Today, I am celebrating with other GSDBA Members in the historic
decisions of the United States Supreme Court regarding the federal Defense
of Marriage Act (DOMA) and California’s divisive and discriminatory Proposition 8.
With the overturning
of DOMA Article 3 in the Windsor case, legally married same-sex couples in the
United States will gain access to more than 1,000 federal benefits that
come with marriage. The Court’s ruling in the Perry case means that Proposition 8 will be
struck down and marriage equality is restored for California.
Marriages will begin
again as soon as the decision is rendered as final, and the mandate is issued.
Yet, do not be surprised if supporters of Proposition 8 consider and pursue a petition for rehearing.
These decisions come
just days after the 46th anniversary of the Loving v. Virginia case (June 12),
in which the U.S. Supreme Court struck down all race-based restrictions in
marriage law, an important precedent for marriage equality for same-sex
couples.
I am thrilled to work with people who believe their dignity is so important. They live together, love together, and plan their lives together. Denying the ability to call that a marriage weakens the instituion and the fairness and support of the community. The U.S. Supreme Court has corrected this practice and moved it fairly back to the states.
The ruling in DOMA helps everyone who care about fairness, those who fight for freedom, and those who seek freedom.
For California it restores the glowing gem of diversity that has called to people for generations to California. In overturning Proposition 8, it redeems California from its short foray into creating second class citizens in a rich history of diversity and acceptance.
The San Diego
community will gather together at the Rainbow Flag at University Avenue and
Normal Street at 5:30 pm. A celebration will follow at at 7 pm at The Center,
3909 Centre St. For more information, please visit www.thecentersd.org or check The Center’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/At.The.Center. Also, look to www.gsdba.org for four panel discussions coming starting in August about things you should know before you marry!
Wednesday, June 26, 2013
Tuesday, June 18, 2013
Future Focused, Lance Grucela and Christianna Connell contribute to grow GSDBA
Often, someone in GSDBA may only
serve one or two years in a capacity that only they are able to do. In these positions, it is often not a visible
role but one that is behind the scenes, but integral to the growth and
development of an organization. These
kinds of Board Members set aside their valuable time to help our Chamber create
an environment where the LGBT community can develop and grow their dreams of
owning a successful business or pursue their professional goals. Yet,
at times, they do difficult work, thankless work, to address issues that others
may find daunting or find easy to pass to them.
t is always an honor to work with these professional leaders in their
passion to serve others, in their drive to help GSDBA members create
opportunities while serving in such capacities that make GSDBA and our success
while advocating for our values of diversity and opportunity. These leaders and their values benefit the
LGBT Community and the Greater San Diego area.
Lance Grucela, GSDBA Board Member
2011 - 2013
Lance Grucela served the GSDBA Board
of Directors over the past two years, June 2011 – May 2013. His only
reason for not pursuing a second term was due to his new employment with the California
Labor Division.
His contributions developing and pushing forward-looking goals
for the organization's future, as well as encouraging changes in the
membership committee have been invaluable to the Board.
Christianna Connell, GSDBA Board
Member, October 2010 – December 2012
Christianna led a committee
addressing growing technology challenges, a changing website environment, while
guiding the Board and the CEO through the challenges of improving our
membership services.
She worked to improve the existing
GSDBA website and blog capacities. Many of her initiatives will be seen
in the rollout of our new GSDBA website in September 2013. These efforts will be to improve member
interaction and potential member growth. She provided recommendations on improving
email marketing and social media efforts.
Those recommendations create a strong foundation for future growth in a
planned manner.
Her professional abilities are
powerful. So much so, that CareFusion
recruited her from her own company, Future-Ink, to work for them. Future Ink will be at the GSDBA Business
Awards Luncheon with Christianna. Let
her know how much GSDBA appreciates what she has been doing.
Keith Robinson, Hot Hotelier, GSDBA Board Thanks You
A wonderful part of my tenure on the board is the opportunity to watch people participate, develop, contribute and lead the way for GSDBA and its members. While someone could simply participate by “showing up”, it is important that someone contribute, bring insight and their strengths to the organization. They set aside their valuable time to help our Chamber create an environment where the LGBT community can develop and grow their dreams of owning a successful business or pursue their professional goals. One person I will miss on the board is Keith Robinson. His quiet leadership, professional courtesy, plus his ability to chuckle at circumstances allow him to address behind the scenes issues that make events supremely successful.
Keith Robinson, working with the Dana Hotel, served the GSDBA on the Board of Directors from June 2010 to May 2013. During that time he served on the Ambassadors Committee before becoming the Events Chair which is charged with coordination of the Mixers, Business Awards Luncheon, and other events GSDBA must coordinate. He and the Events Committee coordinated Hotels, the services, hosting expectations, and pursued new and interesting locations in Hillcrest and extended GSDBA’s mixer foray into downtown, Pt. Loma and Mission Bay. His ability to speak candidly with other hoteliers and Mixer host organizations continued the consistently great attendance of creative and new locations for our members.
Keith Robinson has provided his encouragement to GSDBA through building and addressing the tourism needs of the LGBT Community. With Tom Luhnow, he will continue to work with other Tourism professionals to enhance the benefits to GSDBA members through our tourism website, our tourism outreach and help San Diego with their economic future.
While Keith is no longer on the Board, he is committed to GSDBA, the many valuable friendships he has made through our organization and will continue to be supportive of the mission and vision of GSDBA.
My belief is that Keith is stepping down because he has become one of the best hotel leaders for weddings (whether gay or straight). My prediction is that the Supreme Court will overturn DOMA and Prop 8 and his role at The Dana will grow dramatically in the coming 12 months. Good luck, Keith.
Keith Robinson, working with the Dana Hotel, served the GSDBA on the Board of Directors from June 2010 to May 2013. During that time he served on the Ambassadors Committee before becoming the Events Chair which is charged with coordination of the Mixers, Business Awards Luncheon, and other events GSDBA must coordinate. He and the Events Committee coordinated Hotels, the services, hosting expectations, and pursued new and interesting locations in Hillcrest and extended GSDBA’s mixer foray into downtown, Pt. Loma and Mission Bay. His ability to speak candidly with other hoteliers and Mixer host organizations continued the consistently great attendance of creative and new locations for our members.
Keith Robinson has provided his encouragement to GSDBA through building and addressing the tourism needs of the LGBT Community. With Tom Luhnow, he will continue to work with other Tourism professionals to enhance the benefits to GSDBA members through our tourism website, our tourism outreach and help San Diego with their economic future.
While Keith is no longer on the Board, he is committed to GSDBA, the many valuable friendships he has made through our organization and will continue to be supportive of the mission and vision of GSDBA.
My belief is that Keith is stepping down because he has become one of the best hotel leaders for weddings (whether gay or straight). My prediction is that the Supreme Court will overturn DOMA and Prop 8 and his role at The Dana will grow dramatically in the coming 12 months. Good luck, Keith.
Sunday, June 16, 2013
Preparing for Death. 8 Simple Principles and 1 Choice of Attitude
Many of my friends know that I have been in the business of helping others consider their risks while considering the best way to reach their goals and address their concerns. This normally means some form of planning for their future, whether it is financially, through some strategic documents to express their intent, or simply begin the formative steps to becoming responsible and reducing the emotional and other impacts that could occur were they not to plan for changes in their future.
I have served clients for over 20 years to help them look to the future, no matter how dire, how bright, how complex or seemingly simple they might consider it to be.
Ultimately, while I have served them by assisting them with services and products, ultimately those who have chosen to consider the ramifications of their decisions are the happiest long term. Carefully listening to them, helping them better define their aspirations and hopes, drafting goals, and creating strategies that work help them on their journey.
Yet, with these opportunities for life long relationships and the responsibilites that go with it, are profound emotional impacts that one never realizes until years into these relationships. And, how someone manages the emotions defines their authenticity, their ability to cope, and their success in continuing through life.
As my friends, collegues and family have witnessed, I have had the pleasure of serving people with AIDS, young families, older couples, gay individuals, lesbian families, and families of faith. It has been 20 years of learning and trusting not only of these clients, but for me.
