“I am Barbara Bush, and I am a New Yorker for marriage equality.”Monday, January 31, 2011
Quote of the Day
“I am Barbara Bush, and I am a New Yorker for marriage equality.”
SAG Awards!
Monday's Man: James Franco
With the Academy Awards just around the corner, I thought I'd take a look at some of the nominees, starting with James Franco, nominated for Best Actor for 127 Hours.
I'll admit it, I haven't seen the movie. Call me a wimp, but (spoiler alert!) I don't want to watch James Franco cut his arm off.
Of course, he had practice in Milk. Why wasn't he nominated for that?
This year, he's both co-host and nominee. This is his moment.
You can go here to watch his participation in a round-table discussion with a host of other Oscar nominees.
I think he should have been nominated for Howl. I think it's so rare for a straight actor to play gay well enough to convince a gay audience. For my money, Franco did it in Howl.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Quote of the Day
--Statuesque actress Julie Newmar, as quoted in the New York Times in 1959, explaining why she came to New York. Years later, the (slightly altered) line was used by Fred Ebb in the song New York, New York. This is one of many quotes by women that are commonly attributed to men. For more, see Anonymous Was a Woman.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Is 2011 the Next 1989?
That's the question posed by Joshua Tucker on The Monkey Cage blog. He compares the uprisings in Tunisia and Egypt to eastern Europe in 1989. Are we in the midst of a domino-effect revolution that will change the world? An excerpt:
The larger question is whether Tunisia could turn out to be the Poland of the Arab world: the first transition away from a regime long thought to be immutable that sets in motion a path of regime change throughout the region. At first glance, this would seem to be extremely unlikely. Prior to Tunisia, it is difficult to remember the last Middle Eastern regime to fall outside of an external invasion (Iran in 1979?). And yet, a quick glance at a Google News search for Tunisia reveals articles linking protests in Tunisia to events in Egypt, Algeria, Jordan and even Gabon and Indonesia.
Read it all here.
I was an Army officer stationed in Nuremberg Germany from 1988-1991. I was there when the wall fell. It was stunning. No one expected it to happen so quickly, yet there it was. I remember crowds gathering in the streets of Nuremberg on the night that people took hammers to the wall in Berlin. I remember driving to Munich on the first weekend that the Autobahns opened between East and West. This was the main route between East Germany and Bavaria. Crowds of Germans gathered on the overpasses waving to Trabants chugging along. I was in Berlin on the very day that the "ghost" subway stations opened connecting ultra-modern West Berlin with time-warp, crumbling East Berlin. I took one of the very first subway rides to the east. It was surreal. It was a privilege to witness history in the making. We may be witnessing the course of history changing again.
The larger question is whether Tunisia could turn out to be the Poland of the Arab world: the first transition away from a regime long thought to be immutable that sets in motion a path of regime change throughout the region. At first glance, this would seem to be extremely unlikely. Prior to Tunisia, it is difficult to remember the last Middle Eastern regime to fall outside of an external invasion (Iran in 1979?). And yet, a quick glance at a Google News search for Tunisia reveals articles linking protests in Tunisia to events in Egypt, Algeria, Jordan and even Gabon and Indonesia.
Read it all here.
I was an Army officer stationed in Nuremberg Germany from 1988-1991. I was there when the wall fell. It was stunning. No one expected it to happen so quickly, yet there it was. I remember crowds gathering in the streets of Nuremberg on the night that people took hammers to the wall in Berlin. I remember driving to Munich on the first weekend that the Autobahns opened between East and West. This was the main route between East Germany and Bavaria. Crowds of Germans gathered on the overpasses waving to Trabants chugging along. I was in Berlin on the very day that the "ghost" subway stations opened connecting ultra-modern West Berlin with time-warp, crumbling East Berlin. I took one of the very first subway rides to the east. It was surreal. It was a privilege to witness history in the making. We may be witnessing the course of history changing again.
This Will Haunt Your Dreams
You don't really want to see this. If you look you won't be able to erase it. It's after the jump. You were warned...
Dan Choi to Army over Discharge Bill: Nuts!
"By flagrantly and repeatedly violating an immoral law, I have flagrantly and repeatedly saluted the honor of America's promise. At West Point, when we recited the Cadet Prayer we reminded ourselves "always to choose the harder right over the easier wrong." It would be easy to pay the $2500 bill and be swiftly done with this diseased chapter of my life, where I sinfully deceived and tolerated self-hatred under Don't Ask Don't Tell. Many thousands have wrestled with their responsibilities and expedient solutions when confronted with issues of this magnitude. I understand you also wrestle with issues of our equality. But I choose to cease wrestling, to cease the excuses, to cease the philosophical grandstanding and ethical gymnastics of political expediency in the face of moral duty. My obligations to take a stand, knowing all the continued consequences of my violations, are clear. I refuse to pay your claim."
h/t LC NY Bureau Chief Doug
Ugandan Gay Leader Assassinated
Here is Mr. Kato telling CNN that he fears for his safety:
h/t LC NY Bureau Chief Doug
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Rachel Maddow Takes on CNN and the Tea Party Express
If you watched the State of the Union Address on CNN, you were treated to the GOP response by Rep. Paul Ryan and also the "Official" response of the Tea Party Express delivered by Rep. Michele Bachmann. In other words, CNN aired two responses by Republican members of Congress. No other network aired the Bachmann response. So, why did CNN do it? Rachel Maddow digs deep:
Joy Behar and guests have some fun with Bachmann:
Joy Behar and guests have some fun with Bachmann:
Quote of the Day
“I don’t agree with the concept of award ceremonies, but I’m prepared to make an exception for the ones I’m nominated for. The last time there was a naked man covered in gold paint in my house, it was me.”
--Banksy, in response to the Academy Award nomination for Exit Through the Gift Shop for Best Documentary Feature.
--Banksy, in response to the Academy Award nomination for Exit Through the Gift Shop for Best Documentary Feature.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Quote of the Day
--Media whore Ted Haggard in an interview with GQ. He also admits to buying meth from Mike Jones "five or six times." He says he used it for masturbation while watching porn. "Hey, I'm a masturbation guy." Seriously, he actually said that. He also says that he and Jones never had "sex sex." He says Jones gave him massages and jacked him off. I give Haggard props for getting beyond the "I'm a heterosexual with issues" bullshit, but I strongly suspect he hasn't yet told the whole truth.
You Will Not See These During the Super Bowl
These super gay Doritos ads were not actually created by Frito-Lay but rather were part of a contest for Super Bowl ads. What do you think of them?
I kind of like the first one, but the second seems kind of creepy.
I kind of like the first one, but the second seems kind of creepy.
We're the Worst!
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Quote of the Day
"Our troops come from every corner of this country – they are black, white, Latino, Asian and Native American. They are Christian and Hindu, Jewish and Muslim. And, yes, we know that some of them are gay. Starting this year, no American will be forbidden from serving the country they love because of who they love. And with that change, I call on all of our college campuses to open their doors to our military recruiters and the ROTC. It is time to leave behind the divisive battles of the past. It is time to move forward as one nation."
--President Obama in tonight's State of the Union Address. Significant, although it was the only mention of any gay issue in the speech. Here are a few other points:
There was a great deal of talk about competitiveness. "The future is ours to win." "We need to out-innovate, out-educate, and out build the rest of the world." "This is our Sputnik moment." Competitiveness was the over-arching theme of the speech.
"Eliminate the billions in tax dollars currently given to oil companies." Great words. Never happen.
Simplify the tax code. Everyone agrees. Never happen.
He's open to ideas to make health care reform better. He hit on the advantages of the new law and did a pretty decent job of defending it. Boehner looks constipated.
He called for medical malpractice reform. Really? How very Rick Perry 2003 of him.
He called for a freeze on "annual domestic spending" for five years. Gimmick. Never happen.
"I will veto any bill with earmarks." I've got to hand it to the President. He knows how to get ahead of a Republican issue. This one brought a standing ovation from Sen. McCain.
"American Muslims are a part of our American family." It needed to be said and took some guts.
