Friday, May 31, 2013
Los Angeles: Sunset - May 31, 2013
I took my sad self up to the sun deck to try to enjoy the sunset as the day ends with no marriage equality in the Land of Lincoln.
Pensive me, my glass of wine, and some color in the sky.
Tomorrow is another day...
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
8:47 PM
1 comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
pensive
No vote in Illinois on marriage equality after hollow promises
I'm speechless. Just speechless.
And not happy.
Listen as Rep. Greg Harris, the sponsor of Illinois' marriage equality bill, makes a heartfelt and emotional statement on the Illinois House floor announcing that no vote would be taken because several lawmakers have asked for 'more time.' Illinois has a “veto session” in November for unfinished business, and Harris pledged that the bill would receive a vote then.
I feel for Rep. Harris. I do. And I want to hear why a vote did not take place today after many assurances that the vote WOULD happen. Even without the numbers to support, why not put folks on record as allies or foes?
Said Harris: "I apologize to the families who were hoping to wake up tomorrow as full and equal citizens."
(via Towleroad)
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
5:30 PM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
Illinois,
marriage equality
Sexy, furry, funny Gerald McCullouch on The Candi & Randy Show
Listen to internet radio with CandiXRandy on BlogTalkRadio
Fun and sexy Gerald McCullouch ("CSI," "BearCity," "Hustling") joins Candi & Randy from NYC where he is appearing in a new play, "Moonlight and Love Songs."
Also on the docket is Gerald's work on the award-winning web series "Hustling" and his movies in the "Bear City" series.
Smart, funny and unpredictable - we love Gerald McCullouch. Tune in for the chat.
For ticket info for "Moonlight and Love Songs" - click here. Last five chances to see Gerald this weekend in his new play written by Scott Sickles and directed by Steven Petrillo.
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
4:54 PM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
BearCity 2,
bears,
Gerald McCullouch,
Hustling
Accidental Bear Queer Music Summer Tour benefitting LGBTQ organizations
Tickets for the July 2013 Accidental Bear Queer Music Summer Tour Benefit For LGBTQ Mental Health Services & Suicide Prevention with Logan Lynn, Big Dipper, Conquistador, Darling Gunsel, and Rica Shay are on sale now.
The tour is presented by AccidentalBear.com and will be hitting San Francisco, Los Angeles, Portland, Seattle, and New York City, with more cities in the works for later this year and early next.
100% of the proceeds from the A.B. Queer Music Tour go to Ali Forney Center (NYC), Pride Foundation (Seattle), Q Center (PDX), LA Gay & Lesbian Center, and Stonewall Project (SF).
The mission of the tour is to bring awareness and visibility to LGBTQ music while working to diminish the stigma around mental health and raise money for suicide prevention efforts in each of the communities where the tour is taking place.
Help Accidental Bear support the missions of all the organization benefitting by purchasing your ticket to the Queer Music Summer Tour today and come have a great time for a great cause this July!
Tour Dates & Cities:
7/5 – Beatbox, San Francisco, CA - Tickets
7/7 – Los Globos, Los Angeles, CA - Tickets
7/11 – Mississippi Studios, Portland, OR - Tickets
7/14 – Chop Suey, Seattle, WA - Tickets
7/19 – Webster Hall, New York City, NY - Tickets
Ticket pricing info for all 5 benefit shows:
$15 – G.A. (General Admission)
$45 – G.A.+ (General Admission + Tour T-Shirt + Photo with Bands)
$75 – V.I.P (General Admission Ticket + Invited to meet and greet w/ bands at pre-show VIP reception, Tour T-Shirt and Photo with bands)
Watch videos by all the bands playing the tour at the following:
Logan Lynn
Big Dipper
Conquistador
Darling Gunsel
Rica Shay
What? You like FREE stuff?
Well, Accidental Bear has released a FREE digital 13 song compilation album called "AB // XO" with songs from the bands headlining the tour, which is available at AccidentalBear.Bandcamp.com - Download yours today for zero dollars and get excited about the shows this summer!
Find out more about the deserving beneficiaries of the fundraising:
San Francisco - The Stonewall Project
Los Angeles - LA Gay & Lesbian Center Mental Health Services
Portland - Q Center
Seattle - Pride Foundation - LGBTQ Community Foundation
New York City - Ali Forney Center
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
4:19 PM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
Accidental Bear,
Ali Forney Center
Top 5 Posts for the week ending May 31, 2013
Thanks for visiting The Randy Report kids.
Here's a round-up of what you found most interesting this week:
Olivia Newton-John makes a public statement on the passing of her sister, Rona Newton-John
The Chippendales in IN TOUCH Magazine recreating the 'Magic Mike' Poster
Sneak preview from out singer/songwriter Matt Zarley's new video shoot
Tim McGraw shirtless in People Magazine
My goodbye to my beautiful Rona Newton-John
Here's a round-up of what you found most interesting this week:
The Chippendales in IN TOUCH Magazine recreating the 'Magic Mike' Poster
Sneak preview from out singer/songwriter Matt Zarley's new video shoot
Tim McGraw shirtless in People Magazine
My goodbye to my beautiful Rona Newton-John
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
4:17 PM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
Chippendales,
Matt Zarley,
Rona Newton-John,
Tim McGraw
Music: Jaymes & James, Team Chippendales on The Amazing Race, release debut single
Jaymes & James - Team Chippendales from "The Amazing Race" - are releasing their first single, "Light Up the Skies," produced by Tanzer, and available at iTunes and Amazon.
The Chippendales breakout stars of CBS' "The Amazing Race" have gone musical. Or if you want to get technical, they've actually just gone back to their musical roots.
"Long before Chippendales ever happened, we were both in music," explains Vaughan.
Vaughan (Jaymes) has released several pop songs in the past and performed in various reviews throughout the world, while Davis (James) has fronted several successful progressive metal bands, including most recently, My Name Engraved. Both have had success in their individual music careers but never released any collaborative efforts, until now.