I lost my dad almost three years ago. It was a transition that was sudden but that I feel most of my family was prepared to accept. We ultimately celebrated his life, continued on, miss him, but appreciate his commitment to his family, his unique contributions, his love and loyalty to my mother, and his own particular perspectives.
I lost my best friend in the 1996 to AIDS. Not only was it an 18 month caregiving impact, it was a time when AIDS was a horrifying divisive event in families and my best friend swore me to secrecy, not even to share his diagnosis with his family until he was prepared to inform them. That event was two weeks before his passing. I can admit that while I prepared myself for his death, the cumulative total of friends I lost that year was horrendous. I lost two close friends, two good friends, and two people I knew pretty well within a six month period. My grief at the conclusion of those six months overwhelmed me temporarily. Shortly after that time, I was encouraged by the guy cutting my hair to consider a grief counselor. I am so glad I pursued that suggestion.
Grief counseling allowed me to face the emotions all of us feel when someone dies, including when we face our own mortality. We all have different ways of addressing the concept of death, from altruism to denial, and from shock to peaceful acceptance. No way is the best, none of us master the concept well. Some of us deny that idea of an eternal existence beyond this plane while many look forward, faithfully, to a Kingdom of Heaven based on their understanding of God.
Ultimately, I have learned some basic beliefs I use to manage grief. While I have not had to face a certain demise in the short term, I am reminded often, by the passing of those I have met, revered or reviled, enjoyed or avoided, or simply appreciated their contributions and existence. I have had the opportunity to be a care giver personally, part of a family facing a loved ones death, served in the capacity of comforter, distant resource, and emotional personal listener. I hope I can share some basic suggestions and one concept I have come to advocate to those, including myself, who have that last decision to make about their remaining time, no matter how long it is.
I suggest these thoughts as ideas and truths to consider to reduce the impact of those intimate in your life, to support those you care about facing the prospect of dying or caring for someone who is dying, or simply as valuable concepts to exercise in relationships.
1. Never allow regret to torment you. Forgive and Restore Relationships so that memories and relationships can never grow bitter, causing damage far after a relationship is gone.
2. Do not deny that life is a challenge. Be merciful when someone is grieving the loss of their dreams and hopes. You never know when you may need the same kind of mercy. Listen with a caring heart and a open ear.
3. Cry with those who weep. Hug those who need one or could use one. People who are grieving are like sponges, soaking up the tears that are not cried, and if not hugged with love, may hold the tears too long and become bitter with the experience of crying alone.
4. Mourn after someone is gone, not before. Thank people for their impact. Celebrate their life while they live. Do not delay your appreciation for someone else. Appreciation in the moment is powerful. Funerals are not an easy place to create an event of exuberance for someone who impacts you. Celebrate with them .
5. Commit to helping others and follow through. Understand that guilt is not an emotion worth spending time to cultivate. Be generous.
6. Do not wait for guidance or direction. Follow up with those you know who face the demise of those they love. Often in the immediacy of the moment, the terror of the loss, the hopes of relief, and the pursuit of plans to relieve pain, those closest to the one facing death are overwhelmed, unable to rally others, reach out for assistance or host an audience. Rather than await instructions or invitations, reach out regularly to with an offer to assist. Suggest basic ideas of help that do not impose or require thought. Offer to drop off basic items as if you already have them and were able to stop by on the way to another appointment.
7. Assess and Comfort. Just as they may regularly be taking the temperature of the one they are responsible to provide care, it is important for you to assess them. Dear friends are always welcome. Close friends are trusted with housing disasters. Good friends bring wine and listen for a few moments.
8. Honor the one who is dying, but do not forget to honor, support and encourage those who are grieving, serving and sacrificing at for the one who is dying. Caregivers contribute more than love and service. Many caregivers die prematurely due to the sacrifices they make to someone they love who is dying. Their emotions are as immense and complicated as the one dying for a part of them is dying with the one passing, yet they are required to continue, sometimes with huge financial impacts and futures that appear dismal.
Finally, I have learned to have perspective and balance in my life. I encourage those who face their death, a life and death struggle, a disease that ultimately will take them from their families, and those who face the fears of their own demise.
I offer this one suggestion when considering your future. Steven Covey wrote "begin with the end in mind". I prefer to have a short and long term perspective to that concept in respect to dying. It is as follows:
Key Choice in Facing Death
If you knew your death would be in four weeks, would you grieve every day? Or, knowing you had that time, would you take advantage of every moment to accomplish things of significance which others would find valuable, precious or memorable. The choice is yours. It is how I determine what is significant and where I spend the time set aside for my own purposes.
Finally, one beautiful song of immense love, acceptance, and appreciation of the human condition has encapsulated these concepts for me. Early in the 1990's I attended a concert of the Flirtations, an acappela group. At the end of the concert, they sang "Everything Possible". "The only measure of your words and your deeds will be the Love you leave behind when you are gone." Consider its truth and the beliefs of this lullaby. It has become a mantra for me. In fact, it is a song I hope would be sung at a celebration of my own life, should that occur.
Yet, I hope these ideas, these suggestions, dare I say these truths, will help you, assist you, or help others facing a fearful time called dying. It isn't easy getting through life. Certainly one of the hardest times, yet most honored places you can accept, is participating and supporting another by being present when they include you as they face this process. It is an honor with a cost. Yet, what great honor it is to demonstrate love not only at the beginning of life or at the middle, but also as someone nears the end.
I have served clients for over 20 years to help them look to the future, no matter how dire, how bright, how complex or seemingly simple they might consider it to be.
Ultimately, while I have served them by assisting them with services and products, ultimately those who have chosen to consider the ramifications of their decisions are the happiest long term. Carefully listening to them, helping them better define their aspirations and hopes, drafting goals, and creating strategies that work help them on their journey.
Yet, with these opportunities for life long relationships and the responsibilites that go with it, are profound emotional impacts that one never realizes until years into these relationships. And, how someone manages the emotions defines their authenticity, their ability to cope, and their success in continuing through life.
As my friends, collegues and family have witnessed, I have had the pleasure of serving people with AIDS, young families, older couples, gay individuals, lesbian families, and families of faith. It has been 20 years of learning and trusting not only of these clients, but for me.
I lost my dad almost three years ago. It was a transition that was sudden but that I feel most of my family was prepared to accept. We ultimately celebrated his life, continued on, miss him, but appreciate his commitment to his family, his unique contributions, his love and loyalty to my mother, and his own particular perspectives.
I lost my best friend in the 1996 to AIDS. Not only was it an 18 month caregiving impact, it was a time when AIDS was a horrifying divisive event in families and my best friend swore me to secrecy, not even to share his diagnosis with his family until he was prepared to inform them. That event was two weeks before his passing. I can admit that while I prepared myself for his death, the cumulative total of friends I lost that year was horrendous. I lost two close friends, two good friends, and two people I knew pretty well within a six month period. My grief at the conclusion of those six months overwhelmed me temporarily. Shortly after that time, I was encouraged by the guy cutting my hair to consider a grief counselor. I am so glad I pursued that suggestion.
Grief counseling allowed me to face the emotions all of us feel when someone dies, including when we face our own mortality. We all have different ways of addressing the concept of death, from altruism to denial, and from shock to peaceful acceptance. No way is the best, none of us master the concept well. Some of us deny that idea of an eternal existence beyond this plane while many look forward, faithfully, to a Kingdom of Heaven based on their understanding of God.
Ultimately, I have learned some basic beliefs I use to manage grief. While I have not had to face a certain demise in the short term, I am reminded often, by the passing of those I have met, revered or reviled, enjoyed or avoided, or simply appreciated their contributions and existence. I have had the opportunity to be a care giver personally, part of a family facing a loved ones death, served in the capacity of comforter, distant resource, and emotional personal listener. I hope I can share some basic suggestions and one concept I have come to advocate to those, including myself, who have that last decision to make about their remaining time, no matter how long it is.