"This July we will begin to bring our troops home from Afghanistan." Like they're home from Iraq?
The President is a master at saying things that Republicans have to applaud, whether they like it or not. I was impressed that Republicans and Democrats sat together. According to Rachel Maddow, the bipartisan Congressional Women's Softball Team sat together. Naturally, she noted that.
Basically, the speech can be summed up as follows: we're going to compete, resolve the deficit, kill the terrorists, and come home from Afghanistan. I don't exactly know how we're going to do all of those things, but they sounded great.
--President Obama in tonight's State of the Union Address. Significant, although it was the only mention of any gay issue in the speech. Here are a few other points:
There was a great deal of talk about competitiveness. "The future is ours to win." "We need to out-innovate, out-educate, and out build the rest of the world." "This is our Sputnik moment." Competitiveness was the over-arching theme of the speech.
"Eliminate the billions in tax dollars currently given to oil companies." Great words. Never happen.
Simplify the tax code. Everyone agrees. Never happen.
He's open to ideas to make health care reform better. He hit on the advantages of the new law and did a pretty decent job of defending it. Boehner looks constipated.
He called for medical malpractice reform. Really? How very Rick Perry 2003 of him.
He called for a freeze on "annual domestic spending" for five years. Gimmick. Never happen.
"I will veto any bill with earmarks." I've got to hand it to the President. He knows how to get ahead of a Republican issue. This one brought a standing ovation from Sen. McCain.
"American Muslims are a part of our American family." It needed to be said and took some guts.
"This July we will begin to bring our troops home from Afghanistan." Like they're home from Iraq?
The President is a master at saying things that Republicans have to applaud, whether they like it or not. I was impressed that Republicans and Democrats sat together. According to Rachel Maddow, the bipartisan Congressional Women's Softball Team sat together. Naturally, she noted that.
Basically, the speech can be summed up as follows: we're going to compete, resolve the deficit, kill the terrorists, and come home from Afghanistan. I don't exactly know how we're going to do all of those things, but they sounded great.
Early Oscar Thoughts
I noted in the post below that there were few surprises in today's Oscar nominations, though LC NY Bureau Chief Doug cited Christopher Nolan's snub in the Best Director category for Inception. It's rare that a Best Picture nominee wins without at least a Best Director nomination if not a win. Yes, it happened with Driving Miss Daisy, but probably won't this year. That means the real contenders for Best Picture are Black Swan, The Fighter, The King's Speech, The Social Network, and True Grit. I believe it's between The King's Speech and The Social Network with Social Network more likely. There's a bit of a backlash against Social Network by those who claim it's pure fiction so it doesn't have a lock. This category could be interesting.
Jarvier Bardim was an unexpected nominee for Best Actor, but I don't believe he'll win. He does bring some much-needed diversity to the acting field, though. Colin Firth should win. If he falters, it's opens the field considerably. James Franco is probably his toughest competition.
As much as I would love to see Annette Benning win her long-overdue Oscar as this year's Best Actress, I believe Natalie Portman's strong performance will pull her through. I don't believe any of the other ladies have a real chance.
I suppose we'll hear Christian Bale's name called for Best Supporting Actor and he'll bound up on stage with the happy/shaggy/nutty persona he's adopted for this year's awards season. I suppose happy nutty Bale beats dour asshole Bale, but I find him annoying. Mark Ruffalo is my personal favorite, but I think Bale has close to a lock.
Melissa Leo seems comfortably ahead in the Supporting Actress race, and it's nice to see an actress of a certain age achieve stardom. The fact that she and Amy Adams are both from the same film could work against her and perhaps throw it to Helena Bonham Carter for a lovely, subtle performance, but I doubt it.
David Fincher is probably the lead contender for Best Director for The Social Network. Best Picture and Best Director so often go together, so look for Tom Hopper of The King's Speech as his greatest competition.
I realize that these thoughts are not exactly brilliant or ground-breaking, but it feels like the mystery and surprise have been leached out of the Oscars in recent years. After a round of awards shows, the likely winners are obvious. I'm always hopeful for a surprise, maybe a Ruffalo win for Supporting Actor, or Jacki Weaver for Supporting Actress. Can you imagine if Michelle Williams' name was called for Best Actress or Toy Story 3 for Best Picture? Jaws would drop to the floor. Oh well, at least we have Helena Bonham Carter's outfit to look forward to.
I realize that these thoughts are not exactly brilliant or ground-breaking, but it feels like the mystery and surprise have been leached out of the Oscars in recent years. After a round of awards shows, the likely winners are obvious. I'm always hopeful for a surprise, maybe a Ruffalo win for Supporting Actor, or Jacki Weaver for Supporting Actress. Can you imagine if Michelle Williams' name was called for Best Actress or Toy Story 3 for Best Picture? Jaws would drop to the floor. Oh well, at least we have Helena Bonham Carter's outfit to look forward to.
Oscar Noms!
And we're off! Oscar season officially began this morning when Oscar-winner Mo'nique announced the nominations. Their Royal Highness's have reason to celebrate as The King's Speech lead the nominations with 12, including one each for the King and Queen. There were few surprises in the main categories and even those were mild, like Michelle Williams for Best Actress and Jarvier Bardem for Best Actor. I was disappointed that Diane Warren's You Haven't Seen the Best of Me from Burlesque wasn't nominated in the Original Song category because I wanted to see Cher perform at the Oscars, but that's my only real quibble.
Watch the nominations for yourself, then you can read the entire list after the video:
Watch the nominations for yourself, then you can read the entire list after the video:
Actor in a Leading Role
Javier Bardem in “Biutiful”
Jeff Bridges in “True Grit”
Jesse Eisenberg in “The Social Network”
Colin Firth in “The King's Speech”
James Franco in “127 Hours”
Actor in a Supporting Role
Christian Bale in “The Fighter”
John Hawkes in “Winter's Bone”
Jeremy Renner in “The Town”
Mark Ruffalo in “The Kids Are All Right”
Geoffrey Rush in “The King's Speech”
Actress in a Leading Role
Annette Bening in “The Kids Are All Right”
Nicole Kidman in “Rabbit Hole”
Jennifer Lawrence in “Winter's Bone”
Natalie Portman in “Black Swan”
Michelle Williams in “Blue Valentine”
Actress in a Supporting Role
Amy Adams in “The Fighter”
Helena Bonham Carter in “The King's Speech”
Melissa Leo in “The Fighter”
Hailee Steinfeld in “True Grit”
Jacki Weaver in “Animal Kingdom”
Animated Feature Film
“How to Train Your Dragon” Chris Sanders and Dean DeBlois
“The Illusionist” Sylvain Chomet
“Toy Story 3” Lee Unkrich
Art Direction
“Alice in Wonderland”
Production Design: Robert Stromberg; Set Decoration: Karen O'Hara
“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1”
Production Design: Stuart Craig; Set Decoration: Stephenie McMillan
“Inception”
Production Design: Guy Hendrix Dyas; Set Decoration: Larry Dias and Doug Mowat
“The King's Speech”
Production Design: Eve Stewart; Set Decoration: Judy Farr
“True Grit”
Production Design: Jess Gonchor; Set Decoration: Nancy Haigh
Cinematography
“Black Swan” Matthew Libatique
“Inception” Wally Pfister
“The King's Speech” Danny Cohen
“The Social Network” Jeff Cronenweth