For the first single off their upcoming EP, the duo has teamed up with international producer Tanzer to blend their styles and create the dance track "Light Up The Skies."
But, the song is more than just about having fun, for the duo it has real meaning too.
"To me it's about losing my Dad and making the most of every moment after to make him proud," says Vaughan. "I told him he'd see me win a Grammy one day, and dammit I am still gonna make that happen!"
Davis adds "But, it's also about us taking the leap to start this musical journey together," says Davis. "It's even got a few hints of the fear you face when starting a new relationship - something for everyone."
Follow Jaymes and James on Twitter @JaymesV and @James_MNE.
(via press release)
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
3:12 PM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
James Davis,
Jaymes Vaughan,
music,
Team Chippendales
Prince Harry in a tux at Walking with the Wounded Crystal Ball
Prince Ginger is looking mighty, mighty handsome in a tux.
Prince Harry has continues his support for injured servicemen by attending the Walking With The Wounded Crystal Ball, where he urged people not to forget the soldiers who have returned from duty in Afghanistan with life-changing injuries.
Prince Harry returned from his most recent tour of active duty in January.
(via DListed)
Prince Harry has continues his support for injured servicemen by attending the Walking With The Wounded Crystal Ball, where he urged people not to forget the soldiers who have returned from duty in Afghanistan with life-changing injuries.
Prince Harry returned from his most recent tour of active duty in January.
(via DListed)
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
1:24 PM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
handsome,
Prince Harry
Patrick Stewart addresses violence against women in powerful, personal response at Comicpalooza
And in diametric opposition to Mr. Erick Erickson (in my previous post) comes Patrick Stewart who speaks powerfully about how women are treated and how men hold in their hands the ability to stop most domestic violence against women.
Stewart has spoken publicly about the abuse he and his mother suffered at the hands of his father before.
The woman in the video above who asks the question about violence against women had this to say:
This was my question to Sir Patrick Stewart at Comicpalooza 2013. I wanted to thank Patrick Stewart for his speech at Amnesty International it personally help me put a name to the abuse, sexual abuse in my case, I had experienced in the past. He responded very passionately and the last thing I thought I would get at was a heartfelt hug.
When he embraced me he told me "You never have to go through that again, you're safe now". I just kept thanking him.
I hope everyone who needs help in abusive or violent situations has the courage to do so. There are people willing and ready to help you.
You can also learn more about Amnesty International's campaign against domestic violence here.
(via Upworthy)
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
12:34 PM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
domestic violence,
Patrick Stewart,
women
FOX News' Megyn Kelly rips Erick Erickson over working mothers comments
While I'm not normally a fan of much that happens involving Megyn Kelly at FOX News, this is a great moment for her and a rough and tough rumble for Erick Erickson and Lou Dobbs.
Earlier this week Erickson made news while discussing a recent Pew Research Report on Lou Dobbs show. The survey showed that 40% of households with children under 18 have women who are the primary or sole "breadwinners" in the home. Erickson responsed by saying that 'science' says that men should dominate women.
In a follow-up blog post, Erickson bungled again by posting that “feminists and emo lefties have their panties in a wad." I should point out here that it's never a good idea to EVER begin addressing women by including a comment about their "panties."
So Erickson and Dobbs (who seemed to agree with Erickson during the initial discussion) joined Kelly today where she ripped into both about their positions.
“What makes you dominant and me submissive and who died and made you scientist in chief?” said Kelly to Erick Erickson.
At one point she hands out these facts: "In this country in the ’50s and ’60s there were huge numbers of people that believed that the children of interracial marriages were biologically inferior and that is why it was illegal for blacks and whites to marry in some states in the country up until 1967. And they said it was science and fact if you were the child of a black father and white mother or vice versa you were inferior and not set up for success. Tell that to Barack Obama."
When it came his chance to speak, Dobbs addressed Megyn as "oh, dominant one" with a mocking tone.
What upset people about Erickson’s comments had less to do with single mothers and the decline of marriage rates than about gender roles. It was his notion that women should always stay at home and tend to the kids and that men should always be the breadwinners and dominate women — because that’s only 'natural.' Erickson later doubled-down with this tweet:
p.s. I think Erickson meant "complementary" not "complimentary"...
Erickson has a history of public comments demeaning women. Last year, Erickson referred to an all-female line up of speakers at the Democratic National Convention as “The Vagina Monologues.”
Watch the clip above as Kelly rightfully points out that numerous studies show working mothers, single working mothers and gay/lesbian couples provide just as good a home and nurturing for children as heterosexual couples.
Bravo Megyn Kelly!
(source)
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
11:53 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
Erick Erickson,
Fox News,
Lou Dobbs,
Megyn Kelly
Billionaire Mark Cuban joins advisory board of Athlete Ally
Athlete Ally announces via press release that Dallas Mavericks owner and philanthropist Mark Cuban has joined the advisory board of their organization which looks to fight homophobia in sports.
Cuban, an advocate of LGBT rights and gay inclusion in the NBA, has said he would be honored to have an openly gay player on the Mavericks. Cuban will advise Athlete Ally on its programming to help make sports a more welcoming environment for both LGBT athletes and fans.
"It's a new world. Everyone should know that they can be themselves in sports. Leagues like the NBA, their teams and players have a great opportunity to set an example and spread a message to people who are either LGBT or straight that our culture should be celebrated for diversity and individual authenticity."
ATHLETE ALLY encourages all individuals involved in sports to respect every member of their communities, regardless of perceived or actual sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression, and to lead others in doing the same.
Read more at Athlete Ally
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
11:09 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
Athlete Ally,
LGBT ally,
Mark Cuban
Joe Manganiello on the cover of Men's Health UK
TRUE BLOOD star Joe Manganiello hits the cover of the July issue of Men's Health UK, with details of his fitness workout PLUS a photo spread of Manganiello showing Joe in his shirtless glory.