I suggest these thoughts as ideas and truths to consider to reduce the impact of those intimate in your life, to support those you care about facing the prospect of dying or caring for someone who is dying, or simply as valuable concepts to exercise in relationships.
1. Never allow regret to torment you. Forgive and Restore Relationships so that memories and relationships can never grow bitter, causing damage far after a relationship is gone.
2. Do not deny that life is a challenge. Be merciful when someone is grieving the loss of their dreams and hopes. You never know when you may need the same kind of mercy. Listen with a caring heart and a open ear.
3. Cry with those who weep. Hug those who need one or could use one. People who are grieving are like sponges, soaking up the tears that are not cried, and if not hugged with love, may hold the tears too long and become bitter with the experience of crying alone.
4. Mourn after someone is gone, not before. Thank people for their impact. Celebrate their life while they live. Do not delay your appreciation for someone else. Appreciation in the moment is powerful. Funerals are not an easy place to create an event of exuberance for someone who impacts you. Celebrate with them .
5. Commit to helping others and follow through. Understand that guilt is not an emotion worth spending time to cultivate. Be generous.
6. Do not wait for guidance or direction. Follow up with those you know who face the demise of those they love. Often in the immediacy of the moment, the terror of the loss, the hopes of relief, and the pursuit of plans to relieve pain, those closest to the one facing death are overwhelmed, unable to rally others, reach out for assistance or host an audience. Rather than await instructions or invitations, reach out regularly to with an offer to assist. Suggest basic ideas of help that do not impose or require thought. Offer to drop off basic items as if you already have them and were able to stop by on the way to another appointment.
7. Assess and Comfort. Just as they may regularly be taking the temperature of the one they are responsible to provide care, it is important for you to assess them. Dear friends are always welcome. Close friends are trusted with housing disasters. Good friends bring wine and listen for a few moments.
8. Honor the one who is dying, but do not forget to honor, support and encourage those who are grieving, serving and sacrificing at for the one who is dying. Caregivers contribute more than love and service. Many caregivers die prematurely due to the sacrifices they make to someone they love who is dying. Their emotions are as immense and complicated as the one dying for a part of them is dying with the one passing, yet they are required to continue, sometimes with huge financial impacts and futures that appear dismal.
Finally, I have learned to have perspective and balance in my life. I encourage those who face their death, a life and death struggle, a disease that ultimately will take them from their families, and those who face the fears of their own demise.
I offer this one suggestion when considering your future. Steven Covey wrote "begin with the end in mind". I prefer to have a short and long term perspective to that concept in respect to dying. It is as follows:
Key Choice in Facing Death
If you knew your death would be in four weeks, would you grieve every day? Or, knowing you had that time, would you take advantage of every moment to accomplish things of significance which others would find valuable, precious or memorable. The choice is yours. It is how I determine what is significant and where I spend the time set aside for my own purposes.
Finally, one beautiful song of immense love, acceptance, and appreciation of the human condition has encapsulated these concepts for me. Early in the 1990's I attended a concert of the Flirtations, an acappela group. At the end of the concert, they sang "Everything Possible". "The only measure of your words and your deeds will be the Love you leave behind when you are gone." Consider its truth and the beliefs of this lullaby. It has become a mantra for me. In fact, it is a song I hope would be sung at a celebration of my own life, should that occur.
Yet, I hope these ideas, these suggestions, dare I say these truths, will help you, assist you, or help others facing a fearful time called dying. It isn't easy getting through life. Certainly one of the hardest times, yet most honored places you can accept, is participating and supporting another by being present when they include you as they face this process. It is an honor with a cost. Yet, what great honor it is to demonstrate love not only at the beginning of life or at the middle, but also as someone nears the end.
God & Love are infallible, not Pope Francis
I am a man who considers faith to be of extreme value to those who appreciate it. I grew up Baptist, continue in the Christian faith, even served as a pastor of a church for a few years. While I am a protestant by definition, I have family and friends who are Catholic. I respect them for their faith in Christ, their commitment to their institution, and their adherence to the core principles of Hope, Peach, and Charity. While I have been persecuted by those who practice their beliefs of faith for being an out gay man, I accept that they do not believe as I do, but pray and have faith that one day God, through the Spirit, will provide the revelation required to free them from their thinking and reveal God Truth that brings us closer.
The iconic Catholic Church, a successful institution, has had many controversies over the years. And, while I love some of the adherents of its faith, enjoy the music it has provided to the world, I have not enjoyed the impacts on those it failed, those it warred against, those it persecuted, and those it continues to subjugate and persecute today. Even today, the Catholic Church sugjugates women and denies them leadership roles based on their interpretation of scripture and tradition, combined. They persecute and work to deny equal treatment of the LGBT Community on the same basis.
This outright discrimination, based on interpretation and defended by tradition, frustrates me and hurts those injured by the stance of the Catholic Church, its leaders, and its continued monolithic belief in its understanding of God, its patriarchal structure, and its blind spots inherent in that structure. While I enjoy the rich music that speaks of God, a picture of the Pope speeds me to thoughts of injustice. The amazing and beautiful properties it owns, the art, and its historical role in the world are things to revel in, yet, when I see a Catholic Charity, I remember the Catholic's attempt to keep birth control from women. It has served communities for a millenia, established peace in areas, reached youth, cherished the sick, and cared for the old, yet, I am reminded of Child Molestation Scandals year after year. See, while I appreciate the good, I also understand its darkness, it history of manipulation, its secrecy, its pursuit of politics for position, its traditons, and its judgments against those who threaten it.
I admire the historic relevance of the Catholic Church. I admire the service it provides to those less fortunate. I admire the nuns in their volunteer service to the poor. I cherish the discussions I have had with members of the Church, priests, and nuns in their pursuits for peace. I believe that confession is good for the soul. I simply differ in that I can go to the Throne of God directly through prayer without a priest having to intercede on my behalf. Further, I would like to see a man or woman deny me entrance to heaven, when Christ holds the keys. Symbolically, Christ gave the keys of heaven to St. Peter. But, frankly, the Holy Spirit is that key, not the Pope.
While a friend reminds me regularly that consistency if the hobgoblin of small minds, I will register anew my frustration and disappointment in the Catholic Church, its antiquated beliefs that undermine God's value of women, the value inherent in human life despite gender, and the clear opposition to God on the God's appreciation of diversity and the human condition. Perhaps, my frustration and disappointment stem from a faith more consistent, more active, more merciful, more engaged in faith, and more loving that the faith of the person Catholics trust as infallible since the First Vatican Council. The Pope has been considered, by catholic religious dogma of the Church to be infallible since the First Vatican Council of 1869–1870. The latest two Popes went so far as to toy with that concept by suggesting that since they avoid speaking infallibly, they could not be called anything less than infallible. This includes such beliefs as the Assumption of Mary while most Protestants do not acknowledge this belief. In fact, most would find it laughable. Yet, their personal statements, and the support of this ancient, secretive, and antiquated organization allows it to continue concepts modern day people consider sexist and homophobic. Their sexist and homophobic stance continues to disprove the Pope's infallibility, calling into question whether the Church could ever speak for God.
Truly, I deplore any leader who preaches separateness, incivility, or suggests that my equality, my faith, my access to God is less than their own. At times, the only things that separates me from the Pope is that I have not been celebate, though many of the cardinals clearly haven't either, and that I don't wear a dress/robe. (It used to be that I also didn't wear Pradas, but I purchased some two years ago, after the Devil wears Prada movie.) Jesus hosted tax collectors and prostitues, yet urged to see them again, not deny them the Kingdom. Would that the Pope would do the same.
This Pope is no better, nor worse, than a Jimmy Swaggart, motivating followers to submission to controlling beliefs while encouraging less than clear Biblical concepts, at the peril of those who would be imperilled by such beliefs. With such a rich history of this consequence, the Catholic Church and its adherents have been chief culprits in Rwanda's 1994 genocide, Croatia's Serbs genocide prior to the Holocaust, Pope Pius V's regicide endorsements, and homicides. It has a Church sanctioned history of persecution of scientists, inquisitions and deaths of Jews, waging holy wars against Muslims and other faith believers, and recent revelations identify protecting child predators within their ranks while allowing extensive child molestations by peers of the Pope himself. So, really, the Pope becomes slightly more than a Jimmy and a prostitute, historically. And, not in a good way.
