. Your vitriolic hatred and bigotry make me ashamed and disgusted to think that you are in any way responsible for shaping policy at any level. The views you espouse neglect to consider several fundamental key points, which I will outline in great detail (you may want to hire an intern to help you with the longer words):

1. As I suspect you have not read the Constitution, I would like to remind you that the very first, the VERY FIRST Amendment in this founding document deals with the freedom of speech, particularly the abridgment of said freedom. By using your position as an elected official (when referring to your constituents so as to implicitly threaten the Ravens organization) to state that the Ravens should “inhibit such expressions from your employees,” more specifically Brendon Ayanbadejo, not only are you clearly violating the First Amendment, you also come across as a narcissistic fromunda stain. What on earth would possess you to be so mind-boggingly stupid? It baffles me that a man such as yourself, a man who relies on that same First Amendment to pursue your own religious studies without fear of persecution from the state, could somehow justify stifling another person’s right to speech. To call that hypocritical would be to do a disservice to the word. Mindfucking obscenely hypocritical starts to approach it a little bit.

2. “Many of your fans are opposed to such a view and feel it has no place in a sport that is strictly for pride, entertainment, and excitement.” Holy fucking shitballs. Did you seriously just say that, as someone who’s “deeply involved in government task forces on the legacy of slavery in Maryland”? Have you not heard of Kenny Washington? Jackie Robinson? As recently as 1962 the NFL still had segregation, which was only done away with by brave athletes and coaches daring to speak their mind and do the right thing, and you’re going to say that political views have “no place in a sport”? I can’t even begin to fathom the cognitive dissonance that must be coursing through your rapidly addled mind right now; the mental gymnastics your brain has to tortuously contort itself through to make such a preposterous statement are surely worthy of an Olympic gold medal (the Russian judge gives you a 10 for “beautiful oppressionism”).

3. This is more a personal quibble of mine, but why do you hate freedom? Why do you hate the fact that other people want a chance to live their lives and be happy, even though they may believe in something different than you, or act different than you? How does gay marriage, in any way shape or form, affect your life? If gay marriage becomes legal, are you worried that all of a sudden you’ll start thinking about penis? “Oh shit. Gay marriage just passed. Gotta get me some of that hot dong action!” Will all of your friends suddenly turn gay and refuse to come to your Sunday Ticket grill-outs? (Unlikely, since gay people enjoy watching football too.)

I can assure you that gay people getting married will have zero effect on your life. They won’t come into your house and steal your children. They won’t magically turn you into a lustful cockmonster. They won’t even overthrow the government in an orgy of hedonistic debauchery because all of a sudden they have the same legal rights as the other 90 percent of our population—rights like Social Security benefits, child care tax credits, Family and Medical Leave to take care of loved ones, and COBRA healthcare for spouses and children. You know what having these rights will make gays? Full-fledged American citizens just like everyone else, with the freedom to pursue happiness and all that entails. Do the civil-rights struggles of the past 200 years mean absolutely nothing to you?

In closing, I would like to say that I hope this letter, in some small way, causes you to reflect upon the magnitude of the colossal foot in mouth clusterfuck you so brazenly unleashed on a man whose only crime was speaking out for something he believed in. Best of luck in the next election; I’m fairly certain you might need it.

Sincerely, Chris Kluwe

P.S. I’ve also been vocal as hell about the issue of gay marriage so you can take your “I know of no other NFL player who has done what Mr. Ayanbadejo is doing” and shove it in your close-minded, totally lacking in empathy piehole and choke on it. Asshole.

So today, I’m going to begin a new award. In the spirit of trying to be more positive than my usual negative intent, I want to actually recognize these two NFL players who have taken that step forward and taken us a little bit forward to progressive thinking on one hand (Brendon) and calling an asshole an asshole when deserved on the other (Chris). In both cases a role model that is critical in moving this country forward.

Brendon – congrats on being the first recipient of the “Hero of the Day” award –

Brendon Ayanbadejo – Baltimore Ravens

We have a “twofer” today as I would also like to recognize Chris for his elegant and impactful response –

Chris Kluwe – Minnesota Vikings

Of course, given this attention and what would seem to be extra outrage back at the man, Pastor Burns has now done a quick turnaround and has made statements supporting Brendon Ayanbadejo’s right to state his opinion. Of course that goes without saying (or should). However, no apologies for recognition of his obvious step over the line. In any case, here is an person whom deserves some extra attention. And of course, it wouldn’t be me without doling out a “Head in the Butt” award when so obviously deserved.

So here you go Pastor Burns – no doubt Jesus would be proud –

Maryland politician and minister Emmett C. Burns Jr.

And thank you for re-affirming my decision to embrace atheism and for also showing that the Republican party doesn’t have all the miscreants.

Aug 29 2012

Fact from Fiction: It takes a Little Work

Black Hole ‘Bonanza’: Millions Found by NASA Space Telescope

When I saw this headline pop up across the TV screen this afternoon, I had to wonder if NASA has mistakenly focused the WISE telescope on Tampa.