"I'm not 18 anymore. But you won't hear me saying that, because me at 36 would destroy me as a teenager," the actor boasts. "In my mid-thirties I'm making bigger gains than I've ever made in my life."Joe's full interview appears in the July issue of Men's Health UK, on sale Monday, June 3.
And you can catch some of the action in this video from the photo shoot (or see it on the Men's Health website here):
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
10:56 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
Joe Manganiello
Illinois: Gay couples invited to Speaker Madigan's private box for marriage equality vote
From Carol Marin, political reporter for the Chicago Sun-Times about the impending same-sex marriage vote in the state House today.
Positive sign.
Crossing my fingers, but not liking the "down to the last second" scenario...
Ugh.
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
9:20 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
Illinois,
marriage equality
Player wins only the second $1 million prize on Wheel of Fortune
For only the second time in it's 30 year history, Wheel of Fortune gave away a $1 million prize last night.
After choosing her letters, this was all she had to go on:
Watch the video to see what the answer was. You can tell Pat Sajak did not know she had the million dollar prize. Exciting to watch. Made me smile.
Hope everyone has as great a Friday as Autumn will.
(from Towleroad)
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
8:58 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
game show
Arvind Mahankali wins 2013 Scripps National Spelling Bee
Congrats to Arvind Mahankali for winning the 2013 Scripps National Spelling Bee!
Arvind is an eighth grader at Nathaniel Hawthorne Middle School in Bayside, Queens. Arvind will receive $30,000 cash and a $2,500 savings bond.
Check out when he gets his last word. Looks like he knows he's got it, doesn't he?
And how about that American Idol/Miss America confetti at the end! Good for you, Arvind!
(h/t Andy Towle)
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
8:05 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
smart,
spelling bee
Will marriage equality get a vote in Illinois today?
SB10, the marriage equality bill in Illinois, appears on page 4 of today's calendar for the Illinois House of Representatives. This is the final day of this legislative session. If it's not voted on today? Back to the beginning next year.
So, will it happen? Are there at least 60 votes to pass marriage equality in Illinois? If not, I want a vote so those who oppose equality there can go on record for their cowardly position.
Not happy here in Randy Land. UGH
Stay tuned.
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
7:50 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
gay marriage,
Illinois,
marriage equality,
same-sex marriage
David Barton: You can't drink Starbucks and be biblically right on marriage
David Barton, former vice-chair of the Republican Party of Texas and evangelical pastor, tells a Christian audience that they cannot drink Starbucks coffee because the company supports marriage equality.
The full quote, via RightWingWatch:
"Starbucks is pouring all this money into destroying traditional marriage. The question is, can a Christian give money to a group he knows will use it to attack what God supports. If you know that when you buy a cup of coffee at Starbucks that 5, 10, 15 cents is going to be used to defeat marriage, can you do that? The answer is no. Biblically, there's no way a Christian can help support what is attacking God. I'm sorry, you've got to find some other coffee to drink. You can't drink Starbucks and be biblically right on this thing. It's just a real simple principle."
Heading to SB now, can I get anyone a Venti anything?
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
7:30 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
anti-gay,
bigot,
David Barton,
GOP,
marriage equality
Michele Bachmann resignation video - remixed
As many of you know, Michele Bachmann announced a few days ago that she would NOT be seeking a fifth term in Congress, thus ending our great national nightmare.
Above seems to be the "original, shorter" version of her video announcement - albeit just a bit "remixed."
I like this one better. Seems much truer to the spirit of Michele Bachmann, don't you think?
(tipped by TRR reader Jon)
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
7:12 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
Michele Bachmann
Thursday, May 30, 2013
California: Marriage equality support strong at record high
Good news coming out of California about the support for marriage equality there.
Bloomberg reports:
Fifty-six percent of adults favor allowing gay and lesbian couples to wed, with 38 percent against, the nonpartisan Public Policy Institute of California said late today.Fifty-six percent is a great number - and that number only continues to grow.
“The more that there’s been acceptable and legal change in other states, the more Californians have been accepting, especially among some of those groups that were strongly opposed,”Mark Baldassare, the group’s president, said by telephone.
I personally believe Prop. 8will be struck down by the Supreme Court in the next 30 days.
However, should I be wrong - and I don't think I am - it's good to know we can take this back to the ballot box in 2014 and have the people of California do the right thing, if need be.
Forward.
(source)
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
3:37 PM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
California,
marriage equality,
same-sex marriage
The musical break-up of church and state
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
3:30 PM
1 comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
HBO: TRUE BLOOD season premiere synopsis released
The new season of TRUE BLOOD begins on June 16 on HBO, and just in anticipation of the season premiere HBO has released a synopsis of the first episode:
SPOILER AHEAD!
“Who Are You, Really?”
In the wake of Bill’s (Stephen Moyer) blood-soaked reincarnation, Sookie (Anna Paquin), Eric (Alexander Skarsgard), Jason (Ryan Kwanten), Jessica (Deborah Ann Woll), Tara (Rutina Wesley), Pam (Kristin Bauer van Straten) and Nora (Lucy Griffiths) flee the Authority compound as Sam (Sam Trammell), Luna (Janina Gavankar) and Emma (Chloe Noelle) dodge swarming guards.
Now packmaster, Alcide (Joe Manganiello) discovers that The Job comes with unsavory side dishes, but other major perks.
In Bon Temps, Andy (Chris Bauer) deals with parenting four newborn human-faerie hybrids.
Meanwhile, Louisiana Governor Truman Burrell (Arliss Howard) vows open season on vampires.
Jessica returns to Compton Place as Jason hitches a ride with an eerie stranger.
SPOILER AHEAD!
“Who Are You, Really?”
In the wake of Bill’s (Stephen Moyer) blood-soaked reincarnation, Sookie (Anna Paquin), Eric (Alexander Skarsgard), Jason (Ryan Kwanten), Jessica (Deborah Ann Woll), Tara (Rutina Wesley), Pam (Kristin Bauer van Straten) and Nora (Lucy Griffiths) flee the Authority compound as Sam (Sam Trammell), Luna (Janina Gavankar) and Emma (Chloe Noelle) dodge swarming guards.