“True Grit” Roger Deakins
Costume Design
“Alice in Wonderland” Colleen Atwood
“I Am Love” Antonella Cannarozzi
“The King's Speech” Jenny Beavan
“The Tempest” Sandy Powell
“True Grit” Mary Zophres
Directing
“Black Swan” Darren Aronofsky
“The Fighter” David O. Russell
“The King's Speech” Tom Hooper
“The Social Network” David Fincher
“True Grit” Joel Coen and Ethan Coen
Documentary (Feature)
“Exit through the Gift Shop” Banksy and Jaimie D'Cruz
“Gasland” Josh Fox and Trish Adlesic
“Inside Job” Charles Ferguson and Audrey Marrs
“Restrepo” Tim Hetherington and Sebastian Junger
“Waste Land” Lucy Walker and Angus Aynsley
Documentary (Short Subject)
“Killing in the Name” Nominees to be determined
“Poster Girl” Nominees to be determined
“Strangers No More” Karen Goodman and Kirk Simon
“Sun Come Up” Jennifer Redfearn and Tim Metzger
“The Warriors of Qiugang” Ruby Yang and Thomas Lennon
Film Editing
“Black Swan” Andrew Weisblum
“The Fighter” Pamela Martin
“The King's Speech” Tariq Anwar
“127 Hours” Jon Harris
“The Social Network” Angus Wall and Kirk Baxter
Foreign Language Film
“Biutiful” Mexico
“Dogtooth” Greece
“In a Better World” Denmark
“Incendies” Canada
“Outside the Law (Hors-la-loi)” Algeria
Makeup
“Barney's Version” Adrien Morot
“The Way Back” Edouard F. Henriques, Gregory Funk and Yolanda Toussieng
“The Wolfman” Rick Baker and Dave Elsey
Music (Original Score)
“How to Train Your Dragon” John Powell
“Inception” Hans Zimmer
“The King's Speech” Alexandre Desplat
“127 Hours” A.R. Rahman
“The Social Network” Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross
Music (Original Song)
“Coming Home” from “Country Strong” Music and Lyric by Tom Douglas, Troy Verges and Hillary Lindsey
“I See the Light” from “Tangled” Music by Alan Menken Lyric by Glenn Slater
“If I Rise” from “127 Hours” Music by A.R. Rahman Lyric by Dido and Rollo Armstrong
“We Belong Together” from “Toy Story 3" Music and Lyric by Randy Newman
Best Picture
“Black Swan” Mike Medavoy, Brian Oliver and Scott Franklin, Producers
“The Fighter” David Hoberman, Todd Lieberman and Mark Wahlberg, Producers
“Inception” Emma Thomas and Christopher Nolan, Producers
“The Kids Are All Right” Gary Gilbert, Jeffrey Levy-Hinte and Celine Rattray, Producers
“The King's Speech” Iain Canning, Emile Sherman and Gareth Unwin, Producers
“127 Hours” Christian Colson, Danny Boyle and John Smithson, Producers
“The Social Network” Scott Rudin, Dana Brunetti, Michael De Luca and Ceán Chaffin, Producers
“Toy Story 3” Darla K. Anderson, Producer
“True Grit” Scott Rudin, Ethan Coen and Joel Coen, Producers
“Winter's Bone" Anne Rosellini and Alix Madigan-Yorkin, Producers
Short Film (Animated)
“Day & Night” Teddy Newton
“The Gruffalo” Jakob Schuh and Max Lang
“Let's Pollute” Geefwee Boedoe
“The Lost Thing” Shaun Tan and Andrew Ruhemann
“Madagascar, carnet de voyage (Madagascar, a Journey Diary)” Bastien Dubois
Short Film (Live Action)
“The Confession” Tanel Toom
“The Crush” Michael Creagh
“God of Love” Luke Matheny
“Na Wewe” Ivan Goldschmidt
“Wish 143” Ian Barnes and Samantha Waite
Sound Editing
“Inception” Richard King
“Toy Story 3” Tom Myers and Michael Silvers
“Tron: Legacy” Gwendolyn Yates Whittle and Addison Teague
“True Grit” Skip Lievsay and Craig Berkey
“Unstoppable” Mark P. Stoeckinger
Sound Mixing
“Inception” Lora Hirschberg, Gary A. Rizzo and Ed Novick
“The King's Speech” Paul Hamblin, Martin Jensen and John Midgley
“Salt” Jeffrey J. Haboush, Greg P. Russell, Scott Millan and William Sarokin
“The Social Network” Ren Klyce, David Parker, Michael Semanick and Mark Weingarten
“True Grit” Skip Lievsay, Craig Berkey, Greg Orloff and Peter F. Kurland
Visual Effects
“Alice in Wonderland” Ken Ralston, David Schaub, Carey Villegas and Sean Phillips
“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1” Tim Burke, John Richardson, Christian Manz and Nicolas Aithadi
“Hereafter” Michael Owens, Bryan Grill, Stephan Trojanski and Joe Farrell
“Inception” Paul Franklin, Chris Corbould, Andrew Lockley and Peter Bebb
“Iron Man 2” Janek Sirrs, Ben Snow, Ged Wright and Daniel Sudick
Writing (Adapted Screenplay)
“127 Hours” Screenplay by Danny Boyle & Simon Beaufoy
“The Social Network” Screenplay by Aaron Sorkin
“Toy Story 3” Screenplay by Michael Arndt; Story by John Lasseter, Andrew Stanton and Lee Unkrich
“True Grit” Written for the screen by Joel Coen & Ethan Coen
“Winter's Bone” Adapted for the screen by Debra Granik & Anne Rosellini
Writing (Original Screenplay)
“Another Year” Written by Mike Leigh
“The Fighter” Screenplay by Scott Silver and Paul Tamasy & Eric Johnson;
Story by Keith Dorrington & Paul Tamasy & Eric Johnson
“Inception” Written by Christopher Nolan
“The Kids Are All Right” Written by Lisa Cholodenko & Stuart Blumberg
“The King's Speech” Screenplay by David Seidler
Monday, January 24, 2011
Monday's Man: Rafael Nadal
I thought you might appreciate these shots of Spanish tennis star Rafael Nadal's new campaign for Armani. Happy Monday.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
KItty/Barbie/Printer
Bearded Man With Cat
Cats love beards:
In other news, the beard is back! I shaved it for job interviews in December, got the job and grew it back.
H/T to LC reader Mike in Studio City
In other news, the beard is back! I shaved it for job interviews in December, got the job and grew it back.
H/T to LC reader Mike in Studio City
Friday, January 21, 2011
$193.2 Million
That was the cost to American taxpayers of enforcing Don't Ask/Don't Tell between 2004 and 2009. Most of that went to training replacements for the soldiers forced out for reasons unrelated to their abilities. That means the average expulsion cost taxpayers $52,800.00. What does deficit hawk GOP Representative Duncan Hunter want to do? Undermine repeal, of course.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Quote of the Day
"You have become a lighting rod less for your clarity of vision, but more for your ability to turn any criticism of you of into persecution you."
--Jon Stewart on Sarah Palin. I can't embed the clip, but you can view it here.
h/t LC NY Bureau Chief Doug.
--Jon Stewart on Sarah Palin. I can't embed the clip, but you can view it here.
h/t LC NY Bureau Chief Doug.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
65% of Americans Support Legal Recognition of Gay Unions
That's the result of a new Public Policy Poll in which people were asked their opinion of marriage equality and civil unions. You can read detailed results on Daily Kos. There is a lot of interesting information in the break-down. 55% of over 65ers support either marriage or civil unions. Of course, younger people are even more likely to be supportive with 65% of those 18-29 supporting marriage or civil unions.
77% of Democrats support legal recognition as do 71% of independents. Where do you not find majority support? Republicans, conservatives, and those who identify as Tea Party. Republican support is at 46%, conservative support is at 40%, and Tea Party support is at 47%. Notice how the Tea Party and Republican results are essentially the same? The idea that the Tea Party is all about fiscal responsibility and not about social issues is a myth. The Tea Party is the Republican party with a new marketing gimmick.
Speaking of myths, there's been a persistent one that African-Americans and Latinos don't support legal recognition of our relationships as strongly as whites. This is apparently not true. White support is at 63%, African-American support is at 62%, and Latino support is at a whopping 79%.
It's only been a few years since civil unions came to Vermont and it was considered a radical, shocking idea by many. Now, it's the moderate position that enjoys wide support. Marriage was considered unthinkable by all but a tiny minority of Americans. Today, support is strong and steadily growing. If we don't get a favorable Supreme Court ruling and and we have to continue to slog it out state by state, I give it 20 years before Alabama becomes the 50th state to recognize marriage equality.