It is truly with great sadness that I find myself in the belief that Pope Francis is unable to have any profound leadership for Christians, much less infallability, when he is unwilling to acknowledge the equality of women in speaking as leaders of faith. He is an antiquated mouthpiece unable to bring leadership when he endorses the second class station of those, speaking their God revealed truth and identifying as gay or lesbian, by refusing those in the LGBT Community from achieving their religiously focused values of marriage to another. Yet, the Pope rearely dissuaded communities from dowry programs (much of the first two millenia), gold for the gates of heaven (in Brazil for centuries), or the belief of marriage as a sacred institution, when it was for millenia a business transaction, where women and domesticated animals were exchanged, at the convenience of family and politics.
God requires our own individual faith walk, our own individual exploration of his Word, and our own personal discovery of belief. It is our responsibility to work out our own faith. Take direction from a man in white at your own risk. The Word itself suggests that many will be decieved by those who speak in God's name. While I do not suggest that the Pope in the anti-christ, certainly, as many of those stuck in traditionalism, like the pharisees and sadducees of old, it took Christ himself to address the zealous focus on money, position and function to direct an entire new way of believing and pursuing God's plan. Perhaps the Pope should share that were it not for women and their funding of St. Paul, there may not have been a Vatican in the first place. Truth creates an amazing perspective that the Cardinals and the Pope should consider and reflect on their current opposition of inclusion of the LGBT Community in their institutions of marriage.
Gay is not fashionable, trust me. While I am seemingly momentary, my hope, my faith, my exercise in mercy and love, my commitment to fairness, my concern for widows and orphans, the needs of the LGBT Community, and to God's Love will be impactful in the long run. Let the Pope admit that God does not see us by gender, as it states in the Old and New Testament. Let him lead the charge for equality for women and the LGBT Community. Let him invite us to join together rather than divide us by history.
I continue to pray for this Pope. That he will lead the Catholic Church to the inclusive ideal Christ set for his Kingdom. I pray that he confess the sins of the Priesthood, its violence toward others, especially children. I pray that they turn from their wicked ways of denying those God created from the institution of marriage.
I pray that he will work for the protection of the LGBT Community across the world rather than stand silently by as African nations create laws to kill these children created by God.
I pray that Pope Francis will begin to act more like Jesus rather than the usual Popes. You know the ones I mean, the ones under the column who rule out of fear. The ones who judge from their windows. The one who judged Christ, himself, Pontius Pilot.
The iconic Catholic Church, a successful institution, has had many controversies over the years. And, while I love some of the adherents of its faith, enjoy the music it has provided to the world, I have not enjoyed the impacts on those it failed, those it warred against, those it persecuted, and those it continues to subjugate and persecute today. Even today, the Catholic Church sugjugates women and denies them leadership roles based on their interpretation of scripture and tradition, combined. They persecute and work to deny equal treatment of the LGBT Community on the same basis.
This outright discrimination, based on interpretation and defended by tradition, frustrates me and hurts those injured by the stance of the Catholic Church, its leaders, and its continued monolithic belief in its understanding of God, its patriarchal structure, and its blind spots inherent in that structure. While I enjoy the rich music that speaks of God, a picture of the Pope speeds me to thoughts of injustice. The amazing and beautiful properties it owns, the art, and its historical role in the world are things to revel in, yet, when I see a Catholic Charity, I remember the Catholic's attempt to keep birth control from women. It has served communities for a millenia, established peace in areas, reached youth, cherished the sick, and cared for the old, yet, I am reminded of Child Molestation Scandals year after year. See, while I appreciate the good, I also understand its darkness, it history of manipulation, its secrecy, its pursuit of politics for position, its traditons, and its judgments against those who threaten it.
I admire the historic relevance of the Catholic Church. I admire the service it provides to those less fortunate. I admire the nuns in their volunteer service to the poor. I cherish the discussions I have had with members of the Church, priests, and nuns in their pursuits for peace. I believe that confession is good for the soul. I simply differ in that I can go to the Throne of God directly through prayer without a priest having to intercede on my behalf. Further, I would like to see a man or woman deny me entrance to heaven, when Christ holds the keys. Symbolically, Christ gave the keys of heaven to St. Peter. But, frankly, the Holy Spirit is that key, not the Pope.
While a friend reminds me regularly that consistency if the hobgoblin of small minds, I will register anew my frustration and disappointment in the Catholic Church, its antiquated beliefs that undermine God's value of women, the value inherent in human life despite gender, and the clear opposition to God on the God's appreciation of diversity and the human condition. Perhaps, my frustration and disappointment stem from a faith more consistent, more active, more merciful, more engaged in faith, and more loving that the faith of the person Catholics trust as infallible since the First Vatican Council. The Pope has been considered, by catholic religious dogma of the Church to be infallible since the First Vatican Council of 1869–1870. The latest two Popes went so far as to toy with that concept by suggesting that since they avoid speaking infallibly, they could not be called anything less than infallible. This includes such beliefs as the Assumption of Mary while most Protestants do not acknowledge this belief. In fact, most would find it laughable. Yet, their personal statements, and the support of this ancient, secretive, and antiquated organization allows it to continue concepts modern day people consider sexist and homophobic. Their sexist and homophobic stance continues to disprove the Pope's infallibility, calling into question whether the Church could ever speak for God.
Truly, I deplore any leader who preaches separateness, incivility, or suggests that my equality, my faith, my access to God is less than their own. At times, the only things that separates me from the Pope is that I have not been celebate, though many of the cardinals clearly haven't either, and that I don't wear a dress/robe. (It used to be that I also didn't wear Pradas, but I purchased some two years ago, after the Devil wears Prada movie.) Jesus hosted tax collectors and prostitues, yet urged to see them again, not deny them the Kingdom. Would that the Pope would do the same.
This Pope is no better, nor worse, than a Jimmy Swaggart, motivating followers to submission to controlling beliefs while encouraging less than clear Biblical concepts, at the peril of those who would be imperilled by such beliefs. With such a rich history of this consequence, the Catholic Church and its adherents have been chief culprits in Rwanda's 1994 genocide, Croatia's Serbs genocide prior to the Holocaust, Pope Pius V's regicide endorsements, and homicides. It has a Church sanctioned history of persecution of scientists, inquisitions and deaths of Jews, waging holy wars against Muslims and other faith believers, and recent revelations identify protecting child predators within their ranks while allowing extensive child molestations by peers of the Pope himself. So, really, the Pope becomes slightly more than a Jimmy and a prostitute, historically. And, not in a good way.
It is truly with great sadness that I find myself in the belief that Pope Francis is unable to have any profound leadership for Christians, much less infallability, when he is unwilling to acknowledge the equality of women in speaking as leaders of faith. He is an antiquated mouthpiece unable to bring leadership when he endorses the second class station of those, speaking their God revealed truth and identifying as gay or lesbian, by refusing those in the LGBT Community from achieving their religiously focused values of marriage to another. Yet, the Pope rearely dissuaded communities from dowry programs (much of the first two millenia), gold for the gates of heaven (in Brazil for centuries), or the belief of marriage as a sacred institution, when it was for millenia a business transaction, where women and domesticated animals were exchanged, at the convenience of family and politics.
God requires our own individual faith walk, our own individual exploration of his Word, and our own personal discovery of belief. It is our responsibility to work out our own faith. Take direction from a man in white at your own risk. The Word itself suggests that many will be decieved by those who speak in God's name. While I do not suggest that the Pope in the anti-christ, certainly, as many of those stuck in traditionalism, like the pharisees and sadducees of old, it took Christ himself to address the zealous focus on money, position and function to direct an entire new way of believing and pursuing God's plan. Perhaps the Pope should share that were it not for women and their funding of St. Paul, there may not have been a Vatican in the first place. Truth creates an amazing perspective that the Cardinals and the Pope should consider and reflect on their current opposition of inclusion of the LGBT Community in their institutions of marriage.