Now packmaster, Alcide (Joe Manganiello) discovers that The Job comes with unsavory side dishes, but other major perks.
In Bon Temps, Andy (Chris Bauer) deals with parenting four newborn human-faerie hybrids.
Meanwhile, Louisiana Governor Truman Burrell (Arliss Howard) vows open season on vampires.
Jessica returns to Compton Place as Jason hitches a ride with an eerie stranger.
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
12:56 PM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
Joe Manganiello,
True Blood
Trailer: "Machete Kills"
Robert Rodriguez's upcoming film Machete Kills stars Mel Gibson, Charlie Sheen, Sofia Vergara, and Michelle Rodriguez, Cuba Gooding Jr., Jessica Alba, Antonio Banderas, and Lady Gaga in her feature film debut.
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
11:57 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
Lady Gaga
Illinois: Time running out on marriage equality vote in state House
The Windy City Times says that a vote on marriage equality in the Illinois House could happen as soon as this afternoon:
LGBT activists, advocates and community members have begun filtering into the capitol as a the deciding vote on Illinois marriage equality is expected as early as this afternoon.At a fundraiser in Chicago yesterday, Obama told the audience that he wants to see the measure pass.
Sponsors have until Friday to pass the Religious Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act, which would grant equal marriage rights to same-sex couples.
Chief sponsor Greg Harris has said he will "absolutely" call for a vote on the bill by session's end May 31. He has also stated that the bill will pass.
Multiple sources connected with organizing efforts around the bill have stated that a vote is expected this afternoon, evening or early in the day on Friday. That timeline will partially depend on other business in Springfield as spring session wraps up.
“Here in Illinois, we’ve got a vote on same-sex marriage that’s going to be coming up in the Legislature,” Obama said. “ I just want to say for the record it’s something that I deeply support. I wrestled with this for a long time and I am absolutely convinced it is the right thing to do. And we have to make sure that wherever we go, we are reminding people that the essence of America is that everybody is treated equally under the law without exception.”
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
11:45 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
Illinois,
marriage equality
"Compact" Range Rover?
Went to the gym yesterday and had to take a pic of what is, honestly, a common occurrence.
In what universe is a Range Rover a "compact" car? Why is this one parked in a "Compact" parking space?
It goes without saying that the driver who got out was a 'glamorous' 30-something, "Housewife of North Hollywood" type in matching velour purple "sweatsuit" and huge designer sunglasses with a Venti iced Starbucks kind of thing in her well-manicured hand.
I don't know why, but these things bug me. There were plenty of larger parking spaces, but this diva clearly just wandered into this one.
She's not even in the center of the spot she parked in.
So L.A.
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
11:00 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
annoying
World's highest BASE jump from Mount Everest
BASE jump = jump off of a fixed object: buildings, antennas, bridges, and earth.
From the YouTube clip description: Nearly 60 years to the day after the first ascent up Mount Everest, Russian extreme sport star Valery Rozov (48) flew off the north face of Mount Everest - the world's highest BASE jump ever - 7220 meters (23,688ft) above sea level.
It took him four days to climb from the base camp to the jumping location. At precisely 2:30 p.m. local time he leaped despite adverse weather conditions with temperatures -18 Celsius.
Because the cliff at the top was not very high, the initial moments of the leap in the rarified high altitude air were the most critical phase. Rozov needed more time than usual in the thin air to transition from freefall to flying. After that he flew for nearly a full minute at speeds of about 200 km/h (125 mph) along the north face before he landed safely on the Rongbuk glacier - at an altitude of 5,950 meters.
(h/t Towleroad)
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
10:30 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
daredevil
Nigeria passes bill making being gay punishable by up to 14 years in prison
Lawmakers in Nigeria, Africa's most populous nation, passed a bill Thursday banning gay marriage and outlawing anyone from forming organizations supporting gay rights. Violations could result in prison terms of up to 14 years for offenders.
According to the Huffington Post, Nigeria's House of Representatives approved the bill in a voice vote, and it is possible that President Goodluck Jonathan will sign the legislation into law.
Nigeria's Senate previously passed the bill in November 2011.
Under previous versions of the proposed law, couples who marry could face up to 14 years each in prison. Witnesses or anyone who helps couples marry could be sentenced to 10 years behind bars.
(image via Memeographs)
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
10:29 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Anti-gay Oregon bakers display a bit of "pick & choose" hypocrisy
Remember the two bakeries in Oregon who declined to make wedding cakes for two same-sex weddings due to their deeply held religious beliefs (Gresham’s Sweet Cakes by Melissa, Hood Rivers' Fleur Cakes)? And by doing so got in trouble for violating an Oregon statute that makes it illegal for businesses to turn away customers based on race, religion or sexual orientation?
Well... Portland's Williamette Week reporters wanted to see what other "deeply held religious beliefs" would cause the bakers to turn away business. As it turns out, not many.
The reporters made undercover inquiries asking for price quotes on some other "celebrations" that Christians may frown upon (divorces, unmarried parents, stem-cell research, pagan solstice parties...). Here are a couple of the responses.
WWeek adds: "We later contacted both bakeries to ask about these inconsistencies. Regentin of Fluer Cakes declined to comment beyond asking whether she had been taped (she had not). Sweet Cakes owners Melissa and Aaron Klein were upset that we 'would even try to entrap a business' and contacted conservative talk-show host Lars Larson."
(via Instinct)
Well... Portland's Williamette Week reporters wanted to see what other "deeply held religious beliefs" would cause the bakers to turn away business. As it turns out, not many.
The reporters made undercover inquiries asking for price quotes on some other "celebrations" that Christians may frown upon (divorces, unmarried parents, stem-cell research, pagan solstice parties...). Here are a couple of the responses.
Baby Out of Wedlock
WW Asks - I’m shopping around for a nice baby shower cake for my friend. It’s her second baby with her boyfriend so I’m not looking for anything too big or fancy—probably enough to serve 15 to 20 people.