77% of Democrats support legal recognition as do 71% of independents. Where do you not find majority support? Republicans, conservatives, and those who identify as Tea Party. Republican support is at 46%, conservative support is at 40%, and Tea Party support is at 47%. Notice how the Tea Party and Republican results are essentially the same? The idea that the Tea Party is all about fiscal responsibility and not about social issues is a myth. The Tea Party is the Republican party with a new marketing gimmick.
Speaking of myths, there's been a persistent one that African-Americans and Latinos don't support legal recognition of our relationships as strongly as whites. This is apparently not true. White support is at 63%, African-American support is at 62%, and Latino support is at a whopping 79%.
It's only been a few years since civil unions came to Vermont and it was considered a radical, shocking idea by many. Now, it's the moderate position that enjoys wide support. Marriage was considered unthinkable by all but a tiny minority of Americans. Today, support is strong and steadily growing. If we don't get a favorable Supreme Court ruling and and we have to continue to slog it out state by state, I give it 20 years before Alabama becomes the 50th state to recognize marriage equality.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Miss 30%
So how did Miss Wasilla respond to this self-inflicted train wreck? She went on Sean Hannity, called the speech that 71% of Republicans approve of a "campaign stop," and doubled down on the self-victimization. I am no longer concerned that she could be president. She can't stop herself from destroying her own career. She is show biz, nothing more.
Quote of the Day
"And marriage, as I have argued, has not been one unchanging institution over time. Features of marriage that once seemed essential and indispensable proved otherwise. The ending of coverture, the elimination of racial barriers to choice of partner, the expansion of grounds for divorce—though fiercely resisted by many when first introduced—have strengthened marriage rather than undermining it. The adaptability of marriage has preserved it."
--Nancy F. Cott in an excellent piece in The Boston Review regarding the history of marriage. She fully exposes the fallacious argument that "traditional marriage" is threatened by gays. Read it all here.
--Nancy F. Cott in an excellent piece in The Boston Review regarding the history of marriage. She fully exposes the fallacious argument that "traditional marriage" is threatened by gays. Read it all here.
Georgia Carroll Kyser: 1919-2011
When she was 17, her mother took her to New York where she signed with a modeling agency. Her very first job was the cover of Redbook, the first of 9 times she graced it's cover. She also sat for Edward Steichen and did the covers of Vogue, Cosmopolitan, and Ladies Home Journal. She was offered a contract with Warner Brothers and went to Hollywood. She appeared in 14 movies and became the featured singer with Kay Kyser's big band. She eloped to Vegas with the bandleader in 1944 and stayed married until his death in 1985. In the early 1950s, the Kysers moved to Chapel Hill, NC, which was Mr. Kyser's home town. Carroll became active in historic preservation efforts and founded the Chapel Hill Preservation Society in 1972. She also raised three children and, along the way, earned a degree from the University of North Carolina. She is survived by 2 children and 5 grandchildren.
Monday, January 17, 2011
PIcture of the Day
Via Andrew Sullivan
Coming to American Experience: Stonewall Uprising
American Experience on PBS does an extraordinary job of chronicling seminal moments in American history. Coming this spring will be Stonewall Uprising. Here's the trailer:
You can be a part of it by submitting a video showing where "Stonewall's legacy of courage is today." This is just one more piece of evidence that the gay rights movement is mainstream and that NOM, AFA, FRC and all the rest of the hate groups are howling at the incoming tide.
Via Slog
You can be a part of it by submitting a video showing where "Stonewall's legacy of courage is today." This is just one more piece of evidence that the gay rights movement is mainstream and that NOM, AFA, FRC and all the rest of the hate groups are howling at the incoming tide.
Via Slog
Monday's Man: Rob James-Collier
Have you been watching Downton Abbey, which premiered on Masterpiece on PBS last Sunday? If not, get thee to a computer and watch it on-line. The handsome footman Thomas, played by Rob James-Collier, is waiting to be of service.
It's an English consume drama with an Upstairs, Downstairs feel. Like all English costume dramas, there's a gay angle. This one involves Thomas the Footman and a Duke. I won't reveal anything here, but these screen captures are from the first episode.
Rob James-Collier is well known to British audiences for his role in the soap opera Coronation Street where he apparently has been known to take off his shirt.
And even grow a beard.
Susannah York: 1939-2011
Lovely British actress Susannah York has died at the age of 72. The cause was bone marrow cancer. She was born in London and attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art before embarking on a thriving film career. She is probably best known for her performance in They Shoot Horses, Don't They? for which she was nominated for an Academy Award. Her other films include Battle of Britian, A Man For All Seasons, and The Killing of Sister George. She also had a distinguished stage career and continued to act all of her life. She is survived by two children and two grandchildren.
Here is a tribute from the Funchal Film Festival, which honored her.
Here is a tribute from the Funchal Film Festival, which honored her.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
I've Got Your Golden Globes Right Here!
Here's my
Live from the "star-filled International Ballroom!"
It's Ricky Gervais with (naturally) a beer.
He starts with some pretty brutal Tourist jokes. Johnny Depp seems in on the joke. Notice how the camera does not go to Angelina Jolie.
Did Ricky just diss Cher? Bastard!
I know he didn't just do a Hugh Hefner blow job joke.
Scar Jo, first presenter. She looks dreamy. Best Supporting Actor in a film:
Mark Wahlberg looks delicious in a classic tux.
Speaking of delicious, it's LL Cool J. with a blonde starlet. I have no idea who she is and don't care. She's hanging on to his arm and I don't blame her. Best Supporting Actress in a TV drama.
It's Katey Sagal in scarlett satin with maximum boobage! You show them how a grown woman does sexy, Katey. I have no idea what she won for.
It's Julianne Moore and Kevin Spacey. I adore her but her dress doesn't fit. Kevin Spacey annoys me. They're introducing the lovely Miss Golden Globes, Gia Mantegna, daughter of Joe.
Scott Caan: Short, tight, and fuckable.
Best Supporting Actor in a TV comedy. It's Chris Colfer!!!! He's totally shocked and Wes and I are thrilled! He just called Ryan Murphy is fairy godfather. He has a message for the bullies: "screw that!" What a victory! This is the award of the night! Here it is:
Michelle Pfieffer: Gorgeous. Best Actor in a TV drama:
Steve Buscemi for
Alec Baldwin and J.Lo! He said he almost wore Jennifer's gown. What a guy! I love him. Seriously.
Best song is You Haven't Seen the Best of Me performed by Cher in Burlesque! The best thing about that movie! Dianne Warren wins! Cher needs to perform this at the Oscars.
The Beebs! And
Robert Downey, Jr. is out to announce Best Actress Comedy or Musical. He annoys me.
It's Annette Benning! La Benning triumphant at last! It's so rare that a straight actor can play gay so well that gay audiences are convinced. She did that.
Stallone looks very strange. They always trot him out for the boxer movies. He's introducing The Fighter.
Tilda Swinton and Geoffry Rush are presenting. She's a fashion icon and he needs to loose the hat. Al Pacino and his hair won for Best Actor in a TV movie.
Claire Danes is a vision in pink. She looks spectacular. She's best actress in a TV movie.
Zac Attack! He is undeniably cute.
Steve Carrell and Tina Fey do their patented "we're writers" bit that they've done on every award show for the last 5 years. The screenplay award goes to The Social Network.
Chris Hemsworth and Chris Evans on stage together. Which is better looking? I'll be up all night thinking about it.
It's Jane Lynch for Best Supporting TV actress! She thanks her wife and kids. Love, love, love her.
Olivia Wilde is definitely one of the best dressed tonight.
Helen Mirren is tonight's hottest woman.
It's Vanessa Williams! And Blair Underwood! Double gorgeous!
Best Actress in a TV drama is Laura Linney. Love her but she's not there. Give it to somebody who's present.
Jane Fonda, looking fine, introducing Burlesque.
Matt Bomer is beautiful. He just is.
Best actor in a TV comedy is Jim Parsons! He's gay, right?
Best Supporting Actress in a movie is Melissa Leo. She is totally going to with the Oscar.
It's the Cecil B. DeMille award for Robert DeNiro. Time for a potty break. No offense to DeNiro fans.