Gay is not fashionable, trust me. While I am seemingly momentary, my hope, my faith, my exercise in mercy and love, my commitment to fairness, my concern for widows and orphans, the needs of the LGBT Community, and to God's Love will be impactful in the long run. Let the Pope admit that God does not see us by gender, as it states in the Old and New Testament. Let him lead the charge for equality for women and the LGBT Community. Let him invite us to join together rather than divide us by history.
I continue to pray for this Pope. That he will lead the Catholic Church to the inclusive ideal Christ set for his Kingdom. I pray that he confess the sins of the Priesthood, its violence toward others, especially children. I pray that they turn from their wicked ways of denying those God created from the institution of marriage.
I pray that he will work for the protection of the LGBT Community across the world rather than stand silently by as African nations create laws to kill these children created by God.
I pray that Pope Francis will begin to act more like Jesus rather than the usual Popes. You know the ones I mean, the ones under the column who rule out of fear. The ones who judge from their windows. The one who judged Christ, himself, Pontius Pilot.
Happy Fathers Day, Dad. You Did It, But, Should I Say Thank You?
Happy Father's Day, Dad.
It's been over two years since you left this plane. You were run down, exhausted, in pain, frustrated, and truly at times, a pain in the side to someone. For nearly a decade, any little thing could set you off. I prayed when I visited that you had not just turned off Fox News to open the door.
You argued with me. You yelled at the world. You huffed. You could be gruff. You were miserable. And, frankly, you made others miserable.
Yet, with all of that negative energy, that frustration at the world, the demands that those around you make better decisions, your expectation that others consider doing things the right way which was your way, and that they believe the things you believe, I still appreciate, love and miss you.
I acknowledge the terrible cost you paid the last decade of your life as you struggled to continue to work, to manage your physical pain, while past medical issues likely impacted every aspect of your life. I could see regret written on your face every visit. I could see your eyes evaluating everything and everyone as they came into the room. While we may have left in anger and frustration from endless conversations surrounding a host of divisive issues, ultimately your children would return.
My coming out process caused the family 5 years of horrendous holiday events, assuring the avoidance of personal revelations by other family members for decades. To this day, emotionally, I look forward to holiday events with family by visualizing robing in medieval armor, sword, breastplate, and helm, with the weight of it increasing as the event approaches.
Which got me to thinking. Why? Why as adults would we as children return to see you? I thought for years that the reason I was going home wasn't to see you, but to see Mom. You were the mean one. She was the wonderful one. I was there to check in and make sure Mom was okay. Who cares about you, mean, hurtful, rightwinger, always asking about our Walk with the Lord. Always prying, always analyzing, always demanding, always making statements, always starting arguments, always bringing up debates which I could counter, could provide information to support my thinking, to substantiate my position, data and information and perspective that you clearly did not find approving throughout many conversations. To the disappointment and frustration of everyone in our family. In fact, you and I destroyed more holiday events through debate and argument than I care to ever acknowledge.
See, for that all the negativity of the last decade (and more) before your passing, the 35 years before that were instrumental to who I am. I could not have managed the nearly 3 years, much less much of the last 45 years without your instruction, focus, debate, demands, opinions, and strong concern and devotion for others. I cannot imagine someone more relentless than you. I cannot imagine someone for focused on perfectionism than you. I cannot imagine someone more tied up in knots about issues, more concerned about others, more willing to help, more willing to listen, more willing to find solutions, more willing to fight, more willing to debate, more willing to invite others, more willing to introduce, more willing. Except maybe me.
You shared your love of animals. I will always proudly be able to say that my first pet was a horse. Who can say that in this decade? Cindy will always love her dogs. And, Marc? Well, let's just say is there are animals that love to reach in and get Marc's attention. Each of us has an animal we hate. Cindy hates spiders. For Marc I think its snakes. For me, trust me, those damn stinking gross bugs. And, we learned to antagonize the other with that weakness. Each of us has a particular squeal that the other enjoys.
You developed our competitive spirit while teaching us values and key characteristics. You made us choose pursuits and sports. We did not have a choice about whether we would participate in a sport, we were given a choice about which sport. You wanted to help us understand the concept of goal development, discipline, focus, and competition. You wanted us to win but also how to learn that we might lose. You helped us learn team development but also insisted that we bring our very individual best. We not only listened to coaches, we learned from you. And, during competitions, it was your voice we could hear over any others, and so could our friends. Fortunate for us, we chose wisely. We swam, (Go La Grande Swin Club!) like you did. Though Cindy was more explorative with soccer, softball, football, and the list continues.
The same with music. Your tenor voice, Mom's alto, Mom's piano were staples in the house, not to mention the church. You suffered through me learning violin, Marc on the flute, and we all were tormented by Cindy on trumpet. Thank God drums were not a choice. Yet, ultimately, you guided us to perform. Whether through our voices or through instruments. Yet, our performance was a result of practice, improvement, and guidance. Values we each teach others today.
You wanted us to learn what hard work meant. We had chores we hated, chores we loathed, and chores we suffered. Thats why they are chores. From shovelling manure to mowing grass to dusting and vacuuming, you and Mom provided lists and we did as little as we could to be cited as acceptable.
You tried to excite us by working on your car's engine. Lets say that may have been your one failure. I can hear the engine and feel the road. But, the Car "FORCE" will never be with me.
Yet, perhaps, the things that drove us more insane was your infernal question "How is Your Walk with the Lord?" Your relentless focus on our holiness trek would make the Pope proud and we are not even Catholic. You did not care about whether we attended Church every Sunday. That would be too easy. We learned every book, every verse, every story, its intent, its development, its principles and values. Rules you said were basics for beginners. Principles were where we lived in our house. Intent and purpose were more important that success or failure. You were beyond relentless. Why? Because you did not provide rules that were equal. You provided rules that were fair. Individual rules for each individual within your home. If I got a C (I got one once), I got a car ride for an hour in the pontiac. It was like the "bedroom talk" but on wheels at 50 miles an hour with no escape, not even through a window! Yet, Cindy could skate at a C and celebrations began.
So what if that concept we learned was that we were all valuable? Does it really matter that it taught us to expect different levels of competence and skill in different areas from different people? Does it really matter that it taught us not to judge others based on their knowledge and skill set? Geez, dad, an hour in the car with you talking about your expectations!
You competed with us. You insisted you would always be bigger than us. Older than us. You intimated wiser than us. You were our first line doctor, our disciplinarian, our consultant, our encourager, the dreamer, the designer, the solver, the developer, the planner, the one person that could hug us and everything would be better. You dared us to stand up to you and ultimately I did. Several times. Not once did it go well for either of us. The few times it was in familial view it was never forgotten. And, each time it took Mom to intervene.
Only later, did I understand the power of Her Voice for you. Her voice alone could turn you from anything. Her squeal, her scream, her call. It had absolute authority and absolute impact on you. From anywhere, under any circumstance, if the voice communicated urgency, immediacy was your motivator. And, likewise, when you were in ICU, her hand lowered your blood pressure, even while you were in a coma. Little did I know how rare that was until the nurse shared that tidbit.
See Dad, for all of the terrible things you were. Disciplinarian. Sinner. Debater. Hurtful. Unreasonable. Extremist. Insistent. Particular. Perfectionist. Frustrated. Passionate. Angry. Afraid. Terrible at Sales. Terrible. Forceful. Abusive at times, Manipulator, Joker, Anti-gay, Punster, Promise Breaker. Intimidator, Dreamer. Yet, you were more often the Healer, Farmer, Coach, Teacher, Encourager, Theologian, Pastor, Principled, Fairness Focused, Holiness Seeker, Forgiver, Advocate, Defender, Dream with Us, Friend and Father.