Sweet Cake says - “We have a sheet cake that will feed 30, or a 10-inch cake that would feed 30 people. The 10-inch cake is $50 and the sheet cake is $52. Or we have an 8-inch cake that would feed 15 for $40.”
Fleur says - Prices vary based on decoration and frosting, but a basic cake is $3 per serving.
Divorce Party
WW Asks - My friend is getting divorced and we’d like to throw her a little party to mark the start of her new life. Do you ever write messages on those—we’d want it to say “congratulations!”—and how much would it be for a cake that could serve about eight people?
Sweet Cake says - “A 10-inch is $29.99. That should probably do it....We can definitely do something like that.”
Fleur says - “The price for a 10-inch cheesecake is $36 and up. So it’ll be between $36 and $45, but you’re going to have to call in advance because my schedule for June and July is very busy.”
WWeek adds: "We later contacted both bakeries to ask about these inconsistencies. Regentin of Fluer Cakes declined to comment beyond asking whether she had been taped (she had not). Sweet Cakes owners Melissa and Aaron Klein were upset that we 'would even try to entrap a business' and contacted conservative talk-show host Lars Larson."
(via Instinct)
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
9:48 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
So God made a Dog
Thank God he did.
Dogs rule.
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
9:30 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
dogs
Funny and true - 5 types of guys on Instagram
The fitness segment hits it best, but I see a LOT of this posing out there.
Everyone's too cool for school.
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
9:00 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
funny
Dan Savage on the "polite" way for couples to get tested for STDs
"How do you go about asking somebody you've just started dating to get tested without sounding rude?"
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
8:00 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
Dan Savage
Oprah Super Soul Sunday
Gay marriage was the topic Sunday on Super Soul Sunday: The Bigger Picture, the Oprah Winfrey Networks's roundtable panel hosted by Oprah Winfrey herself.
Oprah hosts three guests and discusses the "dominance of marriage equality" and what it could mean for marriage in America.
Oprah's guests included Los Angeles episcopal priest, Reverend Ed Bacon, Elizabeth Lesser, founder of the Omega Institute for Holistic Studies in New York and author of Broken Open, and poet/philosopher Mark Nepo.
We need to see more intelligent people having these discussions. THIS helps society.
(h/t OnTop)
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
7:53 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Patrick Stewart's first ever pizza "slice"
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
7:30 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
Patrick Stewart,
Twitter
Highlights from the L.A. Kings "Kiss-Cam"
David Beckham gets caught in a cute moment, but my fave is the woman at :33.
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
6:46 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
David Beckham,
people are funny
The decline of "Samesies"
A long lost accounting of how "samesies" were outlawed centuries ago.
It was a sad, sad time.
Possibly NSFW.
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
6:44 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
funny
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Tweet of the day
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
7:58 PM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
tweet of the day
US Marine Corps Captain Matthew Phelps marries Ben Schock
U.S. Marine Corps Captain Matthew Phelps wed Ben Schock this Saturday in Seattle.
Captain Phelps famously proposed to Schock this past December, becoming the first gay couple ever to do so at the White House.
As you may recall, Phelps and Schock have been outspoken about the damage DOMA has caused gay military couples such as themselves.
Congratulations to the happy couple! More wine!
Photo credit - Nate Gowdy Photo
(source)
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
4:06 PM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
gay weddings,
happiness,
marriage equality
Harvey Milk commemorative stamp on it's way?
Since 2009, there have been ongoing efforts to get the U.S. Postal Service to issue a Harvey Milk stamp.
Could it be on the horizon?
From The Bay Area Reporter:
(source)
Could it be on the horizon?
From The Bay Area Reporter:
Linn's Stamp News, a weekly publication that covers the mail service, is reporting in its May 27 issue that Milk was among the special stamps chosen for next year by the Citizens Stamp Advisory Committee during its closed door meetings earlier this year.
An anonymous source sent Linn's a copy of the panel's January 31 and February 1 meeting minutes where 2014 stamps were debated and chosen. It included a notation that the minutes regarding the Milk stamp, along with a number of other choices, had been approved at an April 13 meeting.
Reporter Bill McAllister, who provided the Bay Area Reporter with a copy of the article posted to the website of the subscription-only publication May 13, cautioned in the story that "there is no certainty" that the Milk or other listed stamps would be issued in 2014. The documents McAllister was provided, nonetheless, list the Milk stamp for release in May next year.
(source)
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
3:54 PM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
Harvey Milk,
honor,
stamp
Public isn't buying into Washington "scandals" as President Obama's approval continues to rise
Very interesting development here.
After a week of Benghazi, IRS, and Associated Press phone records "scandals," you'd think the GOP would be gleeful at bringing down President Obama in the public's eyes.
Kinda not the case.
In fact, the President's approval ratings have gone UP while the GOP's numbers have dropped.
A new CNN poll shows that President Obama’s approval rating is at 53%, up two points from the previous poll.
Clearly, the American people are not buying into the false narrative promulgated by the media and the Republican Party, as a majority of respondents believe that the president and his statements on the “scandals” are “mostly true.” The GOP was not so lucky. From the CNN poll:
The poll found that 59 percent of respondents view the GOP unfavorably, a record that has only shown up one other time in the poll’s results since tracking began in 1992.A Wall Street Journal/NBC poll showed similar results. When asked their approval on what each is proposing to do, 45% approve of President Obama's proposals, only 29% approve of the congressional GOP proposals. Check out the video below:
The Republican Party’s net favorability ratings are down 8 points in the past two months. The amount of respondents viewing the GOP favorably fell from 38 percent to 35 percent, while the number of people who view the party unfavorably climbed five points, up from 54 percent in March.
(source)
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
3:49 PM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
GOP,
polls,
President Obama
New Mexico: Man crashes car during drunk sex, hides in cactus
So, what do you do when you get caught driving while intoxicated and having sex, running red lights and the police are after you?