Best Director of a movie: whoever directed The Social Network.
TV Series Comedy: GLEE! YAY!!!
Halle Berry is delicious. Best Actor in a comedy or musical is Paul Giamatti who nobody knew was in a movie this year.
Joseph Gordon-Levitt is a tea cup hottie.
Jeff Bridges presents Best Actress Drama to Natalie Portman. It's La Benning vs. The Portman come Oscar time.
Best Picture Comedy is The Kids Are All Right! Love it! Was it a comedy? Sort of? Not really?
Sandra Bullock looks like Cher circa I've Got You Babe. Best Actor Drama is Colin Firth! About damn time. He should have won last year.
Michael Douglas looks damn good. "There's got to be a better way to get a standing ovation." The line of the night.
Best picture drama is, yawn, The Social Network.
Good night, folks. See you at the SAGs.
Footballer Down Under
I thought you'd enjoy these totally gratuitous shots of Australian footballer Lucas Neill. They were taken during a match with South Korea that was played in Qatar. Happy Sunday!
source
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Live Blogging Miss America!
See if you can guess who I'm supporting?
Miss America back on network TV where she belongs! It opens with a rooftop shot of all the girls plus Brooke Burk and some guy! You can't hear a word for the helicopter noise.
Back on the ground, it's on!
Corny dance number to some auto-tuned crap song? Check!
Parade of States? Check!
Miss AZ dedicates this night to "my mentor," Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords. Nice.
Miss GA should have combed her hair.
Miss ID needs to stop screaming.
Miss KS has about 347 teeth.
Miss LA is here to spice up your life!
The best thing Miss MN could come up with is her state is the home of Target?
Claire Buffie, Miss New York! Gorgeous!
Miss PR is from the "home of Ricky Martin!"
Miss SC is totally cute.
Miss TX is a Brunette? Who ever heard of a Brunette Miss Texas?
Did Miss UT just make a polygamy joke?
Brought to you by Kathy Ireland and Window World!
And the Miss America Shoe Collection at DSW!
It's the semi finals. Drum roll please.
Miss OK! Naturally. Her name is Emoly. M-Oh-Lee.
NB! Miss Nebraska never wins. "I can make a difference..." blah, blah, blah.
TX! The Brunette!
RI!
UT! That polygamy joke worked!
WA! Jaquie Brown! Not that one.
AZ! She's no Vonda Kay.
HI!
VA!
AR! She says she's "racially ambiguous!" And totally gorgeous.
CA! She's no Jean Bartel.
But wait, there's more! The girls retire to "Brooke's lounge" to vote on two more semi-finalists! But first, the judges.
Joy Behar! Love her. Dr. Debbye Turner Bell! Marc Cheery of Desperate Housewives fame! Cute guy from Dancing With the Stars! Marilu Henner! She remembers everything! Two other people!
Now, it's America's choice! Two more semi-finalists...
Miss New York Claire Buffie with her gay rights platform!!!! She's beautiful and smart!
Miss DE! She's bald! No, seriously, she's got a disease that caused her hair to fall out.
The contstants' choice!
Miss KY!
Miss OR!
Your reigning Miss America, Caressa Cameron (pictured at top) is a vision in red.
It's time for Lifestyle and Fitness! What says Lifestyle and Fitness more than bikinis and heels?
I'm not feeling the taupe pumps with black swimsuits.
Lee Merriwether looks fabulous. She did not appear in a bikini and heels.
Only 12 can carry on.
TX! AR! DE! AZ! HI! WA! KY! CA! OK! VA! Miss New York Claire Buffie!!!
Evening wear!
TX is lovely in sparkles.
AR's role model is Michelle Obama.
HI looks like she's wearing a World Wrestling Federation belt.
KY is classy in gold.
Miss New York, Claire Buffie, is sophisticated in black.
It's time for talent! I really hate that they make all the girls suit up for their talent when two aren't going to perform. Tacky.
NB plays the piano. It's a pageant number with lots of dramatic chords and flourishes so nobody can tell if she makes a mistake. No matter, Nebraska never wins. Pay no attention to her.
WA sings Pappa Was a Rolling Stone. SRSLY.
AZ sings opera. There's always one.
CA sings I Who Have Nothing. Nothing but lungs. Jesus girl, nobody has to tell you to sing out, Louise.
OK does ballet en pointe. Just like she learned at Miss Mamie's Academy of Ballet and Deportment in Oklahoma City.
HI singing a Nina Simone song. Never try to follow Nina Simone.
DE does an interpretive dance! Finally an interpretative dance! I believe LC NY Bureau Chief Doug did interpretive dance as Miss Illinois in 19??
VA does Riverdance. Tap!
AR does ventriloquism! Awesome! In a red catsuit! A yodeling dummy! She's going for broke! Here she is:
KY sings something. Really loud.
Miss New York Claire Buffie has just been robbed people! She's not moving on. She's being passed over by a yodeling dummy? And riverdance?
It's question time. Miss New York Claire Buffie would have rocked this.
HI does fine. WA does OK. NB got a question on Wikileaks! Not easy. She gives a rah rah America sort of answer. Not bad. It doesn't matter though because Nebraska never wins. Pay no attention to her. AR gave a great answer to a difficult question about health care. She may win this thing.
It's a parade of 47 former Miss Americas! I could faint!
Jean Bartel! She looks amazing! She was Miss America 1943!
Vonda Kay!
Marilyn Van Derbur!
Phyllis George in feathers!
Both South Carolina winners! Marion McKnight and Kimberly Aiken!
We're down to the final five. 50th Anniversary Miss America Phyllis George will crown the winner. In feathers.
4th: Miss OK! M-Oh-Lee!
3rd WA!
2nd HI!
It's down to Nebraska and Arkansas. Arkansas has this in the bag. She's gorgeous and gave a great answer to a difficult question. Besides, everyone knows Nebraska never wins.
And the winner is....
Miss Nebraska! Teresa Scanlan! She's only 17! It's the first time for Nebraska! And the last time I try to predict the winner.
Friday, January 14, 2011
Reince Priebus!
Get Reince Priebus fever people! Reince Priebus of the Badger State is the new Chairman of the Republican National Committee! Mr. Super Lawyer is in the house! He's on Facebook in a bow tie, so he's like, totally cool and down with the kids! Go Wisconsin-Whitewater! Among his quotes, he has said that someone who is:
"pro-abortion, pro-stimulus, pro-AIG... might not be a Republican."
This Rinse Keebler fella is a laff riot! Of course, there isn't a soul on earth who's "pro-abortion, pro-stimulus, and pro-AIG," but I quibble. Oh, did Mr. "anyone who's pro-stimulus might not be a Republican" mention that he's on his law firm's "Stimulus Legislation Team," which seeks to "identify opportunities, prepare appropriate proposals and make targeted contacts to secure [federal] funds?” So, I guess he's pro-stimulus? Does that make him pro-abortion and pro-AIG, too? OMG, Prance Wiener is a Democrat!!!
Here's a shock, the Republican National Committee has elected an anti-gay ideologue as Chairman! I'll bet you didn't see that one coming.
Here is Crank Rebus kissing up to Maggie Gallagher and reciting the party line that marriage is a gift from God and must be protected from the gays:
Farewell Michael Steele. The bondage clubs of West Hollywood will miss you.
"pro-abortion, pro-stimulus, pro-AIG... might not be a Republican."
This Rinse Keebler fella is a laff riot! Of course, there isn't a soul on earth who's "pro-abortion, pro-stimulus, and pro-AIG," but I quibble. Oh, did Mr. "anyone who's pro-stimulus might not be a Republican" mention that he's on his law firm's "Stimulus Legislation Team," which seeks to "identify opportunities, prepare appropriate proposals and make targeted contacts to secure [federal] funds?” So, I guess he's pro-stimulus? Does that make him pro-abortion and pro-AIG, too? OMG, Prance Wiener is a Democrat!!!
Here's a shock, the Republican National Committee has elected an anti-gay ideologue as Chairman! I'll bet you didn't see that one coming.