In spite or because of you, regularly, I am forced to call mom. Several times, actually, I have called mom to complain. I have called to confess that situations arise regularly which require me to stop and get angry with you. I get frustrated with you. I get so made that you aren't here to yell at you. Simply, because in the course of the day when something occurs, you pop in. I haven't decided if its a memory tape you installed. Whether you have joined the "committee" in my head. Or you simply brainwashed portions of my brain.
At the end of the day, I realize in these situations that occur, or conversations in which I engage, I say something only you would say. I will do something only you would do. I will take on something only you would. Fight someone only you would fight. Help someone only you would help. Worry about someone who only you would find concerning. Consider or be frustrated about a process or need and how to resolve it. And, I will then laugh, curse, and be frustrated once more that no matter how much conflicting we were, no matter the holidays we ruined, you had a purpose. And, its at that moment, I want to stomp my feet in frustration at your duplicative success.
There are days that I admit, you might win. I am many of those things I have mentioned here about you. We are both dreamers. We are definitely competitive. We are certainly focused. We care deeply for others. We serve organizations and/or help others in need individually and privately. We worry and care for widows. We give of our selves. We strive for perfection. We lead, but only as servants. We serve others, especially those in need. We privately converse with God, though I may never darken the door of a Church except with Mom. We get angry at stupidity and we do not suffer fools willingly. Admittedly, in fact, I believe we may be some of the most opinionated people we know!
So from Eldest Son to successful Father. Happy Father's Day, Dad. I hope know, and I hope you knew before you left us, that you helped create some fantastic kids, with a fantastic wife. And, while we do not miss you being in pain. We don't miss you ranting and raving (possibly because I can do it for you), We do miss you.
Your Son,
Eric
It's been over two years since you left this plane. You were run down, exhausted, in pain, frustrated, and truly at times, a pain in the side to someone. For nearly a decade, any little thing could set you off. I prayed when I visited that you had not just turned off Fox News to open the door.
You argued with me. You yelled at the world. You huffed. You could be gruff. You were miserable. And, frankly, you made others miserable.
Yet, with all of that negative energy, that frustration at the world, the demands that those around you make better decisions, your expectation that others consider doing things the right way which was your way, and that they believe the things you believe, I still appreciate, love and miss you.
I acknowledge the terrible cost you paid the last decade of your life as you struggled to continue to work, to manage your physical pain, while past medical issues likely impacted every aspect of your life. I could see regret written on your face every visit. I could see your eyes evaluating everything and everyone as they came into the room. While we may have left in anger and frustration from endless conversations surrounding a host of divisive issues, ultimately your children would return.
My coming out process caused the family 5 years of horrendous holiday events, assuring the avoidance of personal revelations by other family members for decades. To this day, emotionally, I look forward to holiday events with family by visualizing robing in medieval armor, sword, breastplate, and helm, with the weight of it increasing as the event approaches.
Which got me to thinking. Why? Why as adults would we as children return to see you? I thought for years that the reason I was going home wasn't to see you, but to see Mom. You were the mean one. She was the wonderful one. I was there to check in and make sure Mom was okay. Who cares about you, mean, hurtful, rightwinger, always asking about our Walk with the Lord. Always prying, always analyzing, always demanding, always making statements, always starting arguments, always bringing up debates which I could counter, could provide information to support my thinking, to substantiate my position, data and information and perspective that you clearly did not find approving throughout many conversations. To the disappointment and frustration of everyone in our family. In fact, you and I destroyed more holiday events through debate and argument than I care to ever acknowledge.
See, for that all the negativity of the last decade (and more) before your passing, the 35 years before that were instrumental to who I am. I could not have managed the nearly 3 years, much less much of the last 45 years without your instruction, focus, debate, demands, opinions, and strong concern and devotion for others. I cannot imagine someone more relentless than you. I cannot imagine someone for focused on perfectionism than you. I cannot imagine someone more tied up in knots about issues, more concerned about others, more willing to help, more willing to listen, more willing to find solutions, more willing to fight, more willing to debate, more willing to invite others, more willing to introduce, more willing. Except maybe me.
You shared your love of animals. I will always proudly be able to say that my first pet was a horse. Who can say that in this decade? Cindy will always love her dogs. And, Marc? Well, let's just say is there are animals that love to reach in and get Marc's attention. Each of us has an animal we hate. Cindy hates spiders. For Marc I think its snakes. For me, trust me, those damn stinking gross bugs. And, we learned to antagonize the other with that weakness. Each of us has a particular squeal that the other enjoys.
You developed our competitive spirit while teaching us values and key characteristics. You made us choose pursuits and sports. We did not have a choice about whether we would participate in a sport, we were given a choice about which sport. You wanted to help us understand the concept of goal development, discipline, focus, and competition. You wanted us to win but also how to learn that we might lose. You helped us learn team development but also insisted that we bring our very individual best. We not only listened to coaches, we learned from you. And, during competitions, it was your voice we could hear over any others, and so could our friends. Fortunate for us, we chose wisely. We swam, (Go La Grande Swin Club!) like you did. Though Cindy was more explorative with soccer, softball, football, and the list continues.
The same with music. Your tenor voice, Mom's alto, Mom's piano were staples in the house, not to mention the church. You suffered through me learning violin, Marc on the flute, and we all were tormented by Cindy on trumpet. Thank God drums were not a choice. Yet, ultimately, you guided us to perform. Whether through our voices or through instruments. Yet, our performance was a result of practice, improvement, and guidance. Values we each teach others today.
You wanted us to learn what hard work meant. We had chores we hated, chores we loathed, and chores we suffered. Thats why they are chores. From shovelling manure to mowing grass to dusting and vacuuming, you and Mom provided lists and we did as little as we could to be cited as acceptable.
You tried to excite us by working on your car's engine. Lets say that may have been your one failure. I can hear the engine and feel the road. But, the Car "FORCE" will never be with me.
Yet, perhaps, the things that drove us more insane was your infernal question "How is Your Walk with the Lord?" Your relentless focus on our holiness trek would make the Pope proud and we are not even Catholic. You did not care about whether we attended Church every Sunday. That would be too easy. We learned every book, every verse, every story, its intent, its development, its principles and values. Rules you said were basics for beginners. Principles were where we lived in our house. Intent and purpose were more important that success or failure. You were beyond relentless. Why? Because you did not provide rules that were equal. You provided rules that were fair. Individual rules for each individual within your home. If I got a C (I got one once), I got a car ride for an hour in the pontiac. It was like the "bedroom talk" but on wheels at 50 miles an hour with no escape, not even through a window! Yet, Cindy could skate at a C and celebrations began.
So what if that concept we learned was that we were all valuable? Does it really matter that it taught us to expect different levels of competence and skill in different areas from different people? Does it really matter that it taught us not to judge others based on their knowledge and skill set? Geez, dad, an hour in the car with you talking about your expectations!
You competed with us. You insisted you would always be bigger than us. Older than us. You intimated wiser than us. You were our first line doctor, our disciplinarian, our consultant, our encourager, the dreamer, the designer, the solver, the developer, the planner, the one person that could hug us and everything would be better. You dared us to stand up to you and ultimately I did. Several times. Not once did it go well for either of us. The few times it was in familial view it was never forgotten. And, each time it took Mom to intervene.
Only later, did I understand the power of Her Voice for you. Her voice alone could turn you from anything. Her squeal, her scream, her call. It had absolute authority and absolute impact on you. From anywhere, under any circumstance, if the voice communicated urgency, immediacy was your motivator. And, likewise, when you were in ICU, her hand lowered your blood pressure, even while you were in a coma. Little did I know how rare that was until the nurse shared that tidbit.
See Dad, for all of the terrible things you were. Disciplinarian. Sinner. Debater. Hurtful. Unreasonable. Extremist. Insistent. Particular. Perfectionist. Frustrated. Passionate. Angry. Afraid. Terrible at Sales. Terrible. Forceful. Abusive at times, Manipulator, Joker, Anti-gay, Punster, Promise Breaker. Intimidator, Dreamer. Yet, you were more often the Healer, Farmer, Coach, Teacher, Encourager, Theologian, Pastor, Principled, Fairness Focused, Holiness Seeker, Forgiver, Advocate, Defender, Dream with Us, Friend and Father.