Sorry, can’t help it as that is how my mind works. I can’t help but reach out to find ways to somehow ridicule the current crop of Republican politicians and supporters as it becomes more and more distressing to listen to or read their messaging and their platform. I expect I will continue to bring that same perspective as the election comes closer but I also think it is important to recognize that the rhetoric we hear, whether Republican or Democratic, will be slanted and skewed to manipulate and push American minds and emotions in one direction or the other. I know I am biased in what I believe but in reviewing parts of the speeches from the RNC last night (I find watching and listening to any political convention difficult – Republican or Democratic) but I was somewhat astounded at the simplicity and lack of “realness” in anything I heard. Anyone who was turned to think the Republicans have the answers based on Santorum, Christie or Ann Romney is woefully shallow. For me, I was quite unimpressed and was actually somewhat offended to think that they thought their case for change and support of Mitt would pass muster. My biggest concern remains, as always, that most people in the US will do little to dig further into the “facts” stated last night and those that will be stated by each party going forward. I have tried (between my rants and attacks on many) to offer some data and information on some of the issues I see as critical to us as a country. I don’t really care to change people’s beliefs or how they live their lives – I just don’t want people elected based on false information and slanted statistics. Yes, we all listen more intently to information that matches our beliefs but I think we have an obligation as citizens to try to make informed decisions, as hard as that may be. It takes time and it takes wading thru a great deal of data, trying to separate fact from fiction. I started to go thru some of the “facts” stated last night with an intent to put some real information in my blog that I would hope would give some balance to anyone reading. I quickly realized there was just too much to effectively cover and I expect it won’t get much less intense. What I would suggest is that as the political rhetoric and facts continue to get spun, people should take the time to stop in on several websites that try to fact check and do the detailed analysis necessary to separate out fact from fiction. And again, that goes for anything that either side states, not just the Republicans. Just a suggestion, but take a look at these websites that can shed some real light on what has been done, what has been accomplished and what is really real. I don’t think any one is specifically better than the other but they all offer interesting and detailed information that should take you closer to the truth. I expect, like anything, there are some leanings to the left and to the right and there is no site that will be always in the middle but by looking across multiple sites proclaiming to stay objective, there should be obvious threads of reality.

I also want to give credit to another WordPress blog that got me thinking more about checking our facts: http://sarahjanelives.com/2012/08/28/you-cant-fact-check-what-aint-a-fact-well-you-can-but-try-get-anyone-to-listen/

There is one additional recent event from the RNC I do need to share. While it doesn’t mean that all Republicans or RNC attendees feel the same way, I am amazed that in 2012, there are people this stupid – not surprised they believe it but surprised they would be that obvious. I do believe it represents a level of the bias, anger, hate and intolerance I see as core to the current Republican party. Talk about animals!

From CNN.com

Aug 17 2012

Mitt – are you really that stupid?

Mitt – at a fundraising event yesterday in SC. And he needs armed (in combat gear) security because? Maybe because he had a lower tax rate than most Americans over the last decade.

So Mitt shares he has personally gone back to review his taxes (highly doubtful) and he reveals that he has paid taxes contrary to the remarks made by Harry Reid. Ok – but he also includes the fact that in the last 10 years, he has never paid less than 13% effective tax rate. Could just be me but I can’t think that telling the America public that he has paid at an even lower tax rate than we all heard previously would seem to be a great strategic move. I guess it is better than a situation where he paid no tax but not much. His throwing in that if you count his charitable contributions, he is paying over 20% also doesn’t carry much weight for a couple of reasons. First, if I recall correctly, most all his charitable contribution went to the Morman Church. While it works for his church, it somewhat pales in comparison to actually helping others outside your personal circle. Second, last time I looked, charitable contributions are a deduction from taxes so no matter how you looked at it, he didn’t pay 20% in taxes. Lastly, giving to charity is a voluntary action. Unlike, taxes which isn’t really a choice. So when you add it all up, what Mitt pays falls into the same tax bracket for a single person making less than $35K. Take a look – and these are for 2012 – obviously much higher than the last decade. I know it is a bit more complex than this and that tax brackets don’t equate to effective tax rate but directionally not that far off considering his average annual income isn’t even in the six figure range. Hell, I’m figuring I’ll need to be retired before I see that tax rate – mine hasn’t been below 24% in recently memory.

2012 Tax Brackets

So, for being so stupid and trying to answer one problem by waving a flag elsewhere and actually pointing to another problem, I think it is appropriate tha Mitt get today’s “Head in the Butt” award – I think he should share it with his staff given it is obvious no one said “You know, Mitt, might not be a great idea to tell everyone you are actually paying even less tax”.

Mitt – take a bow – carefully…it’s one thing to have your foot in your mouth.

notthebestoftimes…

And it is getting worse – time to get our collective head out of our ass

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