Amy the Diva!

www.amythediva.com

So, my timing is a bit off, but I just remembered this performer from Capital Pride 2006 and had to share her with you. Her name is Amy the Diva, accompanied by Freddy Allen on the ivories (or the plastics, if it's a keyboard). Anyway, they're terrifically entertaining and I think you should check 'em out if you ever have the opportunity!

There are so few naturally talented people out there and these two are definitly part of that few. Amy's got a knack for relating to her audience and singing a good tune while she's at it. She'll even stop half way through the song to talk to ya, and Freddy doesn't miss a beat. It really is a good time.

Dissent is Patriotic...and other witty bumper stickers

Listening to the radio this morning (D.C.'s own 99.5 to be exact), I heard two funny jokes and felt the need to share them. Well, one of the jokes I actually heard last night, but you don't need all the details. So, one joke I heard last night and the other joke I heard this morning. Either way there are still two jokes...two funny jokes. I just don't want you people to think I'm a liar.

The first joke, in no particular order, needs a bit of a set up. Instructions: I tell you the answer to the question, you ponder the question ever so briefly and then I tell you the question. Easy enough.

A: Jumanji

Q: What is Mel Gibson's least favorite type of manji?

Next joke. No set-up needed.

An elderly woman finishes an appointment at her doctor's office and is asked to wait in the reception area for the results. After some time, the doctor comes out and tells the old woman that he has some bad news. The doctor approaches the woman and says, "My dear, I'm afraid you have cancer." The woman responds sadly, but notices the doctor still has a look of concern on his face. The doctor continues, "I'm also afraid you have alzeimers disease". In attempt to console herself and the doctor, the woman responds confidently, "Well, at least I don't have cancer."

BA-DUM-CHING!

Gays & Senator Barbara Mikulski

After sending a disapproving generic email to Sen. Mikulski this past spring about the Federal Marraige Amendment, I recieved the following generic response from her office:

Dear Mr. Brennan:
Thank you for getting in touch with me about the proposed Federal Marriage Amendment, Senate Joint Resolution 1. It's good to hear from you.
This legislation would amend the Constitution to define marriage as a union between a man and a woman only. Our Constitution provides fundamental rights for all citizens, so I take amending the Constitution very seriously.
I oppose the Federal Marriage Amendment. It is unneeded and unnecessary. There already is a federal law that defines marriage as between a man and a woman. I voted for this law. Maryland has a similar law.
Congress' priority should be making families safer and stronger. That means working to create jobs, improving access to health care, reducing the cost of energy, and helping families with the cost of college.
Again, thanks for getting in touch with me. If there is any way I can be of assistance to you in the future, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,
Barbara A. Mikulski
United States Senator

How annoying right!?! And, did she just say that she already voted for a law that defines marraige as between a man and woman? Um, wtf?

So I respond:

Senator Mikulski,
I appreciate your staff returning my email. I am glad to hear you oppose the federal marriage amendment, but I find your response contradictory when you stated:
"I oppose the Federal Marriage Amendment. It is unneeded and unnecessary. There already is a federal law that defines marriage as between a man and a woman. I voted for this law. Maryland has a similar law."
Does this statement mean you oppose banning rights on a federal level, but condone banning rights on a state level? Or, you believe there is already a federal law that defines marriage between a man and a woman and you believe that is enough to block the rights of homosexuals?
Gay "Marriage" isn't about the church. It shouldn't have been called "marriage" in the first place. Church and state in our country need more separation. By denying the UNION of two souls, our country is denying homosexuals the rights that heterosexual couples take for granted (i.e. adoption, love, acceptance into American society, legal ramifications). Laws such as this give bigots a grounds for continued hate and hostility.
Again, I appreciate your opposing the Federal Marriage Amendment Act and I hope you will change your vote in the state regarding "marriage." If you truly believe in fundamental rights, I hope you will advocate and vote towards a more equal state and country for all United States Citizens.
Most Sincerely,
Patrick J. Brennan

Not bad, I should definitly get a validating response, right? Wrong:

Dear Mr. Brennan:
Thank you for getting in touch with me again about the Federal Marriage Amendment.
You have obviously given this a great deal of time and thought - - I've learned from hearing your views. I want to be responsive to the needs of all Marylanders when I make decisions. Information from people like you is essential if I'm to reach that goal.
Again, thanks for keeping in touch with me. Please let me know if I may be of assistance in the future.

Sincerely,
Barbara A. Mikulski
United States Senator

How dreadfully disappointing and patronizing is that? "Obviously I've given this a great deal of time and thought..." How arrogant. To which I responded, "You didn't answer my questions in the previous email," and haven't heard back from them since.

Bravo's "Workout": Episode 103

Episode 103 was the first episode of "Workout" I've seen. I really enjoyed Jackie's enthusiasm and and the dynamic of her relationships with other people on the show. Not to mention, she's a total hottie. Her girlfriend might not be my first choice, but that's why I'm not dating her.

I was immediatly tuned in when I heard what Jackie's mom had to say. While I don't necessarily disagree with her apprehension towards Jackie's relationship with Mimi, I'm totally outraged by her flagrant attitude about homosexuality. I'm so tired of people using religion to justify what is right in this world. I especially hate when religious individuals are so patronizing to say "I don't hate gay people, I just don't think they have the right to marry or adopt children," and for Jackie's mother to say she loves her, but doesn't agree with her lifestyle. That kind of statement is so contradictory and totally inhumane. Love of a homosexual daughter/son/friend and unexceptance of homosexuality can not coexist.

Perhaps homosexuals believe in a God that accepts homosexuals. After all, it's all left up to interpretation. In that case, why not let homosexuals get married... other non-christian religions are allowed to marry and be treated equally under federal law.

To you haters (cause that's what you are): Until you've shown the world that you can impact all of it's sons and daughters positivally, keep your negative opinions and beliefs to yourself.