In spite or because of you, regularly, I am forced to call mom. Several times, actually, I have called mom to complain. I have called to confess that situations arise regularly which require me to stop and get angry with you. I get frustrated with you. I get so made that you aren't here to yell at you. Simply, because in the course of the day when something occurs, you pop in. I haven't decided if its a memory tape you installed. Whether you have joined the "committee" in my head. Or you simply brainwashed portions of my brain.
At the end of the day, I realize in these situations that occur, or conversations in which I engage, I say something only you would say. I will do something only you would do. I will take on something only you would. Fight someone only you would fight. Help someone only you would help. Worry about someone who only you would find concerning. Consider or be frustrated about a process or need and how to resolve it. And, I will then laugh, curse, and be frustrated once more that no matter how much conflicting we were, no matter the holidays we ruined, you had a purpose. And, its at that moment, I want to stomp my feet in frustration at your duplicative success.
There are days that I admit, you might win. I am many of those things I have mentioned here about you. We are both dreamers. We are definitely competitive. We are certainly focused. We care deeply for others. We serve organizations and/or help others in need individually and privately. We worry and care for widows. We give of our selves. We strive for perfection. We lead, but only as servants. We serve others, especially those in need. We privately converse with God, though I may never darken the door of a Church except with Mom. We get angry at stupidity and we do not suffer fools willingly. Admittedly, in fact, I believe we may be some of the most opinionated people we know!
So from Eldest Son to successful Father. Happy Father's Day, Dad. I hope know, and I hope you knew before you left us, that you helped create some fantastic kids, with a fantastic wife. And, while we do not miss you being in pain. We don't miss you ranting and raving (possibly because I can do it for you), We do miss you.
Your Son,
Eric
Thursday, June 13, 2013
Immigration Solution - Send Senator Cruz back to Canada.
Republicans want a Step by Step approach to Immigration in the House? Sure, Why Not? Since Senate Democrats betrayed the LGBT Community (for Republicans).
If the House and Senate do not perform on Immigration, it greatly hurts Republicans. Thus, the Hispanic Community likely will continue to punish Republicans for their continued hatred and marginalization of immigrants, especially those of latino decent.
Oh, happy day. If Senate Republicans would have included LGBT members (where is Log Cabin now?) perhaps I would have more passion on the issue. Instead, Senate Republicans will Cruz on pandering to their ancient base to their own marginalized areas of the world. McCain can't stop them from their Texas level destruction.
One more time, can we have a leftist party? I'm tired of Right Wing (Republican) and Right Centrist (Democrats) determining debate. I'd like a Leftist party, too. That way, I could enjoy a true debate in Congress. And, perhaps, we would end the gridlock.
The bedfellow conspiracies would be way more intriguing, simply fascinating!
If the House and Senate do not perform on Immigration, it greatly hurts Republicans. Thus, the Hispanic Community likely will continue to punish Republicans for their continued hatred and marginalization of immigrants, especially those of latino decent.
Oh, happy day. If Senate Republicans would have included LGBT members (where is Log Cabin now?) perhaps I would have more passion on the issue. Instead, Senate Republicans will Cruz on pandering to their ancient base to their own marginalized areas of the world. McCain can't stop them from their Texas level destruction.
One more time, can we have a leftist party? I'm tired of Right Wing (Republican) and Right Centrist (Democrats) determining debate. I'd like a Leftist party, too. That way, I could enjoy a true debate in Congress. And, perhaps, we would end the gridlock.
The bedfellow conspiracies would be way more intriguing, simply fascinating!
Kevin Atto, Thank You for your Passion and Leadership with the GSDBA
It
has always been entertaining and a pleasure to spend time, volunteer,
commiserate, and plan with Kevin Atto. His
passion, determination and commitment to ideas and goals are extraordinary. While owning a business is full of
challenges, he was willing to build his thriving cleaning business and volunteer
to serve on the GSDBA Board at the same time.
Kevin
served on the board for approximately three years. He served on the Executive board for a year
during his service on the board. When
GSDBA wanted to create a more visible image at the San Diego Pride Parade, it
was Kevin who volunteered to lead the Briefcase Brigade in the parade. Not only did he lead it three years running,
but he rallied volunteers and GSDBA members to create the moves and have them
practiced to precision. The very first
year, Pride organizers were so thrilled that GSDBA won best contingent.
When
urged to help GSDBA address and attract young professionals, we know it takes
other young professionals. Kevin has
been a leader in developing younger GSDBA members, introducing professionals to
the GSDBA and the value and benefits of simply participating with the LGBT
Chamber and its allies. While he may
suggest it was my idea, the energy and the execution was Kevin and others who
have made an impact to connect GSDBA to support and encourage a new wave of
LGBT Professionals. We plan, Kevin, to
continue to find ways to support, encourage and improve our outreach of younger
LGBT professionals in our membership.
Kevin
is a great communicator of the values of being in GSDBA whether or not you are
a business owner. He easily communicates
the values and importance to corporate professionals that membership in GSDBA
is integral to their workplace success.
Kevin is quite proud of reminding me, and through me, I will share this
tidbit. He will always be as old as the
GSDBA. The founders of GSDBA birthed
this organization the same year that Kevin entered the world.
Please
stop by his table at the 2013 GSDBA Awards Luncheon. His business, San Diego Pro Cleaning, is
sponsoring one of the tables at the Luncheon.
While he has already filled the seats, you may want to stop by,
introduce yourself, and provide your very own appreciation for his service to
GSDBA. Oh, and he is a Capricorn and he
enjoys long walks on the beach.
Thank You, Tom Welch, for your professional leadership and committment
A wonderful part of my position as Board Chair of GSDBA
is the opportunity to thank people who volunteer to make important
decisions. They set aside their valuable
time to help our Chamber create an environment where the LGBT community can
develop and grow their dreams of owning a successful business or pursue their
professional goals. It is always an
honor to work with these professional leaders in their passion to serve others,
in their drive to help GSDBA members create opportunities for financial success
while advocating for our values of diversity and opportunity. These are values that benefit the LGBT
Community and the Greater San Diego area.
Tom Welch served the GSDBA on the Board of Directors from
Sept 2008 to Oct 2012. During that time
he served on the Inaugural Committee that celebrated the 30th
Anniversary Celebration of GSDBA and established the Annual Awards Event and
continued to serve on the Awards Luncheon Committee through 2012. He was elected to serve as the Vice Chair while
Jon Borgeson served as Board Chair.
Tom’s professional skill and appreciation for detail were
key to GSDBA comprehensively reviewing and updating the extensive GSDBA
Policies and Procedures. Working with Tom Luhnow and others, he
completed this undertaking to provide clearer direction, easier and more
effective execution of policies, services and procedures while incorporating
new policies guidelines to improve transparency and communication. These enhancements allow the GSDBA to serve
GSDBA Members while improving communication between the CEO, the Board of
Directors, and GSDBA Members. Tom served
as GSDBA Board Chair for the last 18 months of his service.
Tom left the Board of Directors when the bank where he
worked was acquired by Pacific Commerce Bank.
Tom Welch now serves as the Senior Vice President and SBA Department
Manager at Pacific Commerce Bank.
Tom Welch will not be able to attend this year’s GSDBA
Business Awards Luncheon. Rest
assured that at a future GSDBA event, we will make present any of your e-mails
and notes of appreciation to him, along with our famed “Crystal Gavel” Honor which
we present to those individuals who serve as Board Chairs of GSDBA.
Tom wanted me to communicate how much he enjoyed meeting new
members and new people as he served GSDBA.
He values the opportunity to serve and lead on the Board and has looks
forward to watching the organization continue to grow and develop as it did
while he served.
His last words in our visit were that I would publically
share his thanks with the Greater San Diego Business Association Board of
Directors for their volunteer leadership, contributions, and dedication to working
with him to make GSDBA a better organization.
He truly appreciates each of the Directors investment of their time,
skills, and professional insight as they serve to make the decisions that
continue to make GSDBA a valuable organization in San Diego and the LGBT
Community.