In New Mexico, this guy tried hiding behind ("in"?) some cactus...
From RawStory:
Witness told Albuquerque police that Luis Briones was observed having sex with a woman who was on his lap while he was driving, according to KRQE. Briones ran a red light and struck another car, throwing his naked companion from the vehicle.
The report said that Briones tried to flee but a witness took his car keys. Police later found Briones hiding in cactus with his shorts inside out. The complaint stated that he refused to cooperate with police and became hostile with paramedics. Police said that he also refused to wear his pants while inside the patrol car.
Apparently, no seatbelts were being worn, although a "partially consumed" bottle of vodka was found in the car.
Briones is looking at at least eight charges including DWI, running a red light, reckless driving and sexually assaulting a cacti. (Ok, I made the last one up.)
Here's the news report on the story from KRQE:
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
2:18 PM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
DWI,
idiots,
New Mexico
ExxonMobil votes down LGBT non-discrimination protections - AGAIN
For the 14th year in a row, oil giant ExxonMobil's shareholders have voted down a proposal that would have provided employment discrimination protections to the company's LGBT employees.
The Dallas Voice reports:
ExxonMobil has the lowest score ever received by a company in the Human Rights Campaign's Corporate Equality Index, scoring a -25 rating for rescinding LGBT discrimination protections and cancelling domestic partner health benefits when Exxon acquired Mobil in 1999.
Other oil companies, such as Chevron, BP, Shell and Spectra, have received scores of 85 or higher.
(source)
The Dallas Voice reports:
Shareholders voted to reject a resolution, 81 percent to 19 percent, from the New York state comptroller calling for the company’s Board of Directors to add sexual orientation and gender identity/expression to the oil giant’s EEO policy. The 19 percent support for the resolution reportedly was the lowest ever.
George Wong addressed the shareholders on behalf of the New York State Common Retirement Fund. He presented the business argument that the company should recruit from and retain the widest possible talent pool. Failure to do that leads to less efficient business operations. Most Fortune 500 companies do have inclusive nondiscrimination policies including most other major oil companies, he said.
During general comments, no one else supported the nondiscrimination proposal.
ExxonMobil has the lowest score ever received by a company in the Human Rights Campaign's Corporate Equality Index, scoring a -25 rating for rescinding LGBT discrimination protections and cancelling domestic partner health benefits when Exxon acquired Mobil in 1999.
Other oil companies, such as Chevron, BP, Shell and Spectra, have received scores of 85 or higher.
(source)
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
12:54 PM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
anti-gay,
discrimination,
employment,
ExxonMobil
Madonna - "Secret Project" to be unveiled soon?
Madonna may be prepping to unveil a new song that has been referred to as "Secret Project" within her camp of compadres. The project is rumored to be a civil rights song and video addressing women's empowerment.
The debut could come this weekend at the Sound of Change Live concert, a global charity event for female empowerment broadcast globally from London, England.
From the Examiner:
Madonna shot the video for her secret project last December and recorded a new song that deals with feminist power earlier this year. The name of the song was tentatively titled "Back of the Bus," but that could change in the final version. It is said to be one of the most powerful ballads Madonna has haver come up with. It compares the struggle women face around the world with the Civil Rights Movement that started in the 1950s.The four hour concert, which begins at 1:00 p.m. EDT, will include inspirational and provocative films and stories highlighting women's issues around the world.
Madonna has always been an outspoken advocate for women's rights as well as gay rights. In the 1980s, when gay men were dropping like flies because of AIDS, Madonna preached tolerance through her albums, videos, and concert performances. She risked her career by defending the gay community, but gave them a much needed voice at a time when even our own president, Ronald Reagan, was homophobic.
Madonna has a special place in her heart for empowering young women. In 1989, she released the song "Express Yourself," which became an anthem for women's rights.
(source)
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
11:21 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Pentagon LGBT Pride Month flyer
JoeMyGod shares this flyer apparently produced by the Pentagon in anticipation of celebrating our nations's LGBT soldiers and families. Very, very cool to see.
The text of the flyer reads: "For more than two centuries, we have worked to extend America's promise to all our citizens. Our Armed Forces have been both a mirror and a catalyst of that progress. And our troops, including gays and lesbians, have given their lives to defend the freedoms and liberties that we cherish as Americans. - President Barack Obama, September 20, 2011"
(source)
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
10:30 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
LGBT service members
First gay wedding in France today
The media (and a whole lot of police) descend upon the French city of Montpellier today as the country looks to its first same-sex wedding:
The first gay wedding in France on Wednesday will be anything but a private and quiet affair. Echoing months of acrimonious debate over a same-sex marriage law that was approved by lawmakers in April, the historic nuptials were set to feature partisan politics, security concerns and frenzied media coverage.
Frigide Barjot, a stand-up comedian who has led France’s anti-gay marriage movement, has urged opponents of the law to stay away from Wednesday’s wedding. But organisers and local police were taking no chances, beefing up security around the mayor’s office and keeping riot police on standby.
Up to 100 police officers were put on the wedding’s security detail, with another 80 gendarmes ready to back them up, according to the local police prefect’s office.
The civil ceremony that will unite Vincent Autin and Bruno Boileau was moved to a special room in Montpellier’s City Hall to accommodate the more than 500 guests – less than half of whom were actually family or friends of the couple.
Scheduled to start at 5:30pm, the wedding will be presided by Montpellier mayor Hélène Mandroux, a Socialist, and will be broadcast live on the city government’s website.
Vincent Autin and Bruno Boileau |
(via JMG)
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
9:16 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
France,
marriage equality,
same-sex marriage
Kickstarter: The Young Protectors comic book
Less than 24 hours after launching a Kickstarter project to publish his gay superhero web comic The Young Protectors in book form, writer Alex Woolfson has surpassed his $14,000 goal, hitting almost $30K.
From the Kickstarter page:
The Young Protectors: Engaging the Enemy tells the story of how Kyle—a closeted, young superhero dedicated to helping everyone but himself—ascends to become one of the most powerful champions the world has ever known.
But no one ever said becoming a real hero would be easy. :)
The Young Protectors webcomic can be read for free online here.
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
7:51 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
Kickstarter
Jack Mackenroth is funny
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
7:44 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
funny
HBO gets biggest debut in almost 10 years with "Behind the Candelabra"
According to EW, HBO had it's biggest movie debut in almost a decade with Behind the Candelabra this past Sunday night:
The Steven Soderbergh film delivered 2.4 million viewers in its first airing, making it the most-watched HBO Film title in almost a decade (since 2004′s Something the Lord Made).
Across two Sunday plays, Candelabra totaled 3.5 million viewers.
The performance is especially impressive coming on Memorial Day weekend, when TV viewing levels typically decline several percent. Compare Candelabra‘s performance to HBO’s previous recent record-setter Game Change, which had 2.1 million viewers for its Saturday night debut last year.
Across two Sunday plays, Candelabra totaled 3.5 million viewers.
The performance is especially impressive coming on Memorial Day weekend, when TV viewing levels typically decline several percent. Compare Candelabra‘s performance to HBO’s previous recent record-setter Game Change, which had 2.1 million viewers for its Saturday night debut last year.
It's worth noting that director Steven Soderbergh has said no major studio would make the film as it was perceived to be "too gay." A $5 million film with Michael Douglas and Matt Damon almost didn't get made?
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
7:19 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
HBO,
Matt Damon,
Michael Douglas
Michele Bachmann announces she will not seek reelection
With a voice that made my ears bleed in only 3 seconds, Michele Bachmann has announced she will not be running for a fifth term as congresswoman from Minnesota.
She especially makes clear that this decision TOTALLY has nothing to do with the fact that her 2012 campaign in currently being examined for ethics violations. She also mentions that even though she ran a clean campaign and has "no reason to believe that that was not the case," she knows that she can wear as a badge of honor that the media hates her:
"I fully anticipate the mainstream liberal media to put a detrimental spin on my decision not to seek a fifth term. Since I was first elected to Congress many years ago they always seem to find a dishonest way to disparage me. But I take being the focus of their attention and disparagement as a true compliment of my public service effectiveness."I will note that she does look into the correct camera this time.
Who knows what she'll say in her remaining year and a half in Congress now that she isn't concerned about reelection.
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
7:09 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
Michele Bachmann
Hollywood Movie Dance Tribute - "We Can Dance"
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
7:00 AM
1 comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
dance
Matt Trewhella, Voice of Christian Youth America, mocks gay people as "filthy"
Voice of Christian Youth America host Matt Trewhella lashes out at gay people as "filthy" and gay-friendly straight people as "disgusting."
Here's the text of the clip:
“Your children would be getting perverted in their minds by these filthy people,” Trewhella claimed, before turning his venom to straight people who don’t condemn gays and lesbians: “I have no respect for people who are parents, who actually have children, and have no problem with homosexuality or homosexual marriage. They are the most base people on the planet to have totally abandoned every God-given vestige to protect your child from the filth of homosexuality, to blatantly go along with it is disgusting.”(via Right Wing Watch)
“It’s disgusting to watch, it’s disgusting to see,” Trewhella said.
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
6:49 AM
2
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Olivia Newton-John on the passing of her sister, Rona
Rona Newton-John |
A note from Olivia Newton-John on the passing of her sister, Rona Newton-John:
My beautiful sister Rona sadly passed on May 24th in Los Angeles. It was May 25th in Australia - which was our mother Irene's birthday. Rona died of a very aggressive brain tumor and mercifully suffered no pain. She was surrounded by the love of her four children - Fiona, Brett,Tottie and Emerson, and her wonderful friends. I will miss her forever - my beautiful smart talented funny brave sister Rona.
In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate donations to the ONJCWC where a brain tumor wellness program will be started in her name. Thank you all for your kind words of love and support.
Love and light,
Olivia
Click here to donate to the Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre
New official Facebook page for The Randy Report
So, I'm way slow to get to this.
Today I finally setup an official Randy Report Facebook page. I'll be sharing my posts there, along with other info (that I'll think of) as it may pop up. And who doesn't like things that pop up?
I appreciate more than you know all of you following my posts, rants and writings here on The Randy Report. If you are on Facebook, and feel so inclined, I would appreciate it if you would "Like" my page over there.
Here's the link: https://www.facebook.com/TheRandyReport
Of course, here is where the action is - first and always.
It is with mucho appreciado (I made that word up I think) that I thank you for being here and taking part in this ride. I really, really enjoy doing this. Sharing info from the news cycle that I think is entertaining, funny and important gets me up each day.
As always, if you ever see a post here that you find useful or laughable or just entertaining, please hit the Facebook or Twitter button below and share with your circle of friends. It really helps The Randy Report grow.
Thanks again kids!
Forward.
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
8:17 PM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Hopey changey stuff working
Image via Gorilla Pig |
From ThinkProgress:
Covered California, the agency tasked with constructing and maintaining the Golden State’s insurance marketplace, announced in a press release that rates submitted by 13 insurers for the 2014 individual marketplace ranged from a stunning 29 percent below the current average premium for small business health plans to only two percent above them.
For Californians who will gain coverage in the marketplace, that means affordable health plans with a minimum base of ten “essential health benefits,” including prescription drug services, mental health care, and maternity services.
And the announced rates are even better for consumers considering that they don’t take Obamacare’s federal insurance subsidies into account. Depending on income, the average middle-aged Californian would pay anywhere from $40 to $300 per month for a mid-level “Silver” health plan on the marketplace.
Younger, healthier Americans looking to buy bare-bones “Bronze” health plans would end up paying less than $170 per month — or even nothing at all — if they make less money and receive federal Obamacare subsidies.
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
3:13 PM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
ObamaCare
Todd Michael Schultz - "Told My Story"
Out singer/songwriter Todd Michael Schultz shares his song "Told My Story" with this cute video.