Here is Crank Rebus kissing up to Maggie Gallagher and reciting the party line that marriage is a gift from God and must be protected from the gays:
Farewell Michael Steele. The bondage clubs of West Hollywood will miss you.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
The President's Speech
I thought it was extraordinary and moving. Here is the text:
As Prepared for Delivery—
To the families of those we’ve lost; to all who called them friends; to the students of this university, the public servants gathered tonight, and the people of Tucson and Arizona: I have come here tonight as an American who, like all Americans, kneels to pray with you today, and will stand by you tomorrow.
There is nothing I can say that will fill the sudden hole torn in your hearts. But know this: the hopes of a nation are here tonight. We mourn with you for the fallen. We join you in your grief. And we add our faith to yours that Representative Gabrielle Giffords and the other living victims of this tragedy pull through
As Scripture tells us:
There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells. God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.
On Saturday morning, Gabby, her staff, and many of her constituents gathered outside a supermarket to exercise their right to peaceful assembly and free speech. They were fulfilling a central tenet of the democracy envisioned by our founders – representatives of the people answering to their constituents, so as to carry their concerns to our nation’s capital. Gabby called it “Congress on Your Corner” – just an updated version of government of and by and for the people.
That is the quintessentially American scene that was shattered by a gunman’s bullets. And the six people who lost their lives on Saturday – they too represented what is best in America.
Judge John Roll served our legal system for nearly 40 years. A graduate of this university and its law school, Judge Roll was recommended for the federal bench by John McCain twenty years ago, appointed by President George H.W. Bush, and rose to become Arizona’s chief federal judge. His colleagues described him as the hardest-working judge within the Ninth Circuit. He was on his way back from attending Mass, as he did every day, when he decided to stop by and say hi to his Representative. John is survived by his loving wife, Maureen, his three sons, and his five grandchildren.
George and Dorothy Morris – “Dot” to her friends – were high school sweethearts who got married and had two daughters. They did everything together, traveling the open road in their RV, enjoying what their friends called a 50-year honeymoon. Saturday morning, they went by the Safeway to hear what their Congresswoman had to say. When gunfire rang out, George, a former Marine, instinctively tried to shield his wife. Both were shot. Dot passed away.
A New Jersey native, Phyllis Schneck retired to Tucson to beat the snow. But in the summer, she would return East, where her world revolved around her 3 children, 7 grandchildren, and 2 year-old great-granddaughter. A gifted quilter, she’d often work under her favorite tree, or sometimes sew aprons with the logos of the Jets and the Giants to give out at the church where she volunteered. A Republican, she took a liking to Gabby, and wanted to get to know her better.
Dorwan and Mavy Stoddard grew up in Tucson together – about seventy years ago. They moved apart and started their own respective families, but after both were widowed they found their way back here, to, as one of Mavy’s daughters put it, “be boyfriend and girlfriend again.” When they weren’t out on the road in their motor home, you could find them just up the road, helping folks in need at the Mountain Avenue Church of Christ. A retired construction worker, Dorwan spent his spare time fixing up the church along with their dog, Tux. His final act of selflessness was to dive on top of his wife, sacrificing his life for hers.
Everything Gabe Zimmerman did, he did with passion – but his true passion was people. As Gabby’s outreach director, he made the cares of thousands of her constituents his own, seeing to it that seniors got the Medicare benefits they had earned, that veterans got the medals and care they deserved, that government was working for ordinary folks. He died doing what he loved – talking with people and seeing how he could help. Gabe is survived by his parents, Ross and Emily, his brother, Ben, and his fiancée, Kelly, who he planned to marry next year.
And then there is nine year-old Christina Taylor Green. Christina was an A student, a dancer, a gymnast, and a swimmer. She often proclaimed that she wanted to be the first woman to play in the major leagues, and as the only girl on her Little League team, no one put it past her. She showed an appreciation for life uncommon for a girl her age, and would remind her mother, “We are so blessed. We have the best life.” And she’d pay those blessings back by participating in a charity that helped children who were less fortunate.
Our hearts are broken by their sudden passing. Our hearts are broken – and yet, our hearts also have reason for fullness.
Our hearts are full of hope and thanks for the 13 Americans who survived the shooting, including the congresswoman many of them went to see on Saturday. I have just come from the University Medical Center, just a mile from here, where our friend Gabby courageously fights to recover even as we speak. And I can tell you this – she knows we’re here and she knows we love her and she knows that we will be rooting for her throughout what will be a difficult journey.
And our hearts are full of gratitude for those who saved others. We are grateful for Daniel Hernandez, a volunteer in Gabby’s office who ran through the chaos to minister to his boss, tending to her wounds to keep her alive. We are grateful for the men who tackled the gunman as he stopped to reload. We are grateful for a petite 61 year-old, Patricia Maisch, who wrestled away the killer’s ammunition, undoubtedly saving some lives. And we are grateful for the doctors and nurses and emergency medics who worked wonders to heal those who’d been hurt.
These men and women remind us that heroism is found not only on the fields of battle. They remind us that heroism does not require special training or physical strength. Heroism is here, all around us, in the hearts of so many of our fellow citizens, just waiting to be summoned – as it was on Saturday morning.
Their actions, their selflessness, also pose a challenge to each of us. It raises the question of what, beyond the prayers and expressions of concern, is required of us going forward. How can we honor the fallen? How can we be true to their memory?
You see, when a tragedy like this strikes, it is part of our nature to demand explanations – to try to impose some order on the chaos, and make sense out of that which seems senseless. Already we’ve seen a national conversation commence, not only about the motivations behind these killings, but about everything from the merits of gun safety laws to the adequacy of our mental health systems. Much of this process, of debating what might be done to prevent such tragedies in the future, is an essential ingredient in our exercise of self-government.
But at a time when our discourse has become so sharply polarized – at a time when we are far too eager to lay the blame for all that ails the world at the feet of those who think differently than we do – it’s important for us to pause for a moment and make sure that we are talking with each other in a way that heals, not a way that wounds.
Scripture tells us that there is evil in the world, and that terrible things happen for reasons that defy human understanding. In the words of Job, “when I looked for light, then came darkness.” Bad things happen, and we must guard against simple explanations in the aftermath.
For the truth is that none of us can know exactly what triggered this vicious attack. None of us can know with any certainty what might have stopped those shots from being fired, or what thoughts lurked in the inner recesses of a violent man’s mind.
So yes, we must examine all the facts behind this tragedy. We cannot and will not be passive in the face of such violence. We should be willing to challenge old assumptions in order to lessen the prospects of violence in the future.
But what we can’t do is use this tragedy as one more occasion to turn on one another. As we discuss these issues, let each of us do so with a good dose of humility. Rather than pointing fingers or assigning blame, let us use this occasion to expand our moral imaginations, to listen to each other more carefully, to sharpen our instincts for empathy, and remind ourselves of all the ways our hopes and dreams are bound together.
After all, that’s what most of us do when we lose someone in our family – especially if the loss is unexpected. We’re shaken from our routines, and forced to look inward. We reflect on the past. Did we spend enough time with an aging parent, we wonder. Did we express our gratitude for all the sacrifices they made for us? Did we tell a spouse just how desperately we loved them, not just once in awhile but every single day?
So sudden loss causes us to look backward – but it also forces us to look forward, to reflect on the present and the future, on the manner in which we live our lives and nurture our relationships with those who are still with us. We may ask ourselves if we’ve shown enough kindness and generosity and compassion to the people in our lives. Perhaps we question whether we are doing right by our children, or our community, and whether our priorities are in order. We recognize our own mortality, and are reminded that in the fleeting time we have on this earth, what matters is not wealth, or status, or power, or fame – but rather, how well we have loved, and what small part we have played in bettering the lives of others.
That process of reflection, of making sure we align our values with our actions – that, I believe, is what a tragedy like this requires. For those who were harmed, those who were killed – they are part of our family, an American family 300 million strong. We may not have known them personally, but we surely see ourselves in them. In George and Dot, in Dorwan and Mavy, we sense the abiding love we have for our own husbands, our own wives, our own life partners. Phyllis – she’s our mom or grandma; Gabe our brother or son. In Judge Roll, we recognize not only a man who prized his family and doing his job well, but also a man who embodied America’s fidelity to the law. In Gabby, we see a reflection of our public spiritedness, that desire to participate in that sometimes frustrating, sometimes contentious, but always necessary and never-ending process to form a more perfect union.