Sunday, June 2, 2013
The IRS, Scandal, and Citizens United
I thrive on fairness, the application of fairness, and the pursuit of fairness. With that concept in mind, I believe that Republicans should consider their next full court press as the Tea Party erroneously smells victory against the Obama Administration.
Did the IRS have one department focus a portion of their customary targeting practices dispropotionately on organizations with similar characteristics requesting tax exempt status? True. Or, to use a term by Republicans - Guilty as Charged. Whether this was politically motivated is questionable.
Have previous Republican Administrations officials used the IRS to target organizations? True. Or, to use a term by Republicans - Guilty as Charged. The NAACP went through a two year investigation by the IRS mere months after running an ad that the Bush Administration did not like.
Does the IRS have authority to consider and execute blanket review of "like organizations" when considering tax-exempt status? True. Or, to use a term by Republicans - Guilty as Charged.
Are many Tea Party organizations reviewed by the IRS mere ghost and secondary organizations likely associated with larger and directly politically related? True. Or, to use a term by Republicans - Guilty as Charged.
Did these organizations merit further review? Most Americans would agree that 501(C)4 organizations are to be provided special tax status based on a community benefit further defined and useful to our democratic processes. That benefit would arguably be worthy of special tax status.
What is crucial in the IRS Scandal is that smaller, less funded organizations were cited for review rather than well-funded organizations. GPS, Cross Roads, and their ilk clearly use the Citizens United schemes yet were left virtually alone. The anger that Senate Democrats vented at the IRS stems from the clear avoidance of reviewing wealthy organization while bullying the true patriots at the grass roots level.
Yet, much of the IRS Scandal stems from a more serious threat to our government and democracy. The focus by Republicans on either IRS rogue agents or the Obama Administration skirts the much more sinister and troubling impacts of a Supreme Court decision titled Citizens United. The media's focus on the myopic view, communicated by Republicans, is similar to worrying about a wrinkle around your eye as your internal organs are entombed in cancerous tumors. Citizens United is destroying transparency in our political process, it purchases leadership in Washington, destroys any chance for bipartisanship solutions, while raising tax revenues on the smaller income earners and the individual, reducing welfare and national safety net protections, while defending and promoting corporate welfare.
When the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Corporate America, overturning key limits on Campaign Finance, it provided exceptional abilities to wealthy individuals and Corporate America to further control the democratic process. The Conservative and Activist Supreme Court, with Scalia in the lead, developed a special right which was non-existent, recognizing Corporations as individuals. This special right provides a powerful pathway for corpoations, wealthy individuals and groups to create Super PACs, protect the identy of donors, overturns any Congressional limits on contributions, and infuses the election process with billions of new dollars, whiler avoiding regulatory scrutiny or review by the public.
The clear threat of intimidation, fear and secrecy provided by the extremist Supreme Court decision, Citizens United, has impacted democracy since the 2010 election cycle. The coordinated efforts of large donors financing the Tea Party, or any other specific agenda, has already been seen as it destroys political careers in individual districts through massive increases in fundraising for political races, protecting its corporate future through Congressional strategy, or minimizing the judicial impact of its corporate impacts on society.
In seriously large amounts, individuals could, and in fact did, contribute massive amounts of dollars to districts throughout American to support and defend the political landscape in 2010 and the 2012 election cycles without fear of review, disclosure or public scrutiny. In fact, the media reported one clear decision in the 2012 campaign specific to Citizens United. The Koch Brothers gave $100 million additional dollars to Republican Super Pacs for 2012 for the Paul Ryan Vice Presidential slot. Morally called a bribe, yet, today perfectly legal.
Likely over $1 Trillion dollars was spent in 2012 by shadow organization in politics to define America's future through these 501(c)4 organizations. The IRS has been and will continue to be ill prepared to address the ramifications of Citizens United.
Ultimately, the American public and both political parties, to avoid complete and utter anarchy, should seek a Constitutional Amendment to reverse the stupidity of Citizens United and the fallacy that corporations are individuals. Until then, we will likely continue to raise questions that in fact are based in legal fact, which are morally horrible, but we will continue as a nation to be complicit in the death of democracy, or as I declare it, Guilty as Charged.
Did the IRS have one department focus a portion of their customary targeting practices dispropotionately on organizations with similar characteristics requesting tax exempt status? True. Or, to use a term by Republicans - Guilty as Charged. Whether this was politically motivated is questionable.
Have previous Republican Administrations officials used the IRS to target organizations? True. Or, to use a term by Republicans - Guilty as Charged. The NAACP went through a two year investigation by the IRS mere months after running an ad that the Bush Administration did not like.
Does the IRS have authority to consider and execute blanket review of "like organizations" when considering tax-exempt status? True. Or, to use a term by Republicans - Guilty as Charged.
Are many Tea Party organizations reviewed by the IRS mere ghost and secondary organizations likely associated with larger and directly politically related? True. Or, to use a term by Republicans - Guilty as Charged.
Did these organizations merit further review? Most Americans would agree that 501(C)4 organizations are to be provided special tax status based on a community benefit further defined and useful to our democratic processes. That benefit would arguably be worthy of special tax status.
What is crucial in the IRS Scandal is that smaller, less funded organizations were cited for review rather than well-funded organizations. GPS, Cross Roads, and their ilk clearly use the Citizens United schemes yet were left virtually alone. The anger that Senate Democrats vented at the IRS stems from the clear avoidance of reviewing wealthy organization while bullying the true patriots at the grass roots level.
Yet, much of the IRS Scandal stems from a more serious threat to our government and democracy. The focus by Republicans on either IRS rogue agents or the Obama Administration skirts the much more sinister and troubling impacts of a Supreme Court decision titled Citizens United. The media's focus on the myopic view, communicated by Republicans, is similar to worrying about a wrinkle around your eye as your internal organs are entombed in cancerous tumors. Citizens United is destroying transparency in our political process, it purchases leadership in Washington, destroys any chance for bipartisanship solutions, while raising tax revenues on the smaller income earners and the individual, reducing welfare and national safety net protections, while defending and promoting corporate welfare.
When the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Corporate America, overturning key limits on Campaign Finance, it provided exceptional abilities to wealthy individuals and Corporate America to further control the democratic process. The Conservative and Activist Supreme Court, with Scalia in the lead, developed a special right which was non-existent, recognizing Corporations as individuals. This special right provides a powerful pathway for corpoations, wealthy individuals and groups to create Super PACs, protect the identy of donors, overturns any Congressional limits on contributions, and infuses the election process with billions of new dollars, whiler avoiding regulatory scrutiny or review by the public.
The clear threat of intimidation, fear and secrecy provided by the extremist Supreme Court decision, Citizens United, has impacted democracy since the 2010 election cycle. The coordinated efforts of large donors financing the Tea Party, or any other specific agenda, has already been seen as it destroys political careers in individual districts through massive increases in fundraising for political races, protecting its corporate future through Congressional strategy, or minimizing the judicial impact of its corporate impacts on society.
In seriously large amounts, individuals could, and in fact did, contribute massive amounts of dollars to districts throughout American to support and defend the political landscape in 2010 and the 2012 election cycles without fear of review, disclosure or public scrutiny. In fact, the media reported one clear decision in the 2012 campaign specific to Citizens United. The Koch Brothers gave $100 million additional dollars to Republican Super Pacs for 2012 for the Paul Ryan Vice Presidential slot. Morally called a bribe, yet, today perfectly legal.
Likely over $1 Trillion dollars was spent in 2012 by shadow organization in politics to define America's future through these 501(c)4 organizations. The IRS has been and will continue to be ill prepared to address the ramifications of Citizens United.
Ultimately, the American public and both political parties, to avoid complete and utter anarchy, should seek a Constitutional Amendment to reverse the stupidity of Citizens United and the fallacy that corporations are individuals. Until then, we will likely continue to raise questions that in fact are based in legal fact, which are morally horrible, but we will continue as a nation to be complicit in the death of democracy, or as I declare it, Guilty as Charged.
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