Catchy hook, fun video. I get an honest, authentic and not-so-self-serious vibe.
I definitely like. More please, Mr. Schultz :)
Check Todd Michael Schultz out at iTunes.
(h/t Andy Towle)
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
1:11 PM
2
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
music,
out musicians
AsapSCIENCE: The Human Mating Call
Is dancing genetic? Is it the "human mating call?" Which moves make you "hot" and which "not?"
Hit the video.
Follow the AsapSCIENCE guys on Facebook.
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
12:50 PM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
AsapSCIENCE,
dance
Marriage News Watch - May 27, 2013
In this week's news:
• All eyes on Illinois
• Progress in Nevada
• Prop 8 decision from SCOTUS coming soon
For more info, head to www.afer.org
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
12:36 PM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
gay marriage,
marriage equality
Music video: "People Like Us" from Kelly Clarkson
Great song, great vocals by the original American Idol winner, Kelly Clarkson. Love the message.
This will be a hit. Trust me.
Check it out on iTunes.
Rumor has it Kelly is headed back to American Idol as a judge next season with Jennifer Hudson and possibly Adam Lambert or Clay Aiken. Jen's the only one confirmed, thus far. We'll see.
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
11:15 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
American Idol,
Kelly Clarkson,
music
Illinois has four days left to pass marriage equality
This is the final week of the Illinois state legislative session.
Lawmakers there have four days to bring to the floor and pass the marriage equality bill.
The Chicago Tribune weighs in today:
For those who favor individual freedom, this isn't a stretch. We say that with equal respect for those whose religious or moral beliefs lead them to other conclusions.State Rep. Greg Harris, who has championed the bill in that chamber, has said he will call a vote for the bill when he has the votes to pass - which he has stated he believes he has.
The Illinois legislation, which has been approved by the Senate, affirms the great value of marriage. It extends that right to same-sex couples. It protects their children. It states that churches are not required to recognize or solemnize same-sex marriages.
This is an issue for states to resolve, and the list of those that accept same-sex marriage is growing. It's time for the House to vote. Under the I's, add Illinois.
Time is running out.
UPDATE: Wednesday Journal reports that previously undecided Illinois State Rep. LaShawn Ford says he'll vote for marriage equality:
"This is a well-thought-out decision," he said in an exclusive interview with the Journal.
Ford, a one-time seminarian, said he had prayed over it. He said he has been swamped with strong opinions from constituents on both sides of the controversy. He acknowledged he has felt heavy lobbying from a politically active segment of the black clergy.
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
10:39 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
gay marriage,
Illinois,
marriage equality
President Obama - WORST "Socialist" Ever
Chart via New York Times |
Stock markets soared today on the news that U.S. home prices saw their best annual rise in seven years, and consumer confidence got another boost.
Through Friday, more than 52 months after President Obama took office, the S&P 500 index was up 105 percent during his term in office, for a compound annual gain of 18 percent.
Worst. Socialist. Ever.
Read more at Maddow Blog.
(tipped by TRR reader Channing)
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
9:56 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
economy,
President Obama,
stock market
Bryan Fischer: Mormon Church supports gay scouts with secret polygamy endgame agenda
Bryan Fischer has been in search of a reason for why the Mormon Church supported the decision by the Boy Scouts of America (or "Boy Sodomizers of America," as he calls them) to lift its ban on gay scouts, and now he's found one.
Of course, he has no proof, but he "believes" that the Mormon support comes from a secret plan to bring back polygamy.
And there you have it.
What an idiot...
(via Right Wing Watch)
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
9:39 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
Boy Scouts,
Bryan Fischer,
LGBT,
Mormon Church
New book: Dan Savage's "American Savage"
Dan Savage's new book, "American Savage," is released today in bookstores and online.
From Amazon: "Dan Savage has never been shy about expressing his opinions on controversial topics—political or otherwise.
"He launched the global phenomenon of “It Gets Better,” an inspirational anti-bullying campaign to help LGBT youth, he’s the author of America’s leading sex advice column, “Savage Love;” and he is also infamous for creating one of the world’s first “Google bombs.”
"His writing has been praised as “startlingly frank, howlingly funny” (Library Journal); full of “steel-trap logic and scornful humor” (Publishers Weekly); and “deeply political, sensitive and wise” (PEN America Literary Award).
"In his new book, AMERICAN SAVAGE: Insights, Slights, and Fights on Faith, Sex, Love, and Politics, Dan Savage turns his sharp wit and keen perspective to some of the most salient issues facing the country today, including marriage equality, sex education, healthcare, gun control, and more."
Click here to check out the book on Amazon. Below is an interview with Savage about the book, the 'It Gets Better' campaign, parenthood, and the burden of having an underwear model husband.
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
8:18 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
Dan Savage
Behind the scenes of "Behind the Candelabra"
After the debut of HBO's "Behind the Candelabra" this past Sunday, the producers have released an extended 14 minute behind the scenes/"making of" video that explores the discussions and process of making the movie.
I, along with millions this weekend, caught the film and enjoyed it. I thought the acting, especially by Michael Douglas and Matt Damon, was very strong. At one point in the film I realized I had completely bought into the idea that I was watching "Liberace" and "Scott Thorson" and not these two actors.
It's almost hard to say I "enjoyed" the film, though, as the story that unfolds before us is almost creepy and unsettling at each turn. This is not a happy love story. There's something tragic about the entire encounter from the very beginning.
If you are an HBO subscriber, I highly recommend the film. And if you aren't, check out the video above. I'd say it's good enough to get you to try a subscription. The original programming on HBO is some of the very best TV there is.
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
7:59 AM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
HBO,
Liberace,
Matt Damon,
Michael Douglas
Monday, May 27, 2013
President Obama honors our fallen soldiers on Memorial Day 2013
Posted by
Randy Slovacek
at
4:58 PM
0
comments
Share this : | Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook |
Labels:
Memorial Day
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)