And in Christina…in Christina we see all of our children. So curious, so trusting, so energetic and full of magic. So deserving of our love. And so deserving of our good example. If this tragedy prompts reflection and debate, as it should, let’s make sure it’s worthy of those we have lost. Let’s make sure it’s not on the usual plane of politics and point scoring and pettiness that drifts away with the next news cycle.
The loss of these wonderful people should make every one of us strive to be better in our private lives – to be better friends and neighbors, co-workers and parents. And if, as has been discussed in recent days, their deaths help usher in more civility in our public discourse, let’s remember that it is not because a simple lack of civility caused this tragedy, but rather because only a more civil and honest public discourse can help us face up to our challenges as a nation, in a way that would make them proud. It should be because we want to live up to the example of public servants like John Roll and Gabby Giffords, who knew first and foremost that we are all Americans, and that we can question each other’s ideas without questioning each other’s love of country, and that our task, working together, is to constantly widen the circle of our concern so that we bequeath the American dream to future generations.
I believe we can be better. Those who died here, those who saved lives here – they help me believe. We may not be able to stop all evil in the world, but I know that how we treat one another is entirely up to us. I believe that for all our imperfections, we are full of decency and goodness, and that the forces that divide us are not as strong as those that unite us.
That’s what I believe, in part because that’s what a child like Christina Taylor Green believed. Imagine: here was a young girl who was just becoming aware of our democracy; just beginning to understand the obligations of citizenship; just starting to glimpse the fact that someday she too might play a part in shaping her nation’s future. She had been elected to her student council; she saw public service as something exciting, something hopeful. She was off to meet her congresswoman, someone she was sure was good and important and might be a role model. She saw all this through the eyes of a child, undimmed by the cynicism or vitriol that we adults all too often just take for granted.
I want us to live up to her expectations. I want our democracy to be as good as she imagined it. All of us – we should do everything we can to make sure this country lives up to our children’s expectations.
Christina was given to us on September 11th, 2001, one of 50 babies born that day to be pictured in a book called “Faces of Hope.” On either side of her photo in that book were simple wishes for a child’s life. “I hope you help those in need,” read one. “I hope you know all of the words to the National Anthem and sing it with your hand over your heart. I hope you jump in rain puddles.”
If there are rain puddles in heaven, Christina is jumping in them today. And here on Earth, we place our hands over our hearts, and commit ourselves as Americans to forging a country that is forever worthy of her gentle, happy spirit.
May God bless and keep those we’ve lost in restful and eternal peace. May He love and watch over the survivors. And may He bless the United States of America.
As Prepared for Delivery—
To the families of those we’ve lost; to all who called them friends; to the students of this university, the public servants gathered tonight, and the people of Tucson and Arizona: I have come here tonight as an American who, like all Americans, kneels to pray with you today, and will stand by you tomorrow.
There is nothing I can say that will fill the sudden hole torn in your hearts. But know this: the hopes of a nation are here tonight. We mourn with you for the fallen. We join you in your grief. And we add our faith to yours that Representative Gabrielle Giffords and the other living victims of this tragedy pull through
As Scripture tells us:
There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells. God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.
On Saturday morning, Gabby, her staff, and many of her constituents gathered outside a supermarket to exercise their right to peaceful assembly and free speech. They were fulfilling a central tenet of the democracy envisioned by our founders – representatives of the people answering to their constituents, so as to carry their concerns to our nation’s capital. Gabby called it “Congress on Your Corner” – just an updated version of government of and by and for the people.
That is the quintessentially American scene that was shattered by a gunman’s bullets. And the six people who lost their lives on Saturday – they too represented what is best in America.
Judge John Roll served our legal system for nearly 40 years. A graduate of this university and its law school, Judge Roll was recommended for the federal bench by John McCain twenty years ago, appointed by President George H.W. Bush, and rose to become Arizona’s chief federal judge. His colleagues described him as the hardest-working judge within the Ninth Circuit. He was on his way back from attending Mass, as he did every day, when he decided to stop by and say hi to his Representative. John is survived by his loving wife, Maureen, his three sons, and his five grandchildren.
George and Dorothy Morris – “Dot” to her friends – were high school sweethearts who got married and had two daughters. They did everything together, traveling the open road in their RV, enjoying what their friends called a 50-year honeymoon. Saturday morning, they went by the Safeway to hear what their Congresswoman had to say. When gunfire rang out, George, a former Marine, instinctively tried to shield his wife. Both were shot. Dot passed away.
A New Jersey native, Phyllis Schneck retired to Tucson to beat the snow. But in the summer, she would return East, where her world revolved around her 3 children, 7 grandchildren, and 2 year-old great-granddaughter. A gifted quilter, she’d often work under her favorite tree, or sometimes sew aprons with the logos of the Jets and the Giants to give out at the church where she volunteered. A Republican, she took a liking to Gabby, and wanted to get to know her better.
Dorwan and Mavy Stoddard grew up in Tucson together – about seventy years ago. They moved apart and started their own respective families, but after both were widowed they found their way back here, to, as one of Mavy’s daughters put it, “be boyfriend and girlfriend again.” When they weren’t out on the road in their motor home, you could find them just up the road, helping folks in need at the Mountain Avenue Church of Christ. A retired construction worker, Dorwan spent his spare time fixing up the church along with their dog, Tux. His final act of selflessness was to dive on top of his wife, sacrificing his life for hers.
Everything Gabe Zimmerman did, he did with passion – but his true passion was people. As Gabby’s outreach director, he made the cares of thousands of her constituents his own, seeing to it that seniors got the Medicare benefits they had earned, that veterans got the medals and care they deserved, that government was working for ordinary folks. He died doing what he loved – talking with people and seeing how he could help. Gabe is survived by his parents, Ross and Emily, his brother, Ben, and his fiancée, Kelly, who he planned to marry next year.
And then there is nine year-old Christina Taylor Green. Christina was an A student, a dancer, a gymnast, and a swimmer. She often proclaimed that she wanted to be the first woman to play in the major leagues, and as the only girl on her Little League team, no one put it past her. She showed an appreciation for life uncommon for a girl her age, and would remind her mother, “We are so blessed. We have the best life.” And she’d pay those blessings back by participating in a charity that helped children who were less fortunate.
Our hearts are broken by their sudden passing. Our hearts are broken – and yet, our hearts also have reason for fullness.
Our hearts are full of hope and thanks for the 13 Americans who survived the shooting, including the congresswoman many of them went to see on Saturday. I have just come from the University Medical Center, just a mile from here, where our friend Gabby courageously fights to recover even as we speak. And I can tell you this – she knows we’re here and she knows we love her and she knows that we will be rooting for her throughout what will be a difficult journey.
And our hearts are full of gratitude for those who saved others. We are grateful for Daniel Hernandez, a volunteer in Gabby’s office who ran through the chaos to minister to his boss, tending to her wounds to keep her alive. We are grateful for the men who tackled the gunman as he stopped to reload. We are grateful for a petite 61 year-old, Patricia Maisch, who wrestled away the killer’s ammunition, undoubtedly saving some lives. And we are grateful for the doctors and nurses and emergency medics who worked wonders to heal those who’d been hurt.
These men and women remind us that heroism is found not only on the fields of battle. They remind us that heroism does not require special training or physical strength. Heroism is here, all around us, in the hearts of so many of our fellow citizens, just waiting to be summoned – as it was on Saturday morning.
Their actions, their selflessness, also pose a challenge to each of us. It raises the question of what, beyond the prayers and expressions of concern, is required of us going forward. How can we honor the fallen? How can we be true to their memory?
You see, when a tragedy like this strikes, it is part of our nature to demand explanations – to try to impose some order on the chaos, and make sense out of that which seems senseless. Already we’ve seen a national conversation commence, not only about the motivations behind these killings, but about everything from the merits of gun safety laws to the adequacy of our mental health systems. Much of this process, of debating what might be done to prevent such tragedies in the future, is an essential ingredient in our exercise of self-government.
But at a time when our discourse has become so sharply polarized – at a time when we are far too eager to lay the blame for all that ails the world at the feet of those who think differently than we do – it’s important for us to pause for a moment and make sure that we are talking with each other in a way that heals, not a way that wounds.
Scripture tells us that there is evil in the world, and that terrible things happen for reasons that defy human understanding. In the words of Job, “when I looked for light, then came darkness.” Bad things happen, and we must guard against simple explanations in the aftermath.
For the truth is that none of us can know exactly what triggered this vicious attack. None of us can know with any certainty what might have stopped those shots from being fired, or what thoughts lurked in the inner recesses of a violent man’s mind.
So yes, we must examine all the facts behind this tragedy. We cannot and will not be passive in the face of such violence. We should be willing to challenge old assumptions in order to lessen the prospects of violence in the future.
But what we can’t do is use this tragedy as one more occasion to turn on one another. As we discuss these issues, let each of us do so with a good dose of humility. Rather than pointing fingers or assigning blame, let us use this occasion to expand our moral imaginations, to listen to each other more carefully, to sharpen our instincts for empathy, and remind ourselves of all the ways our hopes and dreams are bound together.
After all, that’s what most of us do when we lose someone in our family – especially if the loss is unexpected. We’re shaken from our routines, and forced to look inward. We reflect on the past. Did we spend enough time with an aging parent, we wonder. Did we express our gratitude for all the sacrifices they made for us? Did we tell a spouse just how desperately we loved them, not just once in awhile but every single day?
So sudden loss causes us to look backward – but it also forces us to look forward, to reflect on the present and the future, on the manner in which we live our lives and nurture our relationships with those who are still with us. We may ask ourselves if we’ve shown enough kindness and generosity and compassion to the people in our lives. Perhaps we question whether we are doing right by our children, or our community, and whether our priorities are in order. We recognize our own mortality, and are reminded that in the fleeting time we have on this earth, what matters is not wealth, or status, or power, or fame – but rather, how well we have loved, and what small part we have played in bettering the lives of others.
That process of reflection, of making sure we align our values with our actions – that, I believe, is what a tragedy like this requires. For those who were harmed, those who were killed – they are part of our family, an American family 300 million strong. We may not have known them personally, but we surely see ourselves in them. In George and Dot, in Dorwan and Mavy, we sense the abiding love we have for our own husbands, our own wives, our own life partners. Phyllis – she’s our mom or grandma; Gabe our brother or son. In Judge Roll, we recognize not only a man who prized his family and doing his job well, but also a man who embodied America’s fidelity to the law. In Gabby, we see a reflection of our public spiritedness, that desire to participate in that sometimes frustrating, sometimes contentious, but always necessary and never-ending process to form a more perfect union.
And in Christina…in Christina we see all of our children. So curious, so trusting, so energetic and full of magic. So deserving of our love. And so deserving of our good example. If this tragedy prompts reflection and debate, as it should, let’s make sure it’s worthy of those we have lost. Let’s make sure it’s not on the usual plane of politics and point scoring and pettiness that drifts away with the next news cycle.
The loss of these wonderful people should make every one of us strive to be better in our private lives – to be better friends and neighbors, co-workers and parents. And if, as has been discussed in recent days, their deaths help usher in more civility in our public discourse, let’s remember that it is not because a simple lack of civility caused this tragedy, but rather because only a more civil and honest public discourse can help us face up to our challenges as a nation, in a way that would make them proud. It should be because we want to live up to the example of public servants like John Roll and Gabby Giffords, who knew first and foremost that we are all Americans, and that we can question each other’s ideas without questioning each other’s love of country, and that our task, working together, is to constantly widen the circle of our concern so that we bequeath the American dream to future generations.
I believe we can be better. Those who died here, those who saved lives here – they help me believe. We may not be able to stop all evil in the world, but I know that how we treat one another is entirely up to us. I believe that for all our imperfections, we are full of decency and goodness, and that the forces that divide us are not as strong as those that unite us.
That’s what I believe, in part because that’s what a child like Christina Taylor Green believed. Imagine: here was a young girl who was just becoming aware of our democracy; just beginning to understand the obligations of citizenship; just starting to glimpse the fact that someday she too might play a part in shaping her nation’s future. She had been elected to her student council; she saw public service as something exciting, something hopeful. She was off to meet her congresswoman, someone she was sure was good and important and might be a role model. She saw all this through the eyes of a child, undimmed by the cynicism or vitriol that we adults all too often just take for granted.
I want us to live up to her expectations. I want our democracy to be as good as she imagined it. All of us – we should do everything we can to make sure this country lives up to our children’s expectations.
Christina was given to us on September 11th, 2001, one of 50 babies born that day to be pictured in a book called “Faces of Hope.” On either side of her photo in that book were simple wishes for a child’s life. “I hope you help those in need,” read one. “I hope you know all of the words to the National Anthem and sing it with your hand over your heart. I hope you jump in rain puddles.”
If there are rain puddles in heaven, Christina is jumping in them today. And here on Earth, we place our hands over our hearts, and commit ourselves as Americans to forging a country that is forever worthy of her gentle, happy spirit.
May God bless and keep those we’ve lost in restful and eternal peace. May He love and watch over the survivors. And may He bless the United States of America.
Palin Goes All In
Since the shooting in Tucson, half Gov. Palin has been on the receiving end of a great deal of criticism for her gunsight graphic and heated, violent rhetoric. Today, she spoke. Behold, a video has been issued from Mount Olympus Wasilla. You may watch it here.
She had an opportunity to show leadership, instead she used incendiary language ("blood libel") and wallowed in her victimhood. In other words, it's business as usual in Palin World. Her only hope of ever winning the presidency is through exploitation of an extremely divided electorate, so why would she become a uniter at this point?
She seems to have two central points. First, the blame for horrific crimes rests solely with the criminals. To suggest that words incite them is wrong:
"Acts of monstrous criminality stand on their own. They begin and end with the criminals who commit them, not collectively with all the citizens of a state, not with those who listen to talk radio, not with maps of swing districts used by both sides of the aisle, not with law-abiding citizens who respectfully exercise their First Amendment rights at campaign rallies, not with those who proudly voted in the last election."
Second, the words of journalists and pundits incite violence:
"But, especially within hours of a tragedy unfolding, journalists and pundits should not manufacture a blood libel that serves only to incite the very hatred and violence they purport to condemn. That is reprehensible."
Got that? When Palin talks of gunsights and Death Panels, of a socialist take-over of America and palling around with domestic terrorists, it's simply a benign exercise of her First Amendment rights. When "journalists and pundits" suggest otherwise, it's a "blood libel" that incites violence.
She had an opportunity to show leadership, instead she used incendiary language ("blood libel") and wallowed in her victimhood. In other words, it's business as usual in Palin World. Her only hope of ever winning the presidency is through exploitation of an extremely divided electorate, so why would she become a uniter at this point?
She seems to have two central points. First, the blame for horrific crimes rests solely with the criminals. To suggest that words incite them is wrong:
"Acts of monstrous criminality stand on their own. They begin and end with the criminals who commit them, not collectively with all the citizens of a state, not with those who listen to talk radio, not with maps of swing districts used by both sides of the aisle, not with law-abiding citizens who respectfully exercise their First Amendment rights at campaign rallies, not with those who proudly voted in the last election."
Second, the words of journalists and pundits incite violence:
"But, especially within hours of a tragedy unfolding, journalists and pundits should not manufacture a blood libel that serves only to incite the very hatred and violence they purport to condemn. That is reprehensible."
Got that? When Palin talks of gunsights and Death Panels, of a socialist take-over of America and palling around with domestic terrorists, it's simply a benign exercise of her First Amendment rights. When "journalists and pundits" suggest otherwise, it's a "blood libel" that incites violence.
David Nelson: 1936-2011
H/T, LC reader Ron